Lori Loughlin is a renowned American actress and producer, best known for her role as Aunt Becky in the iconic television series Full House. With a career spanning decades, Loughlin has made a significant impact in Hollywood through her work in television and film. However, she also gained notoriety due to her involvement in the college admissions scandal in 2019. This article delves into her early life, career, legal troubles, and her journey post-scandal.
Early Life and Background
Childhood and Education
Lori Anne Loughlin was born on July 28, 1964, in Queens, New York City. She was raised in Hauppauge, Long Island, where she attended Oaks School No. 3 before moving to Hauppauge High School.
From a young age, she displayed a keen interest in acting and modeling, which led to her being signed by a modeling agency when she was just 11 years old.
Acting Career
Early Beginnings
Loughlin began her acting career in the late 1970s, making her debut in commercials and guest roles on various television series. Her first big break came when she landed the role of Jody Travis on the soap opera The Edge of Night (1980-1983).
Breakthrough with Full House
In 1988, Lori Loughlin was cast as Rebecca Donaldson-Katsopolis (Aunt Becky) in Full House, where she played the love interest and later wife of Uncle Jesse (John Stamos). Her character became a fan favorite due to her warm and humorous presence.
The success of Full House propelled Loughlin into the limelight, making her one of the most beloved television actresses of the 1980s and 1990s.
Post-Full House Career
After Full House ended in 1995, Loughlin continued to work in television and films. Some of her notable projects include:
Summerland (2004-2005) – A series she co-created, produced, and starred in.
90210 (2008-2012) – She played Debbie Wilson in the reboot of Beverly Hills, 90210.
Garage Sale Mystery (2013-2018) – A Hallmark movie series where she played Jennifer Shannon.
Fuller House (2016-2018) – The Netflix reboot of Full House, where she reprised her role as Aunt Becky.
The College Admissions Scandal
Involvement and Legal Issues
In March 2019, Lori Loughlin and her husband, fashion designer Mossimo Giannulli, were implicated in the college admissions bribery scandal. They were accused of paying $500,000 to get their daughters, Olivia Jade and Isabella Rose, into the University of Southern California (USC) under false athletic profiles.
Arrest and Court Proceedings
Loughlin and Giannulli initially pleaded not guilty to the charges but later accepted a plea deal in May 2020. The consequences of the scandal included:
Loughlin serving two months in federal prison.
Her husband serving five months.
A $150,000 fine and 100 hours of community service for Loughlin.
She was released in December 2020 after completing her sentence.
Life After the Scandal
Return to Acting
Following her release, there was much speculation about Loughlin’s future in Hollywood. She made her return to acting with the Hallmark-affiliated series When Hope Calls in 2021, reprising her role from When Calls the Heart.
Public Perception and Philanthropy
While some fans welcomed her back, others remained skeptical. To rebuild her image, Loughlin has been involved in charitable efforts, including scholarship funds for underprivileged students.
Personal Life
Marriage and Family
Loughlin was first married to Michael R. Burns, an investment banker, from 1989 to 1996. In 1997, she married Mossimo Giannulli, and the couple has two daughters, Olivia Jade and Isabella Rose.
Olivia Jade’s Rise to Fame
Her daughter, Olivia Jade, is a well-known social media influencer and YouTuber, whose career took a hit after the scandal. However, Olivia has since attempted to rebuild her reputation, appearing on Dancing with the Stars in 2021.
Conclusion
Lori Loughlin’s journey has been one of immense highs and challenging lows. From being a household name due to Full House to facing legal troubles, she has experienced the full spectrum of fame. Despite her controversial past, Loughlin continues to move forward, slowly rebuilding her career and public image.
FAQs About Lori Loughlin
What is Lori Loughlin famous for?
Lori Loughlin is best known for playing Aunt Becky on Full House and its sequel, Fuller House.
What was Lori Loughlin’s role in the college admissions scandal?
She and her husband paid $500,000 to fraudulently secure their daughters’ admission to USC.
Did Lori Loughlin go to jail?
Yes, she served two months in federal prison in 2020.
Is Lori Loughlin still acting?
Yes, she returned to acting in 2021 with the series When Hope Calls.
Who is Lori Loughlin’s husband?
She is married to Mossimo Giannulli, a fashion designer.
What happened to Lori Loughlin’s daughter, Olivia Jade?
Olivia Jade’s career as an influencer was affected by the scandal, but she has since made a comeback in entertainment.
How much is Lori Loughlin worth?
As of 2024, Lori Loughlin’s estimated net worth is around $8 million, though it fluctuated due to legal costs and career setbacks.
Did Lori Loughlin return to Hallmark?
Yes, she made her return with When Hope Calls but has not resumed full-time work with Hallmark.
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