The Winner: Reese Witherspoon

(CBS)  In a career than has lasted barely 10 years, Reese Witherspoon has firmly established herself at the top of the heap among Hollywood's leading ladies.

Born March 22, 1976, in Baton Rouge, La., Witherspoon's college plans were derailed in 1996 by offers to star in two major movies, "Fear" and "Freeway." Both movies bombed, but Witherspoon was on her way. The 2001 comedy "Legally Blonde" made her a top box-office draw and brought her praise for her comedic abilities.

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More from CBSNews.com on Reese Witherspoon and on the Oscars ...

See the Reese Witherspoon photo essay for more pictures.

Watch The Early Show's coverage of the scene at The Golden Globes.

See Reese Witherspoon and June Carter Cash side by side in our Real to Reel video feature.

Find out about all the nominees in the Academy Awards special report.

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Her Oscar-nominated role as June Carter Cash in "Walk the Line" is a departure into drama for Witherspoon. As a side note, that's her own singing voice in the movie; record companies are already pursuing her about a second career as a recording artist.

Witherspoon married actor Ryan Phillippe in 1999. They have two children.