Penny Marshall was an American actress, director, and producer, born on October 15, 1943, in The Bronx, New York. She gained fame for her role as Laverne DeFazio on the popular television show Laverne & Shirley, which aired from 1976 to 1983. Marshall's performance earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. In addition to her acting career, Marshall became a successful director, known for films like Big and A League of Their Own. Her work in the film industry helped pave the way for female directors, making her a significant figure in Hollywood. She passed away on December 17, 2022.