Alison Lohman
Actress in Matchstick Men, White Oleander, Drag Me to Hell
Alison Lohman (born September 18, 1979) is an American film and television actress recognized for her nuanced performances in independent and mainstream cinema. Born in Arcadia, California, she trained at the University of Arizona and developed a reputation for choosing complex, challenging roles that showcase her dramatic range. She appeared in Todd Solondz's critically acclaimed film White Oleander (2002) alongside Michelle Pfeiffer, demonstrating her ability to hold her own alongside established actresses. Lohman gained wider recognition through her role in the psychological thriller Matchstick Men (2003) alongside Nicolas Cage, where her performance as a con artist demonstrated her command of subtle, layered character work. She further expanded her range by starring in Sam Raimi's horror-thriller Drag Me to Hell (2009), showcasing her versatility across genres. Beyond film, she has appeared in numerous television productions and earned critical recognition for her craft. Known for her integrity in selecting roles and her willingness to take on challenging material, Lohman represents a particular type of accomplished actress who prioritizes artistic merit over mainstream commercial appeal.
Alison Sweeney
Days of Our Lives actress, host of The Biggest Loser
Alison Moyet
Singer in Yazoo/Yaz, distinctive contralto voice, 1980s synth-pop icon
Alison Janney
Emmy and Oscar-winning actress in The West Wing, Mom, I, Tonya
Alison Gopnik
Developmental psychologist, cognitive scientist, children's learning research
Entertainment
American
1979
Thinking about the name
Alison
Germanic origin
“A medieval diminutive of Alice, meaning 'noble natured' from the Germanic Adelaide. Alison emerged in England during the Middle Ages and gained literary immortality through Chaucer's 'Canterbury Tales,' becoming a touchstone of English-speaking femininity. It remains sophisticated yet approachable, popular across generations.”