By Lauren Lapkus is one of the most talented and versatile comedic actresses working today. Known for her ability to seamlessly transition between hilarious and heartfelt roles, she has captured the hearts of audiences across both television and film. Whether it’s her distinct voice, her quirky persona, or her ability to portray a range of eccentric characters, Lapkus has made a lasting impression in the entertainment industry. In this article, we will delve into the movies and TV shows that have shaped Lauren Lapkus’ career, exploring her notable performances and how her comedic timing and unique style have solidified her as a fan favorite.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on September 6, 1985, in Evanston, Illinois, Lauren Lapkus grew up with a passion for performance. She attended DePaul University, where she honed her improv skills, laying the groundwork for her future career in comedy. Lapkus was a standout member of the Second City Chicago training center, known for its rigorous comedic programs. Her deep love for improvisation was evident as she quickly made a name for herself in the Chicago comedy scene. From there, she moved to Los Angeles and began her career in television and film, where she would soon become a prominent comedic actress.
Early TV Career
Lapkus’ big break in television came when she joined the cast of “Orange is the New Black” (2013–2019), a groundbreaking Netflix series based on Piper Kerman’s memoir of the same name. She portrayed Susan Fischer, a correctional officer with a complicated and often hilariously awkward personality. The show, which revolved around the lives of female inmates at a prison, quickly gained critical acclaim and a massive following, with Lapkus’ comedic chops shining through in her role. Her performances in “Orange is the New Black” proved that she was more than just a funny face—she had depth and range, skillfully balancing humor and vulnerability.
In addition to “Orange is the New Black,” Lapkus appeared in several other television shows, often playing quirky, offbeat characters. One of her most notable roles was in the Netflix series “The Wrong Missy” (2020), where she played the role of Missy, a somewhat eccentric woman who gets caught up in a chaotic romantic situation. Her comedic timing and ability to turn a seemingly ridiculous situation into comedy gold were on full display in this film.
Another significant milestone in Lapkus’ career was her involvement in the popular podcast “Comedy Bang! Bang!” hosted by comedian Scott Aukerman. Through her appearances on the show, Lapkus became known for her witty improvisation and her ability to turn any scenario into a comedic goldmine. The podcast gave her the platform to display her improvisational skills and solidified her status as one of the most talented comedic performers of her generation.
TV Shows That Elevated Lauren Lapkus
While Lapkus gained recognition through her roles in several series, certain projects have really showcased her talents and helped her build a loyal fan base.
- “Crashing” (2017-2019)
Created by Pete Holmes, “Crashing” follows the story of a comedian navigating life in the New York stand-up scene. Lapkus played Leah, a fellow comedian who develops an on-and-off relationship with Pete, the protagonist. In her role, she brings both humor and emotional depth, capturing the challenges and complexity of life in the world of comedy. “Crashing” allowed Lapkus to tap into her improvisational roots while exploring the dramatic elements of her character, giving her fans a chance to see her versatility in an ensemble cast.
- “The Big Bang Theory” Guest Appearance
Lapkus made an appearance in a guest role on the long-running sitcom “The Big Bang Theory” as Amanda, a character who has a brief interaction with Raj Koothrappali (Kunal Nayyar). Although her time on the show was short, Lapkus’ ability to bring her unique brand of humor into a beloved sitcom was a testament to her range as a performer. Fans of the show appreciated her hilarious and offbeat performance, adding yet another memorable moment to her impressive repertoire.
- “The Middle” (2012-2018)
“The Middle,” a sitcom that aired for nine seasons, also featured Lapkus in a guest role. In the show, Lapkus played a character named Carol who adds to the comedic chaos of the Heck family. Her character was quirky and a bit eccentric, embodying her trademark offbeat humor. “The Middle” was known for its relatable portrayal of middle-class family life, and Lapkus fit in perfectly with the ensemble, adding a unique flavor to the show with her comedic style.
- “The Guest Book” (2017-2018)
In “The Guest Book,” a comedy series created by Greg Garcia, Lapkus played a recurring role as Kristen, a guest at a quirky vacation cabin who gets involved in various strange situations. The show, which was filled with offbeat humor, allowed Lapkus to tap into her love for improv and playfully absurd characters. With its absurd and unpredictable premise, “The Guest Book” became a fan favorite, and Lapkus’ involvement added to the show’s eccentric charm.
