Gates McFadden Biography

Fast Facts

• Graduated from Brandeis University in Massachusetts in 1970 with a bachelor's degree in Theatre
• Studied acting with famous teacher, Jacques Lecoq, in Paris, France
• Quote: "(On her character in "Star Trek: The Next Generation") "The reason I took the job was because it was a woman who had a very powerful position, was a commander, was a mother, was a good parent, was a leader and was somebody who cared about helping people․ She had great humanity․ She was that kind of a doctor, and it was very important to me that she was that kind of a doctor․""
• Has taught classes on several occasions at the University of Southern California
• For Jim Henson's "Labyrinth," she choreographed the ballroom scene
• Moved to South France to help restore an old theater
• Prior to landing the role of Doctor Beverly Crusher on "Star Trek: The Next Generation," she worked a Muppeteer and movement coordinator for Jim Henson
• Was the only regular cast member of "Star Trek" to have directed an episode of the show