Ricki's Biography

Ricki Lake is an acclaimed American actress, television host, and producer, best known for her iconic role as Tracy Turnblad in the 1988 cult classic 'Hairspray' and for her groundbreaking syndicated talk show, 'The Ricki Lake Show.' Born on September 21, 1968, in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York, Lake burst onto the Hollywood scene in her teens and quickly became a household name. Her vibrant personality and relatable approach helped make her talk show a staple of 1990s daytime TV, earning her a Daytime Emmy Award. In addition to her work on television, Ricki Lake has produced impactful documentaries, most notably 'The Business of Being Born,' which sparked conversations on childbirth choices. Beyond her professional achievements, Lake is passionate about wellness, women's health, and animal rights. She is also an advocate for mental health awareness. As of 2024, her estimated net worth stands at $16 million, with income streams from television, film production, and public speaking. Married to Ross Burningham and a mother of two, Ricki Lake continues to inspire with her resilience, authenticity, and dedication to empowering women worldwide.