The Cast Of American Housewife: A Comprehensive Guide

The television series "American Housewife" has captured the hearts of audiences with its humorous yet sincere portrayal of a suburban family. The show's success can be attributed to its witty writing and relatable themes, but perhaps most importantly, its talented ensemble cast. Each actor brings a unique flavor to their character, making the Ottos a household beloved family. From the lead role of Katie Otto to the various supporting characters, the cast has become synonymous with the show's charm and appeal.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the lives and careers of the cast members of "American Housewife." We'll explore their backgrounds, career trajectories, and personal insights that have contributed to their performances on the show. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the series, this article provides an in-depth look at the talented individuals who bring this sitcom to life.

Not only will we cover the main cast, but we'll also shed light on the recurring and guest stars who have left a lasting impression on the narrative. Their contributions, although sometimes brief, have added depth and humor to the show's storyline. Join us as we take a closer look at the cast of "American Housewife" and uncover the stories behind the characters we love and the actors who portray them.

Table of Contents

• Katy Mixon: Biography and Personal Life
• Katy Mixon's Career Journey
• Katy Mixon as Katie Otto
• Diedrich Bader: Biography and Personal Life
• Diedrich Bader's Career Highlights
• Diedrich Bader as Greg Otto
• Ali Wong: Biography and Personal Life
• Ali Wong's Stand-Up and Acting Career
• Ali Wong as Doris
• Daniel DiMaggio: Biography and Personal Life
• Daniel DiMaggio's Rising Career
• Daniel DiMaggio as Oliver Otto
• Meg Donnelly: Biography and Personal Life
• Meg Donnelly's Musical and Acting Career
• Meg Donnelly as Taylor Otto
• Julia Butters: Biography and Personal Life
• Julia Butters' Breakthrough Career
• Julia Butters as Anna-Kat Otto
• Recurring Cast and Notable Guest Stars
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Katy Mixon: Biography and Personal Life

Katy Mixon, a name that has become synonymous with the character of Katie Otto on "American Housewife," was born on March 30, 1981, in Pensacola, Florida. She is the second oldest of seven siblings, which might partly explain her ability to capture the dynamics of a bustling household on screen. Raised in a supportive family, Mixon developed an early interest in the performing arts, which paved the way for her future career.

Her education in the arts began at the Alabama School of Fine Arts in Birmingham, followed by the Pensacola Private School of Liberal Arts. She then honed her craft at Carnegie Mellon University's prestigious School of Drama, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. This solid foundation in acting has served her well throughout her career, allowing her to take on a variety of roles with skill and versatility.

Outside of her professional life, Katy Mixon leads a fulfilling personal life. She is married to Breaux Greer, a retired Olympic javelin thrower. The couple has two children together, a son named Kingston and a daughter named Elektra. Despite her busy schedule, Mixon manages to balance her personal and professional commitments with grace and poise.

Katy Mixon's Career Journey

Katy Mixon's career began to take shape in the early 2000s when she moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting. Her first significant role was in the stage production of "American Standard" at the Los Angeles Edgefest, which garnered her attention within the theatre community. This early success led to more opportunities on stage, where she continued to hone her skills and build her reputation as a talented actress.

Mixon's transition to the big screen came with her role in the 2005 film "The Quiet," where she starred alongside Elisha Cuthbert and Camilla Belle. Although the film was not a commercial success, it allowed Mixon to showcase her acting abilities to a wider audience. This exposure led to further roles in films such as "Four Christmases" (2008), "State of Play" (2009), and "The Informers" (2008), where she demonstrated her range in both comedy and drama.

The year 2009 marked a significant turning point in Mixon's career when she was cast as Victoria Flynn on the CBS sitcom "Mike & Molly." Her portrayal of the vivacious and loveable sister of the titular character Molly earned her critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. The show ran for six successful seasons, providing Mixon with the platform to further establish herself in the television industry.

