Marlo Thomas: A Journey Through Television And Philanthropy (1937-Present)

Marlo Thomas, a renowned actress and producer, has left an indelible mark on television and philanthropy. Her iconic role in the hit series That Girl not only showcased her talent but also paved the way for women in entertainment. As a trailblazer, she is known for her advocacy in children's health and social issues, making her a beloved figure both on and off the screen.

Who Is Marlo Thomas?

Marlo Thomas is best recognized for her lead roles in popular TV shows like That Girl and Free To Be... You and Me. Born on November 21, 1937, in Deerfield, Michigan, she is the daughter of legendary entertainer Danny Thomas. Marlo began her acting career in the early 1960s, quickly gaining fame for her role in That Girl, where she not only starred but also served as an executive producer.

Throughout her career, Marlo has demonstrated a strong commitment to various causes, particularly children's health. She served as the national outreach director for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which was founded by her father in 1962. Her marriage to talk show host Phil Donahue in 1980 further solidified her status as a public figure dedicated to advocacy and social change.

Quick Facts

FULL NAME: Margaret Thomas
BORN: November 21, 1937
BIRTHPLACE: Deerfield, Michigan
SPOUSE: Phil Donahue (1980-2024)
ASTROLOGICAL SIGN: Scorpio

Early Life

Born as Margaret Thomas, Marlo was the eldest of three children in her family. Growing up in Beverly Hills, California, she was influenced by her father's career in entertainment, which sparked her interest in acting. After graduating from the University of Southern California in 1959, Marlo started her journey in show business, eventually finding her way to television.

Her early life was characterized by a mix of family values and ambition. She honed her craft in various acting roles before landing her breakout role in the mid-1960s, which would change her life and career forever.

TV Shows: That Girl, Free To Be..., and More

Marlo Thomas's career took a significant turn when she starred in That Girl, which premiered in 1966. In this groundbreaking sitcom, she played Ann Marie, an aspiring actress navigating life and love in New York City. The show was notable for its portrayal of an independent woman, making a significant impact on the representation of women in media.

Beyond That Girl, Marlo produced and starred in the Emmy-winning special Free to Be... You and Me, which celebrated diversity and self-acceptance. This project featured an all-star cast and resonated with audiences, highlighting Marlo's commitment to positive messages in children's programming.

Breakout Role in That Girl

The character of Ann Marie was a departure from the traditional female roles of the time. Marlo's portrayal inspired many young women, showing them that they could aspire to be more than just a girlfriend or a wife. The show ran for five successful seasons, earning Marlo critical acclaim and numerous awards, including a Golden Globe for Best Female TV Star in 1967.

Marlo's dual role as both actress and producer was groundbreaking, setting a precedent for women in the industry. Her success opened doors for future generations of female storytellers and creators in television.

Free to Be... You and Me

After the success of That Girl, Marlo focused on projects that promoted social change. In 1974, she created Free to Be... You and Me, a television special based on an album she produced. This program addressed important issues such as gender roles and equality, presenting them in a format accessible to children.

The special featured an impressive lineup of guest stars, including Alan Alda and Michael Jackson. Its success earned Marlo an Emmy Award, marking a significant achievement in her career and reinforcing her commitment to impactful storytelling.

Guest Roles on Friends and More

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Marlo Thomas continued to make guest appearances on various television shows, showcasing her versatility as an actress. She won another Emmy for her performance in the TV film Nobody's Child, where she portrayed Marie Balter, a woman overcoming adversity.

In the 1990s, Marlo made a memorable appearance on the iconic sitcom Friends, playing the mother of Jennifer Aniston's character, Rachel Green. This role further solidified her status as a beloved figure in television history.

Theater Work and Books

Marlo's talent extends beyond television; she has also made significant contributions to the theater. She joined the London production of Neil Simon's Barefoot in the Park in 1965 and made her Broadway debut in Thieves in 1974. Her work on stage has been met with acclaim, showcasing her range as a performer.

In addition to acting, Marlo is a bestselling author. She has published several books, including Free to Be... a Family and her memoir, Growing Up Laughing. These works reflect her life experiences and commitment to advocating for children and families.

Husband Phil Donahue

Marlo Thomas met Phil Donahue on his popular daytime talk show, paving the way for their relationship. They married in 1980 and shared a strong partnership for over four decades. Their union has been a source of inspiration for many, as they both are committed to philanthropy and social causes.

Phil was not only a supportive partner but also a prominent media figure in his own right. Together, they have worked on various projects that highlight issues close to their hearts, including children's health and education.

Philanthropy: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Continuing her father's legacy, Marlo Thomas has played an integral role in supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. As the national outreach director, she has worked tirelessly to raise awareness and funds for the hospital, which focuses on treating and curing pediatric diseases.

Marlo's dedication to this cause has garnered her numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2014. Her efforts in philanthropy highlight the importance of giving back and making a difference in the lives of others.

Quotes

• "I think the legacy of That Girl is the fact that, as Billy Persky always says, we threw the grenade into the bunker. We opened up the window for young women. You did not have to be the wife or the daughter of somebody or the secretary of somebody, but that you could be the somebody."
• "What they talk about on [the series] Friends, we were doing in the ’60s—we just weren’t talking about it, you know."