Celebrity Info
Kristin Bauer van Straten was an American actress who made a name for herself playing captivating, darkly enchanting characters on television. You might best recognize Kristin Bauer van Straten from her standout performances as the elegant yet menacing vampire Pamela Swynford De Beaufort in HBO’s “True Blood,” which aired from 2008 to 2014. Later on, fans saw Kristin Bauer van Straten bring another iconic villain to life—Maleficent, the infamous evil fairy—on ABC’s fantasy hit “Once Upon a Time,” starting in 2011.
Born Kristin Neubauer on November 26, 1966, in Racine, Wisconsin, Kristin Bauer van Straten grew up in a quiet rural setting where she developed a love for horses and even had a fascination with firearms. But alongside that rugged upbringing, she also nurtured a deep appreciation for art and creativity. She pursued fine arts in college, but eventually, Kristin Bauer van Straten felt drawn toward acting and decided to make the bold move to Los Angeles to chase her dreams.
Like many aspiring actors, Kristin Bauer van Straten faced tough times early on. For several years, she took on all kinds of odd jobs—working as a window washer, a nanny, and more—just to get by while auditioning. Her big break came when she landed a starring role as one of the flight attendants on the short-lived Fox series “The Crew” (1995–1996). Though the show didn’t last long, it opened doors. Over the years, Kristin Bauer van Straten kept building her resume with guest appearances on various TV shows and films. One particularly memorable role was as Gillian, the woman with “man hands,” whom Jerry dates in a cringe-worthy episode of “Seinfeld.”
Beyond her work in front of the camera, Kristin Bauer van Straten has always been passionate about animal welfare. She actively supported animal rights and conservation causes, welcoming numerous stray animals into her own home. And despite her busy acting career, Kristin Bauer van Straten never let go of her artistic roots—she continued to paint and draw throughout her life.
It was her portrayal of the cool, calculating Pamela in “True Blood” that truly cemented Kristin Bauer van Straten’s place in pop culture. The role showcased her ability to blend beauty with danger, making her a fan favorite. Then, stepping into the enchanted world of “Once Upon a Time,” Kristin Bauer van Straten once again proved her talent for reimagining legendary figures with depth and style. Through it all, Kristin Bauer van Straten remained a unique presence in Hollywood—one who balanced strength, sensitivity, and artistry both on and off the screen.
When it comes to Kristin Bauer’s filmography, there are definitely some standout moments—and a few that didn’t quite hit the mark. Among her body of work, Kristin Bauer’s highest rated project is The Boy Behind the Door (2020), which received strong acclaim and really showcased her depth as an actress. On the other end of the spectrum, Kristin Bauer’s lowest rated film is Dancing at the Blue Iguana (2000), a movie that, while bold in its themes, didn’t resonate as well with critics or audiences. Still, it’s interesting to see the range Kristin Bauer has explored throughout her career—from intense thrillers to more controversial dramas. Kristin Bauer definitely isn’t afraid to take on challenging roles, and that variety speaks volumes about her dedication to the craft.
25
Iraq
18
