Who is Lexi Minetree, the star of 'Legally Blonde' prequel
What's the story
Rising Hollywood star Lexi Minetree has been announced as the new actor to portray Elle Woods in the highly anticipated Legally Blonde prequel series, Elle.
Reese Witherspoon announced this on Instagram on Thursday.
"Allow me to introduce you to the new Elle Woods! After watching so many incredible auditions for the new Elle prequel series on @PrimeVideo, we finally found our Elle," Witherspoon wrote.
Career path
Minetree's journey: From Georgia to Hollywood
A Georgia native, Minetree developed a passion for acting at an early age. She honed her skills at the University of Southern California (USC), earning dual degrees in Theater and Public Relations.
During her time at USC, Minetree both created and directed the first-ever Bachelor of Arts Senior Showcase for theater students. She continued to refine her skills at the British American Drama Academy (BADA) in London.
Acting prowess
Minetree's acting career and preparation for Elle
Minetree began her acting journey on stage, demonstrating her adaptability in plays like Noises Off, No Exit, and The Cover of Life.
She transitioned to screen acting with roles in Law & Order: SVU (2024), The Paramedic Who Stalked Me (2023), and Hot Take: Murdaugh Murders (2023).
As Minetree prepares to step into the role of Elle Woods, her skill in bringing complex characters to life and navigating intense narratives will be a valuable asset.
Series details
'Elle' series to explore Woods's high school life
The Legally Blonde prequel series, Elle, will explore Woods's teenage years.
This shift in narrative will enhance the depth of Elle's backstory while keeping the franchise's signature humor and empowerment intact.
Drawing inspiration from popular Netflix hits like Wednesday, the series aims to refresh Elle's story for a new generation and longtime fans alike.
Production will commence in March 2025.
Franchise success
'Legally Blonde' franchise's enduring popularity
The Legally Blonde franchise has influenced pop culture heavily since the first film was released in 2001, grossing over $140 million worldwide. It was followed by a sequel in 2003 and a direct-to-video third film in 2009.
A stage musical adaptation of the first film premiered on Broadway in 2007, securing multiple Tony and Drama Desk nominations.
The prequel series was greenlit at Amazon in May 2024 with Laura Kittrell as creator, co-showrunner, and executive producer.