A versatile actress and performer, Ricki Lake has starred in numerous films and television shows. Her most recent film credit was the title role in the romantic comedy, "Mrs. Winterbourne," where she starred opposite Shirley MacLaine and Brendan Fraser. Lake made her film debut almost a decade ago in John Waters' offbeat hit "Hairspray" and has since appeared in a variety of Waters' films including, "Cry Baby" and "Serial Mom." Other film credits include, "Working Girl," "Cookie," "Inside Monkey Zetterland," "Where The Day Takes You" and "Last Exit to Brooklyn."

Lake also received acclaim for her recurring role as Holly Pelagrino in the ABC television series "China Beach." Her additional television credits include the CBS Movie of the Week, "Baby Cakes."

A native of Westchester, New York, Lake knew from childhood that she wanted to be in the public eye. Her first ambition was to become a professional singer. As a result, she began studying privately.

While a student at Ithaca College, Lake heard about a local audition for an untitled film. Within two weeks -- after just one callback -- she landed her debut role in "Hairspray." In this outrageously funny film, she starred as a young woman who wins a place on a local dance program in pre-Beatles Baltimore.

Following the success of "Hairspray," Lake moved to Los Angeles, where she balanced her time between her film and television projects.

In 1993, Lake moved to New York City to host "Ricki Lake," an innovative new talk show geared toward young adults. In its first season in syndication, the program soared past the competition, making Ricki Lake a household name with audiences around the country.

Lake, her husband and son reside in Manhattan along with their two cats, Mollie and Annie, and dog Dudley.