Childhood and Education Journey of Gillian Anderson in Timeline

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Gillian Anderson. A timeline of key moments.

Gillian Anderson is an American actress, writer, and activist recognized for her diverse roles. She gained prominence as FBI Special Agent Dana Scully in *The X-Files*, Lily Bart in *The House of Mirth*, DSI Stella Gibson in *The Fall*, Jean Milburn in *Sex Education*, and Margaret Thatcher in *The Crown*. Anderson's critically acclaimed performances have earned her two Primetime Emmy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, and four Screen Actors Guild Awards, solidifying her status as a versatile and accomplished performer.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

August 9, 1968: Gillian Anderson Born

On August 9, 1968, Gillian Leigh Anderson was born in Chicago, Illinois, to Rosemary "Posie" Alyce (née Lane) and Homer Edward "Ed" Anderson III.

Others born on this day/year

1986: Graduates High School

In 1986, Gillian Anderson graduated from high school and returned to her birthplace of Chicago to attend The Theatre School at DePaul University.

1990: Earns Bachelor of Fine Arts

In 1990, Gillian Anderson earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from The Theatre School at DePaul University.

1992: Moves to Los Angeles and Appears in The Turning

In 1992, Gillian Anderson moved to Los Angeles and appeared in her first feature-length film, The Turning.

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1996: Voted sexiest woman in the world by FHM Magazine

In 1996, FHM Magazine voted Gillian Anderson the sexiest woman in the world.

1996: Became Spokesperson for Feminist Majority Foundation

In 1996, Gillian Anderson became the Feminist Majority Foundation's spokesperson and participated in their Million4Roe campaign.

February 14, 1999: Performed in Eve Ensler's Vagina Monologues

On February 14, 1999, Gillian Anderson participated in a stage performance of Eve Ensler's Vagina Monologues.

March 1999: Attended Feminist Majority Foundation Event

In March 1999, Gillian Anderson attended a Feminist Majority Foundation event to stop gender apartheid in Afghanistan.

2001: Emceed Rock for Choice Concert Fundraiser

In 2001, Gillian Anderson emceed the Rock for Choice concert fundraiser, which supported reproductive options and featured musicians and actresses.

April 2002: Appeared on Hollywood Squares for Feminist Majority Foundation

In April 2002, Gillian Anderson appeared on Hollywood Squares to benefit the Feminist Majority Foundation's campaign to aid Afghan women and girls.

2002: Returns to London and West End Debut

In 2002, Gillian Anderson moved back to London after The X-Files ended and made her West End debut in What The Night Is For.

2002: Moves to London

In 2002, Gillian Anderson moved to London.

2008: Aaron Diagnosed with Glioblastoma

In 2008, Gillian Anderson's brother Aaron was diagnosed with glioblastoma.

2011: Brother Aaron's Death

In 2011, Gillian Anderson's brother Aaron died from Neurofibromatosis type I.

May 2013: BlogTalkRadio Interview on National Identity

In May 2013, during an interview with BlogTalkRadio, Gillian Anderson discussed her national identity, expressing uncertainty about whether she felt more British or American, but affirmed that London felt like home.

2013: Received City Lit Lifetime Fellowship Award

In 2013, Gillian Anderson received a City Lit Lifetime Fellowship Award for her support and inspiration to adult education provider City Lit and its students.

August 2014: Glamour Magazine Interview on Feminism

In August 2014, Gillian Anderson stated in an interview with Glamour magazine that she had "feminist bones" and was intolerant of discriminatory behavior towards women.

2014: Signed Amnesty International's Letter for Women's Rights

For International Women's Day in 2014, Gillian Anderson was one of the signatories of Amnesty International's letter to UK Prime Minister David Cameron campaigning for women's rights in Afghanistan.

November 2015: Named Friend and Supporter of Positive Luxury

In November 2015, Gillian Anderson was named a friend and supporter of Positive Luxury, a company promoting brands' commitment to quality, craftsmanship, service, and sustainability.