Gena Rowlands is an American actress who has worked in film, television, and stage productions. She was born on June 19, 1930, in Madison, Wisconsin, and grew up in various locations as her father was a politician who frequently moved the family. Rowlands graduated from the University of Wisconsin and then moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting.

Rowlands is known for her collaborations with her husband, the late filmmaker John Cassavetes. She appeared in nine of his films, including "A Woman Under the Influence," which earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress in 1975. Rowlands also appeared in several other acclaimed films, including "Gloria," "The Notebook," and "Playing by Heart."

Throughout her career, Rowlands has received numerous accolades for her work, including four Emmy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, and an Honorary Academy Award in 2021 for her lifetime achievement in film. She is widely regarded as one of the greatest actresses of her generation, known for her emotional depth and range on screen. Rowlands continues to act in films and television shows, and her work has influenced countless actors and filmmakers over the years.