Best known as Lady Cora Crawley in Downton Abbey, as Jenny in Ordinary People, and as Donna in The Handmaid’s Tale.
Films
- The WifeElaine Mozell2017
- She’s Funny That WayBecky2014
- Racing Through the NightWoman on Train2012
- FranklynMrs. Bats2008
- The House with Laughing WindowsEvelyn2006
- RagtimeEvelyn Nesbit1981
- Ordinary PeopleJeannine ‘Jenny’ Pratt1980
TV shows
- The CrownLady Elizabeth Cavendish2022
- The Handmaid’s TaleMrs. Donna O’Connor2019
- Downton AbbeyCora, Countess of Grantham2010
- The CloserLaura Wilson2008
- Agatha Christie’s Poirot: Death on the NileMrs. Allerton2004
- Wives and DaughtersMrs. Hamley1999
- Tales of the CityMona Ramsey1993
- The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes: The Crooked ManNancy Barclay1984
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About Elizabeth Mcgovern
Elizabeth McGovern is an American-born actress who has built a distinguished career in British and international film, television, and theatre. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her breakout role in ‘Ordinary People’ (1980), and has since become a household name for her long-running portrayal of Lady Cora Crawley in the hit period drama ‘Downton Abbey’.
FAQs
Did Elizabeth McGovern win an Oscar?
She was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in ‘Ordinary People’ (1980), but did not win.
Is Elizabeth McGovern American or British?
She was born in Evanston, Illinois, USA, but has lived in the UK since the 1990s and holds dual citizenship.
What is Elizabeth McGovern’s most famous TV role?
She is best known for playing Lady Cora Crawley in the ITV/PBS series ‘Downton Abbey’ from 2010 to 2015, and reprising the role in the 2019 and 2022 films.
Does Elizabeth McGovern also work as a musician?
Yes, she is a singer-songwriter and has released albums with her band Sadie and the Hotheads.
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026