Petty is the eldest of three children born to a Pentecostal minister. Her father’s vocation led the family to travel extensively across the United States during her childhood. She graduated from North High School in Sioux City, Iowa, in 1981. Before pursuing acting, Petty worked as a graphic designer in Omaha, Nebraska.
Career
Petty’s acting career began with guest appearances on television series such as “The Twilight Zone” (1986) and “Miami Vice” (1987). She gained significant attention for her role as Tyler Ann Endicott in the 1991 action film “Point Break,” starring alongside Keanu Reeves and Patrick Swayze. The following year, she portrayed Kit Keller in “A League of Their Own” (1992), a film about the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, which was both a critical and commercial success.
In 1993, Petty starred as Rae Lindley in the family drama “Free Willy,” further solidifying her status in Hollywood. She took on the titular role in “Tank Girl” (1995), a cult classic based on the British comic series, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, Petty appeared in various independent films and television series, including “The Glass Shield” (1994) and “In the Army Now” (1994).
In 2008, Petty made her directorial debut with “The Poker House,” an independent drama based on her own challenging childhood experiences. The film received critical acclaim for its raw portrayal of difficult subject matter. She later joined the cast of “Orange Is the New Black” in 2014, playing the character Lolly Whitehill, a role that earned her widespread recognition and praise.
Relationships
Petty has maintained a relatively private personal life. In the mid-1990s, she was in a relationship with fellow actor David Alan Grier. The couple was often seen together at public events but eventually parted ways. There is no public record of Petty being married or having children.
Real Estate
Details about Petty’s real estate holdings are not publicly available, as she tends to keep her personal affairs private.
Net Worth
As of 2023, Lori Petty’s net worth is estimated to be around $3 million. This wealth primarily stems from her extensive career in film and television, as well as her work as a director and screenwriter.
Age and Height
As of December 2024, Lori Petty is 61 years old. She stands at approximately 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) tall.
Other Endeavors
Beyond acting and directing, Petty is also an accomplished painter and writer, having exhibited her artwork in galleries. She is known for her dedication to animal rights and environmental causes and has been a long-time vegetarian.
Throughout her career, Lori Petty has demonstrated remarkable versatility and resilience, continually reinventing herself and taking on diverse roles across various media. Her contributions to film and television have left a lasting impact, and she remains a respected figure in the entertainment industry.