Merrin Dungey Biography
Merrin Dungey is an American actress who was born and brought up in Sacramento, California, United States of America. She is widely known for her roles on sci-fi drama series “Alias” as Francie Calfo / Allison Doren. She appeared in the show from 2001 to 2003. Dungey’s performance on “Alias” earned her recognition and a dedicated fan base.
Dungey has also appeared in other popular television series such as “The King of Queens,” “Malcolm in the Middle,” “Summerland,” and “Brooklyn Nine-Nine.” She has made guest appearances on numerous shows, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
In addition to her television work, Dungey has also appeared in films like “Deep Impact” (1998), “EDtv” (1999), and “Still Breathing” (1997).
10 Quick Facts About Merrin Dungey
- Name: Merrin Melissa Dungey
- Age: 52 Years (As of 2023)
- Birthday: 6 August
- Zodiac Sign: Leo
- Height: 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 m)
- Nationality: American
- Occupation: Actress
- Marital Status: Divorced
- Salary: Under Review
- Net worth: $3 Million
Merrin Dungey Age
Dungey is 52 years old as of 2023, she was born on 6 August 1971, in Sacramento, California, United States. She celebrates her birthday on 6 August every year and her birth sign is Leo.
Merrin Dungey Height
Dungey stands at a height of 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 m). Her body measurements are 33-24-33 inches.
Merrin Dungey Weight
Dungey Weighs 57 kg (126 lbs). She has dark brown and black hair.
Early Life and Education
Merrin Dungey was born on August 6, 1971, in Sacramento, California, USA. She attended Rio Americano High School in Sacramento, California where she graduated in q989 joining UCLA earning her Bachelor of Arts degree in 1993. As a child, she was active in ballet and dance as well as piano. Dungey was also an accomplished ice skater.
Rise to Fame
Merrin Dungey’s rise to fame can be attributed to her notable roles in popular television shows, particularly her role as Francie Calfo on the hit series “Alias.” The show, created by J.J. Abrams and starring Jennifer Garner, aired from 2001 to 2006. Dungey’s portrayal of Francie, the best friend of Jennifer Garner’s character, Sydney Bristow, gained her recognition and a dedicated fan base.
Her performance on “Alias” showcased Dungey’s acting abilities and helped propel her career forward. The show was critically acclaimed and received several awards and nominations, contributing to its popularity. Dungey’s character underwent significant story arcs throughout the series, allowing her to display her range as an actress.
Following her success on “Alias,” Dungey continued to work in both television and film, appearing in various projects. She took on guest roles in popular TV shows such as “The King of Queens,” “Malcolm in the Middle,” and “Summerland.” These appearances helped solidify her presence in the television industry.
Dungey’s talent and versatility as an actress allowed her to work across different genres and secure roles in both comedy and drama. Her performances in various TV series, along with her work in films such as “Deep Impact” and “EDtv,” further contributed to her growing reputation in the entertainment industry.
While her role on “Alias” remains one of the highlights of her career, Merrin Dungey has continued to showcase her acting skills and maintain a steady presence in television and film, earning her a dedicated following and recognition among audiences.
Merrin Dungey Family, Parents
Dungey was born to her parents Don Dungey and Judy Dungey in California. Her father Don, is a general services manager. She has one sibling, an elder sister named Channing Dungey, who was named president of ABC Entertainment in February 2016.
Merrin Dungey Husband, Matthew Drake
Merrin was married to Matthew Drake. They tied the knot in May 2007, in a Mariachi-style wedding ceremony in Cancun, Mexico. They were blessed with two children, both daughters who were born in June 2008 and in 2011. The couple parted ways in 2018 and are now divorced.
Merrin Dungey Net Worth
Dungey has an estimated net worth of $3 million dollars as of 2023. This includes her assets, money and income. Her primary source of income is her career as an actress. Through her various sources of income, Merrin has been able to accumulate a good fortune but prefers to lead a modest lifestyle.
Merrin Dungey Measurements and Facts
Here are some interesting facts and body measurements you should know about Merrin.
