Hilary Swank

Actress 

From high-school dropout to two-time Academy Award-winner by the age of 30, Hilary Swank is a shining example of spectacular triumph against incredible odds. Her story of gritty perseverance in pursuit of a dream, as fabulous as any to appear on the silver screen, has dazzled and inspired audiences worldwide. It is a story she draws on to motivate people in every field of endeavor to achieve their own dreams, regardless of the obstacles they face. A passionate activist, Hilary is also a captivating speaker on the causes closest to her heart: battling social injustice and empowering women of all ages.

Hilary's rise from hardscrabble beginnings to Hollywood glory is the stuff of legend. As a teenage girl living in a trailer park in Washington, she began cultivating the phenomenal work ethic that would propel her to the highest echelons of theatrical achievement. An outstanding athlete-ranking fifth in the state in all-around gymnastics, and swimming in the Junior Olympics - she nevertheless found her life's passion in acting. At the age of 16, with only $75 and a gas station credit card, she and her mother moved to Los Angeles to pursue Hilary's dream of success in Hollywood.

At the core of Hilary's inspiring message are the importance of dedication and hard work in accomplishing one's goals. Hardly an overnight success in spite of her prodigious talent, she toiled for nine years in a succession of minor roles until her stunning turn as Teena Brandon in the acclaimed drama Boys Don't Cry (for which she was paid only $75 a day) earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress.

Since that breakthrough performance Hilary has continued to choose roles that reflect her commitment to fighting social injustice and empowering women: Iron Jawed Angels, which told the story of the women's suffrage movement; Million Dollar Baby, for which she garnered her second Best Actress Oscar; and the upcoming Freedom Writers, in which she portrays an inner-city schoolteacher who helps her class escape the shackles of fear, prejudice and hopelessness.

From the podium Hilary inspires audiences with the moving story of her own struggle to reach the top, while communicating her message of self-empowerment and succeeding against the odds - whether in the service of a social cause or a personal goal.

Hilary is a unique celebrity speaker who can raise the profile of any special event. To book Hilary Swank as a keynote speaker, contact CAA Speakers today.