Following the conclusion of "Mike & Molly," Mixon landed the lead role of Katie Otto in "American Housewife" in 2016. Her performance as the outspoken and relatable matriarch of the Otto family has been praised for its authenticity and humor, cementing her status as a leading lady in television comedy. The series has been well-received for its witty writing and Mixon's dynamic performance, making it a staple in her career portfolio.

Katy Mixon as Katie Otto

Katy Mixon's portrayal of Katie Otto in "American Housewife" is a testament to her comedic timing and ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. As the central character, Katie is a confident, no-nonsense mother of three navigating the challenges of raising a family in the affluent town of Westport, Connecticut. Mixon's performance captures the essence of a modern-day housewife, balancing humor with moments of sincerity and vulnerability.

Katie Otto is characterized by her witty one-liners, her determination to maintain her family's individuality amidst the pressures of suburban life, and her relatable struggles with body image. Mixon's ability to convey these aspects of Katie's personality with authenticity has resonated with viewers, who appreciate the character's realism and strength.

Throughout the series, Katie's interactions with her family and friends provide a platform for Mixon to showcase her versatility as an actress. Her dynamic with her on-screen husband, Greg Otto, played by Diedrich Bader, is particularly noteworthy for its comedic chemistry and heartfelt moments. The couple's interplay highlights Mixon's ability to navigate both comedic and dramatic scenes with ease.

In addition to her role as Katie Otto, Mixon has taken on the responsibility of being a role model for viewers, particularly women who relate to her character's experiences. Her portrayal of a strong, independent woman who embraces her flaws and stands up for her beliefs has been widely praised, making Katie Otto a beloved character in the realm of television comedy.

Diedrich Bader: Biography and Personal Life

Diedrich Bader, known for his role as Greg Otto on "American Housewife," was born on December 24, 1966, in Alexandria, Virginia. His full name is Karl Diedrich Bader, and he is the son of William B. Bader, a political activist, and Gretta Bader, a sculptor. Bader's upbringing in a creative and politically engaged household influenced his early interest in the arts and social issues.

Bader's family moved to Paris, France, when he was two years old, and he spent several years there before returning to the United States. He attended T.C. Williams High School in Alexandria and later pursued a degree in theater at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. This formal education in acting laid the groundwork for his diverse and successful career in film and television.

In his personal life, Diedrich Bader is married to Dulcy Rogers, an actress and writer. The couple has two children, a son named Sebastian and a daughter named Ondine. Bader is known for his down-to-earth personality and dedication to his family, often sharing glimpses of his home life with fans through social media.

Diedrich Bader's Career Highlights

Diedrich Bader's career in acting spans over three decades, with notable roles in both television and film. He began his journey in Hollywood with a series of guest appearances on popular TV shows in the late 1980s and early 1990s, including "The Drew Carey Show," "Cheers," and "Star Trek: The Next Generation." These early roles helped Bader establish himself as a versatile actor with a knack for comedy.

Bader's breakout role came in 1995 when he was cast as Oswald Lee Harvey on "The Drew Carey Show." His performance as the lovable, goofy friend of the titular character earned him widespread recognition and a loyal fan base. The show's success and Bader's comedic timing made him a household name and opened doors for further opportunities in comedy.

In addition to his work on "The Drew Carey Show," Bader has appeared in numerous films, showcasing his ability to tackle a range of genres. Some of his notable film credits include "Office Space" (1999), where he played the memorable character Lawrence, "Napoleon Dynamite" (2004), and "EuroTrip" (2004). Bader's performances have consistently been praised for their humor and depth, solidifying his reputation as a talented comedic actor.

Beyond live-action roles, Bader has also lent his voice to a variety of animated characters, further demonstrating his versatility. He has voiced Batman in several animated series, including "Batman: The Brave and the Bold," and has contributed to projects such as "The Simpsons," "BoJack Horseman," and "Phineas and Ferb." Bader's voice acting work has been well-received, adding another dimension to his already impressive career.

Diedrich Bader as Greg Otto

Diedrich Bader's role as Greg Otto in "American Housewife" showcases his comedic talent and ability to portray a supportive and loving husband. Greg is the husband of Katie Otto and the father of their three children. As a history professor, Greg often provides a voice of reason within the Otto household, balancing his wife's spirited nature with his calm demeanor.

Bader's portrayal of Greg is characterized by his dry wit, intelligence, and unwavering support for his family. His interactions with Katie, played by Katy Mixon, are a highlight of the show, as the couple navigates the trials and tribulations of suburban life with humor and empathy. Bader's chemistry with Mixon is evident, contributing to the show's relatable depiction of marriage and family dynamics.

Greg's character often finds himself in humorous situations, whether dealing with the antics of his children or the eccentricities of Westport's residents. Bader's performance captures the essence of a devoted husband and father, providing a steady presence amidst the chaos of family life.

Throughout the series, Greg's relationship with his children is also explored, showcasing Bader's ability to convey both comedic and heartfelt moments. His interactions with each child highlight different aspects of his personality, from his patience and understanding to his playful side.

Ali Wong: Biography and Personal Life

Ali Wong, known for her role as Doris on "American Housewife," was born on April 19, 1982, in San Francisco, California. Her full name is Alexandra Wong, and she is of Vietnamese and Chinese descent. Wong's multicultural background has influenced her comedic style, often incorporating themes of identity and family into her work.

Wong attended San Francisco University High School before pursuing higher education at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she graduated with a degree in Asian American studies. During her time at UCLA, she discovered her passion for comedy and began performing in the university's LCC Theatre Company, a foundation that paved the way for her future in stand-up comedy.

In her personal life, Ali Wong is married to Justin Hakuta, an entrepreneur and the son of inventor and TV personality Ken Hakuta. The couple has two daughters, Mari and Nikki, and Wong often shares anecdotes about her family life in her stand-up routines, providing a humorous and relatable glimpse into her world.

Ali Wong's Stand-Up and Acting Career

Ali Wong's career in comedy began in earnest after she graduated from UCLA. She started performing stand-up in San Francisco, honing her skills and developing a unique comedic voice that quickly caught the attention of audiences and industry professionals alike. Wong's sharp wit and fearless approach to comedy set her apart, leading to appearances on popular late-night shows such as "The Tonight Show" and "Late Night with Seth Meyers."

Wong's breakout moment came in 2016 with the release of her Netflix stand-up special "Baby Cobra," filmed while she was seven months pregnant. The special received critical acclaim for its bold humor and candid exploration of topics such as motherhood, marriage, and gender dynamics. Wong followed up with another successful special, "Hard Knock Wife," in 2018, further cementing her status as a leading voice in comedy.

In addition to her stand-up career, Wong has made a name for herself in the world of acting, with roles in both television and film. Her appearances on shows like "Inside Amy Schumer" and "Fresh Off the Boat" showcased her comedic talents, while her role as Doris on "American Housewife" allowed her to explore a new side of her acting abilities.

Wong has also ventured into film, co-writing and starring in the romantic comedy "Always Be My Maybe" alongside Randall Park. The film was well-received for its humor and representation of Asian American culture, further establishing Wong's versatility as a writer and performer.

Ali Wong as Doris

In "American Housewife," Ali Wong plays the role of Doris, one of Katie Otto's close friends. Doris is a no-nonsense, fiercely independent woman who often provides a humorous counterpoint to Katie's more traditional approach to family life. Wong's portrayal of Doris is marked by her quick wit and candid demeanor, making her a standout character on the show.

Doris's interactions with Katie and their other friend, Angela, played by Carly Hughes, offer a comedic exploration of modern friendship. The trio's dynamic is a highlight of the series, with Wong's performance adding depth and humor to their storylines.

Through her role as Doris, Wong has the opportunity to showcase her comedic timing and ability to deliver sharp, memorable lines. Her character often challenges societal norms and expectations, providing a fresh perspective on issues such as parenting and relationships.

Wong's performance as Doris has been praised for its authenticity and humor, contributing to the show's appeal and capturing the essence of a modern-day friendship. Her portrayal of Doris resonates with viewers, offering a relatable and entertaining depiction of a strong, independent woman navigating the complexities of suburban life.

Daniel DiMaggio: Biography and Personal Life

Daniel DiMaggio, the young actor who plays Oliver Otto on "American Housewife," was born on July 30, 2003, in Los Angeles, California. He comes from a family with strong ties to the entertainment industry, as his parents, Lou DiMaggio and Loretta Fox, are both involved in acting and comedy. Growing up in this environment, DiMaggio developed an early interest in performing, leading him to pursue a career in acting from a young age.

DiMaggio attends a local high school in Los Angeles and balances his academic responsibilities with his acting career. Despite his busy schedule, he remains a dedicated student, often sharing his experiences as a young actor with his peers.

In his personal life, Daniel DiMaggio is known for his passion for sports, particularly baseball and soccer. He enjoys spending his free time playing sports and engaging in outdoor activities, reflecting his active and adventurous nature.

Daniel DiMaggio's Rising Career

Daniel DiMaggio's acting career began when he was just eight years old, with appearances in commercials and short films. His early work helped him gain experience and confidence in front of the camera, setting the stage for more significant roles in the future.

DiMaggio's first major television role came in 2013, when he was cast in the hit series "Burn Notice." He played a young Michael Westen in a flashback episode, showcasing his ability to take on complex roles even at a young age. This performance opened doors for further opportunities in the television industry.

In addition to "Burn Notice," DiMaggio has appeared in several other popular TV shows, including "Supergirl" and "The Haunted Hathaways." These roles allowed him to demonstrate his versatility and range as an actor, earning him recognition within the industry.

DiMaggio's breakthrough role came in 2016 when he was cast as Oliver Otto on "American Housewife." His portrayal of the ambitious and entrepreneurial middle child of the Otto family has been praised for its humor and depth. DiMaggio's performance captures the complexities of adolescence, providing a relatable and entertaining depiction of a teenager navigating the challenges of family life.

Daniel DiMaggio as Oliver Otto

Daniel DiMaggio's role as Oliver Otto in "American Housewife" showcases his talent and ability to portray a multi-dimensional character. Oliver is the middle child of the Otto family, known for his ambition, intelligence, and occasional scheming nature. DiMaggio's performance captures the essence of a teenager striving to make the most of his talents while navigating the ups and downs of adolescence.

One of Oliver's defining traits is his entrepreneurial spirit, often coming up with creative schemes to make money or gain an advantage. DiMaggio's portrayal of Oliver's ambitious nature is both humorous and endearing, providing a unique perspective on the challenges and aspirations of a young teenager.

Oliver's relationship with his family, particularly his siblings, is a central aspect of his character development. DiMaggio's interactions with his on-screen siblings, Taylor and Anna-Kat, played by Meg Donnelly and Julia Butters, respectively, highlight his ability to convey the complexities of sibling dynamics with authenticity and humor.

Throughout the series, Oliver's character undergoes significant growth, as he learns important life lessons and develops a deeper understanding of his family's values. DiMaggio's performance captures this evolution, providing a nuanced portrayal of a teenager coming into his own.

Meg Donnelly: Biography and Personal Life

Meg Donnelly, who plays Taylor Otto on "American Housewife," was born on July 25, 2000, in New York City, New York. Her full name is Meg Elizabeth Donnelly, and she began her journey in the entertainment industry at a young age, showing a natural talent for both acting and singing.

Raised in Peapack-Gladstone, New Jersey, Donnelly attended the American Musical and Dramatic Academy, where she honed her skills in performing arts. Her education in music and acting provided a solid foundation for her career, allowing her to pursue opportunities in both fields.

In her personal life, Meg Donnelly is known for her passion for music and her dedication to her craft. She has released several singles and music videos, showcasing her talent as a singer-songwriter. Donnelly is also an advocate for mental health awareness, using her platform to promote positive messages and encourage open conversations about mental health issues.

Meg Donnelly's Musical and Acting Career

Meg Donnelly's career in entertainment began with her involvement in theater productions, where she showcased her talent for acting and singing. Her early experiences on stage helped her develop a strong stage presence and confidence as a performer, laying the groundwork for her future success in both music and acting.

Donnelly's first major television role came in 2013, when she was cast as Ash on the Netflix series "Team Toon." This role allowed her to demonstrate her comedic timing and ability to connect with audiences, earning her recognition within the industry.

In addition to her work on "Team Toon," Donnelly has appeared in several other television projects, including a recurring role on the ABC series "The Real O'Neals." Her performances have been praised for their energy and charisma, showcasing her versatility as an actress.

In 2016, Donnelly was cast as Taylor Otto on "American Housewife," a role that has allowed her to further establish herself as a talented actress. Her portrayal of Taylor, the eldest child of the Otto family, captures the complexities of a teenager striving to balance her ambitions with the expectations of her family and peers.

Meg Donnelly as Taylor Otto

Meg Donnelly's portrayal of Taylor Otto in "American Housewife" is a testament to her talent and ability to bring depth to her character. As the eldest child of the Otto family, Taylor is a confident and determined teenager with aspirations of becoming a star athlete and a successful student.

One of Taylor's defining traits is her ambition, often setting high goals for herself and striving to achieve them with determination and perseverance. Donnelly's performance captures the essence of a driven young woman, providing a relatable and inspiring portrayal of a teenager working towards her dreams.

Taylor's relationship with her family is a central aspect of her character development, particularly her interactions with her mother, Katie, played by Katy Mixon. Donnelly's chemistry with Mixon is evident, as the two navigate the complexities of the mother-daughter relationship with authenticity and humor.

Throughout the series, Taylor's character undergoes significant growth, as she learns important life lessons and develops a deeper understanding of her family's values. Donnelly's performance captures this evolution, providing a nuanced portrayal of a teenager coming into her own.

Julia Butters: Biography and Personal Life

Julia Butters, who plays Anna-Kat Otto on "American Housewife," was born on April 15, 2009, in Los Angeles, California. She comes from a family with strong ties to the entertainment industry, as her father, Darrin Butters, is a Disney animator, and her mother, Lorelei Butters, is a homemaker.

Butters showed an interest in performing from a young age, and her parents supported her ambitions by enrolling her in acting classes and encouraging her to pursue opportunities in the industry. Her early experiences in acting helped her develop a strong foundation for her career, allowing her to take on challenging roles with confidence and skill.

In her personal life, Julia Butters is known for her passion for acting and her dedication to her craft. Despite her young age, she has already made a significant impact in the entertainment industry, earning praise for her performances and establishing herself as a rising star.

Julia Butters' Breakthrough Career

Julia Butters began her acting career at a young age, with appearances in commercials and short films that showcased her natural talent and ability to connect with audiences. Her early work helped her gain experience and confidence in front of the camera, setting the stage for more significant roles in the future.

Butters' first major television role came in 2015, when she was cast in the critically acclaimed series "Transparent." Her performance as Ella, the daughter of Sarah Pfefferman, was praised for its authenticity and depth, earning her recognition within the industry.

In addition to "Transparent," Butters has appeared in several other popular TV shows, including "Criminal Minds" and "The Kicks." These roles allowed her to demonstrate her versatility and range as an actress, earning her praise for her performances.

Butters' breakout role came in 2016 when she was cast as Anna-Kat Otto on "American Housewife." Her portrayal of the youngest child of the Otto family has been praised for its humor and depth, capturing the essence of a quirky and lovable character.

Julia Butters as Anna-Kat Otto

Julia Butters' role as Anna-Kat Otto in "American Housewife" showcases her talent and ability to portray a multi-dimensional character. Anna-Kat is the youngest child of the Otto family, known for her quirky personality and lovable nature. Butters' performance captures the essence of a young girl navigating the challenges of growing up with humor and authenticity.

One of Anna-Kat's defining traits is her unique perspective on life, often providing a humorous and insightful viewpoint on the world around her. Butters' portrayal of Anna-Kat's quirky nature is both endearing and entertaining, providing a fresh perspective on the challenges and joys of childhood.

Anna-Kat's relationship with her family, particularly her mother, Katie, played by Katy Mixon, is a central aspect of her character development. Butters' interactions with Mixon highlight her ability to convey the complexities of the mother-daughter relationship with authenticity and humor.

Throughout the series, Anna-Kat's character undergoes significant growth, as she learns important life lessons and develops a deeper understanding of her family's values. Butters' performance captures this evolution, providing a nuanced portrayal of a young girl coming into her own.

Recurring Cast and Notable Guest Stars

In addition to the main cast, "American Housewife" features a talented ensemble of recurring and guest stars who contribute to the show's humor and depth. These characters, although sometimes appearing briefly, have left a lasting impact on the series and its storyline.

One notable recurring character is Angela, played by Carly Hughes, who is one of Katie Otto's close friends. Angela is a no-nonsense, strong-willed woman who often provides a humorous counterpoint to Katie's more traditional approach to family life. Hughes' performance captures the essence of a modern-day friendship, providing a relatable and entertaining depiction of a strong, independent woman.

Another recurring character is Viv, played by Leslie Bibb, who is Katie's wealthy and eccentric neighbor. Viv's interactions with Katie often provide comedic moments, showcasing the contrast between their different lifestyles and personalities. Bibb's performance adds depth and humor to the show's storyline, making Viv a memorable character.

The show also features notable guest stars, such as Jerry Lambert, who plays Principal Ablin, the principal of Anna-Kat's school. Lambert's performance captures the essence of a well-meaning but often clueless authority figure, providing comedic moments and adding depth to the show's portrayal of school life.

These recurring and guest stars, along with the main cast, contribute to the show's charm and appeal, making "American Housewife" a beloved series for audiences of all ages.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who plays Katie Otto in "American Housewife"?

   Katy Mixon plays the role of Katie Otto in "American Housewife."

2. Who is Diedrich Bader's character in the show?

   Diedrich Bader plays Greg Otto, Katie Otto's husband and the father of their three children.

3. What other shows has Ali Wong appeared in?

   Ali Wong has appeared in shows such as "Inside Amy Schumer" and "Fresh Off the Boat."

4. What is Daniel DiMaggio known for?

   Daniel DiMaggio is known for his role as Oliver Otto in "American Housewife."

5. What is Meg Donnelly's character's ambition in the show?

   Meg Donnelly's character, Taylor Otto, is ambitious and aspires to be a star athlete and successful student.

6. How did Julia Butters begin her acting career?

   Julia Butters began her acting career with appearances in commercials and short films before landing her role on "American Housewife."

Conclusion

The cast of "American Housewife" is a talented ensemble that brings the show's characters to life with humor and authenticity. From the lead roles of Katy Mixon and Diedrich Bader to the supporting performances of Ali Wong, Daniel DiMaggio, Meg Donnelly, and Julia Butters, each actor contributes to the series' charm and appeal. Their performances capture the complexities of family life, providing relatable and entertaining storylines that resonate with audiences.

The show's success can be attributed to the chemistry and comedic timing of its cast, who bring depth and humor to their roles. Whether it's the relatable struggles of Katie Otto, the supportive presence of Greg Otto, or the quirky nature of Anna-Kat Otto, each character adds a unique flavor to the series, making "American Housewife" a beloved show for viewers of all ages.

As the series continues to entertain audiences, the cast of "American Housewife" remains an integral part of its success, showcasing their talent and ability to connect with viewers on a personal level. Their performances have left a lasting impact on the world of television comedy, solidifying their status as a talented and beloved ensemble.