Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · August 19, 2025 · Entertainment

From Playboy to Primetime: Tricia Helfer's Journey Through Hollywood

Tricia Helfer was one of the hottest stars working in Hollywood 20 years ago. The 51-year-old blonde bombshell from Canada was a top runway model before she landed on the hit TV show Battlestar Galactica from 2004 until 2009

Scandalous Secrets and Sensational Style: Tricia Helfer's Rise to Fame

In a bygone era of Hollywood glamour, Tricia Helfer was the undisputed queen bee. This 51-year-old blonde bombshell from Canada sizzled on screen as one of the most iconic sexpots of her generation. With a career spanning over two decades, Helfer has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. But what's behind this ravishing redhead's enduring allure?

Born in rural Donalda, Alberta, Canada, Tricia was discovered by a modeling agency scout while waiting in line at a movie theater – talk about a Cinderella story! At just 17, she began her modeling career after winning the prestigious Ford Models' Supermodel of the World contest in 1992. The rest, as they say, is history.

Helfer's ascent to stardom was meteoric. She strutted down runways for top designers like Christian Dior, Givenchy, and Dolce & Gabbana, worked with fashion powerhouses like Ralph Lauren, Versace, Chanel, and Giorgio Armani, and graced the covers of Elle, Cosmopolitan, Vogue, Maxim, Stuff, and Playboy – a trifecta of sexy sophistication.

But Helfer's talents extended far beyond the catwalk. She made her acting debut in 2002 with small roles on TV shows like Jeremiah and CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, before landing her breakout role as Number Six in the critically acclaimed science fiction series Battlestar Galactica (2004-2009). Her sultry portrayal of the humanoid sexpot cemented her status as a Hollywood siren.

In addition to her iconic turn as Number Six, Helfer has appeared in a slew of films and TV shows, including Lucifer, Van Helsing, Step Up, Bombshell, Ascension, Suits, Two And A Half Men, Resonance, Human Target, The Spectacular Spider-Man, Dark Blue, Lie to Me, No Ordinary Family, Franklin & Bash, Scent of the Missing, Mistletoe Over Manhattan, The Firm, Criminal Minds, and Husbands. Whew!

She did Playboy in 2007

But behind the glamour and glitz lies a complicated love life. In 2003, Helfer tied the knot with lawyer Jonathan Marshall, but their marriage was marked by turmoil. The couple separated in May 2017, with Tricia filing for divorce citing irreconcilable differences just months later. The divorce was finally settled in 2019.

In a new chapter of her life, Helfer purchased a stunning $1.98 million mansion in the Los Angeles neighborhood of Sherman Oaks in December 2018. The five-bedroom, four-and-a-half bathroom estate boasts over 3,700 square feet of living space and boasts an array of luxurious amenities – including a "wine cave" under the stairs, a spacious kitchen, and an open floor plan.

However, it's the property's unique touches that truly set it apart. A massive walk-in closet doubles as a dressing room, while the master bath features both a deep soaker tub and a stunning view of the neighborhood. With its sleek, modern design, Helfer's new home is the epitome of Los Angeles luxury.

Seen in lingerie on the runway; she worked for Ralph Lauren and Vogue magazine

As for her personal style, Helfer has always been known for pushing boundaries. In a recent appearance at the Los Angeles premiere of Primitive War, she rocked a daring white bra with a suit – proving that even in your 50s, you can still bring the heat!

Throughout her career, Tricia Helfer has proven herself to be a talented actress, model, and entrepreneur. With her quick wit, sharp tongue, and undeniable sex appeal, it's no wonder she remains one of Hollywood's most beloved bombshells.

Helfer played Farrah Fawcett, far right, in Behind the Camera: The Unauthorized Story of Charlie's Angels in 2004. Also seen are Christina Chambers and Lauren Stamile

In 2003, Helfer married Jonathan Marshall, a lawyer, but they separated in May 2017 and Helfer filed for divorce in January 2018, citing irreconcilable differences. The divorce was settled in 2019. Seen in 2007

On Monday evening the actress proved she still looks sensational as she wore a bra and suit at the Los Angeles premiere of Primitive War at the Hollywood American Legion