Born Susan Abigail Tomalin in New York City (1946– ), Susan Sarandon built a career on courageous choices and luminous intelligence. An introverted booklover who grew into an actor of depth, she brought raw passion and vulnerability to the screen—truths that feel lived-in and generous.

Her breakout in the cult classic The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975) led to a string of unforgettable performances: worldly Annie Savoy in Bull Durham (1988), spunky Louise Sawyer in Thelma & Louise (1991), and Sister Helen Prejean in Dead Man Walking (1995), which earned her the Academy Award. Critic Roger Ebert called her work “a special humanity,” the kind that illuminates character from the inside out.

“To me the whole point of acting is to experiment and learn, it’s like living hundreds of lives in one lifetime,” she said. Sarandon’s curiosity opened doors to complex, compassionate roles; her integrity kept those doors open for others.

Saying “yes” to life is being present... And showing up for the work and the people who need your voice. Beyond her roles, Susan Sarandon has been a steadfast advocate for human rights and global initiatives like UNICEF, lending her voice to those who might not otherwise be heard.

On screen and off, she show us how compassion and courage can be the same step forward.