Born in Queens, New York, she developed a passion for performing at an early age. A versatile actress, she trained at New York University before leaving to pursue her career. She gained acclaim for her work on Broadway, earning two Tony Awards for her roles in "Passion" and "The King and I." Transitioning to film and television, she appeared in notable projects such as "Star Trek: Insurrection" and voiced Mother Gothel in Disney's "Tangled." Her career spans decades, showcasing her talent across multiple mediums.