News Summary
Celia Weston, a Spartanburg native, returns to the screen as Mama Margaret in Netflix’s upcoming comedy ‘Leanne’, premiering July 31. Known for her role in ‘Alice’, Weston brings humor and heart to her character, a Southern matriarch navigating family challenges. The show is produced by Chuck Lorre and showcases Weston’s extensive acting career, further elevating the anticipation for her performance.
Spartanburg Native Celia Weston Returns to Screen in Netflix Comedy
Spartanburg, SC – Celia Weston, a native of Spartanburg, is making a return to the small screen with her starring role in the upcoming Netflix comedy “Leanne,” which is set to premiere on July 31. Weston is well known for her iconic role as waitress Jolene Hunnicutt in the 1980s sitcom “Alice,” where she appeared in a total of 90 episodes from 1981 until 1985.
In her new role in “Leanne,” Weston portrays Mama Margaret, the matriarch of a Southern family. Mama Margaret is depicted as a kind-hearted, faithful church member who maintains a positive outlook despite facing life’s challenges, particularly after her daughter Leanne’s husband has an affair. The character is noted for her humorous wisdom and a notable anecdote about home repairs she offers during a pregnancy.
The show “Leanne” draws inspiration from the stand-up comedy of lead actress Leanne Morgan and is produced by Chuck Lorre, famed creator of popular television series such as “The Big Bang Theory.” Variety has described Mama Margaret as someone who is always prepared for the worst but seems destined to outlive everyone around her, showcasing the blend of humor and heart that the series promises.
Before working on “Leanne,” Celia Weston collaborated with Leanne Morgan in the Amazon Prime comedy “You’re Cordially Invited,” which also featured Hollywood stars like Will Ferrell and Reese Witherspoon. This prior connection further adds to the anticipation for Weston’s performance in the new series.
Celia Weston’s Distinguished Career
Celia Weston’s career spans decades and numerous acclaimed projects. Besides her iconic role on “Alice,” Weston is recognized for her performances in feature films such as “In The Bedroom” and “Dead Man Walking,” with the latter earning her a nomination for Best Supporting Female at the Independent Spirit Awards. Her performance in “In The Bedroom” also contributed to the cast’s nomination for the prestigious Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance.
Weston has made guest appearances on several popular television shows including “Frasier,” “ER,” “American Horror Story,” and “Modern Family,” where she played the role of Cam’s mother. Her versatility extends beyond television, as she is known for her stage work, earning a Tony Award nomination in 1996 for her performance in “The Last Night of Ballyhoo,” along with winning the Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Featured Actress.
Early in her career, Weston faced challenges that steered the trajectory of her acting career, including a name change due to a misprint in TV Guide, where she embraced her father’s last name. This pivotal moment allowed her to establish her professional identity.
Insights and Future Projects
Throughout her career, Weston has emphasized the emotional toll of acting, sharing her insights with students about the resilience and authenticity required in the profession. Celia Weston’s extensive feature film credits highlight her versatility and ability to navigate various genres, including drama, comedy, and theater.
Despite her longstanding association with Southern characters, Weston expresses a desire to explore a variety of roles in future projects, continuing to push the boundaries of her extensive career. Her contributions to the arts have not only made her a celebrated figure within the Spartanburg community but also established her as a respected talent within the broader entertainment industry.
Celia Weston’s role in “Leanne” marks an exciting chapter in her career, as fans and newcomers alike look forward to her spirited portrayal of Mama Margaret when the series debuts.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Goupstate: Leanne Morgan’s Netflix Sitcom Cast
- IMDb: Celia Weston
- Goupstate: Remembering Celia Weston from Alice
- Google Search: Celia Weston
- Goupstate: Celia Weston Guests on Modern Family
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Celia Weston
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
