Lauren Holly takes us on a journey through her incredible 35-year career in Hollywood, sharing heartfelt stories and insights about her life. From her unforgettable days working alongside Dumb and Dumber co-star Jim Carrey, whom she dated for years and married briefly in 1996, to raising three adopted sons as a single mom, Lauren has lived a life filled with adventure, love, and resilience.
In a candid interview with Closer Weekly, Lauren opens up about her lasting friendship with Jim Carrey. "I’m still in touch with Jim," she shares warmly. "We had an amazing time together, both personally and professionally. Working with him was pure joy because we were so close. We laughed endlessly, and honestly, he’s a nonstop source of entertainment. Those memories will always be special to me."
Currently, Lauren is keeping fans entertained with the third season of Designated Survivor, now streaming on Netflix, and the latest Hailey Dean Mysteries films on Hallmark. As a single mother raising three adopted sons—Henry, 16; George, 17; and Alex, 18—Lauren balances her career with the challenges of parenthood. "It’s not easy teaching them to be gentlemen without a male role model at home," she admits. "But I’m proud to say they’re all responsible and kind-hearted kids. Laughter is my secret weapon—it makes everything easier."
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Back in the Spotlight: Lauren Holly in Designated Survivor
Lauren is thrilled to return to one of her favorite projects, Designated Survivor. "This season is all about President Kirkman’s [Kiefer Sutherland] campaign trail," she explains. "My character, Sarah MacKenzie, is the wife of the new chief of staff [Anthony Edwards] and the daughter of an influential senator who struggles with opioid addiction. The show sheds light on a critical issue affecting our nation today. It’s powerful storytelling that resonates deeply with audiences."
What’s Next for Lauren Holly?
When asked about upcoming projects, Lauren’s excitement is contagious. "I’m really looking forward to The Cuban, starring the legendary Louis Gossett Jr.," she says. "It’s a touching story about a man with dementia whose connection to music brings him back to life. Another project I’m proud of is Tammy’s Always Dying, a dark comedy directed by Amy Jo Johnson, who played the original Pink Power Ranger. Who knew she had such a wild side? It’s going to be amazing!"
A Look Back at Picket Fences
Reflecting on her time on Picket Fences, Lauren gushes about working with the brilliant David E. Kelley. "That show was a dream come true," she reminisces. "David’s writing was unparalleled, and the cast was incredible. I loved how my character walked the line between comedy and drama. Plus, the producers were incredibly supportive, allowing me to juggle movies while filming the series. It was the perfect balance."
Behind-the-Scenes of Dumb and Dumber
Dumb and Dumber holds a special place in Lauren’s heart. "That movie was pure magic," she recalls. "We traveled to different locations, rented houseboats, and bonded like family. It was such a fun experience. Jim and I were inseparable, and the chemistry between us made the film even more special."
Friends in the Industry
Lauren cherishes the friendships she’s formed over the years. "Louis Ferreira, my co-star on Motive, is one of my closest friends," she says. "Kellie Martin and I have become like sisters after working on the Hailey Dean movies. On Designated Survivor, Kal Penn and I often text about politics, and Anthony Edwards and I stay in touch. I also met my best friend, Rosalind Allen, on All My Children over 30 years ago. These relationships mean the world to me."
A Memorable Moment with Mel Gibson
Lauren shares a hilarious story from her time on What Women Want. "Mel Gibson wanted to buy my horse Pablo, but the wrangler kept saying I wouldn’t sell him," she laughs. "Fast forward to What Women Want, and the first thing I said to Mel was, 'I own Pablo!' He was shocked! To make it even better, Pablo ended up on the movie poster, so Mel signed it and sent it to me. What a keepsake!"
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Growing Up and Discovering Acting
Lauren grew up in Geneva, New York, where her dad still teaches. "Being close to home is a blessing," she says. "When I was 13, we spent a year in London, and that’s where I fell in love with acting. I joined the drama department at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, thinking I’d go to law school. But fate had other plans. I landed a role in a play at Sarah Lawrence College, and producer Fred Roos saw me. He offered me a part in Seven Minutes in Heaven with Jennifer Connelly, and I decided to give acting a shot. Best decision I ever made!"
