Women of Kinnelon

Laura Benanti

b. 1979

Arts & Performance

A local public-school kid who reached the highest levels of American theater — and credits her hometown for the confidence that got her there.

A Tony Award–winning Broadway and television actress who grew up in Kinnelon. Known to national audiences for her recurring portrayal of Melania Trump on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, alongside a major stage career. She has credited her Kinnelon upbringing and schooling with giving her confidence and a strong sense of justice. During the pandemic she moved her family back to New Jersey.

Sources & confidence

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