When actress Laura Leighton stepped into her first major role, she quickly became a household name for millions of viewers during the golden era of 1990s primetime soaps. It was Laura Leighton’s portrayal of the cunning and charismatic Sydney Andrews on Melrose Place (Fox, 1992–99) that truly launched her into the spotlight. Not only did the show become one of the most-watched series of its time, but it also played a pivotal role in Laura Leighton’s personal life—she met her future husband, co-star Doug Savant, right there on set.
Even after saying goodbye to her iconic Melrose address, Laura Leighton stayed connected with the world of glossy nighttime drama, thanks in part to her close relationship with legendary producer Aaron Spelling. He brought her back into the fold with guest appearances on another hit series, Beverly Hills, 90210 (Fox, 1990–2000), further cementing her presence in the TV landscape.
Over the following years, Laura Leighton continued building a diverse body of work. She took on roles in modest feature films like the romantic comedy Seven Girlfriends (1999), and explored made-for-TV territory with projects such as the tense thriller A Deadly Encounter (Lifetime, 2004) and the heartfelt family drama Daniel’s Daughter (Hallmark, 2008). Each role showcased Laura Leighton’s range and enduring appeal.
She briefly revisited her roots with a short stint on the rebooted version of Melrose Place (The CW, 2009–2010), though the series didn’t find the same success as its predecessor. Still, Laura Leighton wasn’t out of the spotlight for long. She soon landed a more lasting role as the complex mother of a troubled teen in the popular mystery series Pretty Little Liars (ABC Family, 2010– ), where her blend of elegance and emotional depth resonated with a new generation of fans.
Decades after her auspicious debut, Laura Leighton continues to stand out in the world of television drama. With her signature mix of beauty, intensity, and nuanced performance, Laura Leighton remains a beloved figure—and a testament to staying power in an ever-changing industry.
When it comes to Laura Leighton’s career highlights, one film that really stands out is The Burrowers from 2008—this happens to be Laura Leighton’s highest rated movie. It received a lot of praise and showcased her talent in a compelling, atmospheric Western horror setting. On the other hand, looking back at her earlier work, Seven Girlfriends (1999) tends to be viewed as the lower point in terms of critical reception, making it Laura Leighton’s lowest rated film to date. Still, it’s interesting to see how her range as an actress has evolved over the years. Whether it’s intense dramas or romantic comedies, Laura Leighton’s performances always bring something unique to the screen. And honestly, even in her less-acclaimed roles, like in that 1999 release, there’s no denying Laura Leighton’s presence and dedication to her craft.