Susan Alexandra 'Sigourney' Weaver, born on October 8, 1949, in New York City, is an acclaimed American actress renowned for her pioneering roles as strong female leads in science fiction and action films, particularly her iconic portrayal of Ellen Ripley in the 'Alien' franchise, which redefined female action heroes and earned her Academy Award and Golden Globe recognition. The daughter of NBC president Sylvester 'Pat' Weaver and English actress Elizabeth Inglis, Weaver grew up in a show business family, which influenced her early interest in performance. At age 14, she adopted the name Sigourney, inspired by a character in F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby. She was educated in New York City, attending the Chapin School before earning a Bachelor of Arts in English from Stanford University in 1972 and a Master of Fine Arts from the Yale School of Drama in 1974. Her career includes blockbuster films like 'Avatar' and its sequels, 'Ghostbusters', and 'Working Girl', as well as independent films, theater, and voice work. She has received a British Academy Film Award, two Golden Globes, a Grammy, and nominations for three Oscars, four Emmys, and a Tony. Beyond acting, Weaver is a prominent environmental activist, advocating for conservation efforts and serving on boards for organizations like the International League of Conservation Writers. Married to theatrical director Jim Simpson since 1984, with whom she has a daughter, Weaver continues to balance high-profile roles with activism, residing primarily in New York City.