Laura Prepon is an American actress who rose to fame with her role as Donna Pinciotti on the Fox series “That '70s Show.” She later gained renewed acclaim for her portrayal of Alex Vause in the Netflix series “Orange Is the New Black.” With her distinctive voice and commanding screen presence, Prepon has established herself as a versatile performer in both television and film.
Biography Table
| Full Name | Laura Prepon |
|---|---|
| Profession | TV Actress |
| Birthday | March 7 |
| Birth Year | 1980 |
| Age | 45 (as of May 2025) |
| Birth Sign | Pisces |
| Birthplace | Watchung, New Jersey |
| Height | 5’10" (178 cm) |
| Net Worth | $12 million (estimated, 2025) |
| Relationship Status | Divorced |
Early Life & Background
Laura Prepon was born on March 7, 1980, in Watchung, New Jersey. Raised in a household that valued creativity, Laura developed an interest in performing arts at a young age. Her full name is Laura Helene Prepon, and she comes from a mixed ethnic background with Russian and Jewish heritage on her father’s side and Irish Catholic roots from her mother.
Education & Training
Laura’s formal training in acting began at the Total Theater Lab in New York City, where she honed her craft under professional guidance. Before her acting career took off, she briefly worked as a model, appearing in international ads and commercials that helped her become comfortable in front of cameras.
Career Journey
Laura’s breakthrough came when she landed the role of Donna Pinciotti on Fox’s hit sitcom “That '70s Show” in 1998. The show ran for eight seasons until 2006, establishing her as a household name and showcasing her talent for comedy.
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Film Roles
While working on television, Laura also ventured into film. Her most notable movie roles include the psychological thriller “Karla” (2006), where she played serial killer Karla Homolka, and the comedy “Slackers” (2002). These diverse roles demonstrated her range as an actress beyond the sitcom format.
Orange Is the New Black
In 2013, Laura’s career experienced a significant revival when she was cast as Alex Vause in the Netflix original series “Orange Is the New Black.” Her portrayal of the complex, charismatic drug smuggler earned her critical acclaim and introduced her to a new generation of viewers. The role showcased her dramatic abilities and cemented her status as a talented character actress.
Personal Life
Laura’s romantic life has been the subject of media attention throughout her career. She was in a long-term relationship with actor Christopher Masterson (brother of her “That '70s Show” co-star Danny Masterson) from 1999 to 2007.
Relationships and Family
After her split from Masterson, Laura dated actor Scott Michael Foster until 2013. In 2018, she married actor Ben Foster after a two-year engagement. The couple welcomed a daughter in August 2017 and a son in February 2020. However, the marriage ended in divorce in 2024 after six years together.
Lifestyle and Beliefs
Laura has been open about her interest in Scientology in the past, though her current relationship with the organization isn’t widely publicized. She’s also known for her interest in healthy living and cooking, having published a wellness guide and cookbook.
Net Worth & Financial Success
As of 2025, Laura Prepon’s estimated net worth stands at approximately $12 million. This wealth comes from various sources including:
Acting Income
The bulk of Laura’s fortune has been accumulated through her acting roles, particularly her regular appearances on long-running television series. Her work on “That '70s Show” and “Orange Is the New Black” provided steady income over many years.
Other Ventures
Beyond acting, Laura has diversified her income through:
- Her book “The Stash Plan,” a nutrition and wellness guide
- Directing work on television shows
- Select brand endorsements and partnerships
Notable Facts & Trivia
- Laura won a Satellite Award for her work on “Orange Is the New Black”
- She is significantly taller than many actresses at 5’10"
- Laura has also worked behind the camera, directing episodes of “Orange Is the New Black”
- She played the on-screen love interest of Topher Grace on “That '70s Show”
- Laura is skilled in several accents and voice work
Awards & Recognition
Throughout her career, Laura has received recognition for her acting talents. Her role in “Orange Is the New Black” brought her critical acclaim and award nominations, highlighting her ability to portray complex characters with depth and authenticity.
Recent Projects
Since her work on “Orange Is the New Black,” Laura has continued to appear in various television shows and films. She has been selective about her roles, focusing on projects that allow her to showcase her range as an actress.
FAQ
What is Laura Prepon’s most famous role?
Laura is best known for playing Donna Pinciotti on “That '70s Show” and Alex Vause on “Orange Is the New Black.”
Has Laura Prepon written any books?
Yes, she co-authored “The Stash Plan,” a health and wellness book focused on nutrition.
How tall is Laura Prepon?
Laura stands at 5’10" (178 cm), which is taller than the average American woman.
Is Laura Prepon still married?
No, Laura and actor Ben Foster divorced in 2024 after six years of marriage.
Does Laura Prepon have children?
Yes, she has two children - a daughter born in 2017 and a son born in 2020.