Ashlie Atkinson

Biography

Ashlie Atkinson is an American actress known for her commanding screen presence and ability to inhabit diverse characters, from brassy working-class New Yorkers to high-society matrons. She first gained widespread attention as the firefighter-chasing Theresa in the FX drama "Rescue Me" (2004–2005) and later earned critical praise as the "brilliantly toxic" racist housewife Connie Kendrickson in Spike Lee's "BlacKkKlansman" (2018). In 2026, Atkinson is enjoying a major cinematic moment with her role in the survival thriller "The Lost Bus" (released late 2025). Directed by Paul Greengrass, the film features Atkinson as Ruby Bishop, the tough-minded bus dispatcher who serves as the lifeline for Matthew McConaughey’s character during the 2018 Camp Fire. Her performance was singled out by critics as a standout, providing the film's emotional anchor from the dispatch room. On television, she remains a fan favorite in HBO's hit period drama "The Gilded Age". As the real-life historical figure Mamie Fish, Atkinson brings humor and eccentricity to the series, serving as a key ally to the climbing Bertha Russell (Carrie Coon). She reprised the role in the show's third season, which continued to air into 2025/2026. Atkinson’s recent television slate is prolific. In 2025, she appeared in the Jeffrey Blitz comedy series "Stumble" as Miss Dot and returned as Amanda in the third season of "And Just Like That...". She also had a recurring arc in "American Horror Story: Delicate" and a guest role on "FBI".