Video Actor: Alex Borstein

Alexandrea “Alex” Borstein, born on February 15, 1973, in Highland Park, Illinois, has established herself as a multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry, excelling as an actress, comedian, writer, and producer. Her career, marked by versatility and depth, spans various mediums, including television, film, and voice acting, showcasing her dynamic range and commitment to her craft.

Borstein’s early life was rooted in a family dedicated to mental health; both of her parents, Irv and Judy Borstein, were professionals in the field. Raised in Deerfield, Illinois, she later moved with her family to Northridge, California. She completed her high school education at Chatsworth High School in 1989 and pursued higher education at San Francisco State University, where she studied rhetoric. Her diverse heritage includes Hungarian and Mongolian ancestry, and she identifies as Jewish, with her maternal grandmother being a Holocaust survivor from Budapest, Hungary.

Her foray into the entertainment world began with training in improvisational comedy at the ACME Comedy Theater in Los Angeles. It was here that she met her future writing partner and husband, Jackson Douglas. Together, they embarked on writing projects for animated series such as “The Spooktacular New Adventures of Casper” and “Pinky and the Brain.” Borstein’s talent for voice work became evident during this period, notably with her role as Queen Machina in “Power Rangers Zeo” in 1996.

In 1997, Borstein’s career took a significant leap when she joined the cast of the sketch comedy show “MADtv” during its third season. Initially a featured player, she quickly became a repertory cast member, gaining recognition for her memorable characters, including Ms. Swan, the quirky owner of the Gorgeous Pretty Beauty Nail Salon. Her tenure on “MADtv” showcased her comedic versatility and timing, solidifying her status as a prominent figure in sketch comedy.

While at “MADtv,” Borstein crossed paths with Seth MacFarlane, who was developing the animated sitcom “Family Guy.” Impressed by her talent, MacFarlane cast her as the voice of Lois Griffin, the matriarch of the Griffin family. “Family Guy” premiered in 1999, and despite facing cancellations in 2000 and 2002, it was revived in 2005 due to strong fan support. Borstein’s portrayal of Lois Griffin became iconic, earning her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance. Her involvement with the show extended beyond voice acting, as she also contributed as a producer and writer, influencing the show’s creative direction.

In addition to her work on “Family Guy,” Borstein was cast as Sookie St. James in the pilot episode of “Gilmore Girls” in 2000. However, contractual obligations with “MADtv” prevented her from continuing in the role. Nevertheless, she made recurring appearances on the show as characters such as Drella, the harpist, and Miss Celine, the stylist, demonstrating her adaptability and range as an actress.

Borstein’s film career includes supporting roles in various genres. She portrayed Ms. Ungermeyer, the strict school principal, in “The Lizzie McGuire Movie” (2003), and played Halle Berry’s character’s best friend in “Catwoman” (2004). Her role as an employee at CBS News in “Good Night, and Good Luck” (2005) further showcased her ability to contribute meaningfully to critically acclaimed projects. Additionally, she appeared in “Bad Santa” (2003) and had an uncredited cameo in “Kicking & Screaming” (2005), highlighting her presence in both mainstream and independent cinema.

In 2004, Borstein co-hosted GSN’s “Celebrity Blackjack,” further expanding her presence in the entertainment industry. She also made guest appearances on the animated program “Drawn Together,” once reprising her role as Lois Griffin, illustrating her willingness to engage with diverse formats and audiences.

Borstein’s creative endeavors extended to live performances with the release of the DVD “Drop Dead Gorgeous (in a Down-to-Earth Bombshell Sort of Way)” in 2007. The recording captured a live performance at the Alex Theatre, where she addressed industry sexism by reading female character breakdowns, blending humor with social commentary.

From 2013 to 2015, Borstein starred as Dawn Forchette in the HBO comedy series “Getting On,” a remake of a UK series. Her performance received positive reviews, contributing to the show’s critical acclaim and multiple Primetime Emmy Award nominations. This role allowed her to delve into more nuanced comedic territory, balancing humor with the complexities of the healthcare setting depicted in the series.

In 2017, Borstein took on the role of Susie Myerson in the Amazon Prime Video series “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.” Her portrayal of the tough, streetwise manager earned her widespread acclaim, including two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. The show’s success further cemented her status as a versatile and talented actress capable of delivering compelling performances across different genres.

In addition to her acting career, Borstein’s production company, Crackerpants, Inc., reflects her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to creating content that challenges industry norms. Her work continues to inspire audiences and aspiring performers alike, demonstrating the impact of dedication, versatility, and authenticity in the entertainment industry.

Borstein’s personal life has also been a subject of public interest. She married Jackson Douglas, whom she met during her time at the ACME Comedy Theater. The couple has two children together. In 2014, it was reported that Douglas filed for divorce, which was finalized in 2017. Despite personal challenges, Borstein has maintained a focus on her career, continuing to deliver performances that resonate with audiences worldwide.

Throughout her career, Borstein has received numerous accolades, reflecting her contributions to the entertainment industry. In addition to her Emmy Awards, she has been nominated for Critics’ Choice Television Awards and Screen Actors Guild Awards, among others. These recognitions underscore her talent and the respect she has garnered from peers and critics alike.

Borstein’s influence extends beyond her performances. She has been an advocate for women’s representation in the entertainment industry, using her platform to address issues of sexism and promote diversity. Her willingness to tackle challenging subjects with humor and candor has made her a respected figure both on and off the screen.

In recent years, Borstein has continued to expand her repertoire. In 2023, she released a musical comedy special titled “Alex Borstein: Corsets & Clown Suits,” which premiered on Prime Video. The special is described as a deeply personal and wildly fictitious account of one woman’s attempt to challenge perceptions, blending comedy and music in a unique format. This project showcases her ability to innovate and engage audiences in new and creative ways.

Borstein’s career trajectory exemplifies the power of versatility and resilience in the entertainment industry. From her early days in improvisational comedy to her iconic roles in television and film, she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to her craft and a willingness to explore new creative avenues. Her work continues to entertain and inspire, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of contemporary entertainment.

As of 2025, Borstein remains an active and influential figure in the industry. Her contributions have paved the way for future generations of performers, particularly women, to pursue diverse roles and challenge traditional narratives. Her legacy is one of talent, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of artistic excellence.