Cynthia Nixon

About Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is a renowned American actress, activist, and theater director, best known for her portrayal of Miranda Hobbes in the HBO series "Sex and the City" (1998–2004), for which she received the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 2004. She reprised her role in the "Sex and the City" films and in the recent television series "And Just Like That..." (2021–present). Nixon has an impressive filmography that includes notable films like "Amadeus" (1984), "James White" (2015), and her critically acclaimed performance as Emily Dickinson in "A Quiet Passion" (2016). Her stage career is equally remarkable, with her Broadway debut in the 1980 revival of The Philadelphia Story. She has appeared in several successful Broadway productions, including The Real Thing (1983), Hurlyburly (1983), Indiscretions (1995), The Women (2001), and Wit (2012). Nixon's outstanding performances have earned her accolades, such as the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play for Rabbit Hole (2006) and the Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play for The Little Foxes (2017). In addition to her stage and screen work, Nixon ventured into politics and ran for Governor of New York in 2018. Her campaign focused on important issues like income inequality, renewable energy, universal health care, criminal justice reform, and immigrant rights. Although she did not win the Democratic primary, she received the nomination from the Working Families Party and remained a prominent advocate for social and political causes. She has been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and has actively campaigned for same-sex marriage. She met her wife during a gay rights rally in 2002 and announced their engagement at a rally advocating for same-sex marriage in 2009. Her advocacy work has been recognized with honors such as the Artist for Equality award from Yale University in 2013 and the Visibility Award from the Human Rights Campaign in 2018. Cynthia Nixon continues to make a significant impact both in the entertainment industry and as a dedicated activist for various social causes.

Cynthia Nixon Early Life & Family

Cynthia Nixon, born on April 9, 1966, in Manhattan, New York City, USA, is currently 57 years old as of 2023. She falls under the zodiac sign of Aries and follows the Christian religion. Her birth name is Cynthia Ellen Nixon, and she is the only child of her father, Walter Elmer Nixon Jr., a radio journalist from Texas, and her mother, Anne Elizabeth (née Knoll), an actress originally from Chicago. Nixon attributes her love for theater to her mother, who played a significant role in introducing her to the world of acting. Her father passed away in 1998, while her mother passed away in 2013. Nixon holds American nationality and has a mixed ethnicity, with English and German ancestry, as well as traces of Scottish, Irish, Scots-Irish/Northern Irish, and Welsh heritage, along with distant roots in Dutch and French Huguenots. Her grandparents were Adolph Knoll, Etta Elizabeth Williams, Walter E. Nixon, and Grace Truman McCormack. Nixon's parents divorced when she was six years old, with her mother being the main breadwinner of the household. Her mother worked on the game show "To Tell the Truth," where she coached the "impostors" claiming to be the featured person described by the host. Nixon made her television debut at the age of 8 on the show, pretending to be a junior horse riding champion as one of the "impostors".

During her time at Hunter College Elementary School and Hunter College High School, Cynthia Nixon's passion for acting was evident as she continuously pursued roles in both film and stage productions, occasionally taking breaks from her studies to perform. In 1984, she successfully completed her high school education and graduated. Nixon further pursued her acting aspirations at Barnard College, where she earned a B.A. in English Literature while simultaneously supporting herself through acting endeavors. Notably, in the spring of 1986, she also participated in the Semester at Sea Program, broadening her academic and cultural experiences.

