Actress Meg Ryan
Actress Meg Ryan, whose real name is Margaret Mary Emily Anne Hyra, is widely known for her roles in romantic comedies in the 1990s.She is often referred to as “America’s Sweetheart.”
In this slideshow, we dive into Ryan’s early days and her successful career.
Rich and Famous
Meg Ryan made her film debut in Rich and Famous (1981), directed by George Cukor. She appeared in the soap opera As the World Turns from 1982 to 1984.
Appeared in various commercials
Ryan appeared in various commercials in the early 1980s, including for Burger King and Aim toothpaste.
Top Gun
Ryan appeared in Top Gun (1986), Innerspace (1987), D.O.A. (1988) and Flesh and Bone (1993).
Breakout role
Ryan’s breakout role was in When Harry Met Sally… (1989), earning her a Golden Globe nomination.
Major box office hit
Ryan starred in Sleepless in Seattle (1993) with Tom Hanks, which was a major box office hit.
When a Man Loves a Woman
Ryan starred in the film In When a Man Loves a Woman (1994) as well as the romantic comedy I.Q. (1994).
Her contributions to the entertainment industry
She received the Women in Film Crystal Award in 1995 for her contributions to the entertainment industry.
Golden Globe nomination
In 1998, Ryan starred in City of Angels and You’ve Got Mail. This earned her a third Golden Globe nomination.
One of Hollywood's biggest stars
Ryan was one of Hollywood’s biggest stars during the 1990s. She directed her first film, Ithaca, in 2015 and returned to acting in the 2023 romantic comedy What Happens Later, which she also directed.