Winters Family Genealogy & History

Shelley Winters, born Shirley Schrift, was a legendary American film actress whose career spanned seven decades, earning her two Academy Awards for roles in "The Diary of Anne Frank" (1959) and "A Patch of Blue" (1965). She received further acclaim with nominations for "A Place in the Sun" (1951) and "The Poseidon Adventure" (1972), securing a Golden Globe for the latter. Winters was known for her versatility, appearing in films like "Lolita" (1962) and "Alfie" (1966), and she made notable contributions to television, including a role on "Roseanne."

Shelley Winters was born in St. Louis, Missouri, to Jewish parents Rose (née Winter), a singer, and Jonas Schrift, a men's clothing designer. Her father emigrated from Grymalow, Galicia, Austria-Hungary, and her mother was born in St. Louis to Austrian immigrants from the same region. The family moved to Brooklyn when she was nine, and she grew up in Queens, New York.

Dean Gerard Winters, born July 20, 1964, is a renowned American actor noted for his diverse roles across television and film. He gained fame as Ryan O'Reily in HBO's "Oz" and is widely recognized as "Mayhem" in Allstate Insurance commercials. Winters has showcased his versatility with roles in "30 Rock," "Brooklyn Nine-Nine," and "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit." His filmography includes "John Wick" and "P.S. I Love You." Despite facing personal health challenges, including neuropathy and surgeries resulting in amputations, Winters continues to be a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.

Dean Winters was born in New York City and has Irish and Italian ancestry. Raised on Long Island, he has two brothers, Scott and Bradford, and a sister, Blair.

Scott William Winters, an American actor born on August 5, 1965, is renowned for his diverse roles in television and film. His standout performances include portraying Cyril O'Reily in HBO's "Oz," where he starred alongside his brother Dean Winters, and his role as Clark in the acclaimed film "Good Will Hunting." Winters has an extensive television career with appearances in series like "NYPD Blue," "24," and "The Americans," showcasing his versatility across genres. His work extends to roles in "CSI: Miami," "Dexter," and a significant part in "Borgia," enhancing his visibility and appeal in the entertainment industry.

Winters is of Irish and Italian descent and spent his formative years on Long Island and in Scottsdale, Arizona. He grew up with three siblings: Dean, an actor; Bradford, a poet/writer; and a sister, Blair. This family context, particularly his collaboration with his brother Dean on "Oz," highlights a familial bond that has influenced his acting career.

Ivy Winters, the stage name of Dustin Winters, is a prominent American drag performer, singer, and actor. Known for her appearance on season five of "RuPaul's Drag Race," Ivy captivated audiences, earning the Miss Congeniality title. Her diverse talents extend beyond drag; she is a skilled circus performer, having mastered juggling, stilt walking, and fire breathing. Ivy's creative flair also shines as a costume designer for notable figures like Lady Bunny and Manila Luzon. She further showcased her talents in the music industry with singles like "Overcome" and contributions to the "Christmas Queens" albums. Ivy's engaging presence continues with her internet webshow, "Queen Acres," co-hosted with Darienne Lake.

Born to Tricia Winters in Greenville, Michigan, Ivy was raised in Fenwick, Michigan. She came out as gay during her freshman year of high school, followed by her sister and brother coming out in subsequent years, highlighting a supportive family environment.