For those who came of age with the Saturday morning sunshine of Bayside High, Elizabeth Berkley was an undeniable fixture. As the fiercely intelligent Jessie Spano, she embodied teen ambition and social consciousness. Yet, her trajectory post-*Saved by the Bell* became a fascinating, if brutal, case study in Hollywood’s unforgiving nature, leaving many to wonder, “Whatever happened to her?”
The answer, as with most things in entertainment, is complex. Berkley’s career is a compelling narrative of ambition, a spectacular misstep, and a quiet, persistent rebuilding in the face of scorn. It’s a story not just of an actress, but of an artist navigating public perception and the relentless pursuit of craft, ultimately finding new avenues for impact.
This isn’t merely a tale of a star fading; it’s an insightful look into an actress who, after facing unprecedented vilification, meticulously pieced together a career defined by resilience, diverse artistic ventures, and personal growth. We’ll delve into the pivotal moments that shaped Berkley’s journey, from her dance prodigy days to her tenacious fight for critical recognition and prime-time success.
1. **Early Life & Dance Prodigy** Before she was a teen idol, Elizabeth Berkley was a prodigious talent, honing her craft from a young age in Farmington Hills, Michigan. Born to Jere and Fred Berkley, she grew up in a Conservative Jewish household. Her unique partial heterochromia iridium hinted at a distinctiveness that would later define her.
Her passion for performance ignited early, beginning jazz and tap at age four, later adding ballet. Her dedication was immense, with parents setting up a basement practice room. This rigorous training led to impressive opportunities, including dancing *Swan Lake* with American Ballet Theatre principals and performing for five years in *The Nutcracker* in Detroit.
During a dance recital, performing “Hey Look Me Over,” Berkley realized her calling: she wanted to be an actress. This early foundation in disciplined performance instilled a work ethic invaluable for navigating Hollywood.
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2. **Breaking into Entertainment: Early Roles and Modeling** Armed with ambition, Berkley pursued acting and singing classes, debuting as Snoopy in *You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown*. She earned her Actors Equity card in middle school. Regional theatre roles included *Gypsy* and *Eleemosynary*. An early setback, being turned down for *Annie* for being “too tall,” showcased her resilience.
Diversifying, she ventured into modeling, starting with print work and later TV commercials. Crucially, she used the income to commute to Los Angeles and New York, investing in professional training. This self-funded dedication underscored her commitment to the craft.
A bold letter to producer Norman Lear led to an introduction with talent agent Judy Savage. This facilitated her TV debut in *Gimme a Break!* and film debut in *Platinum Blonde* (both 1986). Berkley continued to commute, landing roles in *Silver Spoons* and *Frog*. Still a teenager, she joined Elite Model Management, which prompted her family’s relocation to Los Angeles, fully committing to her burgeoning career.
3. **Saved by the Bell: Teen Stardom and Feminist Icon Jessie Spano** The late 1980s saw Elizabeth Berkley on the cusp of a career-defining role. After a close call with *Friday the 13th Part VIII*, she auditioned for *Saved by the Bell*. Producers, torn between Berkley and Tiffani-Amber Thiessen for Kelly Kapowski, ultimately created Jessie Spano for Berkley.
Jessie Spano quickly became more than just a character; she was an emblem of the smart, socially conscious teenager, a “civil-minded student with strong feminist views.” This portrayal resonated deeply with young audiences. The show rapidly became a fan favorite, catapulting its six teenage leads, including Berkley, into bonafide television stars.
During the show’s breaks, Berkley pursued other opportunities, guest-starring in *Life Goes On* and *Married People*. She even had a small, though cut, part in Kathryn Bigelow’s *Point Break*. Demonstrating ambition, she left *Saved by the Bell* early, alongside co-star Tiffani Amber Thiessen, to pivot towards a feature film career, signaling her determination to evolve beyond her teen idol persona.
4. **The “Showgirls” Phenomenon and Devastating Backlash** The mid-1990s brought a project that would indelibly mark Elizabeth Berkley’s career: Paul Verhoeven’s *Showgirls*. Berkley, displaying audacious ambition, was determined to be its lead, undertaking extensive research visiting strip clubs and interviewing dancers for the role of Nomi Malone.
