When Caroline Aaron first stepped into the role of Shirley Maisel on The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, it was meant to be just a one-episode appearance. But as it turns out, the show’s producers quickly realized they had a gem on their hands. Now, as the acclaimed series enters its fifth and final season, Aaron’s portrayal of Shirley continues to captivate audiences. Her character, a no-nonsense, truth-telling matriarch, adds a layer of authenticity and humor that resonates with viewers. In the recent fourth season, Shirley tackled everything from matchmaking her divorced son to confronting the reality of life without her husband, Moishe.
"Shirley is all about home and heart," Caroline shared with Closer. "She's someone who speaks her mind, unfiltered. Her honesty isn't meant to judge—it’s just who she is. She says it like it is, and that's what makes her so endearing."
As the veteran actress wraps up her journey on this beloved series, let's dive deeper into her life, career, and the incredible experiences that have shaped her.
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Richmond Roots: How Growing Up Shaped Caroline Aaron
What was it like growing up in Richmond, Virginia, and how did it influence who you are today?
"My upbringing in Richmond was transformative in ways I didn't fully appreciate at the time," Caroline reflects. "My mother became a widow at a young age, which meant she had to step into the workforce. She found employment at an all-Black university, and through her, the Black community became an integral part of my own. My mom was extraordinary—a woman who defied societal norms by bringing people from different backgrounds together. She instilled in me a sense of responsibility, reminding me that as a Jew, my duty was to leave the world better than I found it."
Her mother's influence remains a guiding force in Caroline's life, teaching her the importance of empathy, connection, and making a difference in the world.
Rediscovering Jewish Heritage in New York
How did moving to New York change your perspective on your Jewish heritage?
"When I moved to New York, it was like stepping into another universe," Caroline explains. "Growing up in the South, there wasn't much cultural Judaism around. I never attended a bar mitzvah or a bat mitzvah—it simply wasn't part of our experience. But when I arrived in New York, I was introduced to a thriving Jewish community. It opened my eyes to traditions and practices I hadn't known before, enriching my understanding of my identity in ways I hadn't anticipated."
Learning from Legends: Stella Adler's Influence
What was it like studying under the legendary Stella Adler?
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"Stella Adler was a force of nature," Caroline recalls. "She demanded professionalism and respect from her students. She insisted we dress well, stand tall, and articulate ourselves clearly. She believed actors were ambassadors of the human experience, and she expected us to carry ourselves with dignity. She often referenced Marlon Brando, saying he was a great actor because he didn't play stereotypes—he played complex, layered characters. Her teachings aligned with the values my mother instilled in me, and I've carried those lessons with me throughout my career."
Working with Woody Allen: A Comedy Masterclass
How did Woody Allen influence your approach to comedy?
"Woody Allen is one of the most brilliant minds in comedy," Caroline says. "He's incredibly shy, yet his humor is sharp and insightful. He prefers performances that feel natural and unforced. He doesn't want actors to rely on artifice or makeup; he wants authenticity. I learned so much about timing, subtlety, and the art of making the ordinary extraordinary from him. He truly is a master of his craft."
Improv with Larry David: A Unique Experience
What was it like working on Curb Your Enthusiasm, where improvisation is key?
"Stepping into the world of Curb Your Enthusiasm was a challenge," Caroline admits. "On my first day, I didn't have a script or any lines. It was all about being in the moment and reacting naturally. Ted Danson, who was also on set, offered some sage advice: 'Don't put pressure on yourself. If 10% of your improv is usable, you're a genius.' The real stars of that show are the camera operators, who have to keep up with the unpredictable movements of the actors. It's like being part of a jazz band, where everyone is playing off each other
