Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell: The Lesser-Known Daughter of Lawrence O’Donnell 

The name O’Donnell is widely recognized in Hollywood and the media sphere, often linked to the popular MSNBC program, The Last Word With Lawrence O’Donnell. Hosted by Lawrence O’Donnell since 2010, the show has become a staple for news and opinion. However, beyond the public eye of this prominent figure, there exists a quieter, less-publicized member of the O’Donnell family: Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell.

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell is an American whose public presence is overshadowed by her notable parents. As the daughter of Lawrence O’Donnell, a respected actor and political commentator, and Kathryn Harrold, an actress renowned for her leading roles in films from the early 1980s such as The Hunter (1980) and Modern Romance (1981), Elizabeth’s lineage places her in the spotlight by association. Despite this, Elizabeth remains relatively private, with limited information available about her personal life and professional pursuits.

While her father’s career on MSNBC and her mother’s film roles have kept the family in the public eye, Elizabeth has largely stayed out of the media’s focus. Her life represents a contrast to the often scrutinized existence of children born into fame, as she navigates her identity away from the glare of public attention.

Table of Contents

Who Is Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell?

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell is the daughter of renowned actress Kathryn Harrold and esteemed political analyst and television host Lawrence O’Donnell. Born in Tazewell, Virginia, Elizabeth is an American citizen with Irish heritage. Despite being born into a family with notable public profiles, Elizabeth has chosen to forge her own path distinct from the limelight of her parents’ careers.

While her mother, Kathryn Harrold, gained recognition for her roles in influential films and television series, and her father, Lawrence O’Donnell, is known for his role as the host of “The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell” on MSNBC, Elizabeth has pursued a career dedicated to personal impact. She works as a marriage and family therapist, where she applies her skills to directly assist individuals and families. Elizabeth’s professional journey reflects a commitment to making a meaningful difference in people’s lives, inspired by but separate from her parents’ public achievements.

Elizabeth buckley harrold o’donnell Wiki

AttributeDetails
Full NameElizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell
GenderFemale
Place of BirthUnited States
Current ResidenceUnited States
NationalityAmerican
EthnicityMultiracial
ReligionChristianity
SexualityStraight
Hair ColorBrown
Eye ColorBrown
MotherKathryn Harrold
FatherLawrence O’Donnell
SiblingsNone
Marital StatusUnmarried
PartnerNone
ChildrenNone

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell Age

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell, born in the United States, is currently in her early 30s. Although her exact birthdate is not widely publicized, her age places her in a dynamic phase of adulthood, where she may be focusing on personal and professional endeavors. As the daughter of prominent figures in the entertainment industry, Lawrence O’Donnell and Kathryn Harrold, Elizabeth has grown up under the spotlight, though she maintains a relatively low public profile. Despite this, her age reflects a period of emerging influence and potential within her own right.

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell Early Life

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell, born into a prominent family, experienced a unique and privileged upbringing that influenced her early life. Growing up in the United States, Elizabeth was the daughter of Lawrence O’Donnell, a well-known actor and political commentator on MSNBC, and Kathryn Harrold, an accomplished actress celebrated for her roles in films such as The Hunter (1980) and Modern Romance (1981). This background afforded Elizabeth an exposure to the entertainment industry from a young age, providing her with a distinctive perspective on both the media and acting professions.

Her early years were marked by the juxtaposition of high public visibility and a relatively private personal life. While her parents’ careers placed them in the public eye, Elizabeth’s upbringing was carefully managed to offer her a sense of normalcy. Her education and formative experiences were shaped by the values and opportunities afforded by her parents’ success, but she has largely chosen to maintain a low profile, preferring to stay out of the limelight.

Elizabeth’s childhood was enriched by the cultural and intellectual environment created by her parents, who were both deeply involved in the arts and media. This environment likely fostered a strong sense of creativity and understanding of the complexities of public life. Despite the advantages of her upbringing, Elizabeth has managed to forge her own path, balancing the influence of her family heritage with her personal interests and aspirations. Her early life, while not extensively documented, reflects a blend of privilege and privacy, contributing to her development into a poised and self-assured individual.