Despite agent resistance, Berkley bypassed channels, calling producer Charles Evans and introducing herself as Nomi. Her audacious first audition with Verhoeven famously asserted, “there was no one else who could play that role,” securing her the part. Preparation was intense: a 12-week rehearsal, reportedly dancing up to 16 hours daily, never requiring a body double.
The film’s Cannes Film Festival preview, where Berkley felt special “introduced at Cannes to the world as a movie actress,” was a fleeting highlight. Upon its September 1995 release with an NC-17 rating, the dream unraveled. *Showgirls* became a box office bomb and was universally panned, garnering “controversy and hostile criticism rarely seen in recent cinema.”
Berkley’s performance became the primary target of this vitriol. Critics unleashed unprecedented personal attacks. Todd McCarthy in *Variety* called it “harsh, graceless and quickly tiresome,” while Barbara Shulgasser declared, “That Berkley cannot act is indisputable.” Reviewers labeled her a “meat puppet on a stick” and Gene Siskel stated she was “not sexy, not particularly appealing.” *The New York Times*’ Janet Maslin opined Berkley displayed “the open-mouthed, vacant-eyed look of an inflatable party doll.” She was awarded Razzie Awards for Worst Actress and Worst New Star, culminating in a journalist reportedly asking, “How does it feel to be a failure?”
Reflecting on the backlash, Berkley later shared, “There was so much cruelty around it. I was bullied… I was left out in the cold and I was a pariah in the industry.” Verhoeven, to his credit, often took responsibility, stating, “I was the one who asked her to exaggerate everything.” Film producer Scott Rudin also defended her. In the aftermath, Berkley made a “tempestuous” exit from Creative Artists Agency, and embarked on an international promotional tour alone to rehabilitate her image.
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5. **The Post-Showgirls Rebuilding: Independent Cinema and Critical Acclaim** The fallout from *Showgirls* was severe, creating what Berkley described as “total resistance” from most filmmakers. Yet, a crucial handful of prominent directors saw past the controversy, expressing interest in testing her, including Milos Forman, Oliver Stone, Luc Besson, and Michael Bay. This vote of confidence was “inspiring, actually comforting” for Berkley.
To rebuild her craft, Berkley returned to acting classes, starting from level 1 with Howard Fine and training under Uta Hagen. Her first significant post-*Showgirls* role came when Paramount’s Sherry Lansing asked her to test for *The First Wives Club*. After auditions, she booked the part of naive actress Phoebe LaVelle.
*The First Wives Club* became a surprise box office hit, and Berkley’s small but memorable role earned positive reviews, sharing in the National Board of Review’s “Best Ensemble Performance” award. This was followed by a substantial supporting role in Tom DiCillo’s independent film *The Real Blonde*, where she chose to portray Tina, a “dark-haired Madonna body-double,” demonstrating a discerning approach.
Berkley also briefly returned to television and voiced *Armitage III – Polymatrix*. Her dedication was evident in *Taxman*, where she played a Russian girl, studying with a dialogue coach for two months. Her efforts paid off, garnering favorable reviews from *The Hollywood Reporter* and *The San Francisco Examiner*, praising her credible accent and acting. These roles, though often independent, were crucial in demonstrating her range and commitment.
6. **Broadway Debut and Theatrical Triumphs** As the millennium approached, Elizabeth Berkley continued career diversification, finding critical respect in film and, notably, on stage. In 1998, she landed a role in Oliver Stone’s football drama *Any Given Sunday*, playing Mandy. The film was a financial success, offering Berkley another high-profile supporting role.
However, her foray into legitimate theater truly began to reshape her narrative. In May 1999, Sir Peter Hall cast her as Lenny Bruce’s wife, Honey Harlow, in his London West End production of *Lenny*, opposite Eddie Izzard. The play debuted at Queen’s Theatre, affording Berkley an opportunity to display her dramatic prowess.
Critics were genuinely impressed. *The Times* lauded her as “convincingly vulnerable,” while the *Evening Standard* described Rusty as a “dejected stripper whom Elizabeth Berkley endows with lovely erotic languor.” This critical affirmation in West End theater was a significant turning point, solidifying her standing as a serious actress.
