**Carroll Baker** (Johnstown, Pennsylvania, 1931) is an American actress known for her portrayal of sensual and often tormented roles. Her most iconic role was in Elia Kazan's *Baby Doll* (1956), which earned her an Academy Award nomination. In this film, based on a work by Tennessee Williams, she embodied the naive yet provocative nymphet, a character that largely defined her public image.

She went on to appear in other major Hollywood productions such as *Giant* (1956) alongside Elizabeth Taylor and James Dean, and *The Carpetbaggers* (1964). In the 1960s, she moved to Italy, working in numerous European films, including giallo and horror productions, often maintaining an aura of erotic vulnerability. Her acting style is associated with blonde, sensual characters who balanced innocence and seduction.