Cynthia Nixon Career

Acting Career

• Cynthia Nixon's acting career started with an onscreen appearance on "To Tell the Truth" due to her mother's connection, and she began acting at the age of 12 in the ABC Afterschool Special "The Seven Wishes of a Rich Kid" (1979). 
• She made her feature film debut in "Little Darlings" (1980) alongside Kristy McNichol and Tatum O'Neal and her Broadway debut in a revival of "The Philadelphia Story" (1980).
• Alternating between film, TV, and stage, she did projects like the 1982 ABC movie My Body, My Child, the features "Prince of the City" (1981) and "I Am the Cheese" (1983), and the 1982 Off-Broadway productions of John Guare's "Lydie Breeze".
• Nixon also appeared in movies like "Amadeus" (1984) and "The Manhattan Project" (1986) and was part of TV miniseries like "The Murder of Mary Phagan" (1988) and "Tanner '88" (1988). She returned to reprise her role in "Tanner on Tanner" in 2004.
• Nixon's stage career includes notable roles such as Juliet in a 1988 New York Shakespeare Festival production of "Romeo and Juliet" and multiple characters in the workshop production of Wendy Wasserstein's Pulitzer Prize-winning play "The Heidi Chronicles," which later moved to Broadway in 1989.
• On television, she guest-starred in the second episode of "Law & Order" and portrayed an agoraphobic woman in a February 1993 episode of "Murder, She Wrote" titled "Threshold of Fear."
• She succeeded Marcia Gay Harden in the role of Harper Pitt in Tony Kushner's "Angels in America" (1994) and received a Tony nomination for her performance in "Indiscretions" (Les Parents Terribles) (1996). 
• She also took on the role of Lala Levy in the Tony-winning production of "The Last Night of Ballyhoo" (1997). 
• Additionally, Nixon co-founded the Off-Broadway troupe Drama Dept. and appeared in various productions, including "Kingdom on Earth" (1996), "June Moon," "As Bees in Honey Drown" (both 1997), "Hope is the Thing with Feathers" (1998), and "The Country Club" (1999). 
• In film, she had supporting roles in "Addams Family Values" (1993), "Baby's Day Out" (1994), "Marvin's Room" (1996), and "The Out-of-Towners" (1999).
• She gained significant recognition and acclaim for her role as lawyer Miranda Hobbes in the popular HBO comedy series "Sex and the City" (1998-2004). She received three Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, winning the award in 2004 for the show's final season.
• The success of the series propelled Nixon to her first leading role in the feature film "Advice from a Caterpillar" (2000), where she played a video artist navigating love and commitment. 
• She also starred in the television movie "Papa's Angels" (2000) and appeared in the indie comedy "Igby Goes Down" (2002). 
• Nixon's performance in the theatrical production of "The Women" was captured for PBS' Stage on Screen series.
• Following her tenure on "Sex and the City," she made notable appearances in various projects. She guest-starred on the medical drama "ER" in 2005 and portrayed Eleanor Roosevelt in HBO's "Warm Springs" (2005), earning an Emmy nomination for her performance.
• Nixon also appeared on the Fox TV series "House" and starred in the Pulitzer Prize-winning drama "Rabbit Hole" (2006) for which she won a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role. 
• In 2008, she reprised her role as Miranda Hobbes in the "Sex and the City" feature film and won an Emmy for her guest appearance on "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit."
• Additionally, Nixon won a Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album in 2009 for her contribution to "An Inconvenient Truth" alongside Beau Bridges and Blair Underwood.
• In March 2010, she was honored with the Vito Russo Award at the GLAAD Media Awards for her significant contributions to promoting equality for the LGBT community as an openly LGBT media professional. 
• Later that year, she appeared in four episodes of the Showtime series "The Big C." 
• Nixon also had a memorable guest role in an episode of "Law & Order: Criminal Intent" inspired by the Broadway musical "Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark," playing a character resembling director Julie Taymor.
• In 2012, she took on the role of Professor Vivian Bearing in the Broadway production of Margaret Edson's play "Wit," earning a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Play. 
• She also starred as Petranilla in the TV miniseries adaptation of Ken Follett's "World Without End."
• Nixon received critical acclaim for her performances in the films "Stockholm, Pennsylvania" and "James White," both premiered at the 2015 Sundance Film Festival.
• She portrayed reclusive poet Emily Dickinson in the biographical film "A Quiet Passion," and took on the role of Nancy Reagan in the television film adaptation of "Killing Reagan."
• On Broadway, Nixon appeared in the revival of "The Little Foxes," alternating between the roles of Regina and Birdie and winning her second Tony Award for her portrayal of Birdie. 
• In 2020, she appeared in the series "Ratched," portraying the character of Gwendolyn Briggs. 
• She then reprised her iconic role as Miranda Hobbes in the series "And Just Like That..." in 2021, where she also served as an executive producer and director for some episodes. 
• Currently, Nixon is part of the main cast in the ongoing series "The Gilded Age," playing the character Ada Brook.

