Gina Heslop
Lacey Chabert, known for her roles in “Mean Girls” and “Party of Five,” has not been as visible in Hollywood in recent years. Despite her early success, she didn’t continue to reach the same level of fame as some of her “Mean Girls” co-stars like Rachel McAdams, Amanda Seyfried, and Lindsay Lohan. While McAdams starred in major films like “Spotlight” and “The Notebook,” and Seyfried took on significant roles, Chabert shifted her focus to different projects.
Chabert became a mother in September 2016, welcoming her daughter Julia Mimi Bella. This major life event prompted her to reassess her priorities. She openly discussed the challenges of balancing her career and motherhood, particularly during a press tour for her 16th Hallmark film in late 2018. She expressed surprise and satisfaction with her career’s direction, emphasizing how well it fits her current life stage.
Chabert is often remembered for her role as Gretchen Wieners in “Mean Girls,” famous for the catchphrase “that’s so fetch.” Despite being typecast to some extent, she embraces this association and has expressed interest in participating in a sequel if it ever happens.
Chabert has found a new niche with Hallmark Channel movies, starring in over 20 productions. Hallmark movies, known for their heartwarming and often holiday-themed content, align with Chabert’s love for Christmas. She enjoys the positive, comforting nature of these films and is happy with her role in them.
Some speculate that Chabert’s strong Christian faith might have influenced her career path and limited her opportunities in Hollywood. She has been open about her faith, which is central to her life, and she starred in the faith-based film “Christian Mingle” in 2014.
Financially, Chabert’s films have not been major box office hits, contributing to her lower visibility compared to A-list stars like Jennifer Lawrence or Scarlett Johansson. Her biggest film success outside “Mean Girls” was “Daddy Day Care,” but she isn’t strongly associated with that film.
Chabert also had an early role in “Family Guy” as Meg Griffin, but she left due to scheduling conflicts. While there were rumors of tension, both she and the show’s creator, Seth MacFarlane, have downplayed these, stating her departure was amicable.
Despite her Hollywood journey, Chabert remains a small-town girl at heart. She values her roots in Purvis, Mississippi, and frequently visits her extended family there. These values likely influence her career choices and her desire to stay close to home.
Chabert has also ventured into producing, taking on behind-the-scenes roles in Hallmark films. She has several producer credits and continues to act in these productions. This move allows her to tell stories she is passionate about and fits well with her family-focused lifestyle.
Lacey Chabert has crafted a successful career on her own terms. She has embraced roles in voice acting, such as in “Scooby Doo” and “The Wild Thornberrys,” and has considered branching out into entrepreneurship, similar to Jessica Alba. Chabert promotes brands like Tyson Meal Kits, highlighting how they complement her busy life as a working mother.
