Month: December 2024

From getting married, welcoming three children, and taking a hiatus from acting to coping with the devastating loss of her mother and finding a heartfelt way to celebrate her memory, take a closer look at the twists and turns of this ’90s teen idol’s life over the years.

Her breakout role came during her time on the hit series “Party of Five.” The show served as a launching pad, making her a household name. As the late 1990s rolled on, she transitioned seamlessly into film, starring in hits like “I Know What You Did Last Summer” and “Can’t Hardly Wait.”

While the show didn’t last beyond one season, it was clear her star power wasn’t fading. But by the early 2000s, the young star faced a challenging moment in her career as her movie roles became less prominent. However, her comeback came in 2005, when she returned to television in “The Ghost Whisperer.”

The film’s success was so significant that Lifetime adapted it into a TV series. On the set of the project was also where she met her future husband, actor Brian Hallisay, who starred alongside her.

“It was just the two of us, and then we went to Bed, Bath, and Beyond, ’cause that’s what married people do,” she joked about their simple wedding day.

By 2014, the pair announced that they were expecting their second child. At this point, the actress had already joined the cast of “Criminal Minds” for its tenth season.

Her pregnancy was written into the show. However, she eventually left the series at the end of the season, citing her desire to focus on her family.

“I just needed to be well. I needed to take care of myself mentally and emotionally, and being a mom for me did that,” she added.

After a three-year break, she made her comeback to Hollywood in 2018, joining the cast of the Fox procedural “9-1-1.” However, as she returned to the spotlight, the actress acknowledged how much she had changed since her girl-next-door days.

She also opened up about the challenges of aging in Hollywood, saying, “[…] So it’s beautiful, but aging in Hollywood is really hard. It’s really hard because you can’t do anything right.”

Her honest and grounded perspective resonated with many, as she continued to navigate the complexities of fame while staying true to herself. Now a mother of three, she and her husband have also supported their eldest daughter’s budding interest in acting.

Reflecting on her own experiences as a child star, she added, “Even though my experience as a kid actor was very positive, it’s a different business now with social media and all of that stuff.”

Her daughter’s growing interest in following in her mother’s footsteps has also led to humorous moments, including watching the actress’s old roles.

This actress is none other than Jennifer Love Hewitt, who lost her mother in 2012 to cancer. In June 2022, the actress reflected on a significant and somber milestone — the tenth anniversary of her mother’s passing.

Because it would feel insane to have been without her that long. They were right. Today feels very raw,” the post continued in part.

“Today 12 years ago I lost my best friend. It changed me forever but it also made me realize how lucky I was to even have her in the first place,” she wrote in part.

Over the years, the actress’s grief fueled her creativity and led her to honor her mother in a deeply personal way — the “I Know What You Did Last Summer” star poured her emotions into writing a memoir.

“In my brain, I formed the idea and then never stopped believing it could happen. And today in my hands I am holding it. I cried so many sad and happy tears writing this and then again holding it for the first time,” she continued in part.

In the whimsical cover, Hewitt held a wand and her spell book while her children joined in the mystical moment. She later opened up about the decision to feature her kids on the cover.

“It was the most stressful decision to show our kids or not show them. But my husband and I felt like we couldn’t really tell our story without knowing who they are and how they have made our lives so full and magical,” she said.

“So ‘Inheriting Magic’ is also in honor of my mother, and it’s a book really about how when I lost her I feared that like all the magic I knew was gone ’cause she was a very magical person and in sort of grieving her I realized that I had inherited her magic,” the actress added.

While she continues to act, with new projects on the horizon, her greatest joys remain the family she has built and the enduring magic she inherited from her mother.

Ray Romano, best known for “Everybody Loves Raymond,” and his wife have raised four remarkable children. Their family includes a talented PR professional, filmmakers, and a witty son who keeps the Emmy-winning actor on his toes.

