Meredith Baxter
Actress, 'Family Ties,' Emmy-nominated performer
Meredith Ann Baxter (born June 21, 1947) is an American actress and television producer who gained widespread recognition for her iconic role as Elyse Keaton, the intelligent and witty mother on the popular NBC sitcom 'Family Ties,' which aired from 1982 to 1989. Born in St. Paul, Minnesota, Baxter built a prolific career spanning several decades in television, film, and theater. Beyond 'Family Ties,' she appeared in numerous television movies and series, demonstrating her range as a performer. She received multiple Emmy nominations throughout her career and became a respected figure in Hollywood. Later in life, Baxter became an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights after publicly revealing her own identity. Her contributions to television comedy helped define the 1980s and she remains a beloved figure to audiences who grew up watching the show.
Entertainment
American
1947
Thinking about the name
Meridith
Welsh origin
“An alternate spelling of Meredith, Meridith preserves the Welsh roots meaning 'great ruler' while offering contemporary phonetic clarity. This spelling variation appeals to parents wanting the classic name's substance with a fresh orthographic identity. It maintains historical gravitas while feeling current.”