Lily Tomlin, born Mary Jean Tomlin on September 1, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan, is an acclaimed American actress, comedian, writer, and producer. She gained national fame in the late 1960s and early 1970s as a cast member on the groundbreaking sketch comedy show “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In,” where her characters, such as the snarky telephone operator Ernestine and precocious child Edith Ann, became iconic.

Tomlin’s career spans over five decades, marked by versatility and innovation. She has received numerous accolades, including a Tony Award for her one-woman Broadway show “The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe” (1985), written by her longtime partner and collaborator Jane Wagner. In film, she earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in “Nashville” (1975) and appeared in beloved movies like “9 to 5” (1980) and “All of Me” (1984).

In addition to her stage and film work, Tomlin has enjoyed success on television with series like “The West Wing” and the Netflix hit “Grace and Frankie,” where she stars alongside Jane Fonda. Her career is distinguished by her ability to blend comedy with poignant social commentary, making her a beloved and influential figure in American entertainment.