Intriguing aspects of Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell’s life:

Intriguing aspects of Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O'Donnell's life:

While Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell is not a public figure and has maintained a low profile, there are several interesting facets of her life that are worth noting. Despite her parents’ high public profiles—her father, Lawrence O’Donnell, being a well-known television host and political commentator, and her mother, Kathryn Harrold, a prominent actress in the early 1980s—Elizabeth has chosen to live out of the limelight. This decision reflects her desire for privacy, a value her family has respected throughout her life.

Elizabeth was born into a household that could have easily thrust her into the spotlight, given her parents’ careers in entertainment and media. However, she has managed to stay away from the media’s gaze, a testament to her family’s commitment to keeping their personal lives separate from their public personas. Her upbringing in such an environment has likely influenced her desire for a private life, away from the scrutiny often faced by children of celebrities.

Moreover, Elizabeth’s choice to remain private has not hindered her connection to her parents’ worlds. She occasionally appears in family-related stories or events but avoids the constant media attention that accompanies her parents’ careers. This unique balance allows her to enjoy a semblance of normalcy while still being part of a well-known family.

These factors underscore Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell’s ability to navigate a life influenced by fame yet maintain her own sense of privacy and independence.

Relationship Status

elizabeth buckley harrold o'donnell

At present, there is limited publicly available information regarding Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell’s relationship status. Elizabeth prefers to maintain a low profile in her personal life, which is consistent with her decision to focus on her career as a marriage and family therapist. This choice to keep her personal affairs private is likely influenced by the high public visibility of her parents, Kathryn Harrold and Lawrence O’Donnell. By keeping her personal life away from the media, Elizabeth ensures that her professional work remains at the forefront.

Parents and Siblings

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell is the daughter of Kathryn Harrold and Lawrence O’Donnell, both of whom have made notable impacts in their respective careers. Kathryn Harrold, an accomplished actress, has made her mark with memorable roles in various films and television series. Her work in iconic productions such as “The Rockford Files” and “The Hunter,” where she starred alongside the legendary Steve McQueen, highlights her versatility and commitment to acting.

Her father, Lawrence O’Donnell, is a distinguished political analyst and television host. As the anchor of “The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell” on MSNBC, Lawrence has gained recognition for his insightful commentary and analysis on political issues. His previous role as the Democratic Chief of Staff for the Senate Finance Committee during the Clinton Administration further underscores his significant contributions to political discourse.

Elizabeth is an only child but enjoys a close-knit relationship with her extended family. Her grandparents—Frances Marie Buckley, Lawrence Francis O’Donnell Sr., Carolyn Harrold, and B.H. Harrold—have been instrumental in her life, offering unwavering support and love. This strong family foundation has been a vital source of encouragement for Elizabeth as she pursues her personal and professional goals.

Elizabeth’s mother retired from the film industry


Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell’s mother, Kathryn Harrold, is a distinguished actress who enjoyed a prolific career in the entertainment industry. Kathryn’s journey into acting began after she pursued a degree in drama and honed her craft at HB Studio in New York City. Her professional career took off in 1975, and she made her television debut the following year with a notable role as Nola Dancy Aldrich on the soap opera The Doctors.

Kathryn Harrold gained prominence in the early 1980s, a period during which she appeared in several leading roles in notable films. Her filmography from this era includes standout performances in The Hunter (1980), Modern Romance (1981), The Pursuit of D.B. Cooper (1981), The Sender (1982), and Yes, Giorgio (1982). These roles showcased her versatility and cemented her status as a significant figure in the film industry.

Throughout the 1990s, 2000s, and early 2010s, Kathryn continued to work steadily in both film and television. Her career, however, began to wane around 2007. Her final acting role was in 2011, where she portrayed Mrs. Chambers in the TV series Greek. Over her career, Kathryn Harrold appeared in a total of ten films and 38 television shows, reflecting a robust and varied acting career that spanned more than three decades. Despite stepping away from the spotlight, Kathryn’s contributions to the field have left a lasting impression on the industry.

Her mother runs a counseling practice

Following her retirement from acting in 2011, Kathryn Harrold faced a significant personal challenge as she grappled with deep depression. The transition away from her acting career, combined with the subsequent emotional struggles, prompted Kathryn to seek substantial support and healing. She embarked on a journey of intensive therapy, which was pivotal in her recovery. During this period, Kathryn also encountered a Tibetan Buddhist teacher, whose guidance introduced her to the practices of meditation and mindfulness.