- “The Righteous Gemstones” (2019-Present)
One of Lapkus’ more recent notable roles is in “The Righteous Gemstones”, a dark comedy created by Danny McBride. The show revolves around a wealthy and corrupt family of megachurch pastors, and Lapkus plays the role of Kelly, a woman entangled in the Gemstones’ world. Her performance in this show further solidified her ability to bring humor and nuance to even the most absurd and dark scenarios. With its blend of outrageous comedy and family drama, “The Righteous Gemstones” has become a standout hit, with Lapkus’ performance being an essential part of its success.
Movies: Big Screen Appearances
Alongside her impressive TV career, Lauren Lapkus has also appeared in several films that showcase her talent in both comedic and dramatic roles. From romantic comedies to animated films, her versatility as an actress is on full display across the big screen.
- “Jurassic World” (2015)
One of Lapkus’ most high-profile movie roles came in “Jurassic World”, the blockbuster film directed by Colin Trevorrow. Lapkus played Vivian, a technician working at the Jurassic World theme park. While her role was relatively small, she made a memorable impact in a film filled with action and dinosaurs. Her comedic timing in this big-budget film allowed her to stand out, proving that she could hold her own alongside larger-than-life characters.
- “The Do-Over” (2016)
In the Adam Sandler comedy “The Do-Over”, Lapkus starred alongside Sandler and David Spade. The film follows two men who fake their own deaths and assume new identities, leading to a series of comedic mishaps. Lapkus plays Hilary, a quirky and offbeat character who is integral to the film’s wild plot. Her performance is full of energy, and she brings a certain charm to the film’s often outrageous comedic situations.
- “Wild Nights with Emily” (2018)
In the independent comedy-drama “Wild Nights with Emily”, Lapkus took on a more dramatic role. The film explores the life of poet Emily Dickinson, with Lapkus playing the role of Susan Dickinson, Emily’s sister-in-law. The film’s humor is more subtle compared to her other projects, allowing Lapkus to demonstrate her range as an actress. The movie was well-received by critics, with Lapkus’ performance garnering praise for its emotional depth.
- “The Unicorn” (2018)
In “The Unicorn”, Lapkus plays Alyssa, a supportive friend to the film’s protagonist. The movie is a romantic comedy about a man who discovers that his girlfriend has passed away, and it follows his attempts to navigate his grief and connect with others. Lapkus’ role as Alyssa adds to the heart of the film, as her character is both funny and heartfelt, offering her unique comedic sensibilities within a more serious narrative.
- “Pee-wee’s Big Holiday” (2016)
Fans of the legendary character Pee-wee Herman will be familiar with Lapkus’ role in “Pee-wee’s Big Holiday,” where she plays Cookie, a character involved in Pee-wee’s quirky adventures. In this Netflix original film, Lapkus embraces the absurdity of Pee-wee’s world, providing laughs through her hilarious performance. The film was well-received by fans of the Pee-wee franchise, and Lapkus’ comedic sensibility was a perfect fit for the quirky world of Pee-wee.
Why Lauren Lapkus Stands Out
Lauren Lapkus has carved a unique niche for herself in the entertainment industry. Her ability to take on a variety of roles—whether in television shows, films, or podcasts—has made her a beloved figure in comedy. She stands out for her impeccable improvisational skills, her willingness to take on quirky and offbeat characters, and her ability to balance humor with depth. With her energetic performances and infectious personality, Lauren Lapkus has become a go-to comedic talent for both television and movies, consistently delivering performances that are both hilarious and heartfelt.
Conclusion
Lauren Lapkus’ career is a testament to her impressive range as an actress and comedian. Whether on TV shows like “Orange is the New Black,” “Crashing,” and “The Righteous Gemstones” or in movies like “Jurassic World” and “The Do-Over,” she has proved time and again that she can handle both comedic and dramatic roles with ease. Her talent, versatility, and distinct comedic style have made her a favorite among audiences, and it’s clear that she will continue to be a force in the entertainment world for years to come.
