Ricki Lake is an American actress and television host, best known for her role in the film Hairspray and for her daytime talk show, The Ricki Lake Show. Born on September 21, 1968, in Flushing, New York, she gained fame in the early 1990s and became a prominent figure in popular culture. In addition to her acting career, Lake has been involved in various projects, including documentaries and reality television. She has also focused on issues such as body positivity and mental health, using her platform to advocate for change and support others in their journeys.