These new practices, coupled with her ongoing therapy, played a crucial role in helping Kathryn regain her equilibrium and mental well-being. Embracing a new path, she chose to return to academia and pursued further education. Kathryn earned a Master of Arts degree from Antioch University Los Angeles, a significant milestone that marked her transition into a new professional field.

With her educational background in hand, Kathryn pursued licensure and now works as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She has established a counseling practice in Los Angeles, California, where she dedicates herself to helping others navigate their own emotional and relational challenges. By integrating her life experiences with her professional skills, Kathryn has found a renewed sense of purpose and fulfillment in her new career. As of 2022, she continues to offer her expertise and support through her counseling practice, contributing positively to the lives of those she serves.

Elizabeth’s Father Has Held Various Key Roles Throughout His Career

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell’s father, Lawrence O’Donnell, has had a diverse and impactful career spanning several fields. Graduating from Harvard College in 1976 with a degree in economics, O’Donnell began his professional journey as an author and writer. His literary debut came in 1983 with the publication of his first book, Deadly Force. Over the years, he expanded his authorship with several notable works, including Playing with Fire: The 1968 Election and the Transformation of American Politics (2017).

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, O’Donnell transitioned into the political sphere, serving as a legislative aide to Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan and later as a senior advisor to the senator. His roles extended to the United States Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works as a staff director, and subsequently, he took on the position of staff director for the Senate Committee on Finance.

The late 1990s marked O’Donnell’s entry into the television industry, where he made significant contributions as a writer and producer. Between 1999 and 2006, he was involved in creating and producing The West Wing, a role that earned him an Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series in 2001. His influence extended beyond writing to roles such as executive story editor, co-producer, and consulting producer for the show.

O’Donnell also explored acting, with roles in TV series like Big Love (2006-2011). His transition to television hosting began in 2009, initially on Countdown with Keith Olbermann. He solidified his role as a prominent media personality with his own show, The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell, which he has hosted since 2011.

Controversies Surrounding Lawrence O’Donnell

Lawrence O’Donnell, known for his extensive career in media and politics, has been involved in various controversies that have stirred public debate. In 2007, O’Donnell made headlines for his outspoken criticism of Mitt Romney’s religious beliefs. He controversially described Romney’s faith as originating from a religion founded by an individual with problematic historical views, including allegations of criminal behavior and anti-American sentiments.

Further fueling the controversy, in 2012, O’Donnell made remarks questioning the legitimacy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He controversially suggested that the religion was a fabrication originating in 19th-century New York and referred to scandalous personal behavior of its founder as part of the religion’s backstory.

These incidents highlight O’Donnell’s tendency to address sensitive topics with strong, provocative statements, contributing to the polarized responses and debates surrounding his public persona.

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell’s Ancestry and Background

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell is an American with a rich heritage that includes a notable Irish connection. While both of her parents are American and of Caucasian descent, her father, Lawrence O’Donnell, has Irish roots, classifying him as Irish-American. This Irish heritage adds a layer of cultural diversity to Elizabeth’s background, making her multiracial. Her mother, Kathryn Harrold, shares the same American and Caucasian background. Elizabeth’s mixed ancestry reflects a blend of her parents’ diverse backgrounds, contributing to her unique cultural identity.

Potential Inheritance for Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell, being the sole daughter of Kathryn Harrold and Lawrence O’Donnell, stands to inherit a significant portion of her parents’ wealth. Her father, Lawrence O’Donnell, has built a substantial fortune through a diverse career spanning several industries. Since beginning his career in 1977, he has accumulated wealth through various revenue streams, including book sales and his salary. As of 2022, Lawrence O’Donnell’s annual salary is reported to be $4 million, and his estimated net worth is approximately $16 million. Given these figures, Elizabeth is in a position to inherit a considerable financial legacy from her father.

Elizabeth’s Paternal Grandparents: Marie and Francis O’Donnell Sr.

elizabeth buckley harrold o'donnell Paternal Grandparents: Marie and Francis O'Donnell Sr.

