Ricki Lake has made a name for herself as an accomplished American actress, producer, and TV host. With a net worth of $25 million, Lake’s success is evident in her diverse range of projects and ventures. Best known for her role in the 1988 film “Hairspray,” Lake’s career has spanned across various mediums and earned her critical acclaim.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Ricki Pamela Lake was born on September 21, 1968, in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York. Raised in a Jewish household, she was primarily brought up by her grandmother. Lake’s breakthrough came in 1988 when she landed the lead role of Tracy Turnblad in the film “Hairspray.” Although the film achieved only moderate success at the box office, it later gained a cult following.
Throughout the years, Lake continued to showcase her talent in films directed by John Waters, such as “Cry-Baby” and “Serial Mom.” She also explored television opportunities, joining the cast of “China Beach” and making guest appearances on shows like “King of Queens” and “Drop Dead Diva.” Lake’s versatility extended to voice acting, with her work on “King of the Hill.”
Talk Show Success and Beyond
In 1993, Lake made history as the youngest person to host a syndicated talk show when “Ricki Lake” debuted. The show enjoyed a successful run for over a decade, solidifying Lake’s reputation as a talented and relatable host. In 2012, she attempted to revive her talk show with “The Ricki Lake Show,” which garnered her a Daytime Emmy Award.
Beyond her talk show success, Lake ventured into other endeavors. She hosted “Gameshow Marathon” and delved into producing documentaries like “The Business of Being Born,” which focused on home birth and midwifery. Lake’s passion for natural childbirth led her to write a book on the subject and launch a website dedicated to providing information on natural childbirth options.
Personal Ventures and Recent Engagements
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Lake has been involved in various personal ventures. She competed in the 13th season of “Dancing with the Stars,” finishing in third place. She also appeared as a guest judge on the British talent show “Let It Shine” and released a documentary on medical marijuana.
Lake’s real estate ventures have also made headlines. In 2013, she listed her Los Angeles home, which she had purchased in 2002, for $8.75 million. The property, originally owned by Courtney Cox and David Arquette, boasted a “plantation-style” design and featured six bedrooms and a lush garden. Lake later sold the property for $8.45 million.
Legal Issues and Resilience
Lake faced legal issues in 2011 when she was sued for allegedly causing a fire in a Miami beach house due to spilled oil. Despite the setback, Lake demonstrated resilience and continued to pursue her career and personal projects.
With her net worth of $25 million, Ricki Lake has proven herself as a multi-talented individual with a diverse range of accomplishments. From her early breakthrough in “Hairspray” to her successful talk show hosting career, Lake has left an indelible mark in the entertainment industry. Her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to causes close to her heart have further solidified her status as a respected figure.
