Fans of the very popular 1980’s sitcom, “Family Ties,” were happy to see the return of Justine Bateman on a hit show. On Friday night’s, “Men in Trees,” Justine Bateman plays Lynn, the high school sweetheart of Jack. Once upon a time, Lynn and Jack were each other’s first true loves, but life’s circumstances caused Lynn to leave Elmo, Alaska and leave Jack with a broken heart. Now she’s back, and the two are engaged. This leaves Anne Heche’s character, Marin Frist trying to pick up the pieces of her short but meaningful affair with Jack. On “Men In Trees,” Justine Bateman plays her role so naturally and honestly, you can’t help but like her, even if you are rooting for Jack and Marin to find their way back to each other. Here are some interesting and fun facts on the talented actress, Justine Bateman.
Valentine Baby. The world was blessed with this talented actress on February 19, 1966.
New York Roots. Though the family later moved to California, Justine Bateman made her arrival to this world in Rye, New York.
Acting Was In Her Blood. Justine Bateman’s father made his career in the world of acting. Kent Bateman supported his family as an acting coach and also a writer and producer for television and film. The acting bug also caught by her brother, Jason Bateman of “Arrested Development ” fame. In the eighties, Jason Bateman starred on the television sitcom, “Valerie’s Family,” with television legend Valerie Harper. No doubt, Kent Bateman was thrilled to be able to share his love for acting with his two talented and successful children.
Quite The Television Resume. Justine Bateman’s most notable contribution to television history was her role as Mallory Keaton on “Family Ties.” Justine Bateman played the scholastically challenged middle sister with the heart of gold opposite Michael J. Fox and Meredith Baxter Birney. Justine Bateman’s portrayal of Mallory Keaton was the perfect balance to Michael J Fox’s Republican, money obsessed character, Alex Keaton. Many episodes centered around the differences of these two siblings. Through all the challenges, the comedy and undeniable love between the members of the Keaton clan made this television show must see TV in the 80’s. Besides “Family Ties,” Justine Bateman also hosted an episode of “Saturday Night Live” in 1988. This is truly a testament to Justine Bateman’s success in the 1980’s, as only the hottest and most popular stars of the time are invited to host the Saturday night variety show.
Hung Out With The Pretty Woman. Also in 1988, Justine Bateman scored the lead role in the major motion picture, “Satisfaction.” Justine played the lead singer and leader of an all girl rock band that also included soon to be major motion picture star, Julia Roberts. Though this cinematic production may not have won an Oscar, it was a fun and lighthearted movie that also showcased Justine Bateman’s talent as a singer.
Personal Struggle. In an extremely candid interview with TV Guide in 1996, Justine Bateman revealed that she struggled with an eating disorder during most of the run of “Family Ties.” Long hours of working on the set and Hollywood’s pressure to be thin can be a toxic combination to a young working actress. Thankfully, Justine managed to overcome her challenges and returned to a healthy weight and peaceful soul. Justine Bateman credits the introduction of Christianity into her life as her saving grace.
Real Life Imitates Art. Justine Bateman juggles family life and her acting career with another job as an owner of a fashion design company. On “Family Ties,” Justine Bateman’s character, Mallory Keaton’s passion was fashion design.
Happy Little Family. After a long day on the set of “Men In Trees,” Justine Bateman returns home to her husband, Mark and their two children, Duke and Olivia.
After a long break from television, Justine Bateman is gaining legions of new fans with her role on “Men In Trees.” The character of street smart Lynn is a far cry from the ditsy but lovable Mallory Keaton most television fans know Justine Bateman has. Perhaps this is appropriate for this seasoned and experienced actress. After enjoying dizzying popularity in the 1980’s and suffering some of the known pitfalls, Justine Bateman is older, wiser and is a loving wife and mother. Justine Bateman has come full circle personally and professionally.
Source: www.wikipedia.org