Following this, Berkley built her resume with a recurring role in *NYPD Blue* and a supporting part in Woody Allen’s *The Curse of the Jade Scorpion*. Though a planned Broadway role in *Chicago* didn’t materialize, Berkley showcased her musical talents at the 2001 *Divas Simply Singing* benefit concert.
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7. **Prime-Time Television Success: CSI: Miami and The L Word** Having navigated post-*Showgirls* cinema and gained London stage praise, Elizabeth Berkley built a respected career in the 2000s, finding success in prime-time television and acclaimed independent film. She played Shannon Titus in *Titus*, but her co-starring role in *Roger Dodger* truly cemented her critical resurgence. The film, starring Campbell Scott and a debuting Jesse Eisenberg, won major festival awards and opened to rave reviews.
Berkley’s performance in *Roger Dodger* was “unanimously praised.” Edward Guthmann of the *San Francisco Chronicle* hailed her as “the big revelation,” stating, “Berkley registers here with an affecting, natural performance. She’s very, very good.” *USA Today* and Richard Roeper called her performance “terrific,” while *The New York Times* appreciated her “sharp supporting turn.” This wave of positive critical reception was a powerful antidote to past criticisms.
Further roles followed in *Student Seduction* and *Moving Malcolm*. In 2004, Berkley made her Broadway debut in *Sly Fox*. The following year, she replaced Catherine Kellner as Bonnie in the 2005 Off-Broadway production of David Rabe’s *Hurlyburly*, appearing with Ethan Hawke and Parker Posey. Despite three days to learn the part, Berkley received glowing praise, notably from *The New York Times*’ Charles Isherwood, who publicly apologized for past criticisms, declaring her talent had “grown.” This extraordinary retraction validated her resilience and artistic development.
She lined up high-profile guest starring roles in *Without a Trace*, *Threshold*, and *Law & Order: Criminal Intent*. Her comedic talents shone in the annual *24 Hour Plays* on Broadway, impressing critics. This period culminated in a significant multi-episode arc in *CSI: Miami* in 2008 as Julia Winston. All episodes featuring Berkley ranked in the Nielsen ratings top 10, prompting *TV Guide* to remark on “the power of the Jessie Spano fan.” During a hiatus, she hosted Bravo’s *Step It Up and Dance*, which became Bravo’s strongest-ever show in its time slot, proving her enduring versatility.
8. **The Birth of Ask-Elizabeth: Empowering Teen Girls**In the mid-2000s, Elizabeth Berkley embarked on a deeply personal and impactful venture, stepping away from traditional acting roles to address a burgeoning need among adolescent girls. This was Ask-Elizabeth, a non-profit program born from her desire to create a safe, interactive space for young women. Her vision was simple yet powerful: to facilitate workshops where girls could openly discuss everything from body image to aspirations, fostering community and mutual support.
The program’s initial workshop in New York City quickly blossomed, its popularity echoing the genuine demand for such a platform. As Ask-Elizabeth gained momentum, a dedicated interactive website was launched in 2007, extending its reach beyond physical gatherings. This digital expansion allowed Berkley to connect with a broader audience, providing resources and a forum for girls across the nation.
So compelling was the concept that MTV became interested, collaborating with Berkley’s 5–6–7–8 Productions on a reality series, tentatively titled *Ask-Elizabeth*. The show aimed to chronicle her travels across the United States, exploring issues important to teenage girls. Although the series, originally slated for a late 2008 premiere, never materialized, the ambition underscored the program’s significant potential and Berkley’s unwavering dedication.
9. **Ask-Elizabeth: From Workshops to New York Times Bestseller**While the MTV series might not have come to fruition, the Ask-Elizabeth program’s influence was far from diminished. Instead, Berkley channeled the collective wisdom gathered from her workshops into a book. In 2011, she distilled the most frequently asked questions from thousands of conversations with teen girls into a self-help guide, published by Penguin Group.
The book, also titled *Ask-Elizabeth*, was meticulously designed to resonate deeply with its target demographic. Berkley collaborated with her artist husband, Greg Lauren, to create a look and feel mimicking a personal diary, inviting readers into an intimate, relatable experience. It wasn’t just a collection of advice; it was a companion, reflecting the essence of the workshops.
