Annette O’Toole is a celebrated American actress and singer-songwriter whose career spans several decades in film and television. She began her professional journey in the late 1960s, making her television debut on The Danny Kaye Show in 1967. O’Toole quickly gained recognition with guest appearances on popular series such as My Three Sons and Hawaii Five-O. Her breakthrough came in 1975 with the film Smile, where she showcased her talent as a beauty pageant contestant, leading to a series of notable roles in films like One on One and Superman III, where she portrayed the iconic character Lana Lang.
In the 1990s, O’Toole solidified her status as a versatile actress with memorable performances in mini-series adaptations, including her role as Beverly Marsh in Stephen King’s It, which garnered critical acclaim. Her portrayal of Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy in The Kennedys of Massachusetts earned her an Emmy nomination, highlighting her ability to tackle complex characters. O’Toole continued to captivate audiences with her role as Martha Kent in the long-running series Smallville, where she became a beloved figure in the Superman franchise, appearing in both main and guest roles throughout the show’s run.
Beyond acting, O’Toole has made significant contributions to music. Her songwriting career began in 2001, leading to collaborations with her husband, Michael McKean. Together, they wrote songs for the film A Mighty Wind, including the Oscar-nominated “A Kiss at the End of the Rainbow.” O’Toole’s musical talents have also been showcased in various performances, including a cabaret act in New York City and appearances with Spinal Tap during their tours.
Most recently, O’Toole has taken on the role of Hope McCrea in the Netflix series Virgin River, further demonstrating her enduring appeal and talent in the entertainment industry. With a career marked by diverse roles and artistic achievements, Annette O’Toole continues to inspire audiences with her passion for acting and music.