Diane Franklin’s journey into the entertainment world kicked off when she was just ten years old, diving into modeling, commercials, soap operas, and theater. It wasn’t long before Diane Franklin made her mark on the big screen with her debut film role as Karen in the 1982 teen classic The Last American Virgin. That performance, especially her signature dark, curly hairstyle, caught serious attention—so much so that it sparked a mini cultural moment, influencing hair trends and even inspiring Diane Franklin to later write a pictorial autobiography titled Diane Franklin: The Excellent Curls of the Last American French Exchange Babe of the 80s. Talk about turning a role into a legacy.
Not one to slow down, Diane Franklin quickly took on another memorable part later that same year—this time as Patricia Montelli, the tormented daughter in Amityville II: The Possession (1982). Her ability to bring depth to complex characters shone through, setting the tone for what was to come. In the early ‘80s, Diane Franklin continued building her resume with standout roles in TV movies like Summer Girl (1983) and Deadly Lessons (1983), while also appearing in popular series such as Charles in Charge on CBS from 1983 to 1984 and making guest appearances on the long-running hit Murder She Wrote throughout the mid-80s.
But perhaps the role fans love most came in 1985, when Diane Franklin stepped into the shoes of Monique Junot, the fiery and charming French exchange student in the cult favorite dark comedy Better Off Dead. That performance cemented her status as a beloved ‘80s icon. She followed it up with a fun turn in the horror-comedy parody TerrorVision (1986) and later appeared in How I Got Into College (1989), showing off her range across genres.
Of course, no discussion of Diane Franklin is complete without mentioning her unforgettable portrayal of Princess Elizabeth in Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure (1989). As the medieval babe transported to modern times, Diane Franklin brought both elegance and humor to the role, making her a fan favorite in this time-traveling comedy classic.
Jumping ahead to more recent years, Diane Franklin once again connected with the Amityville universe—this time portraying Louise DeFeo in The Amityville Murders (2019), a project based on real events and helmed by writer-director Daniel Farrands. This collaboration wasn’t a one-off; Diane Franklin reunited with Farrands for Ted Bundy: American Boogeyman (2021), delivering a compelling performance alongside other notable actors—including her own daughter, Olivia DeLaurentis, marking a special moment of family and career intersecting.
Looking ahead, Diane Franklin shows no signs of slowing down. She’s set to appear in Brian Farmer’s upcoming horror film Waking Nightmare, and is also involved in High Holiday, a comedy featuring the legendary Cloris Leachman. Plus, fans have even more to look forward to with a tribute book in the works celebrating the enduring cult impact of Better Off Dead—a film that, thanks in no small part to Diane Franklin, continues to inspire laughter and nostalgia decades later.
When it comes to Diane Franklin’s most acclaimed performance, fans and critics alike often point to Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure (1989) as her highest rated film. It’s no surprise that this cult classic stands out in Diane Franklin’s career—it really showcases her charm and comedic timing in a way few other roles have. Over the years, audiences have continued to celebrate her role in this beloved 1980s adventure, solidifying its place as a standout in Diane Franklin’s filmography.
On the other end of the spectrum, The Amityville Murders (2018) tends to be viewed as one of her lower-rated projects. While Diane Franklin brings her usual dedication to the role, the movie itself received mixed to negative reviews overall. Still, even in less celebrated films, Diane Franklin’s presence adds a layer of authenticity that many viewers appreciate. So, while The Amityville Murders may not be a critical favorite, it remains a part of Diane Franklin’s diverse body of work.