The public’s response was overwhelmingly positive, catapulting *Ask-Elizabeth* onto the prestigious *New York Times* Bestseller list. This achievement was a resounding validation of her understanding of and commitment to the challenges faced by adolescent girls. The book’s success cemented her role not just as an actress, but as a respected voice in youth empowerment.
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10. **Personal Milestones: Love, Marriage, and Motherhood**Amidst her professional resurgence and philanthropic work, Elizabeth Berkley found profound personal happiness. Her journey led her to former actor, artist, and fashion designer Greg Lauren, nephew of Ralph Lauren. Their serendipitous meeting occurred in a dance class in 2000, highlighting the creative circles in which Berkley continued to thrive.
Their relationship blossomed, leading to an engagement in 2002 and a beautiful wedding on November 1, 2003, in Cabo San Lucas. Berkley’s silk sheath gown was the very first wedding dress ever designed by Ralph Lauren, a testament to the close bond within the Lauren family. She formally adopted her husband’s surname, often using “Elizabeth Berkley Lauren” professionally.
The couple’s joy expanded further in July 2012, when they welcomed their first child, a son named Skye Cole Lauren. This personal milestone brought a new dimension to Berkley’s life as she embraced motherhood. Her personal life, once subjected to intense public scrutiny, had found quiet stability and happiness.
11. **A Brief Hiatus and a Dance Comeback**The arrival of her son, Skye Cole Lauren, prompted Elizabeth Berkley to take a significant, albeit temporary, step back from her full-time acting career. This hiatus, announced in early 2012, was a conscious decision to prioritize her new role as a mother, a commitment many working parents can understand. It allowed her to fully immerse herself in family life.
However, the allure of performance never fully faded. In September 2013, Berkley made a highly anticipated return to the spotlight, as a contestant on the 17th season of *Dancing with the Stars*. Partnering with Valentin Chmerkovskiy, she demonstrated that her lifelong training had not been forgotten.
Berkley and Chmerkovskiy proved to be a formidable duo, frequently impressing the judges and earning several perfect scores. Despite their skill, the couple’s run concluded in the ninth week, finishing in a respectable sixth place. This experience was a vibrant reminder of Berkley’s enduring stage presence, bridging her hiatus and future projects.
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12. **Return to Episodic Television and Reunion on *The Tonight Show***Following *Dancing with the Stars*, Elizabeth Berkley slowly re-engaged with episodic television, often embracing comedic roles that showcased her versatility. She portrayed an unconventional couple therapist in ABC Family’s *Melissa & Joey*, opposite Melissa Joan Hart and Joey Lawrence. This lighthearted role allowed her to explore a different side of her acting range.
Her comedic talents further shone in the Fox sitcom *New Girl*, where she took on the role of Zooey Deschanel’s irresponsible boss. These guest spots re-established her television presence, reminding audiences of her charisma and ability to deliver humor. This period also saw her collaborate with her husband, Greg Lauren, starring in his short film *The Fashion Designer*.
Perhaps one of the most heartwarming moments for long-time fans was a nostalgic reunion. In 2014, Berkley joined *Saved by the Bell* co-stars Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Mario Lopez, and Tiffani Thiessen on *The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon* for a special sketch. This cultural moment acknowledged the show’s enduring legacy, delighting both new and original viewers.
13. **The *Saved by the Bell* Reboot: A Full Circle Moment**For years, a *Saved by the Bell* reboot was a distant dream, but in September 2019, NBCUniversal’s Peacock confirmed it was making it a reality. Elizabeth Berkley and Mario Lopez were not just returning to reprise their iconic roles but also serving as producers. This marked a profound full-circle moment for Berkley, offering her a chance to shape the narrative with adult wisdom.
Production for the reboot, initially summer-bound, encountered delays from the COVID-19 pandemic, wrapping in September 2020. When it premiered on November 25, Berkley, Lopez, Gosselaar, and Thiessen appeared on *The Tonight Show*, cementing nostalgic excitement. The reboot aimed to blend beloved elements with contemporary themes, reflecting character and audience maturity.
The *Saved by the Bell* reboot garnered strong reviews, a testament to its clever writing and the cast’s ability to imbue characters with new depth. It resonated with fans, earning the Outstanding Comedy Series award at the 33rd GLAAD Media Awards for inclusive storytelling. The show was renewed for a second season, showcasing Berkley’s successful return with creative stake.