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell’s family heritage includes notable figures from both her maternal and paternal sides. On her paternal side, her grandparents are Frances Marie Buckley and Lawrence Francis O’Donnell Sr. Frances Marie Buckley and Lawrence Francis O’Donnell Sr. have played significant roles in shaping the O’Donnell family legacy. On her maternal side, Elizabeth’s grandparents are B.H. Harrold and Carolyn Harrold. B.H. Harrold and Carolyn Harrold contributed to Elizabeth’s rich family background, blending into her diverse heritage.

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell, an American citizen, is widely recognized as the daughter of Lawrence O’Donnell and Kathryn Harrold. Her father, Lawrence O’Donnell, is a well-known American actor and political commentator, famous for hosting “The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell.” Her mother, Kathryn Harrold, is a former actress known for her prominent roles in films such as “The Hunter” (1980) and “Modern Romance” (1981). This combination of notable professional achievements and family history underscores Elizabeth’s distinguished lineage and prominent family background.

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell Age, Weight, Height, and Physical Appearance

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell has chosen to keep her personal statistics, such as age, weight, and height, private from the public eye. Despite the lack of information about her physical attributes, her roots and professional focus provide a clearer picture of her identity. Born and raised in Tazewell, Virginia, Elizabeth’s upbringing has likely influenced her approach to her work and life.

In her role as a licensed marriage and family therapist, Elizabeth’s physical appearance is secondary to the qualities she brings to her profession. Her commitment to empathy, understanding, and providing support to those in need is what truly defines her. These attributes are critical in her role and significantly impact her effectiveness as a therapist.

In the realm of therapy, the emphasis is placed on emotional and mental well-being rather than physical characteristics. Elizabeth’s ability to forge meaningful connections with her clients, combined with her compassionate and supportive nature, are the core aspects of her professional identity. Her clients benefit from her deep understanding of their challenges and her unwavering dedication to helping them navigate through difficult times. Elizabeth’s professional achievements and her commitment to her clients underscore her impact in the field, making her contributions far more significant than any physical attributes.

Net Worth and Achievements

While Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell’s precise net worth is not publicly disclosed, her professional achievements clearly reflect her dedication and success. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, Elizabeth has established herself as a skilled practitioner, dedicated to guiding individuals and families through various challenges and enhancing their relationships. Her ability to understand and address complex emotional and behavioral issues underscores her expertise in the field.

A notable accomplishment in Elizabeth’s career is her successful private clinical practice based in Los Angeles. Building and sustaining a thriving practice requires significant expertise and dedication, and her success in this area highlights her proficiency and commitment to her profession. Elizabeth’s work has positively impacted many clients, equipping them with essential tools and support to achieve healthier and more fulfilling lives.

Elizabeth’s educational background further complements her professional achievements. She earned a Master’s degree from Antioch University, a milestone that underscores her dedication to the field of therapy and counseling. This advanced education has provided her with a robust foundation in therapeutic techniques, allowing her to deliver exceptional care and support to her clients. Overall, Elizabeth’s career accomplishments and educational background reflect her passion for making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Professional Path and Philanthropy

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell has built a career centered around providing support and guidance as a licensed marriage and family therapist. After completing her Master’s degree at Antioch University, she launched her private clinical practice in Los Angeles. In this role, Elizabeth works closely with individuals, couples, and families, offering personalized therapy to address their unique needs and challenges.

Beyond her professional achievements, Elizabeth is committed to philanthropy and community service. Her dedication to giving back is evident through her involvement in various charitable activities and support for causes that resonate with her values. This philanthropic spirit underscores her commitment to making a positive impact beyond her clinical practice.

Elizabeth’s efforts in both her professional and philanthropic endeavors reflect her deep-seated compassion and drive to enhance the well-being of others. Whether through her therapeutic practice or her charitable contributions, she consistently demonstrates a profound commitment to improving lives and fostering positive change in her community.

Social Media Presence

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell maintains a notably low profile on social media, a deliberate choice that reflects her focus on her professional responsibilities and personal privacy. Her role as a therapist demands significant emotional investment, and she opts to keep her personal life away from the public eye. This decision aligns with both her desire to protect her privacy and the need to manage the emotional demands of her career effectively.

Despite her minimal social media activity, Elizabeth’s professional contributions are highly impactful. Her commitment to providing compassionate care to her clients speaks volumes about her dedication and expertise in her field. By prioritizing her work over an online presence, Elizabeth ensures that her clients receive the utmost attention and support, reinforcing the quality of care she delivers.

