Jeanne Tripplehorn had already made a name for herself in Hollywood long before she became widely recognized by audiences. Though Jeanne Tripplehorn landed major roles in high-profile films early on, it wasn’t until her standout performance on the acclaimed HBO series Big Love (2006–2011) that Jeanne Tripplehorn truly entered the mainstream spotlight. Before stepping into the complex world of polygamy as one of three wives married to a Mormon fundamentalist, Jeanne Tripplehorn built a solid foundation through consistent work in film. Her career kicked off in a big way with a memorable supporting role in Basic Instinct (1992), a film that certainly turned heads. Then came The Firm (1993), where Jeanne Tripplehorn starred opposite Tom Cruise—this role significantly raised her profile and cemented her status as a rising talent.
However, not every project went as planned. Following her role as Kevin Costner’s wife in Waterworld (1995)—a film famously labeled one of the biggest box office flops in Hollywood history—Jeanne Tripplehorn found herself in a bit of a lull. Still, she kept working, choosing independent and character-driven films over mainstream blockbusters. This period included notable performances in dark comedies like Very Bad Things (1998) and the dual-reality drama Sliding Doors (1998), the latter showcasing a lighter, more comedic side of Jeanne Tripplehorn that hadn’t been seen much before.
Ultimately, it was her deeply layered portrayal on Big Love—a performance that balanced strength, vulnerability, and emotional depth—that brought Jeanne Tripplehorn widespread critical praise. It was this role, more than any other, that reminded both critics and fans of just how compelling Jeanne Tripplehorn could be on screen. And while she had been around for years, it felt, at last, like Jeanne Tripplehorn was getting the recognition she deserved—with even greater opportunities clearly on the horizon.
Well, when it comes to Jeanne Tripplehorn’s career highlights, one film really stands out as her highest rated—Gloria Bell from 2018. It’s definitely a standout moment in Jeanne Tripplehorn’s filmography, showcasing her talent in a powerful and moving role. On the other end of the spectrum, Jeanne Tripplehorn’s lowest rated project is the 1997 romantic drama ‘Til There Was You. While opinions may vary, it’s clear that Jeanne Tripplehorn has had a range of roles over the years, but Gloria Bell remains a fan favorite and a critical success for Jeanne Tripplehorn.