**Brooke Smith** (born in New York) is an American actress esteemed for her ability to portray complex and authentic characters, with a significant career in both film and television.

She gained widespread recognition playing Catherine Martin, the kidnapped victim, in the celebrated Academy Award-winning thriller **"The Silence of the Lambs"** (1991). Her filmography includes collaborations with acclaimed directors such as Robert Altman in **"Kansas City"** (1996) and Louis Malle in **"Vanya on 42nd Street"** (1994). She has also appeared in blockbusters such as **"Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines"** (2003) and **"Interstellar"** (2014), demonstrating versatility between independent cinema and major productions.

Smith is often praised for her ability to embody strong, realistic, and complex female characters, whether vulnerable or resilient. Her authentic presence and naturalistic performances make her a sought-after character actress in the contemporary cinematic landscape.