Ann Cusack Movies & TV Shows: A Complete Filmography Guide

Earl Schroeder PhD 14 May 2025

Ever wondered about the unsung heroes of Hollywood, the character actors who consistently deliver memorable performances, even in smaller roles? Ann Cusack, a member of the celebrated Cusack acting dynasty, is undoubtedly one of them, leaving an indelible mark on both film and television.

While her siblings, John and Joan Cusack, often command the spotlight, Ann has carved out a distinguished career of her own, characterized by versatility and a commitment to bringing authenticity to every role she undertakes. Her performances are often subtle, yet deeply resonant, making her a favorite among directors and audiences alike. From comedies to dramas, Cusack has proven her range time and again, adding depth and nuance to every project she joins. Her journey is a testament to the power of consistent work, honing ones craft, and embracing the opportunities that come along, no matter the size.

Category	Information
Full Name	Ann Cusack
Date of Birth	May 22, 1961
Place of Birth	Manhattan, New York City, U.S.
Occupation	Actress and Singer
Parents	Dick Cusack and Ann Paula Nancy Cusack
Siblings	Joan Cusack, John Cusack, Bill Cusack, Susie Cusack
Early Life and Education	Raised in Evanston, Illinois. Trained at the Piven Theatre Workshop in Evanston with her siblings Joan and John. Attended Berklee College of Music.
Notable Roles	Shirley Baker in A League of Their Own (1992), Noreen in Multiplicity (1996), Linda in Nightcrawler (2014), Maggie in Star Trek: Enterprise
Film Debut	A League of Their Own (1992) as Shirley Baker
Television Appearances	Grey's Anatomy, Scandal, One Tree Hill, Charmed, Ghost Whisperer, The Unit, Boston Legal, Bones, Frasier, Ally McBeal, Criminal Minds, Private Practice, Fargo, Better Call Saul
Most Successful Movies & TV Shows	Information varies depending on criteria (box office, critical acclaim, etc.). Notable mentions include A League of Their Own, Multiplicity, The Informant!, Nightcrawler, and various guest appearances in popular television series.
Where to Watch	Availability varies by region and platform. Check streaming services like Amazon Video, Apple TV, Sky Store, Cineplex, Crave, and Starz.
Reference Website	Rotten Tomatoes - Ann Cusack Filmography

Cusack's career launched with her role as Shirley Baker in the beloved 1992 film, A League of Their Own. Directed by Penny Marshall and featuring a stellar cast including Tom Hanks, Geena Davis, Madonna, and Lori Petty, the film tells the story of two sisters who join the first female professional baseball league during World War II. The screenplay, penned by Lowell Ganz and Babaloo Mandel, captures the spirit of the era and the challenges faced by these pioneering athletes. While the film is celebrated for its heartwarming narrative and ensemble performances, Cusack's portrayal of Shirley Baker added a layer of quiet authenticity to the team. It was a role that showcased her ability to embody a character fully, even within a large ensemble cast, and set the stage for a career filled with diverse and memorable performances.

The success of A League of Their Own opened doors for Cusack, leading to a string of supporting roles in both film and television. In 1996, she appeared in Multiplicity, a comedy starring Michael Keaton as a man who clones himself to cope with the demands of his busy life. Cusack played Noreen, a character that allowed her to showcase her comedic timing and ability to play off of Keaton's frenetic energy. Although the film received mixed reviews, Cusack's performance was often singled out as a bright spot, further solidifying her reputation as a reliable and versatile actress.

Beyond these notable film appearances, Cusack has also maintained a steady presence on television. Her resume boasts guest roles in some of the most popular and critically acclaimed series of the past two decades. From medical dramas like Grey's Anatomy and Private Practice to political thrillers like Scandal, Cusack has proven her ability to seamlessly integrate into diverse fictional worlds. She's also showcased her comedic talents on shows like Frasier and Ally McBeal, demonstrating her range and adaptability. Her recurring role in the FX anthology series Fargo further cemented her status as a sought-after character actress, capable of delivering nuanced and compelling performances in even the most demanding roles. Her appearances in shows like One Tree Hill, Charmed, Ghost Whisperer, The Unit, Boston Legal, Bones, Criminal Minds, and Better Call Saul demonstrate her commitment to the craft, always delivering a believable and memorable character.

In 2009, Cusack took on a minor role in The Informant!, a comedy-drama directed by Steven Soderbergh and starring Matt Damon. The film, based on a true story, follows a high-ranking Archer Daniels Midland executive who becomes an FBI informant. While Cusack's screen time may have been limited, her presence added to the film's ensemble cast and contributed to its overall comedic tone. The film highlights her willingness to take on diverse roles, even if they are not always the most prominent, and her commitment to supporting the overall vision of the director.

One of Cusack's more recent and memorable performances came in the 2014 thriller, Nightcrawler. Starring Jake Gyllenhaal as a freelance crime journalist, the film explores the dark side of media and the lengths to which people will go to capture sensational footage. Cusack played Linda, a character that, while seemingly ordinary, hints at the moral compromises that permeate the world of the nightcrawlers. Her performance was praised for its subtlety and its ability to convey a sense of unease, adding to the film's overall atmosphere of suspense. This role demonstrates her ability to capture the essence of a character with nuance and precision, even within a relatively short amount of screen time.

It is worth noting that Cusack was considered for the role of Sub Girl in the 1995 film Tank Girl. Lori Petty, who had previously worked with Cusack in A League of Their Own, suggested her for the part, appreciating her talent and comedic sensibilities. Although she didn't ultimately land the role, the fact that Petty specifically recommended her speaks volumes about the respect and admiration she commands within the industry. It highlights her reputation as a talented and reliable actress, someone who is valued for her work ethic and her ability to collaborate effectively with other performers.

Ann Cusack's connection to A League of Their Own extends beyond her role as Shirley Baker. The film itself has become a cultural touchstone, celebrated for its portrayal of women in sports and its heartwarming depiction of sisterhood. The story, set during World War II, follows sisters Dottie and Kit as they navigate the challenges of the first female professional baseball league. The film explores themes of ambition, competition, and the importance of supporting one another, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. Finding where to watch A League of Their Own is easier than ever, with options available on streaming services like Crave and Starz, as well as for purchase or rental on platforms like Amazon Video, Apple TV, and Cineplex. This accessibility ensures that new generations can discover and appreciate the film's enduring message and the performances of its talented cast, including Ann Cusack.

Beyond her film and television work, Ann Cusack's early life and education provide further insight into her artistic background. Born in Manhattan, New York City, on May 22, 1961, she was raised in Evanston, Illinois, in a family deeply rooted in the world of acting. Her parents, Dick and Ann Paula Nancy Cusack, instilled in their children a love for the arts, and all five of their offspring Joan, John, Bill, Susie, and Ann have gone on to pursue successful acting careers. Cusack trained alongside her siblings Joan and John at the Piven Theatre Workshop in Evanston, honing her skills and developing a strong foundation in the craft. She also attended Berklee College of Music, demonstrating her passion for music and her commitment to exploring different creative avenues. This diverse background has undoubtedly contributed to her versatility as an actress, allowing her to bring depth and nuance to a wide range of roles.

Her most notable and memorable appearances include Shirley Baker in A League of Their Own (1992), Noreen in Multiplicity (1996), Maggie in Star Trek: Enterprise, and Daine in Accepted. These roles showcase her talent for capturing the essence of a character, whether it's the quiet determination of a baseball player, the quirky charm of a suburban mom, or the otherworldly presence of a Starfleet officer. Each performance is marked by her signature blend of authenticity and subtlety, making her a favorite among audiences and critics alike. These appearances, coupled with her extensive work in television, solidify her status as a respected and accomplished actress with a long and varied career.

The list of Ann Cusack movies & tv shows is extensive, including both her most successful and less-known projects. While some may be considered more commercially successful than others, each role has contributed to her development as an actress and her overall body of work. Exploring her complete filmography on Rotten Tomatoes reveals the breadth and depth of her career, highlighting the diverse characters she has brought to life and the numerous collaborations she has forged with other talented actors and filmmakers. Discovering every movie and tv show she has been credited in is a testament to her dedication to the craft and her unwavering commitment to pursuing her passion.

To find where to watch Ann Cusack's latest movies and tv shows, particularly A League of Their Own, resources like comprehensive streaming guides can be invaluable. These guides list all of the streaming services where you can rent, buy, or stream the film for free, making it easy to access her work and appreciate her contributions to this beloved classic. With options available on platforms like Amazon Video, Apple TV, and Sky Store, as well as streaming services like Crave and Starz, there are numerous ways to experience her performance as Shirley Baker and revisit the heartwarming story of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League.

As fans eagerly await the upcoming A League of Their Own tv series, it's a fitting time to reflect on the legacy of the original film and the impact it has had on popular culture. The new series promises to explore similar themes of female empowerment and the challenges faced by women in sports, while also introducing new characters and storylines. With the premiere date approaching, anticipation is high for this fresh take on a beloved classic. The series will undoubtedly pay homage to the original film, while also forging its own unique identity and exploring new facets of the story. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of A League of Their Own and its ability to inspire and entertain audiences across generations.

In conclusion, Ann Cusack's career is a testament to the power of consistent work, dedication to the craft, and a willingness to embrace diverse roles. From her breakout performance in A League of Their Own to her numerous guest appearances in popular television series, she has consistently delivered memorable performances that have resonated with audiences and critics alike. As fans celebrate the 30th anniversary of A League of Their Own and eagerly anticipate the upcoming tv series, it's a fitting time to recognize Ann Cusack's contributions to the film and her enduring legacy as a talented and versatile actress.