Faye Dunaway as Supporting Roles: 7 Times the Star Shined Without Being Lead Actress

Faye Dunaway has been known for her roles as leading lady since the 1960s, with movies like “Chinatown,” “Bonnie and Clyde,” and “Network.” She’s acted alongside stars Steve McQueen, Warren Beatty, and Jack Nicholson, but she doesn’t need top billing to prove she has talent. Here are 7 supporting roles in which the star shined without being lead actress.

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Wilhelmina Cooper in “Gia” (1998)
Dunaway won a Golden Globe for her supporting role in this TV movie about Gia Carangi, a model from the late 1970s. She played a modeling agent and former model alongside Angelina Jolie.

Maud Charteris in “Ellis Island” (1984)
Another Golden Globe was awarded to Dunaway for her supporting role as a stage actress in the TV mini-series “Ellis Island” about the lives of the countless immigrants who arrived in America in the 1800s.

Phyllis Gold in “The Twilight of the Golds” (1996)
Dunaway plays mother to Jennifer Beals’ character, Suzanne, who, when she finds out her unborn child will likely be gay, has to decide if she will keep it or not. Dunaway was nominated for a Cable ACE Award for her performance.

Kitty Olchin in “The Yards” (2000)
In this 2000 crime drama about subway contractors and corruption in New York City, Dunaway portrays Charlize Theron’s character Erica Soltz’ mother. Also in the movie are Mark Wahlberg, Joaquin Phoenix, and James Caan.

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Yolande D’Aragon in “The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc” (1999)
The 1999 biopic about a young woman who empowered armies to fight for their country showed Dunaway in the role of Charles VII’s mother-in-law. Milla Jovovich, John Malkovich, and Dustin Hoffman co-starred.

6. Mrs. Denton in “Rules of Attraction” (2002)
In this dark comedy revolving around over-privileged college students, Dunaway plays
mother to gay son, Paul, played by Ian Somerhalder.

7. Laura Staton in “Columbo” (1990s)
Guest performances in this 90s TV crime drama earned Dunaway an Emmy Award for
Outstanding Guest Actress in a TV Series.

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