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Bernadette Peters was born Bernadette Lazzara in 1948 in New York City. She is of Sicilian-American descent and the youngest of three children. Her siblings include Joseph Lazzara and casting director Donna DeSeta. Her father, Peter Lazzara, worked as a bread delivery truck driver, while her mother, Marguerite, introduced her to show business at a very young age. At just three and a half years old, Peters appeared on the television show Juvenile Jury. By age five, she had made appearances on Name That Tune and The Horn and Hardart Children’s Hour.
To avoid ethnic stereotyping, she adopted the stage name "Bernadette Peters," taking her father's first name as her last. At age nine, she obtained her Actors' Equity Association card under this name and made her professional stage debut in Otto Preminger’s comedy This Is Goggle.
Bernadette Peters began her performance career as a child actress and transitioned into television and film by the 1970s. Her early television work included appearances on The Carol Burnett Show and The Muppet Show, both of which earned her significant acclaim. During this period, she also appeared in notable films such as The Jerk, Silent Movie, Annie, and Pennies From Heaven.
By the 1980s, Peters had returned to her roots in theater, becoming a prominent Broadway star for over three decades. Her distinctive voice and compelling stage presence established her as one of the most critically acclaimed performers in musical theatre.
Peters is particularly noted for her interpretations of Stephen Sondheim's work, a distinction that has led many to regard her as one of the foremost interpreters of his musicals. Her celebrated Broadway roles include performances in Gypsy, Annie Get Your Gun, Into the Woods, Song and Dance, Sunday in the Park with George, and Mack and Mabel.
She has received seven Tony Award nominations, winning two, including one honorary award. Peters has also been nominated for nine Drama Desk Awards, winning three. Additionally, four cast albums from productions she starred in have won Grammy Awards. Her impact on the Broadway stage remains influential and widely recognized.
Beyond the stage, Bernadette Peters has pursued a successful recording career. She has produced numerous solo albums as well as cast recordings. Her musical involvement extends to children's media as well; she contributed four songs to a CD accompanying the children's picture book Dewey Doo-It Helps Owlie Fly Again. Proceeds from the project were donated to the Christopher Reeve Foundation. Peters' Sunday in the Park with George co-star, Mandy Patinkin, also appeared on the CD.
Peters has earned three Emmy Award nominations and three Golden Globe nominations, winning one Golden Globe for her performance in the film Pennies from Heaven. Her ability to transition seamlessly between television, film, and stage speaks to her versatility as a performer.
In addition to acting and singing, Bernadette Peters is also an accomplished children's book author. Her works often incorporate themes of kindness and compassion. A passionate animal welfare advocate, she co-founded a charity organization supporting pet adoption. Through her public appearances and charitable efforts, Peters continues to raise awareness for animal rescue initiatives.
Bernadette Peters was married to investment adviser Michael Wittenberg until his untimely death in 2005 at the age of 43. Despite personal tragedy, Peters has remained committed to her professional career and philanthropic work, earning her a respected place both within the performing arts community and beyond.
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