Jennifer Tilly is an American-Canadian actress and professional poker player, renowned for her distinctive breathy voice and comedic timing. Born Jennifer Ellen Chan on September 16, 1958, in Los Angeles, California, she is the sister of actress Meg Tilly.
Career Highlights:
- Acting: Tilly’s film breakthrough came with her role as Olive Neal in Woody Allen’s Bullets Over Broadway (1994), earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. She gained further acclaim for portraying Violet, a femme fatale, in Bound (1996). She is also celebrated for her role as Tiffany Valentine in the Child’s Play horror franchise, beginning with Bride of Chucky (1998) and continuing in subsequent films and the Chucky television series.
- Voice Work: Since 1999, Tilly has voiced Bonnie Swanson on the animated series Family Guy. Her voice acting extends to characters like Celia in Monsters, Inc. (2001) and the eponymous character in The Haunted Mansion (2003).
- Poker: Beyond acting, Tilly is a skilled poker player. She made history by becoming the first celebrity to win a World Series of Poker bracelet in 2005 and has accumulated over $1 million in live tournament earnings.
Personal Life:
Tilly was married to Sam Simon, co-creator of The Simpsons, from 1984 to 1991. Their divorce settlement granted her a portion of the show’s proceeds, providing financial security. She has been in a relationship with professional poker player Phil Laak since 2004.
Recent Activities:
In 2024, Tilly joined the cast of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills as a “friend of” the main cast, introducing her vibrant personality to a new audience. She has embraced her legacy within the Chucky franchise, acknowledging the devoted fan base and expressing acceptance of the unique tributes they offer.
For a more in-depth look at Jennifer Tilly’s life and career, you might find this interview insightful: