Sigourney Weaver is an American actress known for her versatile roles in film and television. Born on October 8, 1949, in New York City, she gained fame for her portrayal of Ellen Ripley in the Alien franchise, which began in 1979. Weaver's performance in this iconic science fiction series established her as a leading actress in Hollywood. Throughout her career, Weaver has received numerous accolades, including three Academy Award nominations. In addition to her work in science fiction, she has starred in various genres, including drama and comedy, showcasing her range as an actress. Some of her other notable films include Ghostbusters and Avatar.