Lauren Cohan: A Journey of Talent and Success

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Lauren Cohan, a renowned actress, is known for her exceptional performances in both film and television. With a diverse background and a passion for the arts, Cohan has captivated audiences around the world. From her humble beginnings to her rise to stardom, let’s delve into the life, career, and achievements of this talented actress.

Childhood & Early Life

Born on January 7th, 1982, in Philadelphia, Lauren Cohan had a multicultural upbringing. Her mother, of British descent, and her father, an American, added a blend of Irish, Scottish, and Norwegian ancestry to her diverse heritage. Growing up in Cherry Hill and later spending a year in Georgia, Cohan experienced the challenges of her parents’ divorce at an early age. However, her mother’s remarriage led her to adopt her stepfather’s surname, Cohan. Embracing her stepfather’s Jewish faith, Cohan converted to Judaism alongside her mother. At the age of thirteen, she moved to the United Kingdom and settled in Surrey, where she spent her formative years.

Education and Early Career

During her teenage years, Cohan aspired to become a child psychiatrist. However, her passion for the arts eventually led her in a different direction. After completing her higher education, she pursued a degree in English Literature and Drama at the University of Winchester. It was during her time at university that Cohan co-founded a theatre group, showcasing her talent and gaining recognition from the local community. Despite her growing success in the theatre world, Cohan completed her graduation before embarking on her professional journey in London and Los Angeles.

Film and Television Career

Cohan’s film career began with a minor role as Sister Beatrice in the 2005 movie “Casanova,” starring alongside Heath Ledger. The same year, she made her television debut as Bela Talbot in the popular horror fantasy series “Supernatural.” Her portrayal of a skilled thief in the show garnered attention and opened doors for future opportunities.

In 2006, Cohan landed a significant role as Charlotte Higginson in “National Lampoon’s Van Wilder: The Rise of Taj,” a sequel to the hit comedy film. Her portrayal of an English beauty further showcased her versatility as an actress. Following this, Cohan worked on various non-commercial projects from 2007 to 2009 before being offered the recurring role of a 560-year-old vampire in “The Vampire Diaries,” a hit supernatural series on The CW.

The year 2010 marked a milestone in Cohan’s career, as she took on multiple projects across television shows and films. She guest-starred in popular shows such as “CSI: NY,” “Cold Case,” “Life,” “Modern Family,” and “The Bold and the Beautiful.”

In 2011, Cohan played the recurring role of Vivian Volkoff, the charming daughter of the protagonist, in NBC’s action-spy drama “Chuck.” However, it was her role as Maggie Greene in the AMC horror show “The Walking Dead” that truly catapulted her to stardom. Initially introduced in the second season, Cohan’s character became a mainstay from season three onwards. Her performance in the show received critical acclaim, earning praise from both fans and critics alike.

Throughout the years, Cohan continued to showcase her talent across various platforms. In 2014, she starred alongside Sylvester Stallone in John Herzfeld’s drama film “Reach Me.” She also lent her voice to the adult television animated spy sitcom “Archer” and appeared in the sitcom “Tim & Erica’s Bedtime Stories.” Additionally,

Film and Television Career
Film and Television Career

Major Works and Achievements

Cohan’s role in the Warner Bros. horror series “Supernatural” may have been brief, but it opened doors for future projects and showcased her talent as a racy thief. The show garnered a rating of eight out of ten on IMDb, highlighting its popularity among viewers.

Another significant milestone in Cohan’s career was her role in “The Walking Dead.” Portraying the eldest child of the Greene family and the wife of Glenn, Cohan’s performance in the show received widespread acclaim.

In the horror film “The Boy,” Cohan took on the lead role and delivered a memorable performance. While the film received mixed reviews regarding its plot and storyline, Cohan’s acting prowess was praised by critics. “Variety” commended the performance of the star cast, while “The Wrap” described the movie as both “Creepy and Clever.”

Cohan’s talent has not gone unnoticed in the industry, earning her several nominations and awards. In 2012, she won the award for “Best Television Cast” at the Satellite Awards for her role in “The Walking Dead.” The following year, she received the “Best Ensemble Cast” award at the Eyegore Awards for the same show.  Additionally, she received nominations at the People’s Choice Awards and iHorror Awards for her role in “The Walking Dead.”

Personal Life and Philanthropy

At the age of 22, Cohan made the decision to permanently move to Los Angeles, where she began her career in the entertainment industry. During this time, she worked as a waitress at “The Cat & The Fiddle,” a popular restaurant and pub on Sunset Blvd. Though her work now primarily keeps her in Los Angeles, Cohan also owns a home in London, maintaining a connection to her roots.

Outside of her acting career, Cohan leads an active life and pursues various hobbies. She is an avid reader, pianist, and singer, showcasing her passion for the arts beyond acting. Additionally, she regularly trains in kickboxing and yoga, emphasizing her commitment to physical and mental well-being.

Cohan’s love for music extends beyond her personal interests. She actively supports and funds the “Atlanta Music Project,” an organization that provides music education to underprivileged youth in Atlanta. Through her contributions, Cohan strives to make a positive impact in the lives of aspiring musicians.

Conclusion

Lauren Cohan’s journey from her multicultural upbringing to her success in the entertainment industry is a testament to her talent and determination. With a diverse range of roles across film and television, she has captivated audiences worldwide. Her performances in shows like “Supernatural” and “The Walking Dead” have solidified her status as a talented actress, while her philanthropic endeavors highlight her commitment to making a difference. As she continues to take on new challenges and explore different genres, there’s no doubt that Lauren Cohan’s star will continue to shine brightly in the world of entertainment.

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