Thursday, February 26, 2009

façade: Stephanie Courtney

Am I the only one out there totally enchanted by Stephanie Courtney, the pert redhead who drives those witty Progressive Insurance commercials?

I certainly hope not.

Actually, if all the buzz about her on IMDb is any indication, not a few people have become taken by her. Now if only some resourceful casting agent or director in Hollywood would sit up and take notice.

I mean, get this girl a movie.

Now.

Not surprisingly, Courtney is member of the main company of the famed Groundlings Theater troupe, based in Los Angeles, where she can be found regularly performing in its trademark sketch and improv shows.

The Stony Point, N.Y. native, is a graduate of New York's Neighborhood Playhouse and has appeared in stand-up clubs, on TV (she plays Marge on "Mad Men") and in films ("The Heartbreak Kid" and "Blades of Glory," in which she plays the kind of role described only as "reporter at sign up").

But the roles, alas, have been small ones.

The Progressive ads represent her best showcase to date.

She's also performed at the Aspen Comedy Festival, where she appeared in "Those Courtney Girls", a show she co-wrote with her sister, Jennifer.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

I've noticed her, too. She's great at playing someone who is borderline certifiable. I'd like to see more of her.