Kelly Macdonald, born on February 23, 1976, in Glasgow, Scotland, is a distinguished actress known for her versatile performances across film and television. With a career spanning over two decades, she has garnered critical acclaim and numerous accolades for her work.
Early Life
Macdonald was raised in the town of Neilston, near Glasgow. Her parents divorced when she was young, and she, along with her brother David, was brought up by their mother, a sales executive in the garment industry. She attended Eastwood High School from 1989 to 1993.
Career
Macdonald’s entry into acting was serendipitous. While working as a barmaid in Glasgow, she came across a leaflet advertising an open casting call for the film “Trainspotting.” She auditioned and secured the role of Diane, an underage seductress, marking her film debut in 1996.
Following “Trainspotting,” Macdonald’s career flourished with roles in notable films such as “Elizabeth” (1998), “Gosford Park” (2001), and “Intermission” (2003). Her portrayal of Carla Jean Moss in the Coen brothers’ “No Country for Old Men” (2007) earned her a BAFTA nomination for Best Actress in a Supporting Role.
In television, Macdonald delivered an Emmy-winning performance in the BBC film “The Girl in the Café” (2005). She gained further recognition for her role as Margaret Thompson in HBO’s “Boardwalk Empire” (2010–2014), receiving nominations for a Primetime Emmy and two Golden Globe Awards.
Macdonald’s versatility is also evident in her voice work; she voiced Princess Merida in Disney Pixar’s “Brave” (2012). Her recent projects include roles in the anthology series “Black Mirror” (2016), the limited series “Giri/Haji” (2019), and the sixth series of the BBC’s police drama “Line of Duty” (2021).
Personal Life
In August 2003, Macdonald married Dougie Payne, bassist of the band Travis. They have two sons: Freddie Peter Payne, born on March 9, 2008, and Theodore William Payne, born on December 8, 2012. The family resided in London and New York City before returning to Glasgow in 2014. Macdonald and Payne separated in 2017.
Real Estate
During their marriage, Macdonald and Payne owned properties in London and New York City. In 2014, they sold their New York apartment, reportedly making a profit of £500,000.
Net Worth
As of June 2023, Macdonald’s net worth is estimated to be over $8 million, reflecting her successful and enduring career in the entertainment industry.
Physical Attributes
Macdonald stands at 5 feet 2 inches (1.59 meters) tall and has brown hair and eyes.
Honors
In recognition of her achievements, Eastwood High School named a drama studio and theatre in her honor, celebrating her contributions to the arts.
Kelly Macdonald’s journey from a barmaid in Glasgow to an acclaimed actress is a testament to her talent and determination. Her diverse body of work continues to captivate audiences worldwide, solidifying her status as one of Scotland’s most esteemed performers.