Marlee Matlin

Marlee Matlin, as herself, at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival in Park City Utah

Marlee Matlin (born August 24, 1965) is an American actress who has been deaf since she was 18 months old.

Quotes

• I like to say that the greatest handicap of deafness does not lie in the ear, it lies in the mind. I hope that through my example, such as my role on 'The West Wing,' I can help change attitudes on deafness and prove we can really do everything... except hear.
  • An Interview with Marlee Matlin 5/23/2001

• I hope I inspire people who hear. Hearing people have the ability to remove barriers that prevent deaf people from achieving their dreams.
  • Speaking at an interview

• For me, life or work doesn't mean having to dwell on my deafness. I'm standing here as a working actress with an Oscar, a Golden Globe, and a couple of Emmy nominations to prove it."
  • Speaking after receiving an Oscar award

• The handicap of deafness is not in the ear; it is in the mind.
  • Quotes from Marlee Matlin