Rebecca Romijn is an American actress and former supermodel who rose to fame as one of the most recognizable faces in fashion during the 1990s.
Known for her striking beauty and magnetic presence, Romijn graced the covers of top magazines and became a Victoria’s Secret model before transitioning into a successful acting career. She is best known for her role as Mystique in the X-Men film series and for her work in television, making her a beloved figure in both the fashion and entertainment industries.
Early Life and Beginnings
Rebecca Alie Romijn was born on November 6, 1972, in Berkeley, California. Her mother was a teacher and author, and her father was a custom furniture maker of Dutch descent. Romijn grew up in a creative household, which nurtured her artistic interests. She studied music at the University of California, Santa Cruz, where she initially considered a career in classical music.
Romijn’s modeling career began unexpectedly after she was discovered while studying. Her tall, statuesque frame and captivating features quickly caught the attention of modeling scouts, launching her into the fashion world.
Modeling Stardom
Romijn’s modeling career flourished in the 1990s, with appearances in campaigns for major brands like Victoria’s Secret, Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition, and Christian Dior. She graced the covers of magazines such as Elle, Marie Claire, and Glamour, solidifying her status as one of the most sought-after supermodels of her time.
Her versatility allowed her to excel in both high fashion and commercial modeling, making her a global icon. She was a regular fixture in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issues, where her natural beauty and confidence captivated audiences.
Transition to Acting
After establishing herself as a top model, Romijn transitioned into acting in the late 1990s. Her breakout role came in 2000 when she was cast as Mystique, the shape-shifting mutant, in X-Men. Her performance, combined with the character’s visually striking makeup and costumes, became one of the film’s most memorable elements. She reprised the role in X2: X-Men United (2003) and X-Men: The Last Stand (2006).
Romijn also starred in films such as Femme Fatale (2002), The Punisher (2004), and Rollerball (2002), showcasing her ability to balance action, drama, and intrigue.
Television Career
Romijn found further success in television with roles in popular series like Ugly Betty (2006–2008), where she played Alexis Meade, a transgender character that demonstrated her acting range. She also starred in The Librarians (2014–2018), a fantasy-adventure series that allowed her to explore more lighthearted and action-packed storytelling.
Her other notable television appearances include guest roles in Friends and hosting gigs on shows like Skin Wars.
Personal Life
Romijn married actor John Stamos in 1998, but the couple divorced in 2005. In 2007, she married actor Jerry O’Connell, and the couple has twin daughters, Dolly Rebecca Rose and Charlie Tamara Tulip, born in 2008. Romijn often shares glimpses of her family life and has spoken about the joys of balancing motherhood with her career.
