Kristin Bauer Van Straten might not be a household name, but her characters sure are. From her sharp fangs in True Blood to her iconic horns as Maleficent on Once Upon a Time, she’s left an unforgettable mark on TV and film. So, what else do you know about this Wisconsin-born actress? Maybe not everything. That’s where we come in.

Kristin’s career is full of unexpected twists and turns. She didn’t start out dreaming of fame, and even once thought she might become a teacher. But life had other plans. Now, she’s best known for playing fierce, complex women who aren’t afraid to cause a little chaos. And honestly, we love her for it.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering her work, there’s plenty to unpack. From her early days in Wisconsin to her recent projects, Kristin’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and a whole lot of style. So, grab a seat and get ready to dive into the life of one of Hollywood’s most intriguing performers.

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Table of Contents

• Biography
• Personal Details
• Filmography Highlights
• Kristin’s Breakout Role in True Blood
• Return to Once Upon a Time as Maleficent
• Life Beyond Acting
• Frequently Asked Questions

Biography: From Wisconsin Roots to Hollywood Stardom

Kristin Bauer was born in Racine, Wisconsin, on November 26, 1973. Her real name at birth was Kristin Neubauer, but she later adopted her stage name after marrying Abri Van Straten in 2009. She grew up in a small Midwestern town, far from the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles, but that didn’t stop her from chasing her dreams.

After high school, she moved to New York to study acting and eventually made her way to Hollywood. It wasn’t an easy road, but she slowly built up her resume with guest spots and supporting roles. Then came her big break: playing the cunning and captivating vampire Pamela Swynford De Beaufort on HBO’s hit series True Blood.

Since then, Kristin has continued to impress audiences with her range and charisma. From villains to complex antiheroes, she’s carved out a unique space in the entertainment world. And the best part? She’s not slowing down anytime soon.

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Personal Details: A Glimpse Into Kristin’s Life Off-Screen

While Kristin keeps much of her personal life private, she’s spoken in interviews about the importance of balance. Between filming and family time, she’s always found ways to stay grounded, even as her career has taken off. Her marriage to Abri, which lasted over a decade, was a big part of that stability—until the two parted ways in 2023.

Filmography Highlights: A Career Full of Memorable Roles

Kristin has appeared in a wