Later, she endured abuse from a neighbor—a painful secret she carried for years. These experiences, combined with bullying in school over her height, taught her resilience and shaped her memoir, Dying of Politeness (2022).
Tom Wargacki/WireImage
From modeling to Hollywood stardom
Geena moved to New York in 1977, taking small modeling gigs that eventually led to her first acting break.
Legendary director Sydney Pollack cast her in Tootsie (1982), propelling her into Hollywood. Roles in The Fly, Beetlejuice, and The Accidental Tourist followed, with the latter earning her an Academy Award.
Her most iconic role came in Thelma & Louise, a feminist classic that solidified her status as a leading force in women-focused cinema. Davis credits co-star Susan Sarandon for teaching her the value of speaking her truth on and off screen.
Getty Images/Bob Riha, Jr.
Life beyond the spotlight
While her career had peaks and valleys, Davis found personal fulfillment later in life. Married four times, she became a mother at 46, welcoming daughter Alizeh and twins Kaiis and Kian with husband Reza Jarrahy. Protective of her children, she has kept them away from Hollywood’s pressures.
Geena Davis and Jeff Goldblum at the 62nd Annual Academy Awards
Davis also founded the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media in 2004, fighting for equality in film and TV. Her advocacy highlights the systemic gender gap: 96% of films are still directed by men, despite the wealth of talented women in the industry.
BENTONVILLE, ARKANSAS – JUNE 17: Geena Davis arrives at the Opening Reception for East of Wall at the 11th Annual Bentonville Film Festival at Skylight Cinema on June 17, 2025 in Bentonville, Arkansas. (Photo by Jason Davis/Getty Images for Bentonville Film Festival)
Today
At 69, Geena Davis continues to act, with a role in the Duffer Brothers’ upcoming Netflix supernatural mystery, The Boroughs. Beyond the screen, she remains a powerful voice for gender equality and a lasting inspiration for generations of actors and activists alike.
Geena’s journey shows that talent, resilience, and courage can transform both a career and the world. Which of her iconic roles is your favorite? Share your thoughts below!