History of Helen Hunt in Timeline

Helen Hunt is a highly acclaimed American actress and director known for her work in film and television. She is the recipient of numerous awards, including an Academy Award, four Primetime Emmy Awards, and four Golden Globe Awards.

1947: Original "Kiss of Death" Released

The original film noir "Kiss of Death" was released in 1947, which would later be remade in 1995, with Helen Hunt starring in a leading role.

June 15, 1963: Birth of Helen Hunt

On June 15, 1963, Helen Elizabeth Hunt was born. This event marks the beginning of her life and journey to becoming a renowned actress and director.

Oct 26, 1976: Guest Appearance on "Family"

On October 26, 1976, Helen Hunt appeared in an episode of the TV series "Family," playing the role of Robin Trask. This marked one of her early appearances in the television industry as a child actress.

1977: Early Television Appearances

In 1977, Helen Hunt made appearances in various television shows, including "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," "Rollercoaster," "The Bionic Woman," and "Ark II," showcasing her talent and gaining early experience as a young actress.

1982: "Desperate Lives" and "It Takes Two"

Helen Hunt appeared in the made-for-television film "Desperate Lives" and landed a role in the sitcom "It Takes Two" in 1982, further building her experience in both comedic and dramatic roles.

1983: Television Movie Roles

Helen Hunt starred in the television films "Bill: On His Own" and "Quarterback Princess" in 1983, further solidifying her presence in the television industry and demonstrating her versatility in portraying diverse characters.

1984: Film Debut in "Trancers"

Helen Hunt landed her first major film role in the sci-fi film "Trancers" in 1984, marking her transition from television to the big screen and the start of her journey in the film industry.

1985: "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" Released

In 1985, Helen Hunt starred in the teen comedy "Girls Just Want to Have Fun," alongside Sarah Jessica Parker and Shannen Doherty, gaining recognition among younger audiences.

1986: Supporting Role in "Peggy Sue Got Married"

Helen Hunt appeared in Francis Ford Coppola's film "Peggy Sue Got Married" in 1986, starring alongside Kathleen Turner, expanding her filmography and working with renowned directors.

1987: "Project X" Released

In 1987, Helen Hunt starred opposite Matthew Broderick in the film "Project X," a drama about a secret Air Force project involving chimpanzees.

1988: Appearance in "Stealing Home"

Helen Hunt appeared in the comedy-drama film "Stealing Home" in 1988, starring alongside Mark Harmon and Jodie Foster, showcasing her versatility in various genres and further establishing her presence in the film industry.

1989: "Next of Kin" Released

In 1989, Helen Hunt starred in the action thriller "Next of Kin" alongside Patrick Swayze and Liam Neeson, continuing to expand her filmography with roles in diverse genres.

1990: Stage Performance in "The Taming of the Shrew"

In 1990, Helen Hunt showcased her talent on stage, performing alongside Tracey Ullman and Morgan Freeman in a production of "The Taming of the Shrew" at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park, demonstrating her versatility across different acting mediums.

1991: "Trancers II" and "My Life and Times"

Helen Hunt starred in the direct-to-video sequel "Trancers II" and the sitcom "My Life and Times" in 1991, further building her resume in both film and television.

1992: Film and Television Roles

1992 marked a busy year for Helen Hunt, with roles in the drama "The Waterdance," the romantic comedy "Only You," the mockumentary "Bob Roberts," the comedy "Mr. Saturday Night," and her return in "Trancers III," showcasing her range and versatility as an actress.

1992: "Mad About You" Premieres

In 1992, Helen Hunt rose to fame for her role as Jamie Buchman in the sitcom "Mad About You", which marked a significant milestone in her career.

1994: Hunt Begins Dating Hank Azaria

In 1994, Helen Hunt embarked on a romantic relationship with actor Hank Azaria.

1994: Hosting "Saturday Night Live"

In 1994, Helen Hunt hosted an episode of "Saturday Night Live," showcasing her comedic timing and ability to connect with a live audience, marking a significant milestone in her career.

1995: "Kiss of Death" Released

In 1995, Helen Hunt starred in the crime thriller "Kiss of Death" alongside Nicolas Cage, a remake of the 1947 film noir classic, showcasing her ability to take on roles in different genres.

1996: "Twister" Released

Helen Hunt starred in the disaster film "Twister" in 1996, a critical and commercial success that further cemented her status as a leading actress in Hollywood.

