Judy was born in San Mateo, California, and began her professional acting career in Los Angeles in 1978. She has been in over 400 commercials, and 150 TV and film projects. She has won numerous awards for coaching and teaching at her own studio Keep it Real Acting Studios in addition to awards for her performance in MAD MEN gleaning the SAG AWARD for the Show. She travels all over the country teaching and inspiring actors with her vast knowledge and experience. Judy is also a published author of the Commercial Handbook called "I Booked It!" She also has a new book and online course entitled THE BUSINESS OF ACTING. She has done numerous seminars sharing her vast experience. Also, Judy hosts the Podcast HOLLYWOOD GAME CHANGERS @keepitrealacting/HGC. Being an avid Hiker, she wrote a book about her hikes all over the world called LIFE IS LIKE A HIKE...the best view comes after the Hardest climb. Her son Frankie Manes is also an actor.

2001