Jennifer Tilly joins 'RHOBH' Season 13: Everything you need to know about 'Chucky' actress and pro poker player

Jennifer Tilly has finally decided to make her mark on Bravo TV's hit show as a 'friend of' the housewives rather than a full-time cast member
PUBLISHED OCT 25, 2023
Jennifer Tilly is all set for her 'RHOBH' debut (Instagram/Jennifer Tilly)
Jennifer Tilly is all set for her 'RHOBH' debut (Instagram/Jennifer Tilly)

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: As the grand premiere of 'The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills' Season 13 draws near, fans are buzzing with excitement. The news that has particularly ignited their anticipation is the addition of the remarkable American-Canadian actress and poker pro, Jennifer Tilly, to the show.

Tilly, renowned for her unique voice and impeccable comedic timing, boasts an impressive resume with nominations for an Academy Award and multiple MTV Movie and Saturn Awards.

Jennifer Tilly's journey from theater degree to 'Chucky' fame

Born in Harbor City, Los Angeles, Tilly's journey began with a passion for theater during her high school years. 

Her commitment to the craft led her to earn a theater degree from Stephens College in Missouri.

Jennifer Tilly's illustrious career took off in 1983 with 'Hill Street Blues,' followed by a breakout performance in the black comedy film 'Bullets Over Broadway' in 1994, earning her an Academy Award nomination.

She is best known for her iconic role in the 'Chucky' film series.

Tilly has also openly defied the usual actor's hesitation towards intimate scenes. Unlike her peers who might find such scenes dreadful, Tilly boldly embraces them, declaring her affection for these passionate on-screen moments. She welcomes these scenes with open arms, setting herself apart with her candid and refreshing perspective on this aspect of her craft.

With the RHOBH Season 13 premiere date swiftly approaching, Tilly's presence has truly piqued the excitement of fans, making it a season to watch out for.

Is Jennifer Tilly single?

Tilly's romantic journey once led her down the aisle with none other than Sam Simon, the creative mind behind the iconic animated series 'The Simpsons.' Their marriage lasted from 1984 to 1991.

But later she found her love with professional poker player Phil Laak and has been with him since 2004.

Jennifer Tilly has made a name in professional poker circles

Tilly has a parallel career some film buffs may not know about — as a professional poker player.

Jennifer Tilly's life story reads like an engaging Hollywood script itself. It's a tale of transitioning from the silver screen to the green-felted poker tables, all with the help of a little love and a lot of dedication.

In 2003, Tilly ventured into the competitive world of poker, although her father introduced Tilly to the world of poker at a young age, her professional entry was sparked by her boyfriend, the renowned professional player, Phil 'The Unabomber' Laak.

Their story began at the WPT Invitational tournament at the Commerce Casino, and from there, the actress-turned-poker maven never looked back.

It was her exhilarating 2005 WSOP victory that truly propelled her poker career into the spotlight. Tilly attributed her success to the guidance of her partner, Laak, acknowledging him as her poker mentor.

Their love story interwoven with cards and chips, Tilly's poker journey was firmly established.

Since 2005, Jennifer Tilly's poker winnings have surpassed an impressive $1,000,000, solidifying her status as not just a Hollywood icon but also a formidable force in the poker arena.

Her remarkable transition from Hollywood spotlight to poker stardom remains a captivating and inspiring tale for fans around the world.

Jennifer Tilly says 'Chucky' is gift to LGBTQ community

The 'Chucky' series has managed to carve a niche that sets it apart from the mainstream, emerging as an unlikely champion of diversity and inclusion.

One of the highlights is Jennifer Tilly's portrayal of Tiffany Valentine, Chucky's longtime lover, and the mother of Glen/Glenda.

Tiffany's genderfluid romance with Rica Pierce in the 2017 installment, 'Cult of Chucky', represented a significant leap for the franchise.

For Tilly, this progress is more than just noteworthy, as she thinks "it's a gift to the gay community." But the innovation didn't stop there. 'Chucky' broke ground by introducing a gay lead character, marking another first for the horror franchise. 

Tilly, also known for her candid views on intimate scenes, is unapologetically rewriting the narrative around romance on-screen. She openly embraces and enjoys such performances, defying the stereotype that actors find them daunting.

In a candid revelation, she shared her memorable experience of portraying a genderfluid romance alongside Rica Pierce. The scene, rather than being just another moment in her acting career, became a celebration of love and fluidity on-screen.

'RHOBH' Jennifer Tilly says 'Chucky' is a gift to trans community (Instagram/ Jennifer Tilly)
'RHOBH' Jennifer Tilly says 'Chucky' is a gift to trans community (Instagram/ Jennifer Tilly)

Jennifer Tilly makes her 'RHOBH' debut as Sutton Stracke's 'friend'

After some back-and-forth contemplation, Jennifer Tilly has finally decided to make her mark on Bravo TV's hit show, 'The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills' season 13.

Tilly, a close friend of Sutton Stracke, will be appearing as a "friend of" the housewives, rather than a full-time cast member.

Tilly's involvement comes after Sutton Stracke persistently encouraged her to join the show.

In Sutton's view, Tilly possesses all the qualities of an ideal housewife – wealth, sophistication, and charm. With this intriguing dynamic, 'RHOBH' Season 13 fans are in for a season filled with excitement, drama, and maybe a touch of Hollywood allure.

Jennifer Tilly makes her 'RHOBH' debut in season 13 (Instagram/ Jennifer Tilly)
Jennifer Tilly makes her 'RHOBH' debut in Season 13 (Instagram/ Jennifer Tilly)

'RHOBH' Season 13 Premieres on Bravo - Mark Your Calendars for October 25 at 8/7c

RELATED TOPICS THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF BEVERLY HILLS (2010)

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