What Happened To Laurie On That 70s Show? A Deep Dive Into The Character And Actress

In the world of iconic television shows, "That 70s Show" holds a special place in the hearts of fans. One character that often sparks curiosity is Laurie Forman, played by Lisa Robin Kelly. What happened to Laurie on That 70s Show is a question that has lingered long after the series concluded. This article explores Laurie’s character arc, the actress behind her, and the circumstances that surrounded her departure from the show.

Laurie Forman, the sharp-tongued sister of Eric Forman, brought a unique dynamic to the sitcom. Her character was known for her sassy one-liners and tumultuous relationships. However, the actress behind Laurie, Lisa Robin Kelly, faced a series of personal struggles that ultimately led to her departure from the show. This article aims to provide insight into both the character and the actress, delving into the events that shaped their paths.

Fans of "That 70s Show" often reminisce about the quirky characters and their relatable teenage dilemmas. However, the story of Laurie Forman is not just a tale of a fictional character; it intertwines with the real-life challenges faced by Lisa Robin Kelly. Join us as we unravel the complexities of Laurie’s character and the unfortunate events that led to Lisa's exit from the series.

Table of Contents

• 1. Laurie Forman: Character Overview
• 2. The Actress Behind Laurie: Lisa Robin Kelly
• 3. Laurie’s Role in That 70s Show
• 4. The Circumstances of Lisa’s Departure
• 5. The Impact of Laurie’s Departure on the Show
• 6. Life After That 70s Show for Lisa Robin Kelly
• 7. Remembering Lisa Robin Kelly
• 8. Conclusion: The Legacy of Laurie Forman

1. Laurie Forman: Character Overview

Laurie Forman, portrayed by Lisa Robin Kelly, is the older sister of Eric Forman, the show’s protagonist. She is characterized by her manipulative and often self-centered behavior, which serves to create tension among the group of friends. Laurie’s role in the series is crucial as she often acts as a foil to Eric and his friends, highlighting their innocence and naivety.

1.1. Character Traits

• Sarcastic and witty
• Manipulative in relationships
• Confident and self-assured

1.2. Major Storylines Involving Laurie

Throughout the series, Laurie has several significant story arcs, including her tumultuous relationship with her parents, her romantic entanglements, and her interactions with Eric's friends. These storylines contribute to her development as a complex character, showcasing both her flaws and vulnerabilities.

2. The Actress Behind Laurie: Lisa Robin Kelly

Lisa Robin Kelly was born on March 5, 1970, in Southington, Connecticut. She began her acting career with minor roles before landing her breakout role as Laurie Forman. Known for her striking looks and charismatic personality, Kelly quickly became a fan favorite.

3. Laurie’s Role in That 70s Show

Laurie Forman is a pivotal character in "That 70s Show," providing comic relief while also presenting a more mature, albeit flawed, perspective on teenage life. Her interactions with the main characters often lead to humorous and sometimes dramatic moments.

3.1. Relationship Dynamics

Laurie’s relationships with her parents and brother are marked by tension and conflict. Her parents, Red and Kitty Forman, often struggle to understand her rebellious nature. Meanwhile, her relationship with Eric is filled with sibling rivalry, showcasing a typical but exaggerated dynamic.

3.2. Impact on Other Characters

Laurie’s character serves as a catalyst for the growth of other characters. Her manipulative nature often forces Eric and his friends to confront their own insecurities and relationship dynamics, making her a significant part of the show's narrative.

4. The Circumstances of Lisa’s Departure

Lisa Robin Kelly's journey took a tragic turn in the early 2000s. After appearing in the first few seasons of "That 70s Show," she faced numerous personal challenges, including struggles with substance abuse. These issues ultimately led to her departure from the series.

4.1. Substance Abuse Struggles

Kelly’s battle with addiction became public around the time she left the show. Despite her talent and popularity, her struggles overshadowed her career, leading to her absence from the show’s later seasons.

4.2. Attempts at Recovery

After leaving the show, Lisa made several attempts to seek treatment and recover from her addiction. Unfortunately, the journey proved to be difficult, and her personal struggles continued to affect her life and career.

5. The Impact of Laurie’s Departure on the Show

Laurie’s exit from "That 70s Show" left a noticeable void in the series. Her character had been integral to the show's humor and dynamics, and without her, the storylines shifted significantly.

5.1. Changes in Character Dynamics

With Laurie gone, the focus shifted more towards the friendships among the main characters. This change altered the tone of the show, pushing it towards a more wholesome narrative as the characters navigated their teenage years without her influence.

5.2. Viewer Reactions

Fans of the show expressed disappointment over Laurie’s departure. Many felt that her character added a unique flavor to the series, and her absence was felt in subsequent seasons.

6. Life After That 70s Show for Lisa Robin Kelly

After her departure from "That 70s Show," Lisa Robin Kelly struggled to find her footing in Hollywood. She appeared in a few other projects but never regained the same level of fame as before.

6.1. Later Acting Roles

Kelly took on various roles in television and film, but these projects did not receive significant attention. Her struggle with addiction continued to overshadow her career, making it challenging for her to secure notable roles.

6.2. Personal Life Challenges

In addition to her professional struggles, Lisa faced numerous personal challenges, including legal issues and continued battles with addiction. These factors contributed to her declining health and eventual tragic passing.

7. Remembering Lisa Robin Kelly

Lisa Robin Kelly passed away on August 15, 2013, at the age of 43. Her death was a significant loss to the entertainment industry and her fans, who remembered her for her talent and charisma.

7.1. Legacy of Laurie Forman

Despite her struggles, Kelly’s portrayal of Laurie Forman remains a memorable part of "That 70s Show." Fans continue to celebrate her contributions to the series, and Laurie’s character remains an iconic figure in television history.

7.2. Tributes from Fans and Co-Stars

Following her passing, many fans and co-stars paid tribute to Lisa, sharing their favorite memories and expressing their condolences. Her impact on the show and the lives of those who knew her is still felt in the community.

8. Conclusion: The Legacy of Laurie Forman

In conclusion, the question of what happened to Laurie on That 70s Show is intertwined with the life and struggles of Lisa Robin Kelly. While her character provided humor and drama in the series, the real story reflects the challenges faced by the actress. Laurie Forman remains a beloved character, and Lisa’s legacy continues to resonate with fans. If you enjoyed this article, please