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Ellen Burstyn Joins Political Animals

NEW YORK - JANUARY 12: Actress Ellen Burstyn attends the National Board of Review of Motion Pictures Awards gala at Cipriani 42nd Street on January 12, 2010 in New York City. (Photo by Bryan Bedder/Getty Images)
NEW YORK - JANUARY 12: Actress Ellen Burstyn attends the National Board of Review of Motion Pictures Awards gala at Cipriani 42nd Street on January 12, 2010 in New York City. (Photo by Bryan Bedder/Getty Images) Photo: Bryan Bedder/Getty Images

Ellen Burstyn has been cast as Sigourney Weaver’s mother in Political Animals, the USA miniseries about an ex-First Lady who becomes Secretary of State. Weaver plays said politician, and Carla Gugino plays a Washington journalist who’s long been a thorn in her side. Burstyn’s character in the script is funny and salty and a bit of a boozehound, and she’s described as “a tough Chicago broad and one time Vegas showgirl [who] has mellowed into the family’s grande dame.” James Wolk plays Weaver’s son and chief of staff, so … there are some good genes being passed down in this fictional family.

Ellen Burstyn Joins Political Animals