Laura San Giacomo: Then and Now
A Memorable Entrance
Laura San Giacomo exploded onto the Hollywood scene with a voice and presence you couldn’t forget. After making a splash in indie film and nearly stealing the show in Pretty Woman, she quickly became one of the most familiar faces of the ’90s.
A Surprising Shift
After years of red carpets and premieres, Laura made an unexpected decision — she stepped back from the spotlight to focus on family.
Where Is She Now?
Let’s rewind and catch up with this incredible actress.
From Stage to Indie Stardom
Rewatching Quigley Down Under recently reminded me just how powerful Laura was as Crazy Cora. Her raw and magnetic performance stood out, making me wonder where she’d gone.
Born in West Orange, New Jersey, Laura grew up in Denville Township. Her love for acting started in high school and took her to Carnegie Mellon, where she earned a Fine Arts degree in 1984.
Before hitting the big screen, she honed her craft in theater — from Shakespeare to Tennessee Williams. Her big film break came in 1989, playing Cynthia in Sex, Lies, and Videotape, a role that earned her a Golden Globe nomination and launched her Hollywood career.
When asked why she pursued acting, she once said, “Just telling stories. I really like it,” adding that it beat flipping burgers.
Scene-Stealer in Pretty Woman
While Pretty Woman needs no introduction, many forget that Laura played Kit De Luca — Vivian’s witty best friend. Her character was more than comic relief. Kit had heart and sass, delivering unforgettable lines that made her stand out.
“I have sort of liked them all,” she told Ability Magazine, referring to her roles. “You kind of love them all like sisters.”
Rising Film Star
Post-Pretty Woman, Laura landed roles in films like Suicide Kings, Where the Day Takes You, and even Stephen King’s The Stand. She acted alongside Alan Rickman and held her own in ensemble casts.
Then, at the height of her career, she shifted focus.
Family First
Laura became a mom while married to actor Cameron Dye. Their son, Mason, was born with cerebral palsy. His birth changed everything.
Rather than chase more film roles, she chose presence over fame. Laura became a fierce advocate for children with special needs, raising awareness and championing inclusive education.
“He does not walk independently, sit independently or speak. He uses a talking computer,” she shared. “I started becoming an advocate when he was three.”
A Turn to Television
She didn’t disappear — she transitioned. In 1997, she took the lead on NBC’s Just Shoot Me!, playing Maya Gallo. The show was a hit, ran seven seasons, and reminded viewers that Laura had sharp comedic timing.
Consistent TV Work
Post-Just Shoot Me!, she stayed busy on TV. She appeared in Veronica Mars, Saving Grace, The Handler, and voiced a role in Gargoyles. From 2016–2022, she played Dr. Grace Confalone on NCIS.
She also starred in Violet with Olivia Munn, The Santa Clauses, and Barry. Next up: a dramedy called Vacuums and the Whistling Pigs with Eric McCormack.
An Advocate and Humanitarian
Laura’s work off-screen earned praise. She received honors from the American Academy for Cerebral Palsy, Shane’s Inspiration, and Media Access. Redbook named her a Mother and Shaker.
She’s spoken at events for the Department of Education, the Pediatric Brain Foundation, and advocacy groups like TASH.
Living Life on Her Terms
Now 63, Laura lives in California’s San Fernando Valley. She’s married to actor Matt Adler and enjoys a quiet, purposeful life.
Though she’s not constantly in the spotlight, that’s by design. In 2023, she signed with Stewart Talent — a move that suggests new projects may be coming.
Still Making a Difference
Laura San Giacomo remains a force. Whether on-screen or off, she continues to inspire with her talent, heart, and dedication to making the world more inclusive.
Share if you’re a fan of this unforgettable actress!
