Early Life and Education of Marlee Matlin: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: June 14, 2025

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Marlee Matlin. From birth to education, explore key events.

Marlee Matlin is a celebrated American actress, activist, and author, notable for her advocacy for deaf individuals and representation of deaf characters. Deaf since infancy, she achieved widespread recognition with her Academy Award-winning debut in "Children of a Lesser God." Matlin has consistently championed deaf representation in Hollywood, advocating for accessibility and inclusion. Her career includes numerous film and television roles, earning her a Golden Globe and multiple Emmy nominations. She received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2009, solidifying her impact on entertainment and activism.

Sections (4)

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

1927: Buck v. Bell US Supreme Court Case

In 1927, the United States Supreme Court case Buck v. Bell 274 U.S. 200 occurred, which later inspired the 1994 television drama "Against Her Will: The Carrie Buck Story" starring Marlee Matlin.

1930: Birth of Libby Hammer and Donald Matlin

In 1930, both Libby Hammer (Marlee Matlin's mother) and Donald Matlin (Marlee Matlin's father) were born.

August 24, 1965: Marlee Matlin Born

On August 24, 1965, Marlee Matlin was born. She is an American actress, activist, and author known for her roles as deaf women and her advocacy in Hollywood and other industries.

1987: Honorary Doctorate from Gallaudet University

In 1987, Marlee Matlin received an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters degree from Gallaudet University.

August 29, 1993: Marriage to Kevin Grandalski

On August 29, 1993, Marlee Matlin married Burbank police officer Kevin Grandalski at Henry Winkler's home, after meeting on the set of Reasonable Doubts.

1996: Birth of daughter Sarah

In 1996, Marlee Matlin and Kevin Grandalski welcomed their first child, a daughter named Sarah.

2000: Birth of son Brandon

In 2000, Marlee Matlin and Kevin Grandalski welcomed their second child, a son named Brandon.

2002: Birth of son Tyler

In 2002, Marlee Matlin and Kevin Grandalski welcomed their third child, a son named Tyler.

2003: Birth of daughter Isabelle

In 2003, Marlee Matlin and Kevin Grandalski welcomed their fourth child, a daughter named Isabelle.

April 14, 2009: Publication of I'll Scream Later

On April 14, 2009, Marlee Matlin's autobiography, I'll Scream Later, was published, detailing her drug abuse, time at the Betty Ford Center, and relationship with William Hurt.

I'll Scream Later

Check it on Amazon

July 26, 2010: Signed speech at ADA anniversary

On July 26, 2010, Marlee Matlin signed a speech at an event commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

2013: Death of Donald Matlin

In 2013, Donald Matlin (Marlee Matlin's father) passed away.

January 2015: ACLU celebrity ambassador

As of January 2015, Marlee Matlin began serving as the ACLU's celebrity ambassador for disability rights, discussing communication barriers between law enforcement and the deaf community.