• Faith: Christian - Catholic
• Career: Actress
• Birthday:  July 05, 1929
• Date of Death:  February 23, 2019

Katherine Helmond was born on July 5, 1929, in Galveston, Texas, to Irish Catholic parents, Thelma Malone and Joseph Patrick Helmond. Raised in a devout Catholic household, her upbringing instilled in her a strong faith foundation that would remain a central aspect of her life. Helmond’s early years in Galveston shaped her values and sense of community, which she carried with her throughout her career.

Helmond’s career began in theater, where she honed her acting skills before transitioning to television and film. She gained recognition for her comedic timing and ability to portray a wide range of characters with depth and authenticity. In the 1970s, Helmond garnered attention for her role as Jessica Tate on the sitcom "Soap," which earned her critical acclaim and two Emmy Award nominations. Her portrayal of Jessica, a wealthy and eccentric socialite, showcased her comedic prowess and solidified her status as a talented character actress. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Helmond continued to showcase her versatility in various film and television roles. She notably starred as Mona Robinson, the sassy and wise mother-in-law, on the hit sitcom "Who’s the Boss?" alongside Tony Danza and Judith Light. Her performance earned her another Emmy nomination and endeared her to audiences worldwide. Helmond’s film credits include roles in Terry Gilliam’s "Brazil" (1985), where she portrayed a bureaucratic villainess with dark humor, and in Pixar’s animated films "Cars" (2006) and "Cars 2" (2011), where she provided the voice of Lizzie, a sweet and nostalgic old car.

Katherine Helmond Religious beliefs

Katherine Helmond’s Catholic faith was a central pillar of her life and identity. Growing up in a devout Catholic family in Texas, she attended Catholic schools and participated in church activities from a young age. Her faith provided her with a moral compass and a sense of community that guided her throughout her life and career. Helmond often spoke about how her Catholic upbringing influenced her approach to acting and her interactions with others. She believed in the importance of empathy, compassion, and treating others with kindness, values that resonated with her deeply held religious beliefs. Her faith also played a role in her philanthropic efforts and charitable work. Helmond supported various causes and organizations that aligned with Catholic social teachings, including initiatives focused on education, poverty alleviation, and social justice. In interviews, Helmond acknowledged the challenges and blessings of balancing a successful career in Hollywood with her faith. She emphasized the importance of staying grounded and true to oneself amid the pressures of the entertainment industry, crediting her Catholic upbringing for providing her with strength and resilience.