Alexandra Paul: Age, Date of Birth & other info
Alexandra Elizabeth Paul, born on July 29, 1963, is an American actress, activist, health coach, and former model known for her beauty, talent, and unwavering dedication to social causes. Her most prominent role was as Lt. Stephanie Holden in the iconic TV series “Baywatch,” but Alexandra’s life story goes far beyond her on-screen fame.
- Age: 61 years
- Date of Birth: July 29, 1963
- Birth Place: New York City
- Weight: 132.5 pounds (60 kg)
- Height: 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 meters)
- Net Worth: $4 million
Early Life and Family Background
Alexandra Paul was born in New York City to parents Sarah Paul, an English social worker, and Mark Paul, an American investment banker. Raised in the small town of Cornwall, Connecticut, Alexandra grew up alongside her twin sister, Caroline Paul, and her younger brother, Jonathan Paul. Her upbringing was a blend of liberal and conservative ideals, with her mother leaning left politically and her father being more traditional.
Siblings
- Caroline Paul, Alexandra’s identical twin, is a former firefighter and a best-selling author. Openly gay, Caroline’s life inspired Alexandra to take on LGBTQ+ advocacy roles.
- Jonathan Paul, her younger brother, is an environmental activist and wildland firefighter. He has also been involved in animal rights activism, mirroring Alexandra’s own work in the field.
The Paul family fostered a culture of curiosity, resilience, and public service, traits that shaped Alexandra’s future path.
Education and Early Challenges
Alexandra attended the Cornwall Consolidated School before enrolling at the prestigious Groton School in Massachusetts. During her teenage years, Alexandra underwent two major abdominal surgeries to remove choledochal cysts, which left a visible scar. This experience gave her a deep appreciation for health and resilience.
Although accepted to Stanford University, Alexandra opted to follow her passion for acting and moved to New York City to pursue a career in modeling and acting.
Career in Acting
Early Roles
Alexandra began her career as a model in New York, but it wasn’t long before Hollywood called. She landed her first significant film role in John Carpenter’s horror classic “Christine” (1983), where she portrayed Leigh Cabot, a high school student caught up in supernatural events surrounding a possessed car.
She quickly gained recognition for her performances and appeared in a series of notable films, including:
- “Just the Way You Are” (1984) – A romantic comedy where she played a young woman learning to embrace herself.
- “American Flyers” (1985) – A drama about competitive cycling, where Alexandra starred alongside Kevin Costner.
- “Dragnet” (1987) – A comedy co-starring Tom Hanks and Dan Aykroyd.
- “8 Million Ways to Die” (1986) – A crime thriller featuring Jeff Bridges.
Breakthrough Role on “Baywatch”
In 1992, Alexandra joined the cast of “Baywatch” as Lt. Stephanie Holden, a strong, intelligent, and compassionate lifeguard who became one of the show’s most beloved characters. Alexandra’s role in “Baywatch” not only made her a household name but also allowed her to showcase her physical fitness and acting range.She appeared on “Baywatch” for five seasons, from 1992 to 1997, making her a core part of the show’s success. Her portrayal of Stephanie was groundbreaking at the time, presenting a female character who was both authoritative and relatable.
Later Career
Post-“Baywatch,” Alexandra appeared in a mix of television movies and independent films. She has starred in more than 100 projects, including:
- Lifetime films such as “Demons from Her Past” and “Lies and Deception.”
- Roles in science fiction and disaster films, including “Firequake” and “The Bunker.”
She has also been proud to portray LGBTQ+ characters in four films, honoring her sister’s identity.
Activism and Advocacy
Alexandra Paul’s activism began early in her life, and she has consistently used her platform to advocate for causes close to her heart.
Environmental Activism
Alexandra is deeply committed to environmental protection. She protested nuclear testing at the Nevada Test Site for over a decade and has supported electric vehicles since the early 2000s. In 2005, she was arrested for protesting the destruction of GM’s EV1 electric cars, an act of civil disobedience that garnered national attention.
Animal Rights
An outspoken animal rights advocate, Alexandra is a vegan and has participated in several high-profile animal rescues. In 2023, she was acquitted after being charged for rescuing a chicken from a Foster Farms slaughterhouse truck. Her activism includes “open rescues,” where she enters factory farms to save animals from inhumane conditions.
LGBTQ+ Advocacy
Inspired by her twin sister, Alexandra has championed LGBTQ+ rights throughout her life. She frequently takes on roles that highlight these themes, and she supports organizations working toward equality.
Peace Advocacy
Alexandra’s peace activism includes protests against the Iraq War in 2003, during which she was arrested and spent time in detention. Her commitment to nonviolent protest has been a hallmark of her activist work.
Personal Life
Marriage
In 2000, Alexandra married Ian Murray, a triathlon coach. The couple shares a deep love for fitness and outdoor activities. They live in Southern California and have been together since 1995.
Health and Fitness
Alexandra’s commitment to healthy living is evident in her personal and professional life. A long-time athlete, she:
- Completed the Hawaii Ironman Triathlon in 1997.
- Ran the Boston Marathon in 2000.
- Participated in long-distance swims, such as the 12.5-mile Swim Around Key West and the 14-mile Reto Acapulco swim.
In 2015, Alexandra became a certified health coach and ran a wellness coaching business for seven years, helping clients achieve their health goals.
Diet
Alexandra became a vegetarian at 14 after reading “Diet for a Small Planet” by Frances Moore Lappé. She transitioned to veganism in 2010 and advocates for plant-based diets as a way to promote both personal health and environmental sustainability.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Alexandra Paul’s net worth is estimated to be $4 million. Her wealth primarily comes from her long and successful career in acting, coupled with her work as a health coach. Despite her financial success, Alexandra remains focused on her activism and philanthropic efforts, dedicating much of her time and resources to making the world a better place.
Legacy and Influence
Alexandra Paul’s life is a testament to her ability to balance a high-profile entertainment career with meaningful activism. Whether through her roles in iconic films and TV series or her tireless work for social and environmental justice, Alexandra continues to inspire others to live with purpose and integrity.Her journey—from a young girl in Cornwall, Connecticut, to a global advocate for change—underscores the power of passion and perseverance. As an actress, activist, athlete, and health coach, Alexandra has consistently demonstrated that one can use their platform to create a lasting impact.
Conclusion
Alexandra Paul is more than just a celebrated actress; she is a role model for those seeking to combine their passions with their principles. From her iconic role on “Baywatch” to her courageous activism for animals, the environment, and social justice, Alexandra exemplifies how to live a life of purpose and authenticity.With a career spanning decades and a dedication to causes that matter, Alexandra Paul remains a beloved and influential figure in Hollywood and beyond. Her story serves as an inspiration for those who wish to leave a positive mark on the world.
