Katie O'Grady

Born and raised in Southern Oregon, Katie has loved film since her Dad introduced her to silent films. Katie is an accomplished actress, Emmy Award-Winning Director, and a versatile force in the entertainment industry. Her outstanding performance in the New York Times Critic's Picks dark-comedy, "Rid of Me" earned her a well-deserved nomination for Best Comedic Actress from Women in Film, alongside esteemed names like Melissa McCarthy, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kristen Wiig. Her ability to find humor in unexpected places and deliver it with impeccable timing caught the industry's attention, securing her a spot on an Oscar watch list for Best Actress for her work on Rid of Me.

One of Katie's notable achievements includes her sketch comedy work in the Emmy Nominated series "Portlandia," where she delighted audiences for eight seasons as a valued cast member. Katie played several characters alongside Fred Armisen, Carrie Brownstein, Jane Lynch and more but most notable was her episode of "Put a Bird on It", solidifying her reputation as a seasoned actor with her creative improv-performances.

Beyond her on-screen endeavors, Katie is a filmmaker who writes and directs, focusing on Young Adult content that incorporates her unique understanding of youth-based storytelling. She crafts her projects with a delightful blend of sharp wit, relatable humor, and a touch of exuberance, breathing life into stories that resonate with audiences of all ages.

Recognized as a compassionate mentor and advocate for young actors, Katie dedicates her time to nurturing and guiding aspiring young talents while championing their voices. As the founder of Acting for Kids and Teens, she aims to leave a lasting impact on the future generation of performers, inspiring them to pursue their craft and stand strong in their narratives. Additionally, Katie founded The Studio NW, a creative hub where artists not only receive professional acting training but also find a vibrant and supportive community. She is a comedy loving, dog friendly artist with miles of travel and heart.