Political Activism

• Cynthia Nixon has been a longtime advocate for public education and is a spokesperson for New York's Alliance for Quality Education, an advocacy organization focused on fairness in public education. 
• She has actively campaigned against education policies implemented by Michael Bloomberg and endorsed Bill de Blasio in the 2013 New York City mayoral election. After de Blasio's election, Nixon served as his representative to The Public Theater.
• Nixon is also known for her advocacy in support of women's health. 
• She has been involved in raising awareness and supporting initiatives related to women's health issues. 
• Additionally, she has been vocal about her support for progressive causes and candidates. 
• In the 2020 Democratic Party presidential primaries, she endorsed Bernie Sanders and campaigned for him. 
• She emphasized the need for a candidate who is willing to challenge the establishment and bring about significant change. 
• Nixon has also signed an open letter expressing concerns about editorial bias in the New York Times' coverage of transgender people and employment practices regarding trans contributors.
• In 2018, Nixon ran for the governorship of New York, challenging incumbent Andrew Cuomo. 
• Although she secured the nomination of the Working Families Party, she was unable to secure the Democratic nomination.
• Throughout her campaign, Nixon focused on progressive policies such as the legalization of marijuana, emphasizing racial justice and using revenues from legalization for reparations and assisting affected communities. 
• However, she faced criticism for her use of the term "reparations" in this context. 
• Cuomo ultimately won the primary election, and Nixon's name was removed from the general election ballot after the Working Families Party endorsed Cuomo. 
• Following Cuomo's resignation in 2021 due to allegations of sexual harassment, Nixon made a tongue-in-cheek comment about both of them no longer being governors but still having her Emmys, referring to her two Emmy awards.

Cynthia Nixon Awards, Honors, and Achievements

• 2008: Received the Muse Award presented by the New York Women in Film & Television
• 2010: Received the Vito Russo Award presented by the GLAAD Media Awards
• 2016: Received the Faith Hubley Memorial Award during the Provincetown International Film Festival
• Chlotrudis Awards 2016: Best Supporting Actress - James White (Won)
• Drama Desk Awards 2017: Outstanding Featured Actress in a Play - The Little Foxes (Won)
• FilmOut San Diego 2010: Best Supporting Actress - An Englishman in New York (Won)
• Gold Derby Awards 2008: Drama Guest Actress - Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (Won)
• Golden Raspberry Awards 2011: Worst Actress (shared with Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, and Kristin Davis) - Sex and the City 2 (Won)
• Gracie Allen Awards 2016: Outstanding Female Actor in a Supporting Role - Drama - Stockholm, Pennsylvania (Won)
• Grammy Awards 2009: Best Spoken Word Album (shared with Beau Bridges and Blair Underwood) - An Inconvenient Truth (Won)
• OFTA Television Awards 2002: Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series - Sex and the City (Won)
• Primetime Emmy Awards 2004: Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series - Sex and the City (Won)
• Primetime Emmy Awards 2008: Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series - Law & Order: Special Victims Unit: Alternate (Won)
• Screen Actors Guild Awards 2002: Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series - Sex and the City (Won)
• Screen Actors Guild Awards 2004: Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series - Sex and the City (Won)
• ShoWest Convention Awards 2010: Ensemble Award (shared with Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, and Kristin Davis) - Sex and the City 2 (Won)
• Theatre World Awards 1981: Outstanding Individual - The Philadelphia Story (Won)
• Tony Awards 2006: Best Actress in a Play - Rabbit Hole (Won)
• Tony Awards 2017: Best Featured Actress in a Play - The Little Foxes (Won)
• Women in Film Crystal + Lucy Awards 1999: Lucy Award (shared with Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, and Kristin Davis) - Sex and the City (Won)

Cynthia Nixon Net Worth

Cynthia Nixon is a multi-talented individual, known for her roles as an actress, activist, and theater director. As of 2023, her net worth is estimated to be around $25 million. One of her most prominent roles was portraying Miranda Hobbes in the popular HBO series Sex and the City (1998-2004). For the first film adaptation of the series, she reportedly earned $3 million, and an additional million for the second installment. Apart from her successful acting career, Nixon has also made a name for herself as an activist, actively participating in various human rights campaigns. In 2017, she earned $1.3 million from various sources, including salary, capital gains, residuals, and investments. During her campaign for Governor in 2018, tax records revealed these figures. Additionally, she generated an income of $400,000 from Fickle Mermaid, an "S Corporation" she established under IRS rules to manage her earnings. Recently, Cynthia and her fellow cast members received a whopping $1 million each per episode for the reboot of Sex and the City. With her primary source of wealth being the entertainment industry, Cynthia enjoys a lavish lifestyle. 

