Biography

Melissa Hurst grew up in Chagrin Falls, Ohio.  She was awarded scholarships to attend two years of high school at Interlochen Arts Academy in Michigan, where she studied drama and graduated with honors in 1973. (See Chagrin Falls Alumni Association - CFAA)

She started college in the theatre department at Southern Methodist University, then transferred to New York University where she studied acting with Olympia Dukakis, Kristin Linklater, and Ron Van Lieu, graduating with a BFA in theatre in 1978.

Melissa has since worked professionally as an actress in stage, film, and television.

She's married to actor Richard Council, and they live with their son Will in New York City and in Vermont.

Professional Union Memberships
Melissa joined Actors Equity Association in 1981 when she originated the role of Margo in Len Jenkin's Dark Ride at Soho Rep.  Others in the cast included Will Patton, Willam Sadler, and Joanne Akalaitis. 

Melissa is also a member of AFTRA and the Screen Actors Guild (SAG).