Anita Barone Bio
Anita L. Barone (born September 25, 1964) is an American actress known for her appearances in sitcoms including The Jeff Foxworthy Show, Daddio, Shake It Up, The War at Home, and Friends. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Detroit Mercy and a Master of Fine Arts in theatre from Wayne State University. Barone has appeared on numerous television shows throughout her career, and she is married to actor Matthew Glave with whom she has two daughters, Madeline and Roxanne, living in Los Angeles. She received the Method Fest Best Supporting Actress Award in 2005 for her work in the film One Last Ride.
Early Life and Background
Anita L. Barone was born on September 25, 1964, in St. Louis, Missouri. Her passion for performing arts led her to pursue formal training in theatre. She earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Detroit Mercy in 1986. She continued her studies at Wayne State University, where she completed a Master of Fine Arts in theatre. At Wayne State, Barone studied under director and professor Robert T. Hazzard, who helped shape her understanding of theatrical craft.
Her Midwestern upbringing and solid educational foundation prepared her for the transition into professional acting. After completing her graduate studies, she began pursuing opportunities in the entertainment industry.
Path to Acting
Barone began her professional acting career in 1987 and quickly found work in television. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, she appeared in guest roles on shows such as Quantum Leap and Empty Nest, building her experience and visibility in the industry.
A significant early opportunity came when she was cast in Carol and Company, starring alongside legendary actress Carol Burnett. This role connected her with established industry professionals and helped launch her television career. Her performance in this project demonstrated her comedic timing and ability to work alongside prominent performers.
Anita Barone Career
Early Career (1987–1994)
Barone established herself through steady work in television during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Her early guest appearances on popular shows helped her build a reputation as a reliable comedic actress. These roles provided valuable on-set experience and exposure to different production styles.
Her appearance in a fourth-season episode of Seinfeld as Gail Cunningham, a chef with a memorable encounter with Elaine Benes, showcased her ability to create memorable characters in high-profile projects. This role demonstrated her versatility and ability to hold scenes in acclaimed series.
Breakthrough (1994–2005)
A major breakthrough arrived in 1994 when Barone was cast as Carol Willick in Friends. She portrayed Ross Geller’s first wife in the character’s initial appearance on the hit sitcom. Her performance resonated with audiences and opened doors to more prominent opportunities in television.
Barone departed from Friends to pursue a more substantial full-time acting role. She was replaced by Jane Sibbett as the character evolved. Following her Friends appearance, she continued to build her career with guest spots on The Larry Sanders Show, Ally McBeal, Caroline in the City, Chicago Hope, and Party of Five.
In 1995, Barone starred as a regular cast member in The Jeff Foxworthy Show for its first season. The sitcom, which ran from 1995 to 1996, centered on a country music family and became a popular network comedy. She then starred in the sitcom Daddio in 2000, further establishing her presence in television comedy.
Notable Works and Milestones
Barone starred in The War at Home from 2005 to 2007. The sitcom explored family dynamics in a suburban setting and allowed her to demonstrate her range as a comedic actress in an ongoing series role. She appeared in the Disney Channel sitcom Shake It Up starting in 2010, playing Officer Georgia Jones, the mother of CeCe Jones portrayed by Bella Thorne.
Throughout her career, Barone has maintained a diverse television portfolio, appearing in shows ranging from network sitcoms to cable dramas and children’s programming. Her consistency and versatility have contributed to her sustained presence in the entertainment industry for over three decades.
Anita Barone Award Nominations
Barone’s performance work has earned her recognition in the independent film community. Her work in One Last Ride brought her critical acclaim and award recognition for her supporting role.
Anita Barone Awards Won
Barone received the Method Fest Best Supporting Actress Award in 2005 for her performance in the feature film One Last Ride. The film, released in 2004, showcased her dramatic abilities beyond television comedy. Her husband, actor Matthew Glave, also appeared in the film, making it one of several occasions the couple worked together professionally.
| Award | Wins | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Method Fest Best Supporting Actress | 1 | 2005 |
Anita Barone Family
Anita Barone is married to actor Matthew Glave. The couple married in 2000 and has maintained a strong partnership both personally and professionally. They have collaborated on several acting projects, including guest appearances together on Shake It Up where Glave portrayed the ex-husband of Barone’s character.
Together, Barone and Glave have two daughters named Madeline and Roxanne. The family resides in Los Angeles, California.
Personal Life
Barone prioritizes her family life alongside her professional career. She has successfully balanced raising her children with continuing her work as an actress in Los Angeles. Her marriage to Glave, which began in 2000, has been a consistent element throughout her career.