Born Lauren Graham on March 16, 1967 in Honolulu, Hawaii, the future actress grew up in Great Falls, Virginia. From age 5, when her mother left her to persue a singing career, Graham was raised by her father.

However, she would eventually persue her own show business career as an actress, later moving to Los Angeles to room with future Spin City star, Connie Britton.

After appearing in guest shots on such highly-acclaimed TV hits such as 3rd Rock from the Sun, Caroline in the City and NewsRadio, more bit parts followed before she landed the critically acclaimed role of Lorelai Gilmore in The Gilmore Girls.

Most recently, Graham also starred on the silver screen opposite Billy Bob Thornton in Bad Santa (video clip).

Credit: chiff.com