The actress first captured hearts on the sci-fi series Roswell before skyrocketing to fame as Dr. Izzie Stevens on the hit medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, earning the nickname “Dr. Model” for her beauty and charm. She soon transitioned to the big screen, starring in a string of successful films. Among her most notable roles was the 2007 comedy Knocked Up, where she played the responsible woman who unexpectedly becomes pregnant after a one-night encounter with Seth Rogen’s carefree character. She also charmed audiences in 27 Dresses opposite James Marsden, portraying a woman who dreams of being a bride rather than just a bridesmaid, a hallmark of early-2000s romantic comedies.
In 2010, Heigl stepped away from Hollywood’s hustle and bustle, relocating to Utah with her musician husband, Josh Kelley, and their children. While she has embraced a quieter family life, she continues to act occasionally.
Recently, Heigl attended the Wine, Women & Shoes Benefiting Big Dog Ranch Rescue event at Mar-a-Lago in Florida, accompanied by her mother—a rare outing for the actress. Fans were eager to see how the star looks now at 47, and she appeared radiant as ever.
Born in Washington, D.C., Heigl moved around Northern Virginia and Denver before settling in New Canaan, Connecticut. She began modeling at age nine, landing campaigns with Sears and Lord & Taylor and appearing in a national Cheerios commercial. Her early acting credits include That Night (1992), King of the Hill, My Father the Hero (1994), and Under Siege 2: Dark Territory (1995). She also starred in Disney’s TV film Wish Upon a Star in 1996. After graduating high school in 1997, she moved to Malibu to pursue her career further, appearing in films like The Tempest and Bride of Chucky.
Heigl’s breakout TV role came in 1999 with Roswell, while modeling gigs for FHM and Maxim showcased her rising profile. Her casting as Izzie Stevens in Grey’s Anatomy in 2005 solidified her status as a household name, leading to film opportunities including Knocked Up, 27 Dresses, The Ugly Truth (2009), Life as We Know It (2010), New Year’s Eve (2011), One for the Money (2012), The Big Wedding (2013), Jackie & Ryan (2014), Home Sweet Hell (2015), Jenny’s Wedding (2015), and Unforgettable (2017).
In 2021, she starred alongside Sarah Chalke and Ben Lawson in Netflix’s Firefly Lane, which became a hit and was renewed for a second season split into two parts released in December 2022 and April 2023.
Heigl met Josh Kelley on the set of his music video for “Only You” in 2006, got engaged the following year, and they married in Park City, Utah, in 2007. Today, the couple resides in Oakley, Utah, raising their family while Heigl continues to balance acting with her quieter, private life away from Hollywood’s spotlight.
