Evelyn Hawkins Tunie: Tamara Tunie's Mother Untold Story

03 May, 2025

Is it possible to be a celebrity parent and maintain a life far from the public eye? Evelyn Tunie, the mother of actress Tamara Tunie, has masterfully navigated this path, choosing to remain a private figure despite her daughter's high-profile career.

Evelyn Tunie's decision to stay out of the spotlight is a testament to her personal values and priorities. While her daughter, Tamara, has achieved considerable success in the entertainment industry, Evelyn has consistently opted for a life away from the cameras and the constant scrutiny that often accompanies celebrity families. This choice reflects a desire for a degree of normalcy and a dedication to maintaining a private life, regardless of the fame surrounding her family.

Evelyn Tunie, an American citizen, gained recognition primarily as the mother of the accomplished Tamara Tunie. Tamara is a multifaceted talent, excelling as a film, stage, and television actress, as well as a director and producer. The younger Tunie is widely recognized for her performances in productions such as "As the World Turns," "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," and "Rising Sun," which have solidified her standing in the entertainment world.

Tamara Tunie: Bio & Professional Information
Full Name:	Tamara Renee Tunie
Date of Birth:	March 14, 1959
Place of Birth:	McKeesport, Pennsylvania, USA
Parents:	Evelyn (ne Hawkins) and James W. Tunie
Siblings:	Three sisters and one brother
Education:	Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre, Carnegie Mellon University
Marriages:	Greg Bouquett (1988-1991), Gregory Generet (1995-2018)
Known For:	"Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," "As the World Turns," "Flight," "The Devil's Advocate," "Snake Eyes"
Awards and Recognition:	Primetime Emmy Award Nomination (Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series, "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit")
Notable Roles:	Jessica Griffin ("As the World Turns"), Anita Dupree ("Beyond the Gates")
Current Projects:	"Almost Family" as Genevieve Palmer
Website:	IMDB Profile

Born in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, on March 14, 1959, Tamara Renee Tunie spent her formative years in the neighboring town of Homestead. Her upbringing was unique; she was one of six children raised in a funeral home owned and operated by her parents, James W. Tunie and Evelyn Hawkins Tunie. This environment provided Tamara with a distinctive perspective on life's intricacies from a young age. The family's home was situated above their funeral parlor, a setting that instilled in her a profound understanding of life's fragility and the importance of human connection.

In the world of entertainment, Tamara Tunie has carved a significant niche. Her work spans a wide array of mediums, including film, television, and theater. She gained prominence for her roles in "As the World Turns" as Jessica Griffin and in "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," where she showcased her acting prowess over many seasons. Her film credits include notable titles such as "Flight" (2012), "The Devil's Advocate" (1997), and "Snake Eyes" (1998). In addition to her acting, she has also ventured into directing and producing, further demonstrating her versatility and dedication to the craft.

Tamara Tunie's educational background is as impressive as her professional accomplishments. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a testament to her early passion for the performing arts. Her training at Carnegie Mellon laid a solid foundation for her successful career, providing her with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the competitive world of entertainment.

Reflecting on her career, Tunie often mentions her mother, Evelyn "Gigi" Tunie, as a primary source of inspiration. The character of Anita Dupree, in the soap opera "Beyond the Gates", is modeled after her mother. The bond between mother and daughter is evident in the portrayal, with Tunie drawing on Evelyn's strength, resilience, and "mama bear" instincts to bring the character to life. The dedication to her craft and the inspiration she draws from her mother highlight Tamara Tunie's commitment to her art.

The Tunie family has deep roots in the community of McKeesport and Homestead, Pennsylvania. James W. Tunie, Tamara's father, was the proprietor of Tunie Funeral Home, Inc., a family-owned business that served the community for many years. This family legacy not only provided a livelihood but also shaped the values and perspective of the Tunie children, fostering a sense of community and service.

The family's connection to McKeesport and Homestead extends beyond their professional lives. The area provided a stable environment for Tamara and her siblings, fostering a sense of belonging and community. The experiences of her upbringing have undoubtedly influenced her work, giving her a unique perspective on life's complexities and the human condition.

Evelyn Tunie's life, while less visible to the public eye, has clearly played a pivotal role in shaping the life and career of her daughter, Tamara. The values instilled, the stability provided, and the support offered have allowed Tamara to flourish as an actress, director, and producer. The dedication to privacy that Evelyn has maintained reflects a desire to protect her family, allowing them to live their lives away from the constant glare of the spotlight. While Evelyn may not seek fame herself, her impact is undeniable, and her influence on Tamara Tunies life is clear.

The legacy of the Tunie family extends beyond individual achievements, encompassing a commitment to community service and a profound understanding of life's ebbs and flows. The family's contributions to the McKeesport and Homestead communities, through their funeral home and their unwavering presence, have left a lasting impact. Tamara's success is a testament to her talent and hard work, but it also reflects the strong foundation laid by her parents, James and Evelyn Tunie.

The history of the Tunie family reflects not only personal achievements but also a deep commitment to community and values. James W. Tunie's work in the family business served as a foundation for the success of his children. The upbringing of Tamara in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, surrounded by her family, provided her with the foundation she needed to thrive. In addition, Evelyn Tunie's decision to live a life away from the limelight shows her dedication to her family. Her influence on Tamara Tunie's path is clear.

In the same way, Daily Langdon, born on May 31, 1924, in White County, Indiana, the daughter of Carleton and Geneva (Hess) Noe, is an example of someone whose existence has shaped the lives of others. She lived in Liberty Center, Wells County, where she graduated from Liberty Center High School in 1942. On October 9, 2014, at the age of 90, she died in her home surrounded by her family, leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication.

Similarly, Evelyn Smoot (Evans) was born on August 22, 1933, in Kershaw, South Carolina, and passed away peacefully on February 28, 2020. She was the first of twelve children. After moving to Pittsburgh, she began her family, creating a life filled with love and family values. Her life and legacy reflect the importance of family and community.

The story of Tamara Tunie is a story of a remarkable actress, daughter, and director. Her success serves as a reminder of the importance of family, perseverance, and the ability to draw inspiration from those around you. The influence of her parents, James and Evelyn Tunie, has been invaluable in shaping her career and personal life. Evelyn's choice to stay in the shadows highlights the significant role of family support in the life of a celebrity.

In conclusion, the impact of Evelyn Tunie on her daughter's life and career cannot be overstated. Her decision to live a life outside of the public eye has allowed Tamara to thrive in her career while remaining grounded and connected to her roots. The Tunie family's story reflects the values of family, dedication, and community. They serve as a constant reminder of the strength that comes from the support and love of those closest to us.

Tamara Tunie Evelyn Tunie Mother Editorial Stock Photo Stock Image Shutterstock

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Tamara Tunie and mother Evelyn Hawkins Tunie attend the Nederlander... News Photo Getty Images

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NEW YORK OCTOBER 26 Actress Tamara Tunie attends the YMCA's Arts & Letters Auction and

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