Key Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Name | Annette Carol Bening |
| Date of Birth | May 29, 1958 |
| Birthplace | Topeka, Kansas |
| Education | B.A. in Theatre Arts, San Francisco State University |
| Academy Award Nominations | 5 |
| Major Awards | BAFTA, 2× Golden Globes |
| Net Worth | $70 million (est.) |
| Spouse | Warren Beatty (m. 1992) |
| Children | 4 (including actress Ella Beatty) |
Early Life
After moving from the Midwest to California, Annette Bening developed her varied work. Church music and rigorous acting training lead her to a career on stage and television.
| Year | Event | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1958 | Born | Topeka, Kansas | Youngest of four siblings |
| 1959 | Family moved | Wichita, Kansas | Father was in sales consulting |
| 1965 | Relocated with family | San Diego, California | Discovered passion for acting |
| 1975 | Graduated Patrick Henry High School | San Diego, California | Studied drama |
| 1977 | Attended San Diego Mesa College | San Diego, California | Coursework in theatre |
| 1980 | Earned B.A. in Theatre Arts | San Francisco State Univ. | Prepared for professional stage roles |
Career Trajectory
Given her classical theatre background, Bening smoothly transitioned from Shakespeare to Hollywood, garnering great acclaim. Her work, from character studies to blockbuster dramas, shows her dedication to artistry.
| Year | Production | Medium | Recognition |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1980 | Colorado Shakespeare Festival | Theatre | First professional engagement |
| 1984 | Macbeth (Lady Macbeth) | Theatre | American Conservatory Theater spotlight |
| 1987 | Coastal Disturbances | Broadway | Tony Award nomination |
| 1988 | The Great Outdoors | Film | Feature debut |
| 1990 | The Grifters | Film | First Oscar nomination (Best Supporting) |
| 1991 | Bugsy | Film | Portrayed Virginia Hill |
| 1999 | American Beauty | Film | BAFTA win, Oscar nomination |
| 2004 | Being Julia | Film | Golden Globe win |
| 2010 | The Kids Are All Right | Film | Golden Globe win, Oscar nomination |
| 2019 | All My Sons | Broadway | Tony Award nomination |
| 2023 | Nyad | Film | Fourth Oscar nomination |
Financial Overview
Bening has a large net worth, often discussed with her partner, due to her acting and film accomplishments. Her numerous employment and clever career decisions have steadily increased her salary.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Estimated Net Worth | $70 million |
| Primary Income | Film salaries, theatre contracts, endorsements |
| Combined Wealth | Often reported jointly with Warren Beatty |
Family and Relatives
A creative cooperation with Warren Beatty and a new generation of actors has shaped her personal life as much as her acting career. Family is her priority off-camera.
| Relation | Name | Notability |
|---|---|---|
| Former Spouse | J. Steven White | Married 1984–1989 |
| Current Spouse | Warren Beatty | Married March 3, 1992; actor-director legend |
| Daughter | Ella Beatty | Actress in Feud: Capote vs. The Swans (2024) |
| Other Children | 3 offspring | Private profiles |
Comparative Analysis
Bening stands out among Hollywood’s top with her stage discipline and screen grace. Her awards and roles show a true artist.
| Aspect | Annette Bening | Meryl Streep |
|---|---|---|
| Stage Experience | Extensive classical and Broadway | Occasional stage appearances |
| Oscar Nominations | 5 | 21 |
| BAFTA & Globes | BAFTA + 2 Golden Globes | Multiple BAFTAs + 8 Golden Globes |
| Net Worth | $70 million | $160 million |
| Collaborative Partner | Warren Beatty | Hanks, Spielberg, Altman |
Legacy and Influence
Annette Bening inspires actors and redefines female leads in contemporary drama beyond accolades. Her mentoring and campaigning show her dedication to future storytellers.
| Influence Area | Impact | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Acting Craft | Elevated character-driven narratives | Workshops, masterclasses |
| Theatre Revival | Brought renewed attention to classic plays | Sam Shepard, Arthur Miller productions |
| Film Industry | Champion for complex female protagonists | American Beauty, Nyad |
| Representation | Expanded roles for women over 40 | Diverse casting across genres |
| Mentorship | Guided young actors in stage and screen technique | Guest lectures at SFSU, guest directing |
FAQ
When did Annette Bening start acting?
She began her career with the Colorado Shakespeare Festival in 1980 and soon rose in theatre and movies.
Her Academy Award nominations: how many?
Five Oscar nominations have gone to Annette Bening.
Annette Bening’s estimated net worth?
Her net worth is estimated at ~$70 million.
Who is Annette Bening married to?
She married Warren Beatty on March 3, 1992.
