Let's talk about Allison Janney, the Oscar-winning actress who graces our screens with her incredible talent. While millions know her from her roles on The West Wing and beyond, there’s a lot about Allison that most people don’t know. In an exclusive chat with Closer, she opens up about her hidden passions, surprising hobbies, and even her ideal man. So, buckle up because we’re diving deep into the life of this remarkable woman.
From Ice Skates to Spotlight: Allison Janney's Early Dreams
Not everyone knows this, but Allison Janney wasn't always set on acting. Growing up in Dayton, Ohio, her sights were set on a very different path. "I dreamed of being a figure skater," she recalls with a smile. "I was actually pretty graceful back then. But let me tell you, figure skating is not just about grace—it’s an acrobatic sport. And at 6 feet tall, I wasn’t exactly built for it. You need to be compact and small to pull off those jumps and spins. So, my dreams shifted, and I’m so glad they did!"
An All-Girl Band with Allison Janney: The Broken Dolls
Here’s something that might surprise you—Allison Janney isn’t just an actress; she’s also a musician. "I’m part of an all-girl band called the Broken Dolls," she says enthusiastically. "We’ve got some incredible talent in the group, including Mary McCormack and Courteney Cox. Right now, we’re still working on our songs and rehearsing, but the goal is to hit the road and play some shows. It’s going to be a blast when we get there!"
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Wordle Wars with Carol Burnett: A Night of Laughter and Letters
When it comes to bonding over games, Allison Janney and Carol Burnett have it down to a science. "One night over dinner, we started talking about the games we play on our phones," Allison shares. "Carol loves Wordle, and well, she got me hooked. I’m not the greatest player, but Carol sends me her score every day, and that’s when the competition kicks in. Now, we share our scores daily, and it’s become a fun little tradition between us. It’s amazing how a simple game can bring people closer."

A Mentor Like No Other: Paul Newman's Influence on Allison Janney
Every great artist needs a mentor, and for Allison Janney, that person was none other than the legendary Paul Newman. "During my freshman year in college, Paul came to my school to direct a play," she recalls fondly. "I still can’t believe I got the part. It was one of the most incredible moments of my life. Not only did I learn so much from him, but I also got some invaluable advice from his wife, Joanne Woodward. Without them, I don’t know where I’d be right now."
Allison Janney's Ideal Man: A Dog-Loving Jokester
When it comes to relationships, Allison knows exactly what she’s looking for. "I want someone who makes me laugh and truly appreciates me," she says. "But here’s the deal-breaker—if they don’t love dogs, it’s a no-go. I mean, come on, who doesn’t love dogs? They’re the best!"

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