Judith Hoag

Actress Judith Hoag has racked up a long list of credits in television series, though she may be best known for one of her film roles, as the investigative reporter who befriends the "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles." Born in Massachusetts, she caught the acting bug participating in theater as a youngster, which prompted her to move to New York City. She first found work in television on such shows as the soap opera "Loving." Within a few years, she landed her memorable part as April O'Neil, confidante of the "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles," the film adaptation of the cult comic book.

She next moved to Los Angeles, continuing to work in both TV and film and managing to avoid typecasting while always seeking quality work. She played a leading part as the mother of children with burgeoning magical talents in the Disney fantasy TV movie "Halloweentown," and also appeared in three sequels. She had parts in several acclaimed HBO series, including a recurring role on the polygamy drama, "Big Love," as the sister of Jeanne Tripplehorn's character.