1996: First Emmy Award for "Mad About You"

In 1996, Helen Hunt won her first Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for her role in "Mad About You," recognizing her exceptional performance and comedic talent.

1997: Second Emmy Win for "Mad About You"

Helen Hunt won her second consecutive Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for "Mad About You" in 1997, solidifying her success and critical acclaim for her role as Jamie Buchman.

1997: Academy Award for "As Good as It Gets"

Helen Hunt won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as a single mother in the romantic comedy "As Good as It Gets" in 1997, a testament to her exceptional talent and the impact of her performance.

1998: Third Emmy for "Mad About You"

Helen Hunt achieved a remarkable feat by winning her third consecutive Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for "Mad About You" in 1998, solidifying her place as a comedic powerhouse in television.

1998: Voice Role in "The Simpsons" and Stage Performance in "Twelfth Night"

Helen Hunt lent her voice to an episode of "The Simpsons" and starred in a production of Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night" in New York in 1998, showcasing her versatility and expanding her repertoire beyond film.

1999: Hunt Marries Hank Azaria

Helen Hunt and Hank Azaria tied the knot in 1999.

1999: Fourth Emmy for "Mad About You"

In 1999, Helen Hunt concluded her successful run on "Mad About You" by winning her fourth consecutive Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series, solidifying her legacy as one of the most celebrated comedic actresses of her time.

2000: A Year of Diverse Roles

Helen Hunt starred in four films released in 2000: "Dr. T & the Women," "Pay It Forward," "What Women Want," and "Cast Away," showcasing her versatility as an actress across different genres.

2000: Four Films Released

In 2000, Helen Hunt starred in four films: "Dr. T & the Women," "Pay It Forward," "What Women Want," and "Cast Away," a testament to her prolific acting career and ability to take on diverse roles.

2001: Hunt and Azaria Divorce, Hunt Begins Relationship with Matthew Carnahan

In 2001, Helen Hunt and Hank Azaria made the difficult decision to divorce after 17 months of marriage. That same year, Hunt began a new chapter in her personal life when she started dating producer Matthew Carnahan.

2001: Hunt Stars in "The Curse of the Jade Scorpion"

In 2001, Helen Hunt took on the role of an efficiency expert in Woody Allen's film, "The Curse of the Jade Scorpion." Her character's life takes a wild turn when she's hypnotized into stealing jewels.

2003: Hunt Returns to Broadway

Helen Hunt graced the Broadway stage in 2003, captivating audiences with her performance in Yasmina Reza's play "Life x 3."

2004: Hunt and Carnahan Welcome a Daughter

Helen Hunt and Matthew Carnahan welcomed a daughter into the world in 2004, marking a joyous milestone in their lives.

2004: Hunt's Performance in "A Good Woman"

Helen Hunt took on the challenging role of a femme fatale in the 2004 drama "A Good Woman," set in the vibrant backdrop of 1930s New York City.

2006: Hunt's Role in "Bobby" Earns Acclaim

In 2006, Helen Hunt showcased her acting prowess in Emilio Estevez's poignant drama "Bobby." The film, centered around the events leading up to Robert F. Kennedy's assassination, featured Hunt as a socialite amidst an ensemble cast. Her performance garnered critical acclaim, earning her a nomination for the Screen Actors Guild Award for Best Cast in a Motion Picture and winning the Hollywood Film Festival Award for Best Ensemble Cast.

2006: "Bobby" Released

In 2006, Helen Hunt starred in the film "Bobby," a historical drama revolving around the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy, showcasing her ability to portray characters in significant historical events.

2007: Directorial Debut with "Then She Found Me"

Helen Hunt made her directorial debut with the film "Then She Found Me" in 2007, expanding her horizons in the film industry and showcasing her skills behind the camera.

2010: Hunt Stars in "Every Day"

Helen Hunt starred in the 2010 dramedy "Every Day," portraying one half of a married couple grappling with the weight of growing responsibilities. Her performance served as a powerful reminder of her talent for nuanced and understated acting.

2011: "Soul Surfer" Released

In 2011, Helen Hunt appeared in the biographical drama film "Soul Surfer," based on the true story of surfer Bethany Hamilton, who continued her career after losing an arm in a shark attack.

