Much like her iconic catchphrase “that’s so fetch,” former child star Lacey Chabert’s mainstream popularity seemed to fade after the 2004 film Mean Girls. However, while her big-screen career faced challenges, Chabert, now a beloved Hallmark Channel staple, is embracing the most significant role of her life.
The 41-year-old actress, who began her career at just 10, is a devoted mother to her daughter, Julia Mimi Bella, whom she describes as her “number one priority” and “the light of my life.”
Early Career and ‘Party of Five’
From 1994 to 2000, fans watched a young Lacey Chabert grow up on the TV drama Party of Five. The acclaimed series told the story of the Salinger siblings – Charlie (Matthew Fox), Bailey (Scott Wolf), Julia (Neve Campbell), and the youngest, Owen (Jacob Smith) – who were orphaned after their parents were killed in a car accident.
Chabert portrayed Claudia Salinger, a musical prodigy, from ages 11 to 17. Reflecting on her experience, Chabert shared, “It was interesting because sometimes my character would go through things in life on the show that I had yet to actually go through in life. You know, like my first kiss and all of this kind of embarrassing stuff.”
Though heartbroken when the series ended, Chabert remains “very, very, very close” with her former castmates, noting, “They’re a part of my life now. And it’s been nice to grow up together and become parents… you know, go through different phases of life together.”
The Rise of ‘Mean Girls’
In 2004, Chabert landed the role of a lifetime as Gretchen Wieners in Mean Girls, the loyal sidekick to Regina George (Rachel McAdams). The teen comedy, written by Tina Fey, also starred Lindsay Lohan, Amanda Seyfried, Amy Poehler, and Fey herself.
Reflecting on the film’s 20th anniversary, Chabert and her co-stars reunited to film a Walmart commercial, playing adult versions of their iconic characters. “It was like stepping back in time, like no time had passed,” Chabert said. “We’re all moms now… And it was such a full circle moment, and I’m so thankful for the experience.”
Life with Hallmark and Family
In December 2013, Chabert married her “best friend,” businessman David Nehdar, in a private ceremony. The couple welcomed their daughter, Julia Mimi Bella, on September 1, 2016.
“There’s nothing like that first week of being a momma. This little girl has brought pure joy to my heart,” Chabert shared on Instagram.
Appearing on The Kelly Clarkson Show, Chabert recounted the moment her daughter discovered her mom’s role in Mean Girls. Julia, after watching scenes from the film, said, “Mommy, I didn’t know you were Gretchen Wieners. Did you know that was your name?”
Chabert, who has starred in over 30 Hallmark movies, often shares sweet moments with her daughter on social media. Recently, she posted a throwback photo of them cuddling, reflecting, “My daughter is the light of my life, and I can’t wait to get home to hug her and kiss those little cheeks exactly one million times!”
Balancing Career and Motherhood
While Chabert enjoys a successful career with Hallmark, her daughter remains her top priority. “I hope to set that example for her to let her know that you can do it all, but with a lot of help and support!” she shared.
Despite her shift from mainstream Hollywood to Hallmark, Chabert’s performances continue to captivate audiences. Her role in Mean Girls remains a fan favorite, but for Chabert, family comes first.
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