Catherine Ann Keener (born March 23, 1959) is an American actress. Known for her performances in independent film, she has built her career through artistic collaborations with directors such as Nicole Holofcener and Spike Jonze. She has received two Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actress: the first in 2000 for her role as Maxine Lund in *Being John Malkovich*, and the second in 2006 for her portrayal of author Nelle Harper Lee in *Capote*. Her filmography is characterized by remarkable versatility, ranging from successful comedies such as *The 40-Year-Old Virgin* to critically acclaimed dramas like *Into the Wild* and *Synecdoche, New York*. In recent years, she has gained widespread attention for her role in Jordan Peele's horror thriller *Get Out*. Recognized for her ability to bring depth and nuance to complex characters, she is considered one of the most esteemed actresses in American independent cinema.