Most recently, the entire family posed together at the red carpet premiere of Ray’s new television show, “No Good Deed.” It was a rare sighting of the Romano family together. Here’s a closer look at each of Ray’s kids and the stories behind them.

The Firstborn: Ray’s Parenting Trial Run

Ray’s first experience with fatherhood came with the birth of his daughter, Alexandra Romano, in New York City. Reflecting on those early days, Ray shared a memorable story about when he picked up his wife and newborn daughter from St. Vincent’s Hospital.

Now 34, Alexandra, whom they fondly called Ally, has built a career for herself in public relations. She works for a PR firm that handles high-profile clients, including celebrity chefs and restaurants.

In 2023, Ray talked about Alexandra who had just gotten engaged. The following year, on September 21, 2024, Alexandra and Zachary Wilezol tied the knot at the iconic New York Public Library.

While Alexandra has chosen a career path outside the spotlight, her brothers have had closer ties to the entertainment industry. Next up are Ray’s identical twin sons, Matthew and Gregory.

Ray and Anna’s middle children are their identical twins, Matthew and Gregory, now 31. Fans of “Everybody Loves Raymond” may recognize their names from the show’s pilot episode, where Ray’s on-screen twin sons were originally named Matthew and Gregory.

Like their older sister Alexandra, Matthew and Gregory have shown interest in the entertainment industry. Both have worked behind the scenes in television production.

Matthew worked on “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” and in 2017, Ray brought him on stage during an appearance on the show in an attempt to help him find a girlfriend. Ray’s playful matchmaking antics didn’t stop there.

Days later, he did the same for Gregory while appearing on “The Late Late Show with James Corden,” where Gregory was working at the time. The twins have taken their father’s influence to heart, diving into creative pursuits of their own.

In 2023, they were reported to be working on a documentary together. While their personal lives have remained private, Ray did reveal during a recent appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” that one of the twins got married a few months before their sister Alexandra.

Joseph Romano, the youngest of Ray and Anna’s four children, is 24. Ray has frequently shared anecdotes about him, highlighting his knack for clever one-liners. One of the stories about Joseph happened when he returned home at 6 a.m.

Ray confronted him, asking, “Joe, you come home at 6 a.m.?” Joseph’s response was brief but stuck in his father’s mind. “For now,” he answered. The moment left Ray reflecting on the deeper meaning of time, joking that it sent him into an “existential crisis.”

He has also shared that Joseph has expressed interest in taking acting classes, although, as of Ray’s interview, he had not yet started them. With Joseph’s quick wit and natural comedic timing, it remains to be seen if he will follow in his father’s footsteps in show business.

Ray’s life has been shaped by fatherhood as much as by fame. His journey from stand-up comic to television star came with lessons he continues to pass on to his children.

While on the red carpet for his show “No Good Deed,” Ray shared his thoughts on his kids’ growing interest in entertainment. “I know the business, and I know even people that have ‘it’ don’t get it,” he stated.

But he also sees the positives. “I want them to be passionate about something and go for it. And if that’s it, then good. I’m glad,” he said. His reflections are rooted in his own experience as a young comic struggling to break into the business.

But as his kids grew up, his comedy evolved. “Now that they’re people … we can have a conversation,” he said, noting how much richer his storytelling has become thanks to his children’s perspectives.

From the bright lights of Hollywood to the political stage, this former child star of the 1960s has lived a life full of reinvention. She changed her name, found fame on “Dallas,” faced career challenges, and forged a bold new path.

Refusing to let adversity define her, she took a bold step, changing her name and carving out a career that led her to fame in the 1980s hit “Dallas.” Years later, her journey took an unexpected turn as she embraced a new identity in politics. Can you guess who she is?

Born on December 5, 1951, in Los Angeles, California, as Suzanne Cupito, this actress entered the world with dreams as bright as the Hollywood lights that surrounded her. From a young age, she was determined to make a name for herself.

