Elizabeth Berkley turned heads during a rare public appearance in Los Angeles on Friday, looking strikingly youthful at 53. Best known for playing the intelligent and outspoken Jessie Spano on the ’90s hit Saved by the Bell, she later revisited the role while also serving as an executive producer for the Peacock reboot.
Berkley also demonstrated her versatility with a bold performance in the 1995 cult classic Showgirls, where she starred opposite Gina Gershon as an ambitious stripper. Although the film was harshly criticized upon release, it gradually developed a devoted following, and Berkley went on to rebuild her career with well-received supporting roles in films such as The First Wives Club (1996) and Any Given Sunday (1999).
During her recent outing, the actress appeared radiant while enjoying dinner in Beverly Hills with her family. She opted for a relaxed yet polished look, pairing a light blue jacket with black pants. Berkley seemed cheerful as she spent time with her husband, fashion designer Greg Lauren, and their son, Sky. The couple, who married on November 1, 2003, welcomed their only child in July 2012. Her effortless style and warm smile drew attention, reminding fans why she became such a defining star of the ’90s.
However, Berkley’s path to success wasn’t without setbacks. After winning audiences on Saved by the Bell, she took a major risk by starring in Showgirls, directed by Paul Verhoeven. The film cast her as Nomi Malone, a determined drifter navigating the harsh world of Las Vegas showgirls. Intended as a mature turning point in her career, the project instead became one of Hollywood’s most controversial flops. Critics were brutal, and Berkley later revealed that the backlash deeply affected her. She recalled feeling unfairly blamed and unsupported, saying she had simply followed the director’s vision and fulfilled her responsibilities as an actor.
In subsequent interviews, she explained that the fallout made it difficult to land roles and that she felt shut out of auditions for years. The experience highlighted the industry’s harsh realities, especially when actors take creative risks. Berkley has also emphasized that she never chose the role for shock value, but rather as an opportunity to grow professionally.
Over time, perceptions shifted. Showgirls evolved from a critical failure into a cult favorite, and Berkley proved her resilience with television appearances on series like NYPD Blue, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, and The L Word, as well as competing on Dancing With the Stars.
Away from acting, she has dedicated herself to mentoring and advocacy. Her “Ask Elizabeth” initiative grew into a book and speaking platform aimed at helping teenage girls build confidence — a cause she describes as deeply personal. Berkley has said her goal is to empower young women with the tools they need to grow into their strongest, most authentic selves.
