Steinunn Ólína Þorsteinsdóttir, a remarkable and accomplished individual, entered the world on July 2, 1969, in the culturally rich and vibrant city of Reykjavík, Iceland. Born into a family that fostered creativity, Steinunn's mother, Bríet Héðinsdóttir, was a celebrated and renowned actress, while her father, Þorsteinn Þorsteinsson, was a skilled and accomplished writer and translator of dramatic literature. As a result, Steinunn was naturally and effortlessly immersed in the world of acting and drama from a very young age, with her creative endeavors and pursuits being nurtured and encouraged from a tender and impressionable age. In fact, Steinunn made her stage debut at the remarkably young age of fifteen, showcasing her impressive, exceptional, and outstanding talent in a starring role, a testament to her innate abilities and her family's influence and support.
Steinunn, a remarkably gifted and accomplished individual, embarked upon a journey of further academic pursuit, opting to delve deeper into the realm of drama at the esteemed Drama Centre London, a globally recognized institution renowned for its rigorous training programs and impressive alumni, boasting a long list of celebrated actors, including the distinguished Helen McCrory and the talented Tara FitzGerald, with whom Steinunn shared a common educational experience, graduating in the year 1990.
Steinunn, a talented individual, made a significant decision to return to her homeland of Iceland, thereby triggering a rejuvenation of her professional journey in the realm of performing arts. This pivotal move enabled her to revamp her career, not only on the stage, but also on television, ultimately leading to a reinvigorated trajectory that would shape her future endeavors.
Steinunn's remarkable television and film career has been marked by a wide-ranging array of outstanding achievements, with a notable highlight being her captivating portrayal of detective Gabriela in the 2015 Netflix production, which has earned her widespread international acclaim and a multitude of esteemed accolades.
This impressive array of recognition includes the highly coveted FIPA D'OR award for best actress, which is a testament to her exceptional talent and dedication to her craft.
Furthermore, Steinunn has also been honored with the prestigious Icelandic Edda Film and Television award for actress of the year, a distinction that underscores her status as a leading figure in the industry.
Through her extensive body of work, Steinunn has consistently demonstrated her versatility, range, and depth as a performer, solidifying her position as a respected and accomplished actress in the entertainment industry.
Steinunn's professional endeavors extend far beyond her involvement with Case, as she has also made a significant impact in the realm of television, boasting notable appearances in a diverse array of popular series, including the critically acclaimed Trapped, the engaging Fangar, and the captivating Stella Blomquist.
Moreover, Steinunn has showcased her remarkable versatility by taking on a wide range of roles that transcend the boundaries of acting, demonstrating her multifaceted talents in various capacities, including producing, writing, directing, and hosting her own live talk show, Over My Dead Body with Steinunn Ólína.
Steinunn's illustrious career in the performing arts has transcended her prominent roles in television and film, instead leaving a profound mark on the world of theatre. With an impressive résumé that boasts a staggering array of over 50 productions at the esteemed National Theatre of Iceland, Steinunn has consistently demonstrated her exceptional talent and dedication to her craft.
Noted for her remarkable scope of acting abilities, she has successfully portrayed iconic characters, such as the charming and spirited Eliza Doolittle in the timeless and endearing musical masterpiece My Fair Lady, and the endearing and poignant Hodel in the beloved and enduring classic Fiddler on the Roof.
Throughout her illustrious career, she has consistently showcased her impressive range by appearing in a diverse array of stage productions, effortlessly transitioning between comedic and farcical roles, as well as delivering nuanced and powerful performances in classical plays, thus solidifying her reputation as a versatile and talented actress.
Throughout her illustrious career, she has had the privilege of bringing to life a wide range of iconic classical characters, with her most memorable performances undoubtedly being her portrayals of the three sisters in Anton Chekhov's poignant masterpiece, Three Sisters, and the complex, conflicted title character in William Shakespeare's timeless tragedy, Richard III.
Steinunn's career has traversed numerous creative paths, showcasing her adaptability and entrepreneurial drive. In 2006, she ventured into the realm of literature by publishing a semi-autobiographical novella, aptly titled Parental Guidance, which garnered widespread acclaim and ascended to the top spot on Iceland's bestseller list. This remarkable literary accomplishment serves as a testament to her innate talent and unwavering dedication to her craft.
Steinunn's multifaceted career extends far beyond the realm of writing, as she also holds the esteemed position of editor-in-chief at WWW.kvennabladid.is, an online newspaper in Iceland boasting a storied history that dates back to 1895.
Founded by her great-grandmother, this venerable publication has been a cornerstone of Icelandic journalism for over a century, its rich heritage and enduring legacy a testament to the tireless efforts of its founders and the dedicated individuals who have contributed to its success over the years.
Steinunn's involvement with the publication is a poignant tribute to her family's storied past, as well as a reflection of her own commitment to upholding the values and principles that have guided the newspaper throughout its long and illustrious history.
As the editor-in-chief of WWW.kvennabladid.is, Steinunn plays a vital role in ensuring the continuation of this esteemed publication's tradition of excellence, her passion for journalism and her dedication to her great-grandmother's vision serving as a powerful inspiration to all those who work alongside her.
Through her leadership and expertise, Steinunn is helping to shape the future of Icelandic journalism, while also honoring the proud legacy of her great-grandmother and the countless individuals who have contributed to the newspaper's enduring success over the years.
Steinunn's personal life has been characterized by a profound dedication to her family, with a special emphasis on her husband Stefan Karl Stefansson, whom she had the pleasure of marrying in the year 2002. This union has been blessed with the arrival of four precious children, who have brought immense joy and fulfillment to their parents' lives. Unfortunately, the family's happiness was tragically cut short when Stefan Karl passed away in the year 2018, after a two-year battle with bile duct cancer. Despite this devastating loss, Steinunn has continued to reside in Reykjavik, Iceland, where she is deeply committed to raising their children and building a new life in their beloved hometown.