Nixon has been involved in various brand endorsements throughout her career. In 2003, she appeared in a print ad for Buick. In 2005, she starred in a TV commercial for 7-Up Plus alongside Kristin Davis. The following year, she was featured in a TV commercial for FreshDirect. In 2008, she lent her support to cancer research through TV commercials aimed at raising awareness. In 2012, Cynthia served as the spokesperson for Stand Up 2 Cancer.org and AMGEN, promoting infection risk awareness for patients undergoing cancer treatments in print ads. In addition to her brand endorsements, Cynthia has made a significant impact as the spokesperson for Alliance for Quality Education, dedicating 17 years to advocate for educational excellence.

Cynthia has a keen interest in cars and possesses a notable collection. Among her vehicles, she owns a luxurious German-made Audi Q7. Additionally, she has been seen driving a Lincoln Towncar and a Toyota Corolla, both representing her diverse automotive preferences. In terms of housing, Cynthia's impressive net worth of $25 million has enabled her to own a stunning house in the coveted city of New York. The spacious property spans 4,000 square feet and features five bedrooms, five bathrooms, and a remarkable kitchen. Acquired in 2021, the townhouse was purchased for a substantial sum of $4.4 million. Furthermore, in 2007, she invested a staggering $2 million in an apartment. Alongside her wife Christine Marinoni, Cynthia has made investments in approximately 30 equity and income securities. Notably, her significant holdings include a valued defined benefit plan estimated to be between $1.75 million and $2 million, as well as a property in the East Village valued between $1.5 million and $1.75 million. To manage her earnings, the actress has channeled her acting income through Fickle Mermaid, an "S corporation" established in accordance with IRS rules.

Cynthia Nixon Partner & Children

Cynthia Nixon is happily married to her wife/partner, Christine Marinoni, who is an education activist. They began dating in 2004, and their love story blossomed, leading to their engagement in April 2009. The couple exchanged vows on May 27, 2012, in a beautiful ceremony held in New York City. In 2011, they welcomed their son, Max Ellington, into their lives. Together, Cynthia and Christine are enjoying a fulfilling life together, residing in the vibrant NoHo neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City. In 1988, Cynthia began a relationship with Danny Mozes, who is a schoolteacher. They have two children together - a daughter named Samantha (born in November 1996) and a son named Charles Ezekiel (born in December 2002). In June 2018, Cynthia disclosed that her eldest child is transgender. Following gender transition surgery, Samantha changed her name to Samuel. Cynthia and Danny ended their relationship in 2003.

In 2007, Cynthia Nixon shared her perspective on her sexual orientation, stating, "I don't really feel I've changed. I'd been in relationships with men throughout my life, and I had never experienced love with a woman. But when it happened, it didn't feel strange. I'm simply a woman in love with another woman." In 2012, she identified as bisexual, but she now identifies as queer. Prior to the legalization of same-sex marriage in Washington state, which happens to be Christine Marinoni's home state, Nixon publicly advocated for the issue and even hosted a fundraising event in support of Washington Referendum 74.

Cynthia Nixon Height & Weight

Cynthia Nixon is a beautiful actress known for her slim build and distinctive features. She stands at a height of 5 ft 7 in (170 cm) and weighs around 56 kg (123.5 lbs). While her natural hair color is blonde, she is recognized for often dyeing her hair red for her iconic role as Miranda in Sex and the City. Nixon's striking green eyes and short hair further contribute to her distinctive appearance. Nixon prioritizes her well-being by adopting a nutritious diet and embracing an active routine. While she enjoys indulging in spicy food, she exercises moderation, especially when she has important engagements on the horizon. In an interview, she disclosed her fondness for practicing yoga; however, when time is limited, she opts for slow-burn exercises that deliver efficient results in less time. 

During a routine mammography in October 2006, Cynthia Nixon received a breast cancer diagnosis. Initially, she chose to keep her illness private due to concerns about its potential impact on her career. However, in April 2008, she bravely revealed her battle with the disease during an interview on Good Morning America. Since then, Nixon has taken on an active role as a breast cancer activist. She successfully advocated for her breast cancer special to be aired in a prime-time program on NBC and also assumed the role of an Ambassador for Susan G. Komen for the Cure.