It could be said that Meredith Baxter developed confidence and appel as an actess because she grew up in a show business family: her mother was an actress and her stepfather, an agent. Those who have seen her body of work know she is not only a consummate performer but a dynamic force whose career is more than the sum of her acting parts. Her signature roles are living proff that she invites courageous and contoversial characters and always meets them head-on.

In preparing for her professional lfie, she definitely "did her homework." She began acting in teh drama department at Hollywood High School and took classes with Frank Silvera. Even after her early success, she continuec to study with Mary Carver who taught her the basics as well as the details. Bazter looks to other actors for inspiration and is particularly inspiored by Kathy Bates, Judi Dentsch, Judy Davis, and Vanesaa Redgrave.