As an actor, Lara fits the stereotypical mold of an intelligent, perceptive female with a strong sense of action and adventure. Her many acting accolades include such diverse roles as in the TV show 24, Scrubs, and the movie Tomb Raider. She is also well known as an entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and author. As an actress, she has appeared in some high-end films such as the Mission: Impossible series and Tomb Raider. Her height is a definite plus, as is her nationality (American).
This leads one to wonder if it would have been possible for her to be cast as a Bond girl in Goldeneye or even a Bond villain like Blofeld? These are questions that are difficult to answer, but it is clear that she has an enviable height and nationality that fit into the world of film and TV acting. In an interesting piece on the British Nationality in Hollywood written by Bruce Sterling, it is suggested that the reason why Lara can do all of these things is due to her nationality and her height. According to Sterling, “The first time I saw her, she was playing a Chinese girl who was Bond’s love interest. She had the kind of height, which I wish I could emulate myself, and accent, which I know many actors possess, and nationality, which we Americans simply don’t have.”
This article would not be complete without mentioning the many contributions that Lara has made to the world of television through her various appearances on stage. She has received five Emmys for her work on stage and has also been nominated three times for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her work on the television show Camelot. Her other notable TV appearances include appearing on the soap opera Smallville, and recurring on an episode of Law and Order. Her other film credits include the romantic comedy Edward Scissorhands and the action film Primal Force. As with most successful actors and actresses, Lara has managed to keep in touch with her fans, and continues to be a favorite among her peers.