“I grew up in this,” she once reflected. “I couldn’t have been happy doing anything else.” Her career began with an unforgettable role in the 1962 musical film “Gypsy,” where she starred as the younger sister of Natalie Wood’s character.

However, as adolescence arrived, the industry’s harsh standards became painfully clear. By 14, the actress found herself in a precarious position as studios did not want to work with her.

The thriving career she had built came to an abrupt halt, and she was forced to leave acting temporarily. During this challenging time, she turned to modeling, only to face further hurdles.

“When I turned 14 and couldn’t play kids anymore, I became a model. Then I had to fight the prejudice against models when I began acting again. Hollywood believes models can’t act, that they have no personalities,” she revealed.

Seven years later, a romance novel changed everything. Inspired by the glamorous heroine in the book, the actress adopted a new name, shedding the identity that no longer served her.

“When I shed the old name, I shed the person nobody liked,” she admitted. This bold move marked a new chapter in her life and reignited her acting career.

The role propelled her into the spotlight, bringing both fame and financial success. “This job came up to me and hit me with fame,” she said. “You have no control.” While her portrayal of Katherine brought widespread recognition, it also came with its own set of challenges.

The “Dallas” star noted, “I didn’t want to be typecast as a mean woman.” Disillusioned with the lack of diverse roles, she stepped away from Hollywood to focus on her personal life.

She married stunt coordinator Jack Gill and embraced her role as a mother to their two children, Katie and Cody. However, stepping back did not mean giving up.

Determined to show her versatility, the actress worked tirelessly to change how producers saw her. “I’ve tried to convince producers I could play something other than […] the other woman, or unsympathetic parts,” she said.

However, casting directors often dismissed her without giving her a chance to audition, assuming she didn’t have the range for more relatable roles.

“I should have known how difficult it is to break an image. I was a child actress and had to fight against preconceived ideas when I tried to find adult roles,” the actress stated.

This led to appearances in shows like “Dear John” and “Married with Children,” where she displayed a knack for comedy that surprised many. “Now the doors are open,” she shared. “I can show producers comedy footage proving I don’t have to look as if I’m going to wave a gun around.”

Reinventing Herself

This actress is none other than Morgan Brittany, who after leaving the glitz and glamour of Hollywood behind, charted an unexpected new course.

Since the 2000s, she emerged as a prominent conservative political commentator, sharing her views on platforms like “Hannity” on FOX News, “The Rick Amato Show” on One America, and “The Kudlow Report” on CNBC.

Brittany used her platform to discuss conservative values and advocate for causes close to her heart, including issues affecting veterans. Her influence extended beyond television.

In 2014, she co-authored the best-selling book “What Women Really Want,” which explored modern conservative perspectives on women’s issues.

However, navigating Hollywood as an outspoken conservative was allegedly far from easy. In 2011, the actress reflected on her experiences during a California Congress of Republicans event, where she appeared alongside actor Clint Howard.

“Everybody in the van was bashing President Reagan,” she revealed. “I never said anything because I thought I’d lose my job. And I probably would have lost my job.”

It wasn’t until her time on “Dallas” ended and she embraced motherhood that the actress felt compelled to speak out. “Enough is enough,” she said. “I’m not going to be silent any longer. If I’m silent, then I’m enabling these people and letting them win.”

Despite the criticism, she refused to back down. “They’re not going to hire me because I have an opinion? That’s the way Hollywood is, and unfortunately, I got that. But I still wasn’t going to back down,” she declared.

Recently, as she celebrated her 74th birthday, her lasting presence was felt in a different way as fans and admirers turned to social media to celebrate her timeless beauty and grace.

“Underated [sic] Beauty,” one social media user said of the actress. Another shared, “Another one I had a crush on.” A third person typed, “Beautiful Face Always,” and a fourth wrote, “Great in Dallas!”

