She’s best known for her role as Lex Murphy, the brave young girl who escaped from dinosaurs in the iconic science fiction thriller Jurassic Park—a performance that truly put her on the map. Later, she showcased her range again by playing Mindy Sterngood in the fun creature feature Tremors, further proving her talent in genre films. Before all the fame and spotlight, she actually made an early appearance as a ballerina in a commercial for a hair salon, a small but charming start to what would become a memorable career. Born to Dariille and Gary Richards, she’s always had a supportive family background. In her personal life, she shares a strong bond with her husband, Mark Bolton, and together they’ve welcomed one child, building a warm and private family life away from the cameras. Throughout it all, her journey—from that first commercial to blockbuster movies—has been shaped by dedication, timing, and a bit of Hollywood magic.
She appeared in a 1996 episode of the beloved TV series Boy Meets World, where she brought the character Claire Ferguson to life. Her performance as Claire Ferguson stood out, adding depth to the show during that season. It was one memorable role among many in her career, and fans still recall her portrayal of Claire Ferguson years later. She really made the most of her time on screen as Claire Ferguson, leaving a lasting impression on viewers of Boy Meets World.