Milla Jovovich
Model Beginnings: Jovovich started modeling at nine years old, and got her big break at the ripe old age of 11, when photographed Gene Lemuel showed her pictures to Herb Ritts. Ritts immediately booked her for the cover of Lei (photo at left) and since then her career has been one upward climb, including hundreds of covers and beauty and fashion campaigns.
Big Acting Break: Jovovich dabbled in acting early on, appearing in a few made-for-tv-movies and in small roles on television series. She caught Hollywood’s attention with the lead role in 1991′s Return to Blue Lagoon (sparking comparisons between her and Brooke Shields) and with a bit part in 1993′s Dazed and Confused but it wasn’t until her unforgettable role, six years later, in Fifth Element that she was finally taken seriously as an actress. She’s gone on to appear in several other successful movies, including the lead in Resident Evil and (our fave) Zoolander.
The Verdict: Jovovich may be a respected actress now, but she received mixed reviews when she first came onto the scene, even being nominated for “Worst Actress” at the Razzie Awards–twice! However as a successful model, actress and singer, we think it’s safe to say Jovovich gets the last laugh.