Born in New York City, Debi Mazar's early life played a crucial role in shaping her vibrant personality and artistic inclinations. Her New York roots are evident in her bold and fearless approach to acting, which has captivated audiences worldwide. With a career spanning multiple genres and platforms, Mazar has demonstrated an incredible range, portraying everything from comedic characters to dramatic roles with equal finesse. Her collaborations with renowned directors and actors have further cemented her status as a talented and respected figure in the industry.
Beyond her professional achievements, Debi Mazar is also celebrated for her personal style and authenticity. Her candid nature and down-to-earth demeanor have endeared her to fans and colleagues alike. Mazar's journey is not just about her success in acting but also about staying true to herself amidst the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. This article delves into the multifaceted life of Debi Mazar, exploring her career, personal life, and the impact she continues to make in the entertainment world.
Table of Contents
- Who Is Debi Mazar?
- What Was Debi Mazar's Early Life Like?
- How Did Debi Mazar Start Her Career?
- What Were Debi Mazar's Breakthrough Roles?
- Debi Mazar's Transition to Television
- Debi Mazar: Personal Life and Relationships
- Is Debi Mazar a Fashion Icon?
- Debi Mazar's Cooking Show Adventures
- Awards and Recognition for Debi Mazar
- Debi Mazar's Influence on Pop Culture
- Debi Mazar's Philanthropic Efforts
- What Are Debi Mazar's Future Projects?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Who Is Debi Mazar?
Debi Mazar, born Deborah Anne Mazar Corcos, is an American actress and television personality known for her roles in both film and television. She was born on August 13, 1964, in Queens, New York City, and grew up in the vibrant cultural landscape of the city. Her ancestry includes Italian and Latvian roots, which contribute to her unique and striking appearance.
Full Name | Deborah Anne Mazar Corcos |
---|---|
Date of Birth | August 13, 1964 |
Place of Birth | Queens, New York City, USA |
Occupation | Actress, Television Personality |
Years Active | 1981–present |
Spouse | Gabriele Corcos (m. 2002) |
Children | 2 |
Debi Mazar's career in entertainment began in the early 1980s, and she quickly became known for her distinctive style and dynamic presence. She has appeared in a wide array of films, such as "Goodfellas" and "The Doors," and has had a successful television career with roles in series like "Entourage" and "Younger." Her versatility and talent have made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
What Was Debi Mazar's Early Life Like?
Debi Mazar's early life was marked by the rich cultural tapestry of New York City. Growing up in Queens, she was exposed to diverse influences that ignited her passion for the arts. Her father, a Latvian immigrant, and her Italian-American mother instilled in her a deep appreciation for her heritage and a love for storytelling.
During her formative years, Mazar attended Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, where she honed her skills and developed a keen interest in acting. The vibrant energy of New York City provided the perfect backdrop for a budding artist, and Mazar immersed herself in the city's eclectic arts scene. This early exposure to different cultures and artistic expressions laid the foundation for her future career.
As a teenager, Mazar worked as a makeup artist, a job that would eventually lead her to cross paths with some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. Her work as a makeup artist was not only a source of income but also a means of making valuable connections that would prove instrumental in her transition to acting.
Influence of New York City
The influence of New York City on Debi Mazar's life cannot be overstated. The city, known for its fast pace and dynamic energy, shaped her tenacity and resilience, qualities that would serve her well in the competitive world of acting. The diverse cultural landscape of New York City exposed her to various forms of art and expression, enriching her perspective and nurturing her creativity.
Mazar's early experiences in the city, from attending live performances to exploring its bustling streets, fueled her passion for the performing arts. She was drawn to the idea of storytelling and the ability to connect with audiences through the medium of film and television.
Formative Years and Education
Debi Mazar's formative years were spent amidst the eclectic environment of New York City's arts and entertainment scene. Her education at Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts provided her with a solid foundation in the performing arts, and she excelled in her studies, demonstrating a natural talent for acting.
During her time at school, Mazar participated in numerous theater productions, where she honed her skills and developed a love for the craft. Her dedication and passion for acting were evident from an early age, and she was determined to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.