2011: Hunt Joins the Cast of "Soul Surfer"

In the inspiring biographical drama "Soul Surfer" (2011), Helen Hunt took on the role of Bethany Hamilton's mother. The film beautifully depicted the real-life story of Bethany, a determined young surfer from Hawaii who bravely returned to the waves after a shark attack.

2012: Oscar Nomination for "The Sessions"

Helen Hunt received a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Cheryl Cohen-Greene in the film "The Sessions" in 2012, a testament to her continued excellence in acting.

2012: Hunt's Performance in "The Sessions" Earns Critical Acclaim

Helen Hunt's performance in the 2012 film "The Sessions" was nothing short of remarkable. She portrayed Cheryl Cohen-Greene, a sex surrogate, alongside John Hawkes and William H. Macy. The role demanded vulnerability and courage, with Hunt engaging in scenes of full-frontal nudity. Her dedication to authenticity and her ability to convey the complexities of her character's journey were lauded by critics, earning her numerous award nominations, including an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

2013: Hunt Stars in "Decoding Annie Parker"

Helen Hunt took on the role of research geneticist Mary-Claire King in the 2013 independent drama "Decoding Annie Parker." The film explored the complexities of scientific discovery and the emotional journey of those affected by a disease.

2014: "Ride" Released

In 2014, Helen Hunt directed and starred in the film "Ride," a drama about a mother who travels to California to reconnect with her son, further demonstrating her capabilities as both an actress and a filmmaker.

2014: Hunt Writes, Directs, and Stars in "Ride"

In 2014, Helen Hunt showcased her multifaceted talents in the drama film "Ride." She not only starred in the film but also wrote and directed it. The story follows a mother's cross-country journey to California to reconnect with her son, who has dropped out of school to pursue a life of surfing.

2016: Directing for Television

Helen Hunt directed episodes for the television series "House of Lies" and "This Is Us" in 2016, showcasing her versatility and talent in directing for different genres and formats.

August 2017: Hunt and Carnahan Split

In August 2017, Helen Hunt and Matthew Carnahan decided to part ways, ending their long-term relationship.

2017: Hunt Participates in Women's March

Helen Hunt joined countless individuals in 2017 at the Women's March in Los Angeles, California, raising her voice for gender equality and women's rights.

2017: Directing "Feud: Bette and Joan"

In 2017, Helen Hunt directed an episode of the anthology series "Feud: Bette and Joan," further expanding her directorial portfolio in television and exploring historical rivalries in Hollywood.

December 2018: Hunt Narrates Disney's Candlelight Processional

In December 2018, Helen Hunt lent her voice to a beloved holiday tradition, serving as a guest narrator for Disney's Candlelight Processional at Walt Disney World. Her presence added a touch of warmth and star power to the enchanting event.

2018: "The Miracle Season"

Helen Hunt starred in the sports drama film "The Miracle Season" in 2018, based on the true story of the Iowa City West High School volleyball team, who won the state championship after the death of their star player.

2019: Return to "Mad About You"

Helen Hunt returned to her iconic role as Jamie Buchman in the revival of "Mad About You" in 2019, reprising the beloved character after two decades.

2019: Hunt Stars in "The Miracle Season" and "World on Fire"

The year 2019 saw Helen Hunt gracing both the big and small screens. In "The Miracle Season," she portrayed Kathy Bresnahan, the volleyball coach who inspired her team to victory following a tragic loss. Meanwhile, on television, she captivated audiences as journalist Nancy Campbell in the BBC series "World on Fire." Inspired by real-life war correspondent Clare Hollingworth, Hunt's portrayal added depth and humanity to the series.

December 2020: Hunt to Star in "Blindspotting" Series

In December 2020, exciting news broke that Helen Hunt had been cast in a leading role for the Starz series "Blindspotting." Created by Daveed Diggs and Rafael Casal, the series expands upon the themes explored in their 2018 film of the same name.

2020: Hunt Stars in "The Night Clerk"

Helen Hunt joined forces with Tye Sheridan in the 2020 crime drama film "The Night Clerk." The film weaves a suspenseful tale set against the backdrop of a motel, where a night clerk becomes entangled in a police investigation.

September 2022: Hunt Stars in "Eureka Day" on London Stage

Helen Hunt's talent shone brightly on the London stage in September 2022 as she took on a starring role in the European premiere of "Eureka Day" at The Old Vic theatre. Her performance was a testament to her versatility and enduring stage presence.