Allison Brooks Janney (born November 19, 1959) is an American actress. A highly prolific character actress and revered for her versatility, Janney has received acclaim for her work on screen, stage and television, which has brought her numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, seven Primetime Emmy Awards, a BAFTA Award, a Golden Globe Award, seven Screen Actors Guild Awards, six Critics' Choice Awards, two Drama Desk Awards, and an Independent Spirit Award.