Nineteen years have passed since the iconic teen comedy Mean Girls first graced the silver screen, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture. As the classic film celebrates nearly two decades since its release, the spotlight shifts to the stars who brought the plastics to life. Join us on a nostalgic exploration of how the stars have navigated their careers, personal lives, and the ever-changing landscape of fame.
1. Jonathan Bennett (Aaron Samuels)
Following his role in Mean Girls, Jonathan Bennett extended his acting career with notable appearances, starring in Cheaper By the Dozen 2 and later gracing the screens in several TV movies, particularly those in the holiday genre on Hallmark and Lifetime channels. Bennett’s popularity transcended film and found a pop culture niche when he made a memorable appearance in Ariana Grande’s Thank U, Next music video.
Beyond his on-screen endeavors, Bennett made a significant personal revelation as he came out, adding another layer to his public identity. The actor also celebrated a joyous milestone in 2022 by tying the knot.
2. Lindsay Lohan (Cady Heron)
Lindsay Lohan, already an established child actor with credits like The Parent Trap and Freaky Friday, rose to prominence as Cady Heron in Mean Girls. Following her success, Lohan continued to showcase her talent in films such as Just My Luckand Herbie Fully Loaded. However, the pitfalls of early fame and the pressures of the public eye led her to troubles throughout adolescence and early adulthood.
Amid career challenges, Lohan took a hiatus from acting between 2015-2018. Her triumphant return came in 2022 with the Netflix holiday film Falling For Christmas. Notably, Lohan also reunited with her Mean Girls co-stars in a Black Friday commercial in 2023, marking a nostalgic moment for fans as some of the original cast reprised their roles from the iconic film.
3. Rachel McAdams (Regina George)
Rachel McAdams, reflecting on her pivotal role in Mean Girls, recalls the moment she eagerly embraced any part in the screenplay after reading it. In the nascent stages of her career, McAdams found the prospect of being part of the film to be a compelling aspiration. “I remember when I read it, I called my agent right away and said, ’I will play any part in this, please, please, please,’” she shared.
Following a series of auditions, McAdams secured the role of the main antagonist opposite Lindsay Lohan’s Cady, a performance that not only garnered critical acclaim but also served as a catalyst for her thriving career. From the iconic high school comedy, she seamlessly transitioned into a diverse array of films, earning an Oscar nomination for her role in Spotlight in 2016.
4. Tina Fey (Ms. Sharon Norbury)
Tina Fey’s iconic screenplay for Mean Girls drew inspiration from Rosalind Wiseman’s bestselling self-help book, Queen Bees & Wannabes. Providing a humorous yet insightful glimpse into the complexities of high school dynamics. While the 2004 comedy resonated with audiences due to its relatable portrayal of teenage life, what made it truly unique were the personal touches Fey infused from her own experiences.
Fey’s ability to blend real-world insights with comedic brilliance elevated the film beyond the typical teen comedy. Beyond her iconic contribution to “Mean Girls,” Fey continues to leave her mark in the entertainment industry. In 2023, she has showcased her versatility by taking on roles in projects like A Haunting in Venice and the successful series Only Murders in the Building, demonstrating her enduring influence and creative range.
5. Lizzy Caplan (Janis Ian)
Lizzy Caplan, known for her portrayal of the goth girl Janis Ian in Mean Girls, faced a challenging hiatus in her career post the teen drama’s success. Recalling the tough period, she shared, “I remember after Mean Girls I didn’t work again for a long time. For like a year, I couldn’t get a job.”
Determined to break free from the constraints of her previous character, Caplan took matters into her own hands, opting for a bold transformation. “The next thing I did, I straight up dyed my hair blonde and got a spray tan,” she revealed. This strategic move proved effective, as shortly after her makeover, Caplan successfully booked a role. Beyond her on-screen ventures, the actress has continued to evolve, recently participating in a series titled Fatal Attraction and, in a more personal chapter, welcoming a son named Alfie with her husband Tom Riley in 2021.
6. Amanda Seyfried (Karen Smith)
While acknowledging the pivotal role Mean Girls played in her ascent, Seyfried reflects on the challenge of avoiding typecasting and breaking free from the “pretty blonde” stereotype. In recounting her early career struggles, she revealed, “Mean Girls got me on the map. It really got my foot in the door, but getting pigeonholed was the thing you had to fight.”
Now the star has since navigated a diverse array of genres on the big screen, showcasing her versatility from the realms of the erotic thriller to wholesome musicals.
7. Lacey Chabert (Gretchen Wieners)
Lacey Chabert recently reunited with her co-stars, Lindsay Lohan and Amanda Seyfried, for a nostalgic ad. The reunion was a mini-sequel where the actors relieved their iconic characters. While Chabert continues to be celebrated for her contribution to the iconic teen comedy, she has transitioned into a different genre, becoming synonymous with Hallmark Christmas movies in recent years.
8. Rajiv Surendra (Kevin Gnapoor)
Rajiv Surendra, celebrated for his portrayal of Kevin Gnapoor in Mean Girls experienced an unexpected turn in his acting trajectory when his ambitious quest for the lead role in Ang Lee’s Life of Pi did not materialize, ultimately prompting his departure from Hollywood and acting.