Merrin Dungey Wiki
- Full Names: Merrin Melissa Dungey
- Popular As: Merrin
- Gender: Female
- Occupation / Profession: Actress
- Nationality: American
- Race / Ethnicity: Black
- Religion: Christian
- Sexual Orientation: Straight
Merrin Dungey Birthday
- Age / How Old?: 52 years (2023)
- Zodiac Sign: Leo
- Date of Birth: 6 August 1971
- Place of Birth: Sacramento, California, USA
- Birthday: 6 August
Merrin Dungey Body Measurements
- Body Measurements: 33-24-33 inches
- Height / How Tall?: 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 m)
- Weight: 57 kg (126 lbs)
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
- Hair Color: Black
- Shoe Size: 9 (US)
- Dress Size: Not Available
- Breast Size: 33 inches
- Waist Size: 24 inches
- Hip Size: 33 inches
Merrin Dungey Family and Relationship
- Father (Dad): Don Dungey
- Mother: Judith Dungey
- Siblings (Brothers and Sisters): Channing Dungey
- Marital Status: Divorced
- Husband/Spouse: Matthew Drake (m. 2007; div. 2021)
- Dating / Boyfriend: Single
- Children: Two (2)
Merrin Dungey Net Worth and Salary
- Net Worth: $3 Million
- Salary: Under Review
- Source of Income: Actress
Merrin Dungey Career
Dungey had small roles in Hollywood films such as EDtv and Deep Impact and on television series such as Martin, before landing the recurring role of Kelly Palmer on the CBS television series The King of Queens, in which she starred 1999 to 2007.
She appeared in every season in the series except for the 2002-2003 season. She is also well known for her role as Francie Calfo on the drama series Alias, in which she starred from 2001 to 2003, as well as an appearance in the 2006 series finale episode All the Time in the World.
She then portrayed Susannah in the WB drama series Summerland from 2004 to 2005. She has also guest-starred on various TV series including Living Single, ER, Murphy Brown, Seinfeld, Friends, The West Wing, Babylon 5, and Curb Your Enthusiasm.
She appeared in two episodes of Grey’s Anatomy that served as a backdoor pilot for Private Practice but was replaced by actress Audra McDonald for the actual series.
Merrin Dungey Middle
Merrin also had a recurring role on the FOX sitcom Malcolm in the Middle as Stevie’s mother, Kitty Kernaban. At one point in 2001, Dungey was appearing in all three shows (The King of Queens, Malcolm in the Middle, and Alias) at the same time.
Merrin Dungey Movies and TV Shows
Movies
- 1998 – Deep Impact Sheila Bradley
- 1999 – EDtv Ms. Seaver
- 2000 – The Sky Is Falling Sheila
- 2001 – Odessa or Bust Disgruntled Diner
- 2002 – Scream at the Sound of the Beep Jill
- 2006 – Beyond Debbie Sprague
- 2009 – Masterwork Rachel West
- 2011 – L!fe Happens Hester
- 2014 – Some Kind of Beautiful Angela
- 2015 – The Diabolical Mrs. Dana Wallace
- 2015 – 48 Hours ’til Monday Mary Johansson
- 2017 – CHiPs Joy Jackson
- 2017 – Brothered Up Desiree Williams TV movie
- 2020 – Greenland Major Breen
- 2021 – The Madness Inside Me Madison
TV Shows
- 1995 – Martin Monique
- 1996 – Babylon 5 Security Guard #2
- 1997 – Caroline in the City Female Prostitute
- 1998 – Seinfeld Cashier
- 1999 – Tracey Takes On… Nancy
- 1999–2007 – The King of Queens Kelly Palmer
- 2000 – Jesse Rosemary
- 2000–01 – Grosse Pointe Joan
- 2000–04 – Malcolm in the Middle Kitty Kenarban
- 2001 – Curb Your Enthusiasm Amy
- 2001–06 – Alias Francie Calfo / Allison Doren
- 2004–05 – Summerland Susannah Rexford
- 2007 – Boston Legal Sandy Zionts
- 2009- Surviving Suburbia Mrs. Devore
- 2009–10 – Better Off Ted Sheila
- 2010 – Castle Monica Finch
- 2012 – Revenge Barbara Snow
- 2013 – 90210 Court Appointed Therapist
- 2014 – Episodes Tonight Show Producer
- 2014–15 – Once Upon a Time Ursula
- 2015 – Backstrom Eleanor Deering
- 2016 – Con Man Jess
- 2016–17 – Conviction Maxine Bohen
- 2017–19 – Big Little Lies Detective Adrienne Quinlan
- 2018 – The Resident Claire Thorpe
- 2019 – Grace and Frankie Elena
- 2020 – Star Trek: Picard Interviewer
- 2020–present – Star Trek: Lower Decks Solvang First Officer/Ensign Wendy (voice)
- 2021 – Bad Vibes Melinda
- 2022–present – Shining Vale Kam
- TBA – In Between
Notable Travel, Events, and Experiences
Merrin Dungey has had a number of notable travel experiences, including:
- Visiting South Africa in 2005 to film the television movie “Lackawanna Blues.” Dungey said that the experience was “life-changing” and that she “learned so much about myself and the world” during her time in South Africa.
- Travelling to Japan in 2010 to promote the film “The Last Airbender.” Dungey said that she was “blown away” by the beauty of Japan and that she “had a great time” meeting the Japanese fans of the film.
- Visiting the Galapagos Islands in 2015 with her family. Dungey said that the experience was “incredible” and that she “saw some of the most amazing wildlife” she had ever seen.
- Travelling to Europe in 2017 to film the television series “The Resident.” Dungey said that she “loved exploring” all of the different countries in Europe and that she “made some great friends” on set.
In addition to her travel experiences, Dungey has also had a number of notable events and experiences in her career, including:
- Being nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her role in “Alias” in 2002.
- Winning a People’s Choice Award for Favorite New TV Drama Actress for her role in “Alias” in 2002.
- Winning a Teen Choice Award for Choice TV Actress: Drama for her role in “Alias” in 2003.
- Winning a NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actress in a Television Movie, Miniseries or Dramatic Special for her role in “Lackawanna Blues” in 2005.
- Being nominated for a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series for her role in “Conviction” in 2008.
- Being nominated for a NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series for her role in “The Resident” in 2017.
Future Aspirations and Goals
Merrin Dungey has said that she is interested in pursuing directing and producing in the future. She is also interested in working on projects that are “meaningful” and that “make a difference.”
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Dungey said that she is “excited to see what the future holds” and that she is “open to anything.” She said that she is “still learning and growing” as an actress and that she is “always looking for new challenges.”
Dungey is a talented actress with a bright future ahead of her. She is sure to continue to entertain and inspire audiences for years to come.
Here are some of her future aspirations and goals:
- Direct and produce her own projects. Dungey has said that she is interested in pursuing directing and producing in the future. She believes that this would allow her to have more creative control over her work.
- Work on projects that are “meaningful” and that “make a difference.” Dungey is interested in working on projects that have a positive impact on the world. She believes that her platform as an actress can be used to raise awareness of important issues.
- Continue to learn and grow as an actress. Dungey is always looking for new challenges and ways to improve her craft. She believes that there is always more to learn, even for experienced actors.
- Continue to entertain and inspire audiences. Dungey loves her job and she is passionate about making people laugh and cry. She hopes to continue to do that for many years to come.
Social Impact: Philanthropic, Charitable and Community Involvement
Merrin Dungey is a passionate advocate for social justice and equality. She is a vocal supporter of several charitable organizations, including:
- The Trevor Project: The Trevor Project is the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ young people. Dungey has served as a celebrity spokesperson for the organization since 2017.
- The NAACP: The NAACP is the nation’s largest and oldest civil rights organization. Dungey has been a member of the NAACP since 2002.
- The Human Rights Campaign: The Human Rights Campaign is the largest LGBTQ advocacy organization in the United States. Dungey has been a vocal supporter of the organization’s work since 2003.
Dungey is also a strong supporter of education and arts education in particular. She is a member of the board of directors of the Juilliard School and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.
Dungey is a role model for young women and an inspiration to all who know her. She is a talented actress who is also a passionate advocate for social justice and equality.
Here are some of the ways in which Merrin Dungey has made a positive impact on the world:
- She has used her platform as an actress to raise awareness of important issues, such as LGBTQ rights and suicide prevention.
- She has donated her time and money to support charitable organizations that are working to make the world a better place.
- She has inspired young women to follow their dreams and to use their voices to make a difference.
Merrin Dungey Awards Accomplishments and Achievements
Merrin Dungey has been nominated for several awards for her work, including:
- Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her role in Alias (2002)
- Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series for her role in Alias (2003)
- NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series for her role in Conviction (2008)
- NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series for her role in The Resident (2017)
Dungey has also won several awards, including:
- People’s Choice Award for Favorite New TV Drama Actress for her role in Alias (2002)
- Teen Choice Award for Choice TV Actress: Drama for her role in Alias (2003)
- NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actress in a Television Movie, Miniseries or Dramatic Special for her role in Lackawanna Blues (2005)
Legacy
Merrin Dungey is a talented actress who has had a successful career in both film and television. She is a role model for young women and an inspiration to all who know her.
Dungey is best known for her roles in the television series Alias, Conviction, and The Resident. She has also appeared in films such as The Last Airbender and Lackawanna Blues.
In addition to her acting career, Dungey is a passionate advocate for social justice and equality. She is a vocal supporter of several charitable organizations, including The Trevor Project, The NAACP, and The Human Rights Campaign.
Dungey is also a strong supporter of education and arts education in particular. She is a member of the board of directors of the Juilliard School and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.
Dungey is a true inspiration and a role model for us all. She is a talented actress who is also a passionate advocate for social justice and equality. She has made a positive impact on the world and her legacy will continue to inspire others for years to come.
Here are some of the ways in which Merrin Dungey will be remembered:
- As a talented actress who entertained and inspired audiences for years.
- As a passionate advocate for social justice and equality.
- As a role model for young women and an inspiration to all who know her.
Hobbies and Interests
- Reading: Dungey is an avid reader and enjoys reading a variety of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and poetry.
- Traveling: Dungey loves to travel and has visited many countries around the world. She enjoys learning about different cultures and experiencing new things.
- Cooking: Dungey is a talented cook and enjoys experimenting with new recipes. She often cooks for her friends and family.
- Playing the piano: Dungey has been playing the piano since she was a child and enjoys playing for her own enjoyment and for others.
- Spending time with her family and friends: Dungey is a family-oriented person and enjoys spending time with her husband, children, and friends.
- Hiking: Dungey enjoys hiking in the mountains and spending time in nature.
- Yoga: Dungey practices yoga to stay healthy and fit.
- Gardening: Dungey enjoys gardening and growing her own vegetables.
- Photography: Dungey enjoys taking photographs and capturing memories.
- Arts and crafts: Dungey enjoys arts and crafts and creating things with her hands.
Personal Beliefs
- She believes in the power of storytelling. She believes that stories can be used to educate, entertain, and inspire. She is passionate about using her platform as an actress to tell stories that matter.
- She believes in social justice and equality. She is a vocal supporter of the LGBTQ community and has spoken out against racism and sexism.
- She believes in the importance of education. She is a strong supporter of arts education and has said that she believes that everyone should have the opportunity to learn about the arts.
- She believes in the power of love. She has said that she believes that love is the most powerful force in the world.
Final Thoughts
Merrin Dungey is an accomplished actress who has made a notable impact in the television and film industry. While her rise to fame can be attributed to her role on the popular series “Alias,” she has continued to showcase her talent and versatility through various projects.
Conclusion
Merrin Dungey is a trailblazer. She is not afraid to break the mold and do things differently. She is an inspiration to us all to follow our own path and to never let anyone tell us that we can’t achieve our dreams.
Frequently Asked Questions About Merrin Dungey
Merrin is an acclaimed actress who gained extensive recognition for her roles in the films Alias (2001–06) and Friends (2000).
Merrin is an American national born on 6th August 1971, in Sacramento, California.
Merrin stands at a height of 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters).
No, Merrin was married to Matthew Drake from May 2007 to 2021.
Merrin has an approximate net worth of $3 million. This amount has been accrued from her leading roles in the entertainment industry.
Details about Merrin’s salary are not yet disclosed. However, information about how much she makes will be updated as soon as it is available.
Because of security reasons, Merrin has not shared her precise location of residence. We will update this information if we get the location and images of her house.
Merrin is alive and in good health. There have been no reports of her being sick or having any health-related issues.
Merrin is still an active participant in the creative entertainment industry, she is a cast member of Shining Vale.
Merrin Dungey Contacts
Related Biographies
You may also like to read the Bio, Career, Family, Relationship, Body measurements, Net worth, Achievements, and more about:
About InformationCradle Editorial Staff
This Article is produced by InformationCradle Editorial Staff which is a team of expert writers and editors led by Josphat Gachie and trusted by millions of readers worldwide.
We endeavor to keep our content True, Accurate, Correct, Original and Up to Date. For complain, correction or an update, please send us an email to informationcradle@gmail.com. We promise to take corrective measures to the best of our abilities.