rara avis

Murray was a rara avis in a country that makes the one-of-a-kind either hero or pariah — he became a little of both.

"I have very little respect for politicians of any persuasion, but Margaret is that rara avis, a dedicated, honest and committed representative of the people of Hong Kong," Sarony wrote.

Out of the box, “Sesame Street” was a rara avis: a mass-market hit on public TV, a kids’ show with sophistication and a wild countercultural energy.

Wickersham, whose full head of silver hair, mustache, and chiseled good looks made him resemble a misplaced Marlboro man, was a rara avis even by Sing Sing standards.

Which is all to say that even if you haven’t heard of her, she is that rara avis of Hollywood: a working actor.