Perkins Family Genealogy & History

Elizabeth Perkins, born on November 18, 1960, is a renowned American actress celebrated for her versatile roles in both film and television. Notable performances include her roles in "Big" alongside Tom Hanks, and as Celia Hodes in the acclaimed Showtime series "Weeds," earning her three Primetime Emmy nominations and two Golden Globe nominations. Perkins' filmography also features standout performances in "The Flintstones," "Miracle on 34th Street," and "Finding Nemo." Her work in theater, including a Broadway debut in Neil Simon's "Brighton Beach Memoirs," showcases her diverse acting skills and significant contributions to the entertainment industry.

Elizabeth Perkins' familial background includes Greek heritage, with her paternal grandparents immigrating from Salonika and anglicizing their surname from "Pisperikos" to "Perkins." Raised in Colrain, Massachusetts, Perkins experienced her parents' divorce in 1963. Her family history combines cultural richness with personal challenges, shaping her journey in life and career.

Kendrick Le'Dale Perkins, born November 10, 1984, is a former professional basketball player turned ESPN sports analyst. He made his NBA debut directly from high school, playing for the Boston Celtics, Oklahoma City Thunder, Cleveland Cavaliers, and New Orleans Pelicans. Perkins achieved a career highlight by winning the NBA Championship with the Celtics in 2008. Known for his robust defensive skills and notable height of 6 ft 10 in, Perkins became a key player on the court, particularly recognized for his role as a starting center during his tenure with the Celtics.

Kendrick Perkins was born in Nederland, Texas, and raised by his grandparents on a farm. His mother tragically passed away when he was five, and his father, a professional basketball player in New Zealand, did not visit him. His grandfather's enthusiasm for sports played a significant role in developing Perkins' competitive spirit and passion for athletics.

Carl Lee Perkins, born on April 9, 1932, was a pioneering American guitarist, singer, and songwriter, renowned as the "King of Rockabilly." He gained fame with hits like "Blue Suede Shoes" and "Honey Don't," recorded at Sun Studio in Memphis. His music was pivotal in the rockabilly era and inspired legendary artists such as Elvis Presley, the Beatles, and Johnny Cash. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Rockabilly Hall of Fame, and more, Perkins's legacy is cemented in music history. His recording of "Blue Suede Shoes" was honored in the Grammy Hall of Fame, highlighting his influential sound in rock and roll.

Carl Perkins was born in Tiptonville, Tennessee, to sharecroppers Louise and Buck Perkins. He grew up in a humble setting with his two brothers, Jay and Clayton, working long hours in cotton fields. Despite economic challenges, his love for music was nurtured by hearing Southern gospel and blues, eventually leading to his father crafting a makeshift guitar for him. The Perkins family moved to Madison County in 1947, where a young Carl began writing and performing songs, marking the beginnings of his illustrious musical journey.

Millie Perkins, born on May 12, 1936, in Passaic, New Jersey, is renowned for her iconic debut film role as Anne Frank in the 1959 adaptation of The Diary of Anne Frank. A retired American actress and model, she also gained recognition for her roles in the 1966 Westerns The Shooting and Ride in the Whirlwind, directed by Monte Hellman. Perkins' career was marked by her transition from an international model to a Hollywood actress, appearing in films like Wild in the Country alongside Elvis Presley and later taking on mother roles in movies such as Wall Street and At Close Range. Her television work includes recurring roles in series like Knots Landing and Any Day Now.

Millie Perkins' family origins include a father who was a merchant marine captain of Hungarian and Mongolian descent. Her early life was spent in Fair Lawn, New Jersey, where she attended Fair Lawn High School. She later married writer and director Robert Thom, with whom she had two daughters, Lillie and Hedy Thom.