Brittany’s journey from child star to Hollywood actress, and eventually to a prominent political voice, showcases her ability to adapt and persevere. Whether captivating audiences on-screen or standing firm in her convictions off-screen, she carved out a unique legacy.

The film star has faced numerous hardships, some of which left her unable to walk. Despite these challenges, she forged ahead with a thriving entertainment career, making her directorial debut at 70.

Born Concetta Rosalie Ann Ingoglia, the celebrity grew up in a lively Italian household. With a heritage she believes includes Iroquois roots, she adopted her father’s stage name and pursued singing before landing extra roles in films.

Her breakthrough came when Jerry Lewis cast her in “Rock-a-Bye Baby” (1958), propelling her to stardom with roles in “77 Sunset Strip” and “Hawaiian Eye.”

The Hollywood star resisted the pressures of showbiz, “The business process here is very tricky… You have to go to the right parties, play the game. Which I refused to do.”

Seeking love once more, she wed singer Eddie Fisher in 1967, becoming the third of his five wives. However, their union was short-lived due to Fisher’s struggles with substance abuse and infidelity, leading to their divorce in 1969.

After her second marriage ended, the “Susan Slade” star embraced life as a single mother. She and her kids’ unconventional lifestyle brought them closer together.

Throughout the siblings’ childhood, their parent was a steadfast source of love and guidance. “She has reiterated to me over the years what an incredible human being I am and how proud she is of me and what a great mother I am,” Joely further divulged. “She is an affectionate, generous, incandescent spirit of a woman.”

Yet even the closest families face moments of heartache. Sadly, the family experienced a devastating loss in 1996 when her mother’s older brother, Charles Thomas Ingolia, died of a heart attack in Las Vegas at 63.

Two years after his death, challenges continued to arise for his sibling. In 1998, actress-singer Connie Stevens faced another significant hurdle when a Los Angeles Superior Court jury ruled that she owed her former manager, Norton Styne, $4.3 million.

Connie maintained that she created the concept with a friend and that Styne’s role was limited to arranging meetings with HSN executives. Though she admitted to sending him checks, she described them as “part business and part gifts.”

Meanwhile, Connie’s attorney, Steve Schiffres, anticipated an appeal, maintaining there was no arrangement or contract. He characterized his client as disappointed and stunned by the decision.

Despite these obstacles, her determination remained unshaken. In 2012, the film she conceived, co-wrote, produced, and directed — “Saving Grace B. Jones” — debuted in select cities.

Yet even with her remarkable accomplishments, life presented another devastating setback. In 2016, she suffered a massive stroke and later recalled the ordeal, “I was in the hospital about 16 days, and I couldn’t walk, couldn’t move my whole left side.”

Connie’s strength and resilience continue to shine through. In May 2023, Joely shared heartfelt family photos of herself, her mother, and her sister. The trio happily posed together, with the veteran actress beaming between her daughters. Her child captioned the post, “Scenes from a day that included mothers.”

Connie Stevens’ enduring charm and talent continue to captivate fans across generations, as their heartfelt words reflect the lasting impact she’s made. Through triumphs and challenges, she remains an icon of grace, resilience, and timeless beauty.

Grappling with the harsh reality that, for the first time, he had no companion looking out for him, Dick Van Dyke met someone nearly half a century younger who, he says, he wouldn’t even be here without. Meet the mystery woman who gave the Hollywood icon a third chance at love.

His charm lit up the screen in classics like “Mary Poppins” and “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,” earning him acclaim as both a comedic and dramatic actor. Over the years, he became a television icon, winning four Emmy Awards and leaving an indelible mark on Hollywood.

Their love story began modestly, but their wedding in 1948 was anything but ordinary. Too broke to afford a proper ceremony, a radio producer offered to foot the bill for the wedding and their honeymoon if they agreed to say “I do” on a live radio show.

“So, in 1948 we exchanged our vows in front of a minister and two radio microphones while 15 million people listened!” the actor said.

