Mali Finn, born Mary Alice Mann on March 8, 1938, in Danville, Illinois, was a distinguished American casting director renowned for her exceptional ability to discover and nurture talent. Before transitioning to casting, she earned a bachelor’s degree in theater from the University of Minnesota and spent 15 years as a drama teacher, inspiring students from elementary to college levels.
In 1981, Finn moved to Newport Beach, California, and began her casting career, initially volunteering to work for free to gain experience. She quickly established herself as a formidable presence in Hollywood, founding her own firm, Mali Finn Casting, in 1989. Her keen eye for talent led to the discovery of actors such as Brad Renfro, whom she cast in “The Client” (1994) at the age of ten, and she played a pivotal role in advancing the careers of Leonardo DiCaprio by casting him in “Titanic” (1997) and Russell Crowe in “L.A. Confidential” (1997).
Throughout her career, Finn’s casting credits spanned nearly 80 films, including notable titles like “The Matrix” series, “North Country,” “8 Mile,” and “Terminator 2: Judgment Day.” Her collaborations with esteemed directors such as James Cameron, Curtis Hanson, and Joel Schumacher underscored her reputation for excellence. She received numerous accolades, including an Emmy Award for Outstanding Casting for a Miniseries, Movie, or Special for “61*” and three Artios Awards from the Casting Society of America.
Finn was celebrated not only for her professional achievements but also for her mentorship and encouragement of actors and filmmakers. She often emphasized the importance of resilience and dedication in the arts, advising actors to embrace the struggles of their careers as opportunities for personal growth.
After a battle with melanoma, Mali Finn passed away on November 28, 2007, in Sonoma, California, at the age of 69. Her legacy endures through the countless actors and industry professionals whose careers she influenced and through the memorable films that continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
