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Glenn Close as Alex Forrest in "Fatal Attraction" (1987)
This iconic role established Close as a bona fide leading lady capable of complex, terrifying, and vulnerable dramatic performances, earning her an Academy Award nomination.
Best dramatic performances by Glenn Close
Explore a gallery of Glenn Close's most memorable performances across film and television. From her iconic roles in "Fatal Attraction" and "Dangerous Liaisons" to acclaimed turns in "The Wife" and "Hillbilly Elegy," this collection highlights the versatility of an exceptional actress. Discover how she has embodied villains, cunning lawyers, and complex characters that have left an indelible mark on screen. A journey through her dramatic career showcasing why she is considered one of the greats.
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2Glenn Close as Martha Delacroix in 'Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery' (2025)
Released in late 2025, this film is very current for 2026 and features Close in a role that has been described as a potential ninth Oscar nomination for her, highlighting its dramatic weight.
3Glenn Close as Drusilla Sickle in "The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping" (2026)
This highly anticipated prequel to 'The Hunger Games' series will feature Close in a significant dramatic role within a major franchise, making it a prominent and current performance for 2026.
4Glenn Close as Joan Castleman in "The Wife" (2017)
This is widely considered one of Close's 'masterpiece' performances, lauded for its subtle, simmering, and menacing portrayal of a woman's quiet struggle and resentment.
5Glenn Close as Patty Hewes in "Damages" (2007-2012)
'Damages' is regarded as a 'spellbinding' legal thriller, with Close's portrayal of Patty Hewes being a career-defining role, showcasing her ability to play complex, Machiavellian characters.
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6Glenn Close as Marquise Isabelle de Merteuil in "Dangerous Liaisons" (1988)
Her performance as the antagonistic Marquise is celebrated for its devious villainy and the subtle cracks that reveal a human with vulnerabilities, making it a powerful and acclaimed dramatic role.
7Glenn Close as Jenny Fields in "The World According to Garp" (1982)
This was Close's film debut, and her performance immediately garnered critical attention and an Oscar nomination, showcasing her talent from the very beginning of her film career.
8Glenn Close as Colonel Margarethe Cammermeyer in "Serving in Silence: The Margarethe Cammermeyer Story" (1995)
This Emmy-winning performance highlights Close's ability to deliver powerful dramatic portrayals in television films, tackling significant real-life stories with depth and conviction.
9Glenn Close as Albert Nobbs in "Albert Nobbs" (2011)
This role is a testament to Close's transformative acting, as she completely embodies a complex character struggling with identity and survival, delivering a deeply moving dramatic performance.
10Glenn Close as Bonnie "Mamaw" Vance in "Hillbilly Elegy" (2020)
This recent performance showcases Close's continued ability to deliver impactful dramatic portrayals, earning her significant critical recognition and an Oscar nod.