In an era where social media often takes center stage, Elizabeth’s choice to focus on her professional practice and maintain a private life stands out. This approach allows her to dedicate herself fully to her work, fostering a meaningful and positive impact on those she serves.

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell’s Hobbies

In her leisure time, Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell engages in a variety of activities that offer her relaxation and joy. Her hobbies reflect her diverse interests and contribute to a well-rounded lifestyle outside her professional commitments. Here are some of the ways Elizabeth likes to spend her free time:

  • Reading: Elizabeth is an avid reader with a broad taste in literature. She enjoys delving into books across different genres, including fiction and psychology. Reading not only keeps her intellectually engaged but also provides her with a peaceful escape from the demands of daily life.
  • Hiking: One of Elizabeth’s favorite pastimes is hiking. Exploring natural landscapes allows her to stay physically active, connect with nature, and refresh her mind. Hiking is a way for her to experience the outdoors and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
  • Yoga: Yoga is an essential part of Elizabeth’s routine, helping her to balance her physical health and mental well-being. Through yoga, she finds relaxation and grounding, which supports her in managing the stresses of her profession.

Favorite Things

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell has a few favorites that bring her considerable joy and reflect her tastes:

  • Book: Elizabeth holds a special appreciation for “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee. She values the novel for its profound exploration of empathy and justice, which resonates deeply with her values.
  • Food: Italian cuisine is her go-to comfort food. Elizabeth delights in the rich flavors and variety offered by Italian dishes, from classic pasta to gourmet pizza.
  • Place: The beach is her preferred getaway. She finds solace in the tranquil environment of the beach, enjoying its serene beauty and the opportunity to relax.

Interesting Facts

Here are some intriguing details about Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell:

  • She is the daughter of Kathryn Harrold, a respected actress, and Lawrence O’Donnell, a well-known political commentator.
  • Elizabeth pursued her Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Antioch University, demonstrating her commitment to her field.
  • She runs a private clinical practice in Los Angeles, where she focuses on helping clients through therapy.
  • Passionate about making a difference, Elizabeth dedicates herself to improving the lives of others.
  • In her spare time, she enjoys engaging in activities such as reading, hiking, and practicing yoga, which contribute to her overall well-being and happiness.

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Summary 

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell, daughter of renowned actress Kathryn Harrold and prominent political commentator Lawrence O’Donnell, has chosen a path distinct from her parents’ public careers. Born in Tazewell, Virginia, Elizabeth, now in her early 30s, is a licensed marriage and family therapist based in Los Angeles. Despite her family’s high profile, she maintains a private life, focusing on her professional work rather than seeking media attention. Her career and personal choices reflect her commitment to making a meaningful impact through therapy, while her personal hobbies and interests, including reading, hiking, and yoga, offer her balance and joy outside her professional life.

FAQs about Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell:

1. Who is Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell? 

Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell is the daughter of actress Kathryn Harrold and political commentator Lawrence O’Donnell. She is a licensed marriage and family therapist based in Los Angeles.

2. What is Elizabeth’s profession? 

Elizabeth is a licensed marriage and family therapist. She works with individuals and families to address mental health and relational issues.

3. Where is Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell based? 

Elizabeth is based in Los Angeles, California.

4. What are Elizabeth’s educational qualifications?

Elizabeth holds a degree in psychology and a license in marriage and family therapy. Specific details about her educational background can be obtained through her professional profiles.

5. How does Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell differ from her parents’ public careers?

 While her parents are well-known public figures—her mother being an actress and her father a political commentator—Elizabeth has chosen a career in therapy and prefers to maintain a private life away from the media spotlight.

6. Does Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell engage in media appearances or public events? 

No, Elizabeth keeps a low profile and does not typically engage in media appearances or public events. She focuses on her professional work and personal life.

7. What are Elizabeth’s hobbies and interests? 

Elizabeth enjoys reading, hiking, and practicing yoga. These activities provide her with balance and relaxation outside of her professional responsibilities.

8. How can I learn more about Elizabeth Buckley Harrold O’Donnell’s professional work?

 To learn more about Elizabeth’s professional work, you can visit her official therapist profile or contact her through her practice in Los Angeles.

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