Top 10 Moments That Made Us Love Jennifer Coolidge
#10: Fiona “A Cinderella Story” (2004)
Being cast as a villain comes with a lot of baggage. It can be difficult to strike the right balance to become a character the audience loves to hate as opposed to one they can’t stand to watch. Thankfully, Jennifer Coolidge was up for the task in “A Cinderella Story,” where she delivered a pitch perfect performance as Sam’s evil stepmother, Fiona. This modernized version of the classic Cinderella antagonist asserts power over Sam not only as her guardian but also as her boss, forcing her to work long hours at the expense of her social life. In spite of her cruelty, however, she is consistently fun to watch - especially after her botched botox!
#9: Amber Cole “A Mighty Wind” (2003)
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Folk music isn’t for everyone. In the case of “A Mighty Wind,” it turns out it isn’t even “for” the people in charge of putting on a folk reunion concert. One of these people is Amber Cole, a publicist played by Jennifer Coolidge. Although Amber is a relatively minor character in the film, Jennifer still manages to make an impression with her flawless comedic timing. Sometimes without even saying a word! When she does speak, Amber is revealed to have a somewhat Eastern European accent, which doesn’t seem to belong to any one country in particular. The accent, along with the character’s brunette hair, help to set Amber apart from Jennifer’s other roles and make for a uniquely funny persona.
#8: Sherri Ann “Best in Show” (2000)
From “A Mighty Wind” to “Mascots,” Jennifer Coolidge and Christopher Guest have proven to be a match made in heaven, but few of these collaborations measure up to their first - “Best in Show.” The mockumentary follows a group of dog owners preparing for an upcoming show. Jennifer plays Sherri Ann, the trophy wife of a much older man, whose dog, Butch, will be competing. Over the course of the film, Sherri Ann becomes increasingly flirtatious with her lesbian dog handler, Christy. The pair are hilarious together in an offbeat way, and Jennifer’s performance is easily one of the film’s stand outs. The film even has a famous fan in Ariana Grande, who dressed as Sherri Ann for Halloween in 2022.
#7: That Time She Was Fired Through a Bathroom Stall
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It’s hard to imagine why anyone would fire Jennifer Coolidge, but the unconventional way in which she was fired from this job just makes the dismissal all the more baffling. On an episode of “The Rachael Ray Show,” Jennifer told a story about being let go from an MTV gig. She was in the bathroom and, instead of waiting until she got out, the producer came in and delivered the bad news through the stall door. Thankfully, she can laugh about the situation now, and we’re sure the show that axed her is kicking themselves for losing out on her one of a kind talent.
#6: Her Dream Role
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After an actor wins an award, they’re typically interviewed by the press about their current and future projects, as well as their career as a whole. After her win at the 2023 Golden Globes, Jennifer Coolidge was asked what her ultimate dream role would be “if anything could happen.” Her answer? [I’ve always wanted to play a dolphin.] Not an animated dolphin, either. She quickly clarified that she didn’t want to simply provide the voice for a cartoon dolphin, but to play an actual dolphin. Like Flipper. This kooky answer is instantly endearing and incredibly unique. And, of course, if Hollywood could make it happen, we’d definitely be seated!
#5: Her Support of LGBTQ+ Charities
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“Gay icon” is a term tossed around a lot these days. Even the fictional killer doll M3GAN has been given the honor by some. When it comes to Jennifer Coolidge though, she has more than earned the title. Throughout her decades-long career, the actress has supported several LGBTQ+ and AIDs charities, including Aid for AIDs and the Elton John AIDs Foundation. She has said that this support stems from the many friendships she has had with people in the community, with whom she’s always felt a kinship with. It’s refreshing to see an ostensibly heterosexual actor give their genuine support to the cause, and it definitely doesn’t hurt that her campy performances so often appeal to those within the community.
#4: Paulette Bonafonté “Legally Blonde” (2001)
Even as a side character, Jennifer Coolidge is unforgettable. In “Legally Blonde,” the actress plays Elle Woods’ manicurist and friend, Paulette. The pair often talk about their lives, with Elle eventually convincing Paulette to approach her crush and take her beloved pooch Rufus back from her ex. When we first meet her, Paulette is shy and self-conscious, only opening up once she gets to know Elle better. This makes for a big departure from the more self-assured roles Jennifer is typically known for, but we love Paulette all the same! Ariana Grande seems to feel similarly, as the memorable manicurist made an appearance in the pop star’s teen movie-themed music video, “thank u, next.”
#3: Stifler’s Mom “American Pie” (1999)
Before “The White Lotus,” many would agree that Jennifer Coolidge’s most recognizable role was as Stifler’s Mom in “American Pie.” The character didn’t even have a real name, so the fact that people remember her so well truly speaks to the impact of Jennifer’s performance. This impact eventually translated into the character continuing on her legacy in three of the franchise’s sequels - “American Pie 2,” “American Wedding,” and “American Reunion.” According to Coolidge, “American Pie” has even affected her dating life, with the movie’s framing of her as the ultimate MILF attracting a whole new kind of dedicated fan.
#2: Her Golden Globes Monologue
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If you didn’t catch the 2023 Golden Globes awards, you may have missed out on what is now one of Jennifer Coolidge’s most iconic moments. In addition to winning a Best Supporting Actress award, Jennifer delivered a three minute long monologue full of laughs while presenting the award for Best Supporting Actor in a Television Series. In the speech, she expressed her anxieties about the presentation with endearing authenticity, citing everything from a fear of falling to a fear of mispronouncing names. Naturally, this memorable awards moment wasn’t a first for Jennifer. After winning an Emmy in 2022, she lamented taking a lavender bath prior to the ceremony and, to the delight of the crowd, danced when they attempted to play her off the stage. Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions. Whitney Taylor Brown, “For Your Consideration” (2006) As Diaper Company Heiress, Whitney Taylor Brown Is the Ultimate Nepo Baby Presenting at the EVVYs Jennifer Coolidge Donned a Scuba Mask to Present an Evvy for Her Alma Mater Her Maximalist Home Decor Jennifer’s Home Is Just as Bold as Her Performances Photoshopping Her Dogs to Pictures Who Wouldn’t Want Their Dog to Join Them at the Golden Globes? “The Masseuse,” “Seinfeld” (1989-98) Jennifer Made Her Small Screen Acting Debut as Jodi on One of TV’s Most Influential Comedies
#1: Tanya McQuoid “The White Lotus” (2021-)
When “The White Lotus” was in early stages of development, creator Mike White took a vacation to Africa with Jennifer Coolidge. The actress claims that this trip helped convince the showrunner to cast her in the project, in part because of how strange she was. If true, we have to say we’re thankful for her strangeness! The actress delivers the performance of a lifetime as Tanya in the resort hotel-based anthology series. In a role that could have easily felt like mean-spirited satire, Jennifer brings a certain life and humanity, making Tanya one of the series’ most sympathetic rich patron characters. She definitely still has her moments of absurdity, but you truly feel for her when she begins fearing for her life.
