Part One
Kristen Bell began her career on the stage, but she is best know for her television and film roles. She made her Broadway debut in 2001 at the age of of 21 as Becky Thatcher in the musical comedy, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. She also appeared in the Broadway revival of The Crucible (2002) which also starred Liam Neeson, Angela Bettis, and Laura Linney. Her feature film debut was David Mamet’s Spartan (2004), and she also appeared in the Lifetime television drama, Gracie’s Choice (2004).
Kristen Bell in Spartan (2004)
Then, moving to Los Angeles she appeared in a number of small TV and film parts. Her big break came with the role of Veronica Mars (2004), in Rob Thomas’ teen noir. The show featured Bell as a 17 year old (Bell was then 24) high school student who assisted her father as a part time sleuth for his detective agency.
The series was a huge hit with both viewers and critics; Stephen King and Joss Whedon were among its biggest fans. Bell’s performance garnered her a Saturn Award for Best Actress on Television. She should have won an Emmy a few times over.
Kristen Bell in Veronica Mars (2004)
After the cancellation of Veronica Mars according to Vanity Fair, Bell met actors Zachary Quinta and Masi Oka, and writers from the show at the San Diego Comic Con. During a train ride back to Los Angeles, Bell said that she’d would be interested in being on Heroes. The writers then said that if she, “…ever wanted to come on Heroes, give us a call.” Bel’s response was that she’d “love to”.
Kristen Bell & Hayden Panetiere in Heroes (2007)
Bell went on to portray Elle Bishop on Heroes. Her character was a “mysterious young lady…with awesome power.” (sic). She first appeared as Elle in an October 2007 episode and continued for 12 episodes in the series. While she was working on Veronica Mars, she also made Reefer Madness: The Movie Musical (2005) and the horror film Pulse (2006).
Her guest appearances on Party Down were perfect to further showcase her comedic skills. Working with a cast that include Martin Starr, Ken Marino & Lizzy Kaplan she was in good company and added another dimension to the episodes in which she appeared.
Ken Marino, Kristen Bell, George Takei, & Martin Starr in Party Down (2009)
The cancellation of Veronica Mars coincided with the filming of Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008). Bell was blindsided when she receive an e-mail that the show was cancelled, but she moved forward giving an exceptional performance in the film.
Kristen Bell, Russel Brand & Jason Segel in Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008)
Her ability to play comedy as well as drama was quickly evident, and she went on to explore this ability in Couples Retreat (2009), Fanboys (2009), You Again (2010), The Boss (2016), Bad Moms (2016), and A Bad Moms Christmas (2017).
NEXT: 2010 to the Present
Facts, Rumors, & Hearsay
VERONICA MARS
Paul Rudd was originally considered to play Vinnie Van Lowe.
Despite being dead for the entire run of the show, Lilly Kane (Amanda Seyfried) makes an appearance in some way in each of the first three Season Finales.
Amanda Seyfried had auditioned for the role of Veronica Mars