Today, Rajiv has emerged as a multi-talented individual, showcasing his skills in DIY and styling through a thriving social media presence, particularly on YouTube. The actor continues to captivate audiences, occasionally sharing glimpses of his personal life, including a boyfriend reveal recently.
9. Daniel Franzese (Damian Leigh)
In 2014, around the 10th anniversary of the movie, Daniel Franzese, who brought the unforgettable character Damian to life, publicly came out. Franzese was privately navigating a profound internal struggle with his own identity while portraying the witty and beloved character. Franzese shared, “It wasn’t just about being ashamed of who I was — it was about losing family members. It was about losing my livelihood.”
Fast forward to the present, and Daniel has transitioned into stand-up comedy, embracing his true self. As he moves forward, Franzese’s portrayal of Damian endures as a beacon of inspiration for queer teens.
On more recent news, Lindsay Lohan is a first-time mom, and the internet is buzzing with excitement as she proudly embraces motherhood. In a bold and empowering move, Lohan has taken to social media to share a glimpse of her postpartum journey, leaving fans in awe and sparking conversations about body positivity.
Preview photo credit Mean Girls / Paramount Pictures and co-producers, rajivsurendra / Instagram, Mean Girls / Paramount Pictures and co-producers, Fati Sadou / ABACAPRESS.COM / Abaca / East News
Entitled Neighbor Built a Garage in My Garden – I Showed Him Why You Shouldn’t Mess With a Single Mother
My new start turned into a nightmare when my neighbor, Mr. Johnson, brazenly built a garage on my property. With the help of determined friends and a few sledgehammers, I decided to reclaim my garden and teach him a lesson he wouldn’t forget.
My name is Cynthia. I’m 42 years old and a single mother with two children. A few months ago, we moved into a new house with a lovely garden. It was supposed to be a fresh start for us. Little did I know, trouble was waiting next door.
Middle-aged woman playing with her children | Source: Midjourney
On the first day, as we unpacked boxes, our neighbor, Mr. Johnson, came over. He was a tall, burly man with a gruff voice.
“Hello, I’m Mr. Johnson,” he said without a smile. “I’ve got plans to build a garage, and half of it will be on your land. The previous owner agreed.”
I was taken aback. “I’m sorry, Mr. Johnson, but I’m the new owner, and I don’t give my consent,” I replied firmly.
A middle-aged man | Source: Pexels
Mr. Johnson’s face turned red. “You don’t understand. It’s already agreed upon. I have documents.”
“I understand perfectly,” I said, standing my ground. “But this is my property now, and I won’t allow it.”
Over the next few days, Mr. Johnson came over multiple times, documents in hand, trying to convince me. Each time, I said no.
A middle-aged man with the documents | Source: Midjourney
One weekend, I took my children to visit my mother. We spent a lovely time with her, enjoying the change of scenery and catching up. My mother lives a couple of hours away, so it was a nice break for all of us.
When we returned, I couldn’t believe my eyes. There, in our garden, was a fully built garage. It took up almost the entire space.
“How could he?” I gasped. My children looked up at me with wide eyes.
A shocked woman | Source: Pexels
“Mom, what are we going to do?” my daughter asked, her voice tinged with worry.
“We’ll handle this,” I said, my resolve hardening. I thought about writing to a lawyer but decided to take matters into my own hands first.
I walked around the garage, inspecting every inch. It was solidly built, but it had no place in my garden. My frustration grew with each step.
A white garage with a car | Source: Pexels
I sat down with my kids and explained the situation. “We need to make sure we get our garden back. It’s not fair for someone to take what’s ours.”
My son looked up at me with determination. “We can do it, Mom!”
That night, I called a few friends. They were more than willing to help dismantle the unauthorized garage.
Middle-aged woman calling her friends | Source: Midjourney
“Are you sure about this, Cynthia?” my friend Lisa asked over the phone.
“Yes, Lisa. He crossed the line. We have to do this,” I replied.
I also called Mark, a strong and handy friend, and Jess, who was always up for a challenge. They both agreed to help without hesitation.
A ripped man talking on his phone | Source: Midjourney
“Count me in, Cynthia,” Mark said. “This guy needs to learn a lesson.”
“I’ll bring the tools,” Jess added. “We’ll take it apart piece by piece.”
We spent some time planning. We needed to be careful not to damage any of my property while dismantling the garage. We decided on a step-by-step approach, ensuring that every piece was removed methodically.
Planning the perfect plan | Source: Midjourney
We gathered at my house just as darkness fell, armed with sledgehammers, crowbars, and flashlights. My friends, Lisa, Mark, and Jess, were ready to help me reclaim my garden. The air was thick with anticipation.
“Ready?” I asked, gripping my crowbar tightly.
“Ready,” Lisa replied with a determined nod.
