Elizabeth Gillies
Elizabeth Egan Gillies, known professionally as Liz Gillies, is an American actress and singer celebrated for her versatile talents and captivating performances. Born on July 26, 1993, in Haworth, New Jersey, she gained prominence as a teenager and has since established herself in both television and music, earning recognition for her roles and contributions to various projects.
Gillies began her career on Broadway, making her debut in the musical 13 in 2008. This early experience set the stage for her transition to television, where she achieved widespread fame for her portrayal of Jade West in the Nickelodeon series Victorious, which aired from 2010 to 2013. Her character, a sharp-tongued yet endearing antagonist, resonated with audiences and showcased her comedic timing and musical abilities, as she contributed to the show's soundtrack, which featured prominently on the Billboard 200.
In addition to her work on Victorious, Gillies lent her voice to the character Daphne in the animated series Winx Club, which ran from 2004 to 2019. This role further solidified her presence in the entertainment industry and allowed her to reach a younger audience. Her musical talents were highlighted when she collaborated with fellow actress Ariana Grande on a rendition of "Santa Baby" in 2013, further showcasing her vocal prowess.
Transitioning to film, Gillies starred in the horror movie Animal in 2014 and the comedy Vacation in 2015. She continued to expand her repertoire with a lead role in the FX comedy series Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll, where she played the lead singer of a band from 2015 to 2016. Her performances included contributing to the show's soundtracks, further blending her acting and musical careers.
In 2017, Gillies took on a prominent role in the CW reboot of Dynasty, portraying Fallon Carrington. This role marked a significant point in her career, allowing her to explore more dramatic territory while still engaging in the glamorous and chaotic world depicted in the series. She also starred in the comedy-thriller film Arizona in 2018 and voiced the titular character in the animated film Catwoman: Hunted in 2022.
In 2021, Gillies released an extended play titled Songs from Home in collaboration with Seth MacFarlane. This project demonstrated her continued commitment to music, and she later worked with MacFarlane on a Christmas studio album, We Wish You the Merriest, released in 2023 through Republic Records, achieving moderate commercial success. Looking to the future, she is set to return to the stage in the Westside revival of Little Shop of Horrors in 2025, further highlighting her enduring passion for performing.
Throughout her career, Elizabeth Gillies has continually showcased her dynamic talents in both acting and music, making her a notable figure in contemporary entertainment. Her journey from a young Broadway star to a multifaceted actress and singer exemplifies her dedication and versatility in the industry.