June Squibb is a remarkable example of longevity and perseverance in the performing arts, earning widespread acclaim later in life after decades of dedicated work on stage and screen. With a career spanning more than sixty years, she became a household name with her Oscar-nominated performance in Nebraska (2013) and has since delighted new generations of audiences through memorable roles in film, television, and voice work, including Pixar’s Inside Out. Long before her late-career breakthrough, Squibb was a respected theatre artist, and in 1980 she brought her talent to our theatre as part of the production The Streets of New York. Her journey—from regional and Broadway stages to international recognition—embodies the enduring legacy of artists who help make the Historic Elitch Theatre a vital launching point in American theatre history.
Squibb’s Bio from the 1980 Elitch Theatre Program:
JUNE SQUIBB (Mrs. Puffy) — is appearing in her fourth production under the direction of Tony Tanner. Her most recent Broadway appearance was in Mr. Tanner’s production of Gorey Stories. Previous Broadway roles include Felice Bonnard in The Happy Time and Electra in Gypsy with Ethel Merman. Most recently Miss Squibb has taken part in a workshop production of John Guare’s Lydie Breeze, played Helen in last summer’s Starlight Theatre tour of Ballroom, and Denise in Michel Tremblay’s Bonjour La Bonjour at Center Stage in Baltimore. Her previous New York appearances include the musical Castaways at the Promenade Theatre, a revival of Rose Franklin’s Another Language at Equity Library Theatre, and Funeral March For A One Man Band at Westbeth. On television Miss Squibb was seen in As the World Turns, Search for Tomorrow, and The Guiding Light, and she appeared extensively in regional, stock, and dinner – theatres throughout the country.
Seasons at the Theatre
- 1980
Productions/Roles:
- 1980: The Streets of New York — Mrs. Puffy
Notable Roles, Awards, and Other Work:
- 1959, Broadway, Gypsy. Electra [Replacement]
- 1961, 1st National Tour, Gypsy. Electra
- 2013, Squibb starred opposite Bruce Dern in the road comedy-drama film Nebraska.
- 2024, her first leading role was in the action comedy film Thelma.
- 2025, Squibb starred in another leading role in Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut film Eleanor the Great.
Elitch Theatre Connections:
- THREE alumna appeared together in the film, Alice! Bernadette Peters, Cybill Shepherd, and June Squibb!
Wikipedia Link:
