Marilu Henner At a Glance
Marilu Henner is an American actress best known for her breakthrough role as taxi dancer Irene Foster on the television series Taxi (1978–1983) and later as Dr. Elena Monroe on ER (1994–2009). She has also built a presence as an author and health advocate. This profile clarifies her age and birthdate, outlines her major career milestones, and highlights how her work has evolved across multiple decades.
Birthdate and Current Age
Marilu Henner was born on May 6, 1952. As of 2025, she is 73 years old. She will turn 74 on May 6, 2025, and 75 on May 6, 2026. The following table summarizes key age and date milestones relevant to her public career.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date of Birth | May 6, 1952 | Public biography and reputable interviews |
| Age in 2025 | 73 | Calculated from birthdate |
| Breakout Role Year | 1978 (Taxi) | Television history records |
| ER Role Period | 1994–2009 | Network and series credits |
| Next Birthday | May 6, 2025 | Annual recurrence |
Early Life and Entry Into Acting
Marilu Henner grew up in Chicago, Illinois, and later moved to New York City to pursue acting. Her early training and off-Broadway work helped her secure commercial and television roles in the 1970s. Understanding this period is important for explaining how she built the foundation for a long-running career in entertainment.
Breakthrough and Mainstream Recognition
The Taxi Era (1978–1983)
Henner's role as Irene Foster on Taxi remains one of her most iconic performances. The show ran from 1978 to 1983 and established her as a familiar face on American television. Her comedic timing and character work contributed to the show's enduring popularity in syndication.
Transition to Film and Other Television Work
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Marilu Henner appeared in films and continued to guest-star on popular television series. These years were critical for maintaining her visibility and versatility as an actress beyond a single role.
ER and Sustained Television Presence
From 1994 to 2009, Henner portrayed Dr. Elena Monroe on ER, one of television's longest-running medical dramas. Her decade-plus involvement on the show demonstrated her durability and ability to perform in a serialized, ensemble format. This period also introduced her to a new generation of viewers who may not have watched Taxi.
Later Career, Authorship, and Public Engagement
In recent decades, Marilu Henner has expanded into writing and public advocacy. She is the author of books focused on health, memory, and aging, which align with her long-term interest in wellness. These endeavors have helped her remain relevant and broaden her audience beyond traditional television viewers.
Cultural Influence and Legacy
Marilu Henner's influence extends beyond her performances. She is often cited in discussions about strong women in television and aging actors who continue to contribute meaningfully to entertainment. Her career serves as a case study in longevity, adaptability, and public service.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When was Marilu Henner born? She was born on May 6, 1952.
- How old is Marilu Henner in 2025? She is 73 years old in 2025.
- What is Marilu Henner best known for? She is best known for her roles on Taxi and ER.
- Is Marilu Henner still acting? She remains active in various capacities, including acting, writing, and advocacy.
- Does Marilu Henner write books? Yes, she has authored books on health, memory, and wellness topics.