Bianca Kajlich is an American actress who has built a diverse career in both film and television. Best known for her roles in popular movies like "Bring It On" and "30 Minutes or Less," as well as television series such as "Rules of Engagement," Kajlich has established herself as a versatile performer in the entertainment industry.
| Full Name | Bianca Kajlich |
|---|---|
| Profession | Movie Actress |
| Age (2025) | 48 years |
| Birthday | March 26, 1977 |
| Birthplace | Seattle, WA |
| Birth Sign | Aries |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5'5" (165 cm) |
| Net Worth (2025) | $4 million (estimated) |
| Husband | Michael Catherwood (m. 2012) |
| Children | 1 daughter (b. 2014) |
Early Life & Background
Bianca Kajlich was born on March 26, 1977, in Seattle, Washington. Her unique last name reflects her diverse heritage, as she was born to a Slovak father and Italian mother. This multicultural background would later contribute to her versatility as an actress.
Before pursuing acting, Kajlich dedicated herself to dance, working as a professional ballerina for seven years. This rigorous training provided her with discipline, body awareness, and performance skills that would prove valuable in her later acting career. Her background in ballet also gave her a strong foundation in movement and physical expression.
Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, Kajlich developed her artistic sensibilities before eventually transitioning from dance to acting. While specific details about her education are not widely documented, her professional dance career suggests focused training from a young age.
Career Journey
Bianca's transition from ballet to acting began with her very first acting job—a commercial for Kragen Auto Parts. This initial opportunity opened doors to more substantial roles as she built her resume and gained experience in front of the camera.
Her breakthrough came with the 2000 cheerleading comedy "Bring It On," which became a cult classic and launched several careers. Though not the lead, her role in this popular film increased her visibility in Hollywood and led to more opportunities.
Kajlich went on to appear in "10 Things I Hate About You," another teen-oriented film that achieved significant popularity. Her film career continued with roles in comedies like "30 Minutes or Less," showcasing her range within the genre.
Television Success
While Kajlich has made her mark in film, television provided her with her most sustained success. Her most notable television role came in the CBS comedy series "Rules of Engagement," where she starred alongside David Spade and Patrick Warburton from 2007 to 2013.
The longevity of "Rules of Engagement," which ran for seven seasons, gave Kajlich stability and visibility that is rare in the entertainment industry. Her character Jennifer provided a grounded center to the show's comedy, demonstrating her ability to serve as both a straight person and comedic performer.
Comedy Expertise
Throughout her career, Kajlich has shown particular aptitude for comedy, with many of her most successful projects falling within this genre. Her timing and delivery in both film and television comedy highlight this as one of her core professional strengths.
Personal Life
Bianca Kajlich's personal life has included two marriages. She was married to soccer star Landon Donovan from 2006 to 2010. Though the marriage ultimately ended in divorce, it connected her to the world of professional sports during that period.
In 2012, Kajlich married radio personality and television host Michael Catherwood, known for his work on "Loveline" and other media outlets. The couple welcomed a daughter in 2014, establishing their family life together.
Becoming a mother in 2014 added a new dimension to Kajlich's life while she continued to balance her professional career with family responsibilities. Her family life with Catherwood and their daughter remains a central aspect of her personal identity beyond her acting work.
Net Worth & Financial Success
As of 2025, Bianca Kajlich's estimated net worth stands at approximately $4 million. This financial success stems primarily from her consistent work in television, particularly her long-running role on "Rules of Engagement," as well as her various film appearances.
Television work, especially on a series that achieves syndication, often provides actors with ongoing residual payments that contribute to long-term financial stability. Kajlich's seven seasons on "Rules of Engagement" likely represents a significant portion of her accumulated wealth.
Additionally, her various film roles, commercial work, and possibly other business ventures have contributed to her overall financial portfolio. As an established actress with decades in the industry, she has built sustainable wealth through diverse professional opportunities.
From Dance to Acting
Kajlich's background as a professional ballerina for seven years represents a significant chapter in her artistic development. The transition from dance to acting—two different but related performance disciplines—showcases her adaptability and comprehensive performance abilities.
The physical awareness and control developed through years of ballet training likely contributed to her comfort in front of cameras and her ability to use physical comedy and expression effectively. This foundation set her apart from actors without performance backgrounds.
Notable Film Projects
Beyond "Bring It On" and "30 Minutes or Less," Kajlich's film career includes appearances in several notable productions. Her role in "10 Things I Hate About You," which starred the late Heath Ledger, connects her to a film that has achieved lasting cultural significance.
Her filmography demonstrates a pattern of participation in ensemble comedies, where her supporting performances contribute to the overall success of the projects. This consistency in genre suggests both a personal affinity for comedy and industry recognition of her strengths in this area.
Notable Facts & Trivia
- Worked as a professional ballerina for seven years before acting
- Her first acting job was a commercial for Kragen Auto Parts
- Appeared in the cult classic film "Bring It On"
- Was married to soccer star Landon Donovan from 2006 to 2010
- Starred in "Rules of Engagement" for seven seasons
- Has a daughter born in 2014 with husband Michael Catherwood
- Appeared in "10 Things I Hate About You" alongside Heath Ledger
Professional Relationships
Throughout her career, Kajlich has worked with numerous notable talents. Her appearance in "10 Things I Hate About You" connected her professionally with Heath Ledger before his rise to greater fame and tragic early death.
In television, her work on "Rules of Engagement" placed her in a regular ensemble with established comedic actors like David Spade and Patrick Warburton, relationships that likely influenced her own comedic development and professional network.
FAQ
How old is Bianca Kajlich?
As of 2025, Bianca Kajlich is 48 years old, having been born on March 26, 1977.
Who is Bianca Kajlich's husband?
Bianca is married to Michael Catherwood. They wed in 2012 and have one daughter together.
Was Bianca Kajlich really a ballerina?
Yes, before pursuing acting, she worked as a professional ballerina for seven years.
What is Bianca Kajlich most famous for?
She is best known for her roles in the movie "Bring It On" and the TV series "Rules of Engagement."
Does Bianca Kajlich have children?
Yes, she has one daughter born in 2014 with her husband Michael Catherwood.