Jennifer Coolidge is Bound to Make You Laugh in Her Top 6 Movie & TV Roles

On the actress' birthday, L'OFFICIEL rounds up her best work on screen.

Jennifer Coolidge is no stranger to the world of comedy. In her career spanning nearly 30 years, she has made audiences laugh from her performances in iconic films like Legally Blonde and A Cinderella Story. Recently, Coolidge stars in HBO’s The White Lotus, a social satire television series that takes place at a Hawaiian resort. In her critically acclaimed role as Tanya McQuoid, Coolidge proves her versatility as an actress, receiving praise from both viewers and critics alike.

In celebration of the actress’ 60th birthday, L’OFFICIEL looks at some of her best roles in film and television.

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Stifler's Mom, "American Pie" (1999): Although Coolidge worked consistently throughout the '90s, her true breakout role wasn't until her portrayal as Stifler's mom in the "American Pie" film series. Widely considered the "original MILF," she would return as Stifler's mom in the following three films in the franchise.

Sherri Ann Cabot, "Best in Show" (2000): Coolidge stars in many of director Christopher Guest's mockumentary films, including "A Mighty Wind" (2003) and "For Your Consideration" (2006). One of her most notable roles is Sherri Ann Cabot in Guest's "Best in Show," the trophy wife of Leslie (Patrick Cranshaw) and two-time past champion of the Mayflower Dog Show.

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Paulette, "Legally Blonde" (2001): Coolidge plays the lovable and extremely clumsy manicurist/best friend of Elle Woods (Reese Witherspoon). Who could forget her iconic line, "I'm taking the dog, dumbass!" Coolidge reprises her role in the sequel, "Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde" (2003), as well as the upcoming third segment of the franchise expected to be released next year.

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Fiona, "A Cinderella Story" (2004): In this modern adaptation of the classic fairy tale, Coolidge plays Fiona, the evil stepmother of high school student Sam (Hilary Duff) and owner of Fiona's Diner.

Janine, "Click" (2006): In this star-studded comedy, featuring Adam Sandler, Kate Beckinsale, Christopher Walken, and David Hasselhoff, Coolidge plays the annoying friend of Donna (Beckinsale). Obsessed with her appearance—and altering that appearance—her character is a hilarious supporting character throughout the film.

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Tanya McQuoid, "The White Lotus" (2021): Coolidge has been stirring a lot of Emmy buzz for her latest role in this HBO series. Although she almost turned down the role due to the pandemic, the wealthy, insecure Tanya McQuoid was made for Coolidge (who plays her to perfection). It's no surprise since creator Mike White wrote the character with Coolidge in mind.