Sada Thompson (1927–2011) was an American stage, film, and television actress whose career reflected a deep commitment to serious acting and classical training. Thompson appeared on Broadway and her stage work remained a touchstone throughout her career, even as she became more widely known through film and television.
Thompson’s most celebrated film performance came in Andre’s Mother (1980), a short film that earned the Academy Award for Best Live Action Short. In the film, she delivers a restrained yet devastating portrayal of a woman grappling with grief and denial following her son’s death. Her performance is widely regarded as the emotional core of the film and is often cited as a masterclass in subtle, character-driven acting. Andre’s Mother remains a defining moment in Thompson’s career and a lasting testament to her ability to convey profound emotion with remarkable economy and truth.
Seasons at the Theatre
- 1980
Productions/Roles:
- Children
Notable Roles, Awards, and Other Work:
- Dorine — Tartuffe (Broadway revival, 1965)
- Winnie — Happy Days (Broadway, 1968)
- Beatrice — The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds (Off-Broadway, 1970)
- Multiple roles (Emily, Celia, Dorothy, Ma) — Twigs (Broadway, 1971)
- Mary Todd Lincoln — Sandburg’s Lincoln (television miniseries, 1974–1976)
- Kate Lawrence — Family (television series, 1976–1980)
- Phoebe Rice — The Entertainer (television film, 1976)
Elitch Theatre Connections:
- Thompson appeared in Andre’s Mother with HET alum, Sylvia Sidney.
Wikipedia Link:
