Jamie Donnelly is a highly acclaimed and celebrated actress, distinguished by her captivating stage presence, effervescent personality, and iconic roles in two pivotal 20th-century cultural events that have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
As a bonafide cult figure, she has earned a revered status in the annals of show business, having originated the memorable and iconic characters of Trixie and Magenta in the original "Rocky Horror Show", a groundbreaking production that continues to thrill audiences to this day.
Furthermore, Jamie Donnelly's impressive repertoire also includes the iconic role of Jan, the "brusha brusha" Pink Lady, in the Broadway and film productions of "Grease", a classic musical that has become synonymous with the golden age of American pop culture.
Jamie's early life was marked by the majestic sight of the New York City skyline, a constant reminder of the vibrant cultural hub that lay just across the river from her childhood home in New Jersey. As she began to pursue her passion for the performing arts, Jamie's first foray into the world of musical theatre came in the form of summer stock productions, providing her with a solid foundation upon which to build her craft.
It was not long before Jamie's talent and dedication earned her a coveted spot on the Great White Way, as she made her Broadway debut at the tender age of seventeen in the 1965 musical "Flora, The Red Menace", a production penned by the renowned duo of Kander and Ebb. In this groundbreaking show, Jamie had the distinction of both understudying the iconic Liza Minnelli in her Tony Award-winning portrayal of the titular character, while also originating the role of Lulu, a testament to her impressive range and versatility as a performer.
Jamie's illustrious Broadway career boasts an impressive repertoire, with notable appearances in the iconic production "George M" at the esteemed Palace Theatre, where she shared the stage with the inimitable Joel Grey. Furthermore, Jamie had the unique opportunity to learn the timeless classic "Falling in Love with Love" from the legendary composer Richard Rodgers himself, during her stint in the equally iconic "Rodgers and Hart". In addition to her Broadway credits, Jamie has also made a significant impact in the world of off-Broadway theatre, serving as a member of the original company of the beloved production "You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown". Beyond the bright lights of New York City, Jamie has also honed her craft in regional theatre, where she brought her talents to the stage in the critically acclaimed production "Hot L Baltimore", skillfully guided by the renowned playwright Lanford Wilson.
Beyond her illustrious career on stage, Jamie has also made significant impressions in the realms of soap opera, television series, and cinematic productions. One of her most notable ventures in the former category was her recurring role as Dusty Maguire on the esteemed soap opera "The Guiding Light". She has also made memorable guest appearances on various television series, including the classic crime dramas "Policewoman" and "Barnaby Jones". Furthermore, Jamie has showcased her talents in a range of television movies, with one of her most notable performances being in the critically acclaimed film "The Dream Makers", which starred the esteemed actor James Franciscus alongside her.
Jamie's life has been marked by a diverse array of experiences and pursuits, with one significant aspect being her time spent on a ranch in the picturesque state of Montana, where she developed a profound appreciation for the art of horse riding and honed her skills as a screenwriter, with a focus on crafting engaging screenplays for the esteemed Hollywood film industry.
In her personal life, Jamie is married to the accomplished novelist Stephen H. Foreman, with whom she shares a deep and abiding love. Together, they have been blessed with two children, Sevi and Madden, who have inherited their parents' passion for the arts and have gone on to become young musicians, each with their own unique talents and styles.
Noted for her exceptional talent as an acting coach, Jamie has had the privilege of collaborating with a plethora of renowned actors and actresses within the esteemed realm of Hollywood. Her forthcoming appearance in the eagerly anticipated Fox Searchlight feature, aptly titled "The Untitled Duplass Brothers Film", alongside the accomplished Marisa Tomei and the versatile John C. Reilly, is a testament to her versatility and range as a performer.
In addition to her work in film, Jamie has also made significant contributions to the world of television, having appeared in the critically acclaimed and award-winning series "Monk", which garnered numerous Golden Globe and Emmy awards. Her other notable television credits include the popular Nickelodeon program "The Naked Brothers Band" and the Lifetime original movie "The Legend of Lucy Keyes".
Interestingly, Jamie's blood type is remarkably "B Positive", a fascinating fact that has likely had no bearing on her remarkable career, yet serves as a unique aspect of her personal identity.
