See: Ann Bancroft for the American explorer.

Anne Bancroft (born September 17, 1931) is an American actress. Born Anna Maria Louisa Italiano in The Bronx, New York, her film debut was in Don't Bother to Knock in 1952, and was a contract player in the early days of her career just as the studio contract system was ending.

In 1958 she appeared opposite Henry Fonda in the Broadway production of Two for the Seesaw, for which she won a Tony Award, and another in the following year for The Miracle Worker. She took the latter role back to Hollywood, and won the Academy Award for Best Actress in 1962.

Other major roles were in Jesus of Nazareth, The Pumpkin Eater, 7 Women , and The Graduate, which may be her signature role as Mrs. Robinson opposite Dustin Hoffman.

In 1964 Bancroft married Mel Brooks, whom she had met on a talk show. She acted opposite Brooks in his 1983 remake of To Be or Not to Be.

Academy Awards and Nominations

• 1986 - Nominated - Best Actress in a Leading Role - Agnes of God
• 1978 - Nominated - Best Actress in a Leading Role - The Turning Point
• 1968 - Nominated - Best Actress in a Leading Role - The Graduate
• 1965 - Nominated - Best Actress in a Leading Role - The Pumpkin Eater
• 1963 - Won - Best Actress in a Leading Role - The Miracle Worker

Bancroft has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6368 Hollywood Blvd.