Angela Paton

Angela Paton was a distinguished American actress and theatre director, celebrated for her work in stage, film, and television. Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1930, she carved a niche for herself in the San Francisco arts scene, earning the reputation of a "natural comic" and a "legend of the local stage." Paton was a prominent figure at the American Conservatory Theater (A.C.T.), where she shone brightly during its early seasons. In the early 1970s, she transitioned from A.C.T. to co-found the Berkeley Stage Company with her husband, further solidifying her legacy in regional theatre.

Throughout her career, Paton made significant contributions to film and television, appearing in 38 films and over 50 television series. Her memorable performances include Mrs. Lancaster in the beloved comedy Groundhog Day (1993) and Grandma in American Wedding (2003). She also had notable recurring roles on acclaimed shows such as Thirtysomething (1987-1991), My Name is Earl (2005-2009), and The War at Home (2005-2007).

Paton's impact on the Bay Area theatre community was profound, and she received the Bay Area Theater Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in 1987 for her role in "The Beauty Queen of Leenane." A proud member of the Actors' Equity Association and the Screen Actors Guild, Angela Paton passed away in Oakland, California, in 2016, leaving behind a rich legacy at the age of 86.