Brenda Vaccaro is an American actress known for her versatility and intense performances in supporting roles. She earned an Academy Award nomination for *Midnight Cowboy* (1969), where she portrayed Shirley, a vibrant and disillusioned figure. Her performance in *Jacqueline Susann's Once Is Not Enough* (1975) earned her a Golden Globe and another Academy Award nomination.

Her other significant films include *Airport '77* (1977) and *Capricorn One* (1978). Vaccaro is celebrated for bringing to life strong, independent female characters, often with a touch of vulnerability or disillusionment. Her acting style is characterized by energy, candor, and a remarkable ability to transition from drama to comedy, solidifying her as a memorable presence on the big screen.