Ann Dowd is an American actress. She received widespread acclaim and a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her role as Aunt Lydia in Hulu’s The Handmaid’s Tale, a performance marked by its intensity and complexity. Dowd has also been recognized for her chilling role in the psychological drama Compliance, earning the National Board of Review Award for Best Supporting Actress and an Independent Spirit Award nomination. Her film credits include Hereditary, Garden State, and Mass, with the latter earning her further critical praise. A veteran stage actress, she has appeared on Broadway and Off-Broadway, consistently noted for her emotional depth and commitment to challenging roles.