Born in Spartanburg, South Carolina, she pursued acting at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. Gaining prominence with her role in the TV series "Alice," she became known for her strong presence and Southern charm. Her film work includes notable performances in "Dead Man Walking," "In the Bedroom," and "The Talented Mr. Ripley." Acclaimed for her character roles, she has also appeared on Broadway, earning a Tony nomination for "The Last Night of Ballyhoo."