Did you know that Taylor Schilling, the talented actress best known for her role as Piper Chapman in the hit Netflix series ‘Orange Is the New Black,’ initially supported herself by working as a nanny while trying to break into the acting world? Her journey to stardom is both fascinating and inspiring.
While ‘Orange Is the New Black’ catapulted Schilling into the spotlight, she has appeared in numerous other films and TV shows, demonstrating her versatility and skill as an actress. In this article, we’ll explore her most notable works outside of her role as Piper, showcasing her incredible range and talent.
The Road To Stardom
Schilling’s passion for acting led her to Fordham University, where she refined her skills and laid the groundwork for a successful career on stage and screen. Unwavering in her dedication, Taylor continued her studies at the prestigious New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, where she began landing her first acting gigs, demonstrating her determination and ambition.
The Many Faces of Taylor Schilling
Taylor’s feature film debut in the indie drama ‘Dark Matter’ (2007) saw her sharing the screen with the legendary Meryl Streep. This was just the beginning of her journey, as she went on to breathe life into the strong, multifaceted character of Dagny Taggart in ‘Atlas Shrugged: Part I ‘(2011). Schilling then showcased her versatility by captivating audiences in the romantic drama ‘The Lucky One’ (2012), where she starred opposite heartthrob Zac Efron.
Schilling’s comedic talents shone through when she pushed boundaries in the risqué comedy ‘The Overnight’ (2015) alongside Jason Schwartzman. She continued to exhibit her flair for comedy in the quirky film ‘Take Me’ (2017). Her role in ‘Family’ (2018) with Kate McKinnon had Taylor tackling the challenges of unexpected parenthood, further proving her ability to adapt to various genres. A dive into the realm of sci-fi came when Schilling starred in ‘The Titan’ (2018). This futuristic thriller displayed her adaptability and willingness to explore diverse roles.
Small Screen Successes
Taylor’s impressive work on television began with her portrayal of Veronica Flanagan Callahan in the NBC medical drama ‘Mercy’ (2009-2010). Later, she captivated audiences as Erica Boyer in the Hulu miniseries ‘Pam & Tommy‘ (2022), further solidifying her presence on the small screen. Taylor’s adaptability was once again on display when she joined the cast of ‘The Bite,’ taking on the role of Lily Leithauser.
A Heartfelt Journey With Dear Edward
Schilling took on the emotionally challenging role of Lacey in the Apple TV+ series ‘Dear Edward,’ based on Ann Napolitano’s best-selling novel, which premiered on February 3. Adapting a beloved novel for the screen is no easy task, but Schilling embraced the challenge and brought the story to life for viewers. Working alongside showrunner Jason Katims, Taylor delivered a powerful performance that resonated with audiences, showcasing her ability to excel across various platforms and genres.
More Than Piper Chapman
From her humble beginnings as a nanny in Manhattan to her phenomenal success as an award-winning actress, Taylor Schilling has proven time and time again that she is a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry. Throughout her career, she has taken on a variety of roles, from dramatic leads in gripping TV dramas like ‘Mercy’ to heartwarming characters in films like ‘The Lucky One’ and ‘Dear Edward.’ As she continues to challenge herself and grow as an artist, we eagerly await her next project, confident that it will be just as captivating as her previous works.
