She starred in the critically acclaimed biographical cable films George Wallace (1997) and Gia (1998), and won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in the drama Girl, Interrupted (1999).
Hun medvirkede i den kritikerroste biografiske tv-film George Wallace (1997) og Gia (1998), og vandt en Oscar for bedste kvindelige birolle for hendes præsentation i dramaet Girl, Interrupted (1999).