How Did Debi Mazar Start Her Career?
Debi Mazar's journey into the world of acting began with her work as a makeup artist in the early 1980s. Her talent and creativity quickly caught the attention of industry professionals, leading to opportunities in front of the camera. Mazar's unique look and charismatic personality made her a standout, and she soon found herself transitioning from makeup artist to actress.
Her first major break came when she was cast in the iconic music video for Madonna's "Papa Don't Preach." Mazar's friendship with the pop superstar played a pivotal role in her early career, and she continued to collaborate with Madonna on several other projects. These opportunities provided Mazar with valuable exposure and experience, paving the way for her entry into the film industry.
Transition to Film
Debi Mazar's transition to film was marked by her role in Martin Scorsese's critically acclaimed movie "Goodfellas." Her portrayal of Sandy, the fiery and memorable girlfriend of a mobster, showcased her acting prowess and left a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike. The film's success catapulted Mazar into the spotlight and opened doors to a wide range of acting opportunities.
Following her breakout role in "Goodfellas," Mazar appeared in a string of successful films, including "The Doors," "Bullets Over Broadway," and "Batman Forever." Her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters made her a sought-after actress in Hollywood, and she quickly became known for her dynamic performances and distinctive style.
Collaboration with Renowned Directors
Throughout her career, Debi Mazar has had the privilege of working with some of the most esteemed directors in the industry. Her collaborations with visionaries like Martin Scorsese, Oliver Stone, and Woody Allen have not only enhanced her skills as an actress but have also contributed to her reputation as a versatile and talented performer.
These collaborations have allowed Mazar to explore a wide range of genres and characters, further showcasing her versatility and range as an actress. Her commitment to her craft and her ability to adapt to different roles have earned her the respect and admiration of both her peers and audiences.
What Were Debi Mazar's Breakthrough Roles?
Debi Mazar's career is peppered with a series of breakthrough roles that have defined her as a talented and versatile actress. Her ability to bring depth and nuance to her characters has made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, and her performances continue to resonate with audiences.
"Goodfellas" and the Role of Sandy
One of Debi Mazar's most iconic roles came in Martin Scorsese's "Goodfellas," where she portrayed Sandy, the fiery and complex girlfriend of a mobster. Her performance in the film was both memorable and impactful, earning her critical acclaim and establishing her as a formidable presence in Hollywood.
Mazar's portrayal of Sandy was marked by her ability to convey a range of emotions, from vulnerability to strength, and her chemistry with the film's ensemble cast added depth to her character. "Goodfellas" remains a defining moment in Mazar's career, and her performance continues to be celebrated as one of her finest.
Roles in "The Doors" and "Bullets Over Broadway"
Following the success of "Goodfellas," Debi Mazar took on roles in several other high-profile films, including Oliver Stone's "The Doors" and Woody Allen's "Bullets Over Broadway." In "The Doors," Mazar portrayed Whiskey, a character that allowed her to showcase her versatility and range as an actress.
Her performance in "Bullets Over Broadway" further cemented her reputation as a talented and dynamic performer. Mazar's ability to bring authenticity and depth to her characters made her a standout in the film, earning her praise from critics and audiences alike.
Television Success with "Entourage"
Debi Mazar's career took another significant turn with her role in the hit television series "Entourage." As Shauna Roberts, the no-nonsense publicist to the stars, Mazar brought humor and wit to the character, making her a fan favorite. Her performance in "Entourage" showcased her comedic timing and versatility, further solidifying her status as a talented actress in both film and television.
The success of "Entourage" not only introduced Mazar to a new generation of fans but also provided her with opportunities to explore different aspects of her craft. Her work on the show demonstrated her ability to adapt to different genres and styles, making her a valuable asset to any production.
Debi Mazar's Transition to Television
Debi Mazar's transition to television was a natural progression in her career, allowing her to explore new opportunities and showcase her talent on a different platform. Her work in television has been marked by a series of successful roles that have further solidified her reputation as a versatile and dynamic actress.
