Meg Ryan

Hollywood Star

Actress / Producer / Romantic Comedy Queen

Born: November 19, 1961 | Birth Name: Margaret Mary Emily Anne Hyra

Actress Producer

Professional Insight: Meg Ryan became America's sweetheart through her iconic roles in romantic comedies during the 1980s and 1990s.

Biography

1Early Life

Born in Fairfield, Connecticut, Ryan began acting while studying journalism at New York University.

2Career Beginnings

Her breakthrough role came in 1989's When Harry Met Sally, famous for the fake orgasm scene.

3Romantic Comedy Queen

Starred in numerous hit romantic comedies including Sleepless in Seattle (1993) and You've Got Mail (1998).

4Later Career

Expanded into dramatic roles and production, directing her first film Ithaca in 2015.

Professional Insight: Ryan's natural charm and relatable characters made her the highest-paid actress in Hollywood during her peak years.

1When Harry Met Sally (1989)

Iconic romantic comedy with Billy Crystal, directed by Rob Reiner.

2Sleepless in Seattle (1993)

Romantic drama with Tom Hanks, directed by Nora Ephron.

3You've Got Mail (1998)

Internet-age romantic comedy reuniting with Tom Hanks.

4French Kiss (1995)

Romantic comedy set in France with Kevin Kline.

1Golden Globe Nominations

Received 3 Golden Globe nominations for Best Actress.

2Hasty Pudding Woman of the Year

Awarded by Harvard University in 1994.

3Hollywood Walk of Fame

Received star in 2006 for her contributions to motion pictures.

Professional Insight: Though never winning major awards, Ryan's cultural impact on the romantic comedy genre remains unparalleled.