Alicia Christian "Jodie" Foster (born November 19, 1962, in Los Angeles) is an American actress and director, known for her long and prestigious film career.

She began her acting career at a young age, gaining international acclaim with Martin Scorsese's *Taxi Driver* (1976), a film that earned her her first Academy Award nomination. Her transition to adult roles culminated in two Best Actress Academy Awards for *The Accused* (1988) and the iconic *The Silence of the Lambs* (1991), where she portrayed the determined FBI agent Clarice Starling.

Known for her intense performances and remarkable versatility, Foster is renowned for often portraying intelligent, resilient, and complex women capable of confronting extreme situations. Her other significant works include *Nell* (1994), *Contact* (1997), and *Panic Room* (2002).