Instead, she focused on their growing family, even as her husband’s star rose. However, their marriage was not without heartbreak. She suffered a miscarriage early on, but the couple went on to have four children together.

Van Dyke expressed pride in their family, saying, “Margie miscarried twins, but went on to have four children who turned out to be truly admirable. Margie did the work, but I will take some credit.”

“As the father of four, the grandfather of seven and a great-grandfather four times over, why not?” he added. Despite their joys, the couple faced their fair share of challenges, including Van Dyke’s 25-year battle with alcoholism.

He openly acknowledged the impact this had on his family, admitting, “I tried to be a good role model to my children, but I was an alcoholic for 25 years, which inevitably impacted on family life.”

“When I went into therapy, I realized I was repeating my father’s mistakes,” the actor continued. Seeking help, he entered rehab, only to discover that Willett was struggling with her own addiction to antidepressants.

Amid this turmoil, Van Dyke met Michelle Triola, a former actress and legal secretary. Unlike Willett, Triola understood the demands of show business, and the two quickly developed a bond.

Reflecting on this chapter, Van Dyke said, “Margie and I divorced, and Michelle and I went on to have 35 very happy years together. We talked about marrying, but I could never get her to put a date in the diary.”

Tragedy struck in 2008 when Willett passed away from pancreatic cancer. Despite their divorce, Van Dyke was deeply affected, revealing, “I was deeply affected, even though we were long divorced. With her death, I lost a part of myself.”

Then, Triola was diagnosed with lung cancer. “A year later, more heartbreaking news — Michelle’s doctor found a spot on her lung. She spent her last week in a coma. Her doctor said she could still hear, so I sang and talked to her until the hospice nurses told me she was gone,” Van Dyke shared.

Little did the actor, who was in his darkest hour, know that he would find a companion once more. In 2006, Van Dyke met Arlene Silver, a makeup artist 46 years his junior, at the SAG Awards. Struck by her beauty, he did something uncharacteristic — he introduced himself.

Their first encounter marked the beginning of a friendship that blossomed into romance after Triola’s death. By 2011, Silver had moved in with him, and the couple married in 2012.

Silver echoed his sentiments, saying, “We were friends for so long that when I told people that I know, they were happy about [our relationship], and I was scared. I mean, the facts, our age difference. But it’s so irrelevant. I think when you see us together, it’s like you don’t think about it.”

Van Dyke credited Silver with bringing new energy and joy into his life, saying, “[…] I don’t think I’d even be here, to tell you that truth. She keeps me in shape, feeds me, and I love her more every day. We’re just getting closer and closer.”

Silver, in turn, described Van Dyke as a transformative influence. “I mean, he’s really made me a better person. I was very cynical, I think, when I first met him,” she shared.

“He’s such a great human being and he’s so pure in his thoughts and his heart, that it’s rubbed off on me. Just all the wholesome things of life — that’s what he has and he’s just made me a better person,” she added.

Their shared passions extended to the arts, with Silver even convincing Van Dyke to perform with her on a public platform. In 2022, she directed a Valentine’s Day video of the couple singing and dancing to “Everybody Loves a Lover,” showcasing Van Dyke’s enduring talent and vitality at the age of 96.

The couple’s physical activity has played a key role in Van Dyke’s longevity over the years. He remained committed to regular exercise, often going to the gym with Silver for light-weight training.

“We still go to the gym three days a week and work out, and I believe that’s the secret. Most people at 98 years old don’t really feel like working out, and they seize up, you know? You get stiff, and I’m still, you know, move pretty well,” the actor shared.

The newly named Arlene and Dick Van Dyke Theater at Malibu High School stands as a testament to his lifelong passion for the performing arts.

Dick Van Dyke’s life has been a journey of love, loss, and resilience. From his early struggles with Margie Willett to his enduring bond with Michelle Triola and his joyful marriage to Arlene Silver, he has shown that happiness can be rediscovered at any age.