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Christine Elise

Early Life and Education

Christine Elise, born in 1965 in Massachusetts, is an American television and film actress. Raised by two artist parents, she developed a passion for the arts early in life. Elise graduated from the prestigious Boston Latin School, laying the academic foundation for her future in the creative field.

Related Biography: Darren Star

Television and Film Career

Christine Elise began gaining recognition with a recurring role on the television drama China Beach, which she has described as the best professional experience of her career. She is also well known for her portrayal of Kyle in the 1990 horror sequel Child’s Play 2.

In 1993, she appeared as Jenn Platt in Body Snatchers, a sci-fi horror film directed by Abel Ferrara. One of her most notable television roles was Emily Valentine on Beverly Hills, 90210, a character that left a lasting impact on the show’s audience. She also had a 17-episode arc in the second season of ER.

Following ER, Elise was cast in the Fox drama L.A. Firefighters, although the show was short-lived. She co-starred with Viggo Mortensen in the made-for-TV film Vanishing Point. Mortensen reportedly requested Elise for the role after the two met while working on a project titled Boiling Point. Her television résumé also includes a recurring role on In the Heat of the Night and a guest appearance on the series Charmed.

Independent Projects and Documentary Work

Elise has shown a strong interest in independent film and music documentaries. She appeared in the punk rock documentary All Ages: The Boston Hardcore Film, which explores the American hardcore music scene.

Bathing & the Single Girl and Directorial Debut

Christine Elise made her directorial debut with the short film Bathing & the Single Girl, which she also wrote, produced, and starred in. The film garnered significant acclaim, winning more than 20 awards and screening at over 100 film festivals since its 2010 debut. The story was expanded into a full-length novel of the same name, represented by Dystel and Goderich Literary Management.

Later Career and Festival Programming

Among her more recent acting roles, Elise appeared in Disney’s teen film Prom. Beyond acting and filmmaking, she has been involved with the Waterfront Film Festival in Michigan since its inception in 1999. Her roles at the festival have included moderator, programmer, panelist, and juror.

She has also channeled her passion for food into a culinary-focused branding project titled Delightful Delicious Delovely. Additionally, she has been a guest on Ken Reid’s TV Guidance Counselor podcast.

Photography and Artistic Pursuits

Under her birth name, Christine McCarthy, Elise has pursued a professional career in photography. Her photography has been showcased at venues such as the Second Cup Café in Boston and the Paris Restaurant’s Pink Flamingos exhibit in 2008. In 2009, she participated in the Massachusetts art exhibit Burlesque As Art.

Literary Work and Other Creative Endeavors

Christine Elise wrote an essay for the coffee table book The Irish Face in America, reflecting on her Irish heritage and the challenges of growing up poor in Boston. She is professionally active as both a photographer and writer.

Elise is also known for her involvement with Nextcat.com, an online networking platform for creative professionals, including actors, authors, producers, and artists.

Personal Life and Influences

Christine Elise was briefly engaged to fellow actor Jason Priestley. She maintains a friendship with writer Michael Patrick MacDonald, author of All Souls. Elise's personal experiences and creative spirit were an inspiration behind the 2011 DVS single titled “Wild Card.”


Quick Facts
Birth Date: 12 Feb, 1965
Age: 55 yrs
Citizenship: United States of America
Birth Place: Boston
Education: Boston Latin School
Gender: Female
Description: American film and television actress
Net Worth 2021: 6 million
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Last Modified: May 4 2025
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