Ann Magnuson: From Fresh York Nightlife to Sci-Fi Stardom
Ann Magnuson, the 70-year-old actress recently spotted in Los Angeles with a cat-themed mug, boasts a career as diverse and captivating as her early days as a New York City DJ. From the vibrant club scene of the late 1970s to iconic roles alongside David Bowie and Harrison Ford, Magnuson’s journey is a testament to her versatility and enduring talent.
Early Days: Music, Performance, and the New York Scene
Magnuson’s creative path began after graduating from college in 1978, when she moved to New York City. She quickly immersed herself in the city’s burgeoning art and music scene, initially working as a DJ and performer at Club 57, a hub for artists like Keith Haring. She likewise frequented the Mudd Club, a legendary Manhattan nightclub, throughout 1979 and the early 1980s.
Her musical ambitions didn’t stop at DJing. Magnuson fronted the faux-heavy metal band Vulcan Death Grip in 1987, showcasing her willingness to experiment and embrace different artistic expressions. Later, she became the lead vocalist of the band Bongwater, which disbanded in 1992.
Breaking into Film and Television
Magnuson’s acting career began with a small role in 1985’s Desperately Seeking Susan, starring Madonna and Rosanna Arquette. She followed this with parts in Making Mr. Right (1987) and a memorable role in 1983’s The Hunger, where she appeared alongside Catherine Deneuve and David Bowie. She also had a steamy scene with River Phoenix in 1988’s The Night In The Life Of Jimmy Reardon.
Television audiences came to know Magnuson as Catherine Hughes, the editor-in-chief of a Chicago magazine in the sitcom Anything But Love (1989-1992), alongside Jamie Lee Curtis and Richard Lewis. Throughout the 1990s, she continued to appear in films like Small Soldiers, Tank Girl, and Tequila Sunrise, as well as guest-starring roles on various TV shows.
Recent Roles and Continued Creativity
Magnuson’s career has continued to flourish in recent years. She appeared in five episodes of The Man In The High Castle (2018) and took on the role of Fleet Admiral Kirsten Clancy, the commander-in-chief of Starfleet, in the first season of Star Trek: Picard.
Beyond acting, Magnuson has also explored other creative avenues. She toured a one-woman stage show, Pretty Songs & Ugly Stories, from 2003 to 2006, and released an album of the same name. She also performed in a cabaret act, Dueling Harps, in 2007, and 2008.
Life Beyond the Spotlight
Ann Magnuson married architect John Bertram in 2002 and currently resides in the Silver Lake neighborhood of Los Angeles.
FAQ
Q: What is Ann Magnuson best known for?
A: She is known for her diverse career spanning music, performance art, film, and television, including roles in The Hunger, Anything But Love, and Star Trek: Picard.
Q: Did Ann Magnuson have a musical career?
A: Yes, she was a DJ, fronted the band Vulcan Death Grip, and was the lead vocalist of Bongwater.
Q: What films did Ann Magnuson appear in?
A: She has appeared in films such as Desperately Seeking Susan, Making Mr. Right, The Hunger, Small Soldiers, and Tequila Sunrise.
