Cybill Shepherd is mainly known for her role in ‘Moonlighting,’ but she has a diverse portfolio of performances that extend far beyond this series. Here’s a look at seven of her best roles that show us her talent as an actress.
7. The Client List – IMDb: 6.5
In ‘The Client List‘ (2012–2013), Cybill Shepherd played Linette Montgomery for 23 episodes. Based on a 2010 television film of the same name, the series narrated a fictionalized account of a 2004 prostitution scandal in Odessa, Texas. The show attracted an audience of 3.9 million viewers and was particularly popular among female viewers aged 18-49. It has an approval rating of 83% on Rotten Tomatoes and a 6.5 rating on IMDb.
6. Chances Are – IMDb: 6.5
In the 1989 romantic comedy ‘Chances Are,‘ Shepherd starred alongside Robert Downey Jr. and Ryan O’Neal. Directed by Emile Ardolino, the film was a prominent movie role for Shepherd after her success in ‘Moonlighting.’ Although it received a modest response at the box office, ‘Chances Are’ earned a 65% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 6.5 rating on IMDb.
5. The Heartbreak Kid – IMDb: 7.0
‘The Heartbreak Kid‘ (1972) featured Shepherd in a role alongside Charles Grodin. Directed by Elaine May and written by Neil Simon, the film was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its humor and storytelling, earning a high approval rating of 92% on Rotten Tomatoes. The film’s accolades included Academy Award nominations for its supporting actors.
4. The L Word – IMDb: 7.7
In ‘The L Word‘ (2007–2009), Shepherd played Phyllis Kroll and contributed to the portrayal of lesbian and bisexual women on television. The series was celebrated for its authentic representation and bold storytelling. Although it holds a 57% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the series has a 7.7 rating on IMDb.
3. The Last Picture Show – IMDb: 8.0
‘The Last Picture Show‘ (1971), Shepherd’s first film, saw her starring alongside Jeff Bridges and Timothy Bottoms. This coming-of-age drama became a critical and commercial hit, earning eight Academy Award nominations and winning two. It has a 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an 8.0 rating on IMDb, and it’s selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry.
2. Taxi Driver – IMDb: 8.2
Martin Scorsese’s ‘Taxi Driver‘ (1976) is another highlight of Shepherd’s career. In this psychological thriller, she played Betsy, a young campaign volunteer. The film, a critical and commercial success, received multiple Academy Award nominations and has an 89% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. It’s an important work in both Scorsese’s and Shepherd’s filmographies.
1. Psych – IMDb: 8.4
In the detective comedy-drama ‘Psych‘ (2008), Shepherd portrayed Madeleine Spencer, the protagonist’s mother. The series, which aired on USA Network, was a hit, garnering 6.1 million viewers at its premiere. Shepherd’s role, although in only five episodes, contributed to the show’s success with dramatic scenes between her and Shawn.