However, despite acclaim, the reboot concluded in May 2022 after its second season. While disappointing, it successfully demonstrated Elizabeth Berkley’s enduring appeal and her ability to revisit a beloved character. It underscored her journey from teen idol to seasoned professional commanding performance and production roles.
14. **Post-Reboot Ventures and the Enduring Legacy of *Showgirls***Following the *Saved by the Bell* reboot, Elizabeth Berkley continued exploring diverse acting opportunities, pushing into new creative territories. In November 2021, she joined Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye and Lily-Rose Depp in Sam Levinson’s HBO series *The Idol*, securing a pivotal supporting role. Production began swiftly, signaling her continued relevance in high-profile television.
However, *The Idol*’s development was tumultuous. By April 2022, with 80% filmed, *Variety* reported a “major overhaul” with “drastic” cast and creative changes. This led to Berkley’s removal from the project, which was re-written and re-shot, yet she quickly pivoted, demonstrating resilience.
Her 2024 big screen return was in Max Minghella’s *Shell*, playing the opening victim, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival. This was followed by a guest-starring role in *Cobra Kai* in June 2024, as Moon Taylor’s mom, Winnie. September 2024 saw her booked for a guest role in Ryan Murphy’s Hulu legal drama *All’s Fair*, indicating continued demand for her talents.
Perhaps most tellingly of her career’s full arc, 2024 also witnessed a remarkable re-evaluation of *Showgirls*. Berkley received three standing ovations at a sold-out screening at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. She powerfully acknowledged the queer audience, stating, “I’m so grateful that the film has found its way… especially the LGBTQ community. You stood by the film.” This moment validated *Showgirls* as a cult classic, embraced by a community that saw its artistry.
15. **Beyond the Screen: A Lifelong Advocate and Philanthropist**Elizabeth Berkley’s journey extends far beyond Hollywood; she has consistently demonstrated deep commitment to activism and philanthropy. Even during *Saved by the Bell*, her character Jessie Spano reflected Berkley’s real-life advocacy spirit. A 1993 Sesame Place Kids Poll voted her second-best public person to encourage recycling, highlighting her early impact.
Her dedication to animal welfare and vegetarianism has been consistent. In 1997, she famously appeared in PETA’s “Lettuce Be Lean” campaign, wearing a collard greens gown to promote vegetarian options. She had a childhood conviction against taking fur from animals, later serving as a judge for the “Cool vs. Cruel” design contest.
Berkley’s philanthropic endeavors also encompass critical health and social issues. In May 1996, she joined celebrities at Todd Oldham’s LA Fashion Show, raising $600,000 for the AIDS Project Los Angeles. She also traveled to South Africa in June 2009 with Thandie Newton, leading workshops at Oprah Winfrey’s Leadership Academy for Girls.
Her environmental protection advocacy remains robust. In October 2010, she joined figures like Alec Baldwin and Slash in supporting the Shark-Free Marina Initiative. This campaign sought to combat shark disappearance by encouraging marinas to prohibit sharks from being landed. Her comprehensive support for charities like Best Friends Animal Sanctuary and Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS foundation underscores her broad philanthropic vision.
Ultimately, Elizabeth Berkley’s enduring commitment to social causes has not gone unnoticed. In 2011, Candie’s Foundation honored her for raising awareness about teen pregnancy risks. This recognition, alongside her *New York Times* Bestseller status for *Ask-Elizabeth*, solidifies her legacy as a compassionate and effective advocate.
Elizabeth Berkley’s career narrative is far richer than the tabloid headlines or critical dismissals that once dominated her story. It’s a testament to incredible resilience, unwavering commitment to her craft, and profound dedication to using her voice for good. From teen stardom to critical scorn, she has meticulously built a multi-faceted life and career, proving reinvention is not just possible, but leads to deeper impact. She stands as a compelling pop culture figure, a reminder that true success often lies not in avoiding failure, but in how gracefully and purposefully one rises from it, continuing to dance, act, write, and advocate.
Her story isn’t just about what happened to Elizabeth Berkley; it’s about what she made happen, against all odds, with enduring grace and genuine purpose.