Determined middle-aged woman | Source: Midjourney
We moved silently into the garden. The garage loomed before us, a symbol of Mr. Johnson’s audacity. We set to work, our movements careful and deliberate. Each removal of a nail or plank felt like a step toward justice.
“Start with the roof,” Mark suggested, his voice barely a whisper. “It’ll be easier to take apart the walls once that’s off.”
Jess climbed up a ladder and began to gently pry off shingles. “This is for your garden, Cynthia,” she said.
A woman near a ladder | Source: Midjourney
“Thanks, Jess. Let’s keep at it,” I encouraged, carefully removing a panel.
The hours passed quietly. We worked in sync, fueled by a shared sense of righting a wrong. The physical effort was exhausting, but it felt empowering. We whispered words of encouragement to each other, the night providing a cloak of secrecy.
Lisa handed me a board she’d removed. “Here, stack this neatly. We don’t want to damage anything.”
A woman holding a board | Source: Midjourney
“Got it,” I said, placing it on the growing pile.
By dawn, the garage was nothing but a pile of neatly stacked rubble. We stood back, panting and sweaty, but deeply satisfied.
“Well done, team,” Mark said, giving me a pat on the back.
“Thank you all. I couldn’t have done this without you,” I replied, grateful for their support.
A part of the materials stacked on the driveway | Source: Midjourney
The next morning, Mr. Johnson stormed over. His face was red with fury. “What have you done?” he bellowed. “This is vandalism! Trespassing! You’ll pay for this!”
I remained calm, standing my ground. “Mr. Johnson, you built on my land without permission. I have documented everything, including photos and videos of your illegal construction and our careful dismantling.”
“You… you can’t do this!” he sputtered, eyes wide with anger.
An angry middle-aged man | Source: Pexels
“I already did,” I said, pointing to the clear boundary markers. “You ignored these.”
Mr. Johnson’s bluster faded as he saw the evidence and my unwavering resolve. He muttered something under his breath and retreated to his house, slamming the door behind him.
Despite our victory, I knew the situation wasn’t entirely resolved. I decided to consult a lawyer to ensure all my actions were within legal bounds and to explore any additional steps I could take.
A lawyer viewing papers | Source: Pexels
The lawyer confirmed that I was in the right. My documentation and photos provided solid evidence. Knowing this gave me peace of mind. I felt confident that if Mr. Johnson persisted, I had the law on my side.
In the following days, I noticed a change in Mr. Johnson. His confrontational visits dwindled. He seemed quieter, less aggressive. One day, to my surprise, he came over, looking apologetic.
An apologetic middle-aged man | Source: Pexels
“Cynthia, I’m sorry,” he said, his voice softer than I’d ever heard it. “The previous owner gave me verbal permission, but I should have respected your ownership.”
I was taken aback. “Thank you, Mr. Johnson. I appreciate your apology.”
“I’d like to make things right,” he continued. “I’ll rebuild the garage entirely on my property. And if you need any help with repairs around your house, I’m here to assist.”
An apologetic middle-aged man | Source: Midjourney
We reached an agreement. It wasn’t an immediate friendship, but it was a start to a more civil relationship. I had reclaimed my garden and gained a measure of respect from Mr. Johnson.
As the days went by, we began to exchange pleasantries. He even helped me fix a few things around the house. The experience taught me a valuable lesson in standing up for myself and my rights.
A happy woman | Source: Pexels
Reflecting on the ordeal, I felt proud of how I handled the situation. I didn’t just get my garden back; I gained respect and a better understanding of my own strength and resilience. I knew that, no matter what, I could stand up for what was right.
Sweet Lady Feeds Local Kids for Free – When a Neighbor Tried to Kick Her Out, the Unbelievable Happened
Kind Mrs. Johnson is setting up her usual Saturday lunch for the local kids when a grumpy neighbor confronts her. The situation escalates quickly, ending with the sweet older lady in tears. But the grouchy neighbor soon realizes his bullying won’t be tolerated!
I have to share something that happened in my neighborhood last Saturday. It involves a sweet lady, some local kids, and a grumpy neighbor. The ending is unbelievable!
Children playing on a field | Source: MidJourney
There’s a football field near our house where the local kids play on weekends. Mrs. Johnson, who lives down the street, has been making hot dogs and other goodies so the kids can stay and play longer without having to go home hungry.
It seems ridiculous that anyone would have an issue with an older lady doing a good deed, but that’s exactly what happened.
Mrs. Johnson is a real gem. She’s probably in her late 60’s and has the kindest smile. Unfortunately, she’s a bit lonely. I think her kids live far away, and she lost her husband a few years back. This little tradition of hers, feeding the kids, seems to bring her so much joy.
Older woman preparing hot dogs | Source: MidJourney
And the kids love it, too. Every Saturday, they rush over to Mrs. Johnson’s table, laughing and chatting, grabbing their hot dogs, and thanking her.
It’s a heartwarming sight, which is why last Saturday’s events were so shocking.
Mrs. Johnson was setting up her table as usual when Mr. Davis, the grumpy neighbor from across the street, stormed out of his house, ready for a fight. I was astonished to see him beeline over to Mrs. Johnson.
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