Judith Light Biography: Husband, Age, Net Worth, Height, Parents, Movies & TV Shows, Awards

Judith Ellen Light, known professionally as Judith Light, is an American actress renowned for her powerful performances in television, film, and theater, most notably as Karen Wolek on the soap opera One Life to Live and Angela Bower on the sitcom Who’s the Boss?.

With a career spanning over five decades, she has earned two Daytime Emmy Awards, a Primetime Emmy nomination, and a Tony Award for her Broadway work.

Profile

• Full Name: Judith Ellen Light
• Stage Name: Judith Light
• Born: 9, February 1949
• Age: 76 years old
• Birthplace: Trenton, New Jersey, USA
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: Actress
• Height: 1.70m
• Parents: Pearl Sue Hollander and Sidney Licht
• Siblings: None
• Spouse: Robert Desiderio (m. 1985)
• Children: None
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $10 million

Early Life and Education

Judith Ellen Light was born on February 9, 1949, in Trenton, New Jersey, to Pearl Sue Hollander, a model, and Sidney Licht, an accountant.

As an only child, she grew up in a supportive household that encouraged her creative pursuits.

She attended St. Mary’s Hall–Doane Academy in Burlington, New Jersey, where she discovered her passion for acting through school productions.

Light pursued formal training at Carnegie Mellon University, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Drama, which equipped her with the skills to excel in theater and television.

Her Jewish heritage shapes her identity, though she has described her spiritual beliefs as more personal than strictly religious.

Career

Judith Light began her career on stage, performing in regional theater before landing her breakthrough role as Karen Wolek on One Life to Live (1977–1983).

Her portrayal of the complex character earned her two Daytime Emmy Awards and critical acclaim, establishing her as a standout talent in daytime television.

She transitioned to primetime with the lead role of Angela Bower in Who’s the Boss? (1984–1992), a hit sitcom that showcased her comedic timing and charm, making her a household name.

Her early stage work, including performances with the Milwaukee Repertory Theater, also laid a strong foundation for her versatility.

Light’s career expanded into Broadway, where she earned a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play for Other Desert Cities (2012) and a nomination for The Assembled Parties (2013).

She continued to take on diverse roles in television, including appearances in Ugly Betty (2006–2010), Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (2008), and Transparent (2014–2019), where her portrayal of Shelly Pfefferman earned her a Primetime Emmy nomination.

Her film work includes Ira & Abby (2006) and Last Weekend (2014), reflecting her ability to navigate both drama and comedy.

Light remains a vital force in entertainment, with recent roles in The Politician (2019–2020) and Shining Vale (2022).

Her theater work continues to garner praise, and she has taken on producing roles, including projects advocating for social change.

Light’s commitment to activism, particularly for HIV/AIDS awareness and LGBTQ+ rights, has amplified her influence, earning her accolades like the GLAAD Media Award.

Her legacy as an actress and advocate continues to inspire audiences and performers alike.

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @judithlight
• Facebook Handle: Judith Light
• Twitter Handle: @Judith_Light

Personal Life

Judith Light married actor Robert Desiderio on January 1, 1985, and the couple has maintained a strong, private relationship.

They considered adoption but ultimately decided against having children, focusing on their careers and activism.

Based in Los Angeles and New York, Light leads a purposeful lifestyle, dedicating time to philanthropy, including her work with organizations like Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.

Filmography

• One Life to Live (1977–1983)
• Who’s the Boss? (1984–1992)
• Ira & Abby (2006)
• Ugly Betty (2006–2010)
• Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (2008)
• Transparent (2014–2019)
• Last Weekend (2014)
• The Politician (2019–2020)
• Shining Vale (2022)

Net Worth

Judith Ellen Light has an estimated net worth of $10 million.

Her wealth primarily comes from her extensive acting career, including long-running roles in One Life to Live and Who’s the Boss?, as well as her acclaimed Broadway performances.