Kelly Kapowski fans, eat your heart out. “Saved By the Bell” star Tiffani Amber Thiessen turns 40 on January 23 and we chronicle her rise to fame. Check out Thiessen’s career timeline: from beauty queen to teen heartthrob to active mom.
1984
Thiessen’s first acting job was a spot in a Peaches n’ Cream Barbie commercial. The youngster plays with the ’80s bestseller and exclaims “Gorgeous!”. Who knew this one word debut would lead to considerable success within a few short years?
Photo Credit: Tiffani Thiessen Pictures
1987
After several modeling stints, Thiessen parlayed her good looks into beauty pageant success. She won the Miss Junior America crown as a fresh-faced 13-year-old.
Photo Credit: Collegecandy.com
1988
The Miss Junior America title prompted Thiessen to take her modeling career to the next level, and she won “Teen” Magazine’s Great Model Search contest. This would foreshadow an offer from NBC for a starring role.
Photo Credit: remotecontrol.mtv.com
1989-1993
NBC jumps on Thiessen’s rising star and offers her a key role in ’80s hit “Saved By the Bell.” Kelly Kapowski won the admiration of teen girls all over America, and managed to kidnap the hearts of teenage boys in the process.
Photo Credit: Entertainment Weekly
1994
Only the magic of television could make a Vegas wedding a symbol of eternal love. Kelly Kapowski (Thiessen) and co-star Zack Morris (Mark-Paul Gosselaar) reunite the cast of “Saved By The Bell” for a special wedding episode.
Photo Credit: wetpaint.com
1994
Shannon Doherty’s abrupt exit from “Beverly Hills 90210” left the door wide open for Thiessen to take on the role as Valerie Malone. According to Thiessen, her five years on the show included rocky relationships with fellow cast mates.
Photo Credit: Photo Agency
2000
Thiessen’s reputation as a sexy-girl-next door landed her dozens of sitcom appearances. This included an extended stint on “Two Guys, A Girl and a Pizza Place.”
Photo Credit: ztams.com
2001
A steamy cover for “FHM” allowed Thiessen to shed her teen idol image … and most of her clothing.
Photo Credit: FHM
2005
As the 2000s progressed, Thiessen decided to try her hand at the other side of the camera. She began her own production company, Tit 4 Tat Productions.
Photo Credit: Thiessen Pictures
2009
After a television hiatus, Thiessen got back in the game on USA Network’s “White Collar.” She plays wedding planner Elizabeth Burke.
Photo Credit: Thiessen Pictures, USA Network
2012
In an interview with Howard Stern, Thiessen opens up about the trials of young fame. She mentions an extreme falling out with Jenny Garth, former co-star of “Beverly Hills 90210.”
Photo Credit: Thiessen Pictures, Albert Michael
2013
At 39, Thiessen is a thriving, fit mom of one. She opens up to “Women’s Running” about moving past her Kelly Kapowski alter ego.
Photo Credit: Thiessen Pictures, Women’s Running Behind the Scenes