Starring in "Younger"
One of Mazar's most notable television roles came in the critically acclaimed series "Younger," where she portrayed Maggie Amato, a talented artist and the best friend of the show's protagonist. Her performance in "Younger" was both charming and relatable, earning her praise from both fans and critics.
In "Younger," Mazar's character provided a source of support and humor, and her chemistry with the cast added depth to the show's storyline. Her portrayal of Maggie Amato was marked by her ability to convey a range of emotions, from vulnerability to strength, making her a standout character in the series.
Guest Appearances and Other Television Roles
In addition to her work on "Younger," Debi Mazar has made guest appearances on several other popular television shows, including "Friends," "Ugly Betty," and "Law & Order: SVU." Her versatility and talent have made her a sought-after guest star, and her performances continue to resonate with audiences.
Mazar's ability to adapt to different roles and genres has made her a valuable asset to any production, and her work in television has allowed her to explore new aspects of her craft. Her performances on the small screen have showcased her range and versatility, further solidifying her status as a talented and dynamic actress.
The Impact of Television on Mazar's Career
Debi Mazar's work in television has had a significant impact on her career, allowing her to reach new audiences and explore different aspects of her craft. Her performances on the small screen have showcased her versatility and range, and her ability to adapt to different roles and genres has made her a valuable asset to any production.
The success of her television roles has further solidified her reputation as a talented and dynamic actress, and her work continues to resonate with audiences. Mazar's transition to television has been marked by a series of successful roles that have further cemented her status as a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
Debi Mazar: Personal Life and Relationships
Beyond her successful career in entertainment, Debi Mazar is known for her vibrant personal life and her close relationships with family and friends. Her candid nature and authenticity have endeared her to fans and colleagues alike, and her personal life is as dynamic and colorful as her professional career.
Marriage to Gabriele Corcos
Debi Mazar has been married to Gabriele Corcos, an Italian musician and chef, since 2002. The couple's relationship is marked by their shared love for food and family, and they have two daughters together. Mazar and Corcos's marriage is a testament to their strong bond and mutual respect, and they continue to support each other in their personal and professional endeavors.
The couple's shared passion for culinary arts led them to create their own cooking show, "Extra Virgin," which aired on the Cooking Channel. The show, which showcased their love for Italian cuisine and family traditions, was a hit with audiences and further cemented Mazar's status as a beloved television personality.
Family and Friendships
Debi Mazar's family and friendships play a significant role in her life, providing her with support and inspiration. Her close relationship with her daughters and husband is a source of joy, and they often spend time together exploring their shared interests and hobbies.
Mazar's friendships with industry peers, including her long-standing relationship with Madonna, have also been a significant part of her life. Her ability to maintain strong connections with those around her is a testament to her genuine and authentic nature, and her friendships continue to enrich her personal and professional life.
Balancing Personal and Professional Life
Debi Mazar's ability to balance her personal and professional life is a testament to her strong work ethic and dedication to her craft. Her commitment to her family and career is evident in her ability to seamlessly navigate both aspects of her life, and her success in both areas is a reflection of her talent and determination.
Mazar's personal life is marked by her love for family and friends, and her ability to maintain strong relationships is a testament to her genuine and authentic nature. Her vibrant personality and candid nature have endeared her to those around her, and her personal life continues to be a source of inspiration and joy.
Is Debi Mazar a Fashion Icon?
Debi Mazar's distinctive style and fashion sense have made her a standout figure in the entertainment industry. Her bold and fearless approach to fashion has earned her a reputation as a fashion icon, and her unique look continues to inspire fans and designers alike.
Signature Style
Debi Mazar's signature style is characterized by her love for vintage fashion and bold accessories. Her distinctive look, marked by her sharp features and striking beauty, has made her a favorite among fashion enthusiasts and designers. Mazar's ability to effortlessly combine classic and contemporary elements has earned her praise for her fashion sense and unique style.
Her love for vintage fashion is evident in her wardrobe choices, and her ability to rock both modern and retro looks has made her a trendsetter in the industry. Mazar's fearless approach to fashion and her willingness to take risks have made her a beloved figure in the fashion world.
Influence on Fashion Trends
Debi Mazar's influence on fashion trends is evident in her ability to inspire designers and fans with her unique style. Her bold and fearless approach to fashion has made her a trendsetter, and her distinctive look continues to inspire new generations of fashion enthusiasts.
Mazar's love for vintage fashion and bold accessories has made her a favorite among designers, and her ability to effortlessly combine classic and contemporary elements has earned her praise for her fashion sense. Her influence on fashion trends is a testament to her unique style and ability to set trends in the industry.
Collaborations with Designers
Throughout her career, Debi Mazar has collaborated with several renowned designers, further cementing her status as a fashion icon. Her ability to effortlessly rock both modern and retro looks has made her a favorite among designers, and her collaborations have allowed her to showcase her unique style and influence on fashion trends.
Mazar's collaborations with designers have allowed her to explore new aspects of her style and fashion sense, further solidifying her reputation as a trendsetter in the industry. Her influence on fashion trends continues to inspire new generations of designers and fashion enthusiasts.
Debi Mazar's Cooking Show Adventures
Beyond her work in film and television, Debi Mazar has also made a name for herself in the culinary world. Her love for food and cooking, shared with her husband Gabriele Corcos, led them to create their own cooking show, "Extra Virgin," which aired on the Cooking Channel.
Creating "Extra Virgin"
"Extra Virgin" was born out of Debi Mazar and Gabriele Corcos's shared passion for Italian cuisine and family traditions. The show, which debuted in 2011, showcased the couple's love for food and their unique culinary adventures, and it quickly became a hit with audiences.
The show's success was due in part to Mazar's vibrant personality and authentic approach to cooking, and her chemistry with Corcos added depth to the show's storyline. "Extra Virgin" allowed Mazar to explore new aspects of her creativity and connect with audiences in a new and exciting way.
Impact on Culinary World
Debi Mazar's cooking show adventures have had a significant impact on the culinary world, allowing her to showcase her love for food and cooking in a new and exciting way. Her authentic approach to cooking and her willingness to share her culinary traditions have earned her praise from both fans and culinary enthusiasts.
The success of "Extra Virgin" further solidified Mazar's status as a beloved television personality, and her work in the culinary world continues to inspire new generations of food enthusiasts. Her cooking show adventures have allowed her to explore new aspects of her creativity and connect with audiences in a new and exciting way.
Culinary Collaborations and Projects
In addition to "Extra Virgin," Debi Mazar has been involved in several other culinary collaborations and projects, further cementing her status as a culinary influencer. Her collaboration with Gabriele Corcos on their cookbook, "Extra Virgin: Recipes & Love from Our Tuscan Kitchen," has been well received by fans and culinary enthusiasts alike.
Mazar's culinary collaborations and projects have allowed her to explore new aspects of her creativity and connect with audiences in new and exciting ways. Her work in the culinary world continues to inspire new generations of food enthusiasts and further solidifies her status as a beloved television personality.
Awards and Recognition for Debi Mazar
Debi Mazar's talent and versatility have earned her numerous awards and recognition throughout her illustrious career. Her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters has made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, and her performances continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Critical Acclaim and Nominations
Debi Mazar's performances have garnered critical acclaim and numerous nominations, highlighting her talent and versatility as an actress. Her role in "Goodfellas" earned her praise from both fans and critics, and her work in television series like "Entourage" and "Younger" has further solidified her reputation as a talented and dynamic performer.
Mazar's ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters has earned her recognition from industry peers, and her performances continue to be celebrated as some of the finest in the industry. Her numerous nominations and awards are a testament to her talent and dedication to her craft.
Awards and Honors
Throughout her career, Debi Mazar has received several awards and honors, further solidifying her status as a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Her work in film and television has earned her praise from both fans and critics, and her performances continue to be celebrated as some of the finest in the industry.
Mazar's numerous awards and honors are a testament to her talent and dedication to her craft, and her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters has earned her recognition from industry peers. Her performances continue to resonate with audiences worldwide, and her work in the entertainment industry continues to inspire new generations of actors and performers.
Industry Recognition and Impact
Debi Mazar's impact on the entertainment industry is evident in the numerous awards and recognition she has received throughout her career. Her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters has earned her praise from both fans and critics, and her performances continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Mazar's industry recognition and impact are a testament to her talent and dedication to her craft, and her work in the entertainment industry continues to inspire new generations of actors and performers. Her contributions to the industry have earned her a place among the most respected and admired figures in Hollywood.
Debi Mazar's Influence on Pop Culture
Debi Mazar's influence on pop culture is evident in her ability to connect with audiences through her unique style and dynamic performances. Her work in film and television has made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, and her impact on pop culture continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
Iconic Roles and Memorable Performances
Debi Mazar's iconic roles and memorable performances have left a lasting impact on pop culture, earning her a place among the most respected and admired figures in the entertainment industry. Her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters has made her a beloved figure in Hollywood, and her performances continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Mazar's work in films like "Goodfellas" and television series like "Entourage" has earned her praise from both fans and critics, and her performances continue to be celebrated as some of the finest in the industry. Her ability to connect with audiences through her unique style and dynamic performances has made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
Impact on Fashion and Style
Debi Mazar's impact on fashion and style is evident in her ability to inspire new generations of designers and fashion enthusiasts. Her bold and fearless approach to fashion has made her a trendsetter, and her distinctive look continues to inspire fans and designers alike.
Mazar's love for vintage fashion and bold accessories has made her a favorite among designers, and her ability to effortlessly combine classic and contemporary elements has earned her praise for her fashion sense. Her influence on fashion trends is a testament to her unique style and ability to set trends in the industry.
Legacy and Lasting Impact
Debi Mazar's legacy and lasting impact on pop culture are evident in her ability to connect with audiences through her unique style and dynamic performances. Her work in film and television has made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, and her impact on pop culture continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
Mazar's contributions to the industry have earned her a place among the most respected and admired figures in Hollywood, and her influence on fashion and style continues to inspire new generations of designers and fashion enthusiasts. Her legacy and lasting impact on pop culture are a testament to her talent and dedication to her craft.
Debi Mazar's Philanthropic Efforts
Debi Mazar's philanthropic efforts have made a significant impact on the lives of many, showcasing her dedication to giving back to the community. Her work with various charitable organizations and causes is a testament to her generosity and commitment to making a difference in the world.
Charitable Organizations and Causes
Debi Mazar has been involved with several charitable organizations and causes, using her platform to raise awareness and support for important issues. Her work with organizations focused on education, health, and the arts has made a significant impact, and her dedication to giving back is evident in her continued involvement with these causes.
Mazar's commitment to philanthropy is a reflection of her genuine and authentic nature, and her work with charitable organizations continues to inspire others to get involved and make a difference in their communities. Her philanthropic efforts are a testament to her generosity and commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
Advocacy and Awareness Campaigns
In addition to her work with charitable organizations, Debi Mazar has been involved in several advocacy and awareness campaigns, using her platform to raise awareness for important issues. Her work with campaigns focused on health, education, and the arts has made a significant impact, and her dedication to making a difference is evident in her continued involvement with these causes.
Mazar's commitment to advocacy and awareness is a reflection of her genuine and authentic nature, and her work with these campaigns continues to inspire others to get involved and make a difference in their communities. Her philanthropic efforts are a testament to her generosity and commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
Impact of Philanthropy on Mazar's Career
Debi Mazar's philanthropic efforts have had a significant impact on her career, showcasing her dedication to giving back and making a difference in the world. Her work with various charitable organizations and causes is a testament to her generosity and commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
Mazar's commitment to philanthropy is a reflection of her genuine and authentic nature, and her work with charitable organizations continues to inspire others to get involved and make a difference in their communities. Her philanthropic efforts are a testament to her generosity and commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
What Are Debi Mazar's Future Projects?
Debi Mazar's future projects are a testament to her continued dedication to her craft and her commitment to exploring new opportunities in the entertainment industry. Her ability to adapt to different roles and genres has made her a valuable asset to any production, and her future projects continue to showcase her talent and versatility as an actress.
Upcoming Film and Television Roles
Debi Mazar's upcoming film and television roles are highly anticipated by fans and industry professionals alike. Her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters has made her a sought-after actress, and her future projects continue to showcase her talent and versatility.
Mazar's upcoming roles in various film and television projects are a testament to her continued dedication to her craft and her ability to adapt to different genres and styles. Her performances continue to resonate with audiences worldwide, and her future projects are highly anticipated by fans and industry professionals alike.
Exploring New Opportunities
In addition to her work in film and television, Debi Mazar is also exploring new opportunities in the entertainment industry. Her ability to adapt to different roles and genres has made her a valuable asset to any production, and her future projects continue to showcase her talent and versatility as an actress.
Mazar's exploration of new opportunities in the entertainment industry is a testament to her continued dedication to her craft and her commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Her future projects continue to inspire new generations of actors and performers, and her work in the industry is highly anticipated by fans and industry professionals alike.
Anticipation and Excitement for Mazar's Future Projects
Debi Mazar's future projects are highly anticipated by fans and industry professionals alike, showcasing her continued dedication to her craft and her commitment to exploring new opportunities in the entertainment industry. Her ability to adapt to different roles and genres has made her a valuable asset to any production, and her future projects continue to showcase her talent and versatility as an actress.
Mazar's exploration of new opportunities in the entertainment industry is a testament to her continued dedication to her craft and her commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Her future projects continue to inspire new generations of actors and performers, and her work in the industry is highly anticipated by fans and industry professionals alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Debi Mazar's most famous role?
Debi Mazar's most famous role is arguably her portrayal of Sandy in Martin Scorsese's "Goodfellas." Her performance in the film was both memorable and impactful, earning her critical acclaim and establishing her as a formidable presence in Hollywood.
Is Debi Mazar still married to Gabriele Corcos?
Yes, Debi Mazar is still married to Gabriele Corcos. The couple has been together since 2002 and shares two daughters. Their shared love for food and family has been a significant part of their relationship, and they continue to support each other in their personal and professional endeavors.
What is "Extra Virgin" about?
"Extra Virgin" is a cooking show created by Debi Mazar and her husband, Gabriele Corcos, that aired on the Cooking Channel. The show showcases their love for Italian cuisine and family traditions, and it quickly became a hit with audiences due to Mazar's vibrant personality and authentic approach to cooking.
Has Debi Mazar won any awards for her acting?
Throughout her career, Debi Mazar has received several awards and honors for her performances in both film and television. Her work in projects like "Goodfellas," "Entourage," and "Younger" has earned her critical acclaim and numerous nominations, highlighting her talent and versatility as an actress.
What are Debi Mazar's future projects?
Debi Mazar's future projects include upcoming film and television roles that are highly anticipated by fans and industry professionals. Her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters has made her a sought-after actress, and her future projects continue to showcase her talent and versatility.
Is Debi Mazar involved in any philanthropic efforts?
Yes, Debi Mazar is involved in several philanthropic efforts, using her platform to raise awareness and support for important causes. Her work with charitable organizations focused on education, health, and the arts is a testament to her generosity and commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
Conclusion
Debi Mazar's illustrious career in the entertainment industry is a testament to her talent, versatility, and dedication to her craft. From her early beginnings as a makeup artist to her celebrated roles in film and television, Mazar's journey is an inspiring tale of passion and perseverance. Her ability to connect with audiences through her unique style and dynamic performances has made her a beloved figure in Hollywood, and her impact on pop culture continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
Beyond her professional achievements, Debi Mazar is celebrated for her vibrant personality and authentic approach to life. Her commitment to her family, friends, and philanthropic efforts showcases her genuine and generous nature, and her influence on fashion and style continues to inspire new generations of designers and fashion enthusiasts.
As Debi Mazar continues to explore new opportunities in the entertainment industry, her future projects are highly anticipated by fans and industry professionals alike. Her ability to adapt to different roles and genres has made her a valuable asset to any production, and her work continues to inspire new generations of actors and performers. Debi Mazar's legacy and lasting impact on pop culture are a testament to her talent and dedication to her craft, and her contributions to the industry continue to be celebrated and admired.