Lorraine Bracco

Biography

​Lorraine Bracco (born October 2, 1954) is an American actress renowned for her compelling performances in both film and television. She gained critical acclaim for her roles as Karen Hill in Martin Scorsese’s Goodfellas (1990) and Dr. Jennifer Melfi in HBO’s The Sopranos (1999–2007).

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born in the Bay Ridge neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, Bracco is the daughter of Eileen (née Molyneux) and Salvatore S. Bracco Sr. Her father was of Italian descent, and her mother was born in England with some French ancestry. Bracco grew up in Hicksville, New York, and graduated from Hicksville High School in 1972.

In 1974, she moved to France, where she embarked on a modeling career, working for designer Jean-Paul Gaultier. Her time in France also led to roles in Italian-language films during the 1980s.

Breakthrough Roles and Acclaim

Bracco's English-language film debut came with The Pick-up Artist (1987), followed by roles in Someone to Watch Over Me (1987) and The Dream Team (1989).

Her portrayal of Karen Hill in Goodfellas (1990) earned her nominations for both the Academy Award and Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress. ​

In 1999, Bracco took on the role of Dr. Jennifer Melfi in The Sopranos, serving as the psychiatrist to mob boss Tony Soprano. Her performance garnered multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations, solidifying her status as a leading actress in television drama.

Continued Success and Recent Work

Beyond The Sopranos, Bracco appeared in various films and television series, including Rizzoli & Isles (2010–2016), where she played Angela Rizzoli. ​

In 2022, she lent her voice to the character Sofia in Disney's live-action adaptation of Pinocchio. ​

Looking ahead, Bracco is set to star in the upcoming Netflix comedy Nonnas (2025), marking her first foray into comedic roles. ​

Personal Life and Advocacy

Bracco has two daughters: Margaux Guerard, from her marriage to Daniel Guerard, and Stella Keitel, from her relationship with actor Harvey Keitel. She was also married to actor Edward James Olmos from 1994 to 2002.