Lori Loughlin References College Admissions Scandal on Curb Your Enthusiasm
John Johnson/HBO
It's become common for Lori Loughlin to joke about her past these days. At the age of 59, the actress recently made an appearance as herself on HBO's Curb Your Enthusiasm on Sunday, March 10. During the episode, she made a clear reference to her role in the well-known 2019 college admissions scandal called Varsity Blues.
In the episode, Loughlin, who loves to play golf, asks Larry David for help when she is having trouble getting into exclusive country clubs following the scandal.
David, who is 76 years old, stands up for the actress with a passionate speech that is even inspired by the Gettysburg Address. Thanks to his support, Loughlin is warmly welcomed into his club.
However, when Loughlin and David play golf together, it becomes evident that she hasn't changed her ways.
She pretends to have a medical condition to park in a handicapped spot and use a golf cart, bribes the club staff to secure a better tee time, and dishonestly reports her score on the scorecard.
Executive producer Jeff Schaffer shared that the potential storyline was discussed with Lori Loughlin in mind. He mentioned that they had several ideas in mind but wanted to involve Loughlin in the decision-making process. They pitched her the general concept of the storyline, which focused on her character getting into a club and showcasing her ultra-competitive nature, even if it meant bending or breaking the rules. Once Loughlin agreed to the idea, they worked together to flesh out the script.
Lori Loughlin References College Admissions Scandal on Curb Your Enthusiasm
John Johnson/HBO
When Loughlin was contacted about the role, she enthusiastically agreed to it. The Curb team was thrilled with her performance in the end.
According to Schaffer, Loughlin was fantastic to work with. She was willing to take on any challenges they presented to her, and her contribution truly made the episode special. They were grateful that she was eager to be a part of it.
Loughlin has made a comeback to television with roles in heartwarming movies like Fall Into Winter and Blessings of Christmas, both hitting screens in 2023. She also delighted fans by reprising her beloved character, Abigail Stanton, in 2021 on Hallmark Channel's When Hope Calls, a spinoff of When Calls the Heart.
Schaffer believes that Loughlin's recent appearance on Curb Your Enthusiasm will open doors to even more exciting opportunities for her in the future.
He expressed hope that the opportunity would benefit her career. Describing her as talented and enjoyable to work with, he emphasized her comedic skills and overall greatness. He believes that showcasing her talent would lead people to recognize her abilities and appreciate her work, ultimately leading to more opportunities for her in the future.
In May 2020, Loughlin and her husband, Mossimo Giannulli, admitted guilt to participating in a fraudulent scheme related to the college admissions scandal. They confessed to paying $500,000 to secure admission for their daughters, Isabella, 25, and Olivia Jade, 24, to the University of Southern California under false pretenses, specifically as recruits for the rowing team despite their lack of experience in the sport.
Loughlin served a two-month prison sentence and was released in December 2020.
Editor's P/S:
Lori Loughlin's appearance on "Curb Your Enthusiasm" marks a significant moment in her career, demonstrating her willingness to embrace humor and self-reflection. Her portrayal of her past actions highlights the complexities of redemption and the challenges of rebuilding a reputation. While some may question the appropriateness of using her scandal for entertainment, others see it as a testament to her growth and ability to laugh at herself.
Loughlin's collaboration with the show's creators showcases her willingness to confront her past and use it as a springboard for her future. The episode not only addresses the consequences of her actions but also serves as a reminder that second chances are possible. Loughlin's performance has been praised for its authenticity and comedic timing, suggesting that she may have found a new path forward in her career. see how she balances the need for redemption with the desire to showcase her comedic abilities and entertain audiences.