answers: Mary McDonnell
context: Trott (Cheryl Fergison), but the romance eventually ends when Vinnie learns Shirley is harbouring feelings for Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden). Phil, an alcoholic, gets drunk with Shirley, uses her for sex and as a surrogate mother for his son, Ben (Joshua Pascoe). Shirley falls in love with Phil. She gives him an alibi when he is suspected of murder and helps him get custody of his daughter, Louise (Brittany Papple), leading to them beginning a legitimate relationship. Shirley is so in love with Phil that she is willing to overlook his misdemeanours. She stands by him when Louise returns to </s> Michelle Thomas Michelle Doris Thomas (September 23, 1968 – December 22, or 23, 1998) was an American actress and comedian. She was best known for her roles as Justine Phillips on the NBC sitcom "The Cosby Show" (1988–90), and Myra Monkhouse, Steve Urkel's girlfriend on the ABC/CBS sitcom "Family Matters" (1993–98). Thomas was born in Brookline, Massachusetts on September 23, 1968 to Dennis Thomas, a member of music group Kool & the Gang, and Phynjuar Thomas, a stage actress. Thomas grew up in Montclair, New Jersey and was an alumna of West Essex High School; graduating in 1987. She was </s> have an awkward relationship where they love each other but John doesn't respect his father. Jack recognizes this and keeps some distance from him as a result of it. Carter's mother, Eleanor (Mary McDonnell), is emotionally distant and cold. Her personality was largely shaped because she blamed herself for Carter's older brother, Robert's death from leukemia. Carter eventually figures out that much of her sadness comes from this and they briefly become closer, but eventually Eleanor removes herself from any ties to her family after Jack divorces her, to the point where John has no idea how to reach her
question: who played john carter 's mother on er