5 Shocking Revelations About Gabrielle Anwar: From Scent Of A Woman's Tango To Bipolar Disorder's 'Violent Rages'

British-American actress Gabrielle Anwar, best known for her iconic roles in *Scent of a Woman* and *Burn Notice*, has recently stepped back into the spotlight not for a new film, but for a deeply personal and courageous reason. As of late 2025, the star has been making headlines by bravely opening up about her lifelong struggle with Bipolar Disorder, shedding light on the severe mental health challenges she faced, including debilitating episodes she described as "violent rages." This candidness provides a fresh, human perspective on the actress who has captivated audiences for decades, revealing a vulnerability rarely seen from Hollywood veterans.

The actress, who turned 55 in 2025, is currently focusing on mental health advocacy and writing, sharing her journey with the public to encourage dialogue and destigmatize mental illness. Her willingness to discuss her unmedicated struggles, which began as early as age 11, has made her a powerful voice for change, moving beyond her celebrated career as the fierce, resourceful Fiona Glenanne and the mesmerizing dance partner to Al Pacino.

The Complete Biography and Career Profile of Gabrielle Anwar

Gabrielle Anwar possesses a unique background, being the daughter of a British film editor and an English actress, a heritage that naturally paved her way into the entertainment industry. Her career is marked by a diverse portfolio of roles across film and television, establishing her as a versatile and memorable performer.

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• Full Name: Gabrielle Anwar
• Date of Birth: February 4, 1970
• Place of Birth: Laleham, Surrey, England (often cited as Berkshire, England)
• Nationality: British-American
• Parents: Tariq Anwar (Film Editor) and Shirley Hills (Actress)
• Education: Attended the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts in London.
• Spouse(s): John Verea (m. 2000; div. 2005), Shareef Malnik (m. 2015)
• Partners: Craig Sheffer (late 1980s/early 1990s)
• Children: Three (Willow Anwar with Craig Sheffer, and two children with John Verea)
• Debut Role: Sam Black in the BBC series *Press Gang* (1989)
• Breakthrough Role: Tango dancer opposite Al Pacino in *Scent of a Woman* (1992)
• Most Famous TV Role: Fiona Glenanne in *Burn Notice* (2007–2013)
• Other Notable Roles: Margaret Tudor in *The Tudors* (2007), Lady Tremaine in *Once Upon a Time* (2017–2018)

Unfiltered: Gabrielle Anwar's Brave Battle with Bipolar Disorder

The biggest and most important news surrounding Gabrielle Anwar in late 2025 is her deeply personal decision to share her mental health struggles. In a series of candid interviews and personal writings, the actress revealed her lifelong battle with Bipolar Disorder, a condition she faced unmedicated for many years.

Her revelations are not just about a diagnosis; they are about the raw, lived experience of the illness. Anwar detailed experiencing "violent rages," a symptom that severely impacted her personal life and relationships.

This openness provides a stark contrast to the glamorous, often secretive world of Hollywood. By using her platform to discuss the reality of her condition, she has become a powerful advocate for mental health awareness. Her story emphasizes the critical need for diagnosis, medication, and proper support, moving the conversation beyond general anxiety and depression to more complex mood disorders.

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The actress noted that her first manic episode occurred when she was just 11 years old, highlighting the long-term nature of her struggle. Her advocacy work is a current focus, as she seeks to help others who may be struggling in silence, particularly within the local community of Coconut Grove, where she resides.

The Enduring Legacy of Fiona Glenanne and the Tango Scene

While her current focus is on advocacy, Gabrielle Anwar’s career is defined by two roles that cemented her place in pop culture history, both of which answer the intense curiosity of fans today.

The Seductive Tango: *Scent of a Woman* (1992)

Anwar achieved international fame with a single, unforgettable scene: the tango with Al Pacino in the classic film *Scent of a Woman*. Playing Donna, she executed one of cinema's most famous dance sequences. The scene is often cited as a masterclass in screen chemistry and remains a viral clip decades later, introducing her to a global audience. The intensity and elegance of the dance perfectly captured the essence of the film's drama and Pacino's character, Frank Slade.

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The Explosives Expert: Fiona Glenanne in *Burn Notice* (2007–2013)

For a new generation of fans, Anwar is synonymous with Fiona Glenanne, the former IRA operative and explosives expert on the USA Network series *Burn Notice*. As the on-again, off-again love interest and partner-in-crime to Jeffrey Donovan’s Michael Westen, Fiona was a fan favorite known for her quick wit, Irish accent, and penchant for blowing things up. Her portrayal of Fiona showcased a different side of Anwar's talent—a blend of action star and dramatic lead—which kept the show highly rated for seven seasons.

Life Beyond the Screen: Writing, Family, and Current Focus

In her personal life, Gabrielle Anwar is currently married to restaurateur Shareef Malnik, whom she wed in 2015. She is a mother of three, including daughter Willow Anwar, and has spoken about the challenges and joys of "empty nesting" with her husband.

Anwar has also channeled her passion for the written word into new ventures. She has contributed articles to platforms like 'Rethink Baby,' focusing on topics related to pregnancy and parenting, demonstrating her continued commitment to writing and social commentary.

For fans curious about her presence on certain platforms, it is important to note that Gabrielle Anwar has maintained a private life focused on her family and advocacy work. Searches related to "Gabrielle Anwar OnlyFans" or "leaked content" are common, but there is no credible evidence or public information to suggest the actress has a presence on such subscription services, as her current activities are centered on her mental health mission and community involvement. Her focus remains on her personal well-being, her family, and using her voice to help others navigate the complexities of mental health in 2025.