Lauren Cohan’s transformation into the fierce Maggie Greene on The Walking Dead has cemented her as a television icon. From her early days growing up in two countries to her breakout roles in supernatural dramas and action films, Cohan’s rise to fame showcases her versatility and resilience as an actress. Here’s a closer look at her evolution.
#1. A Childhood Between Two Countries
Lauren Cohan was born in Philadelphia in January 1982 but spent her early years in New Jersey. At 13, she moved to Surrey, England, with her family, blending her American roots with a British upbringing. “Living in two countries shaped how I see the world,” she has said. Cohan embraced her multicultural background, even converting to Judaism at age five when her mother remarried.
In England, Cohan pursued her education at King’s Alfred College (now the University of Winchester), earning a Bachelor of Arts in Drama and English Literature. During her studies, she co-founded a theater company, sparking her passion for acting.
#2. Breaking into Film with Comedy and Charm
Cohan made her film debut in 2005 with a small role in Casanova alongside Heath Ledger. Her first major role came in Van Wilder: The Rise of Taj (2006), where she played Charlotte Higginson, the charming love interest. The comedy showcased her on-screen charisma, setting the stage for future leading roles.
#3. A Supernatural Start on TV
In 2007, Cohan joined the CW’s Supernatural as Bela Talbot, a crafty con artist dealing in supernatural artifacts. Bela’s moral complexity and tragic backstory, including a deal with a demon to avenge her abusive father, made her a memorable character despite her short-lived arc.
Reflecting on the role, Cohan shared, “Supernatural gave me my first real taste of a fanbase, and it was incredible.”
#4. Sinking Her Teeth into The Vampire Diaries
Cohan continued her run on supernatural dramas with a role in The Vampire Diaries. She portrayed Rose-Marie, a centuries-old vampire entangled with the show’s central characters. Rose’s doomed romance with Damon Salvatore (Ian Somerhalder) and her tragic death added emotional weight to the show’s narrative.
#5. Villainous Turns in Film and TV
Cohan embraced darker roles, including September Jones in Death Race 2 (2010), a manipulative host in a dystopian world. She also played Vivian Volkoff in NBC’s Chuck, the criminal mastermind daughter of a dangerous adversary. “Playing characters with layers and contradictions is what I live for,” Cohan explained.
#6. Becoming Maggie Greene on The Walking Dead
Cohan joined AMC’s The Walking Dead in 2011 as Maggie Greene, a determined survivor living on a farm with her family. Over time, Maggie grew into a fearless leader, enduring personal tragedies, including the brutal death of her husband, Glenn.
“Maggie’s journey is one of resilience and growth,” Cohan remarked. “She’s taught me so much about strength.”
Her portrayal earned her widespread acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Cohan’s tenure on the show spans over a hundred episodes, with her character evolving from a sheltered farmer’s daughter to a hardened leader. After a brief hiatus, Cohan returned as a series regular in Season 10, with her storyline continuing in the show’s final season.
#7. What’s Next for Lauren Cohan?
Cohan’s dedication to her craft and her ability to bring depth to her characters ensure her legacy in television. As The Walking Dead draws to a close, fans eagerly anticipate what’s next for the actress who brought Maggie Greene to life.
“I’m always looking for roles that challenge me,” she said. “The ones that scare me a little are usually the ones worth pursuing.”
Lauren Cohan’s transformation from a drama student in England to a household name on a global hit is a testament to her talent and determination. As her story continues, so does her impact on audiences worldwide.
