Jena Malone

Jena Laine Malone (born November 21, 1984) is an American actress known for her roles in independent films and mainstream blockbusters. Born in Sparks, Nevada, Malone spent her early life there and in Las Vegas. Inspired to become an actress, she convinced her mother to move to Los Angeles. Malone gained acclaim for her role in the television film Bastard Out of Carolina (1996), directed by Anjelica Huston. She later appeared in major studio productions such as Contact (1997), Hope (1997), and Stepmom (1998). In the 2000s, Malone starred in the cult film Donnie Darko (2001), followed by roles in Life as a House and Hitler: The Rise of Evil (both 2003). She has received nominations for a Golden Globe Award and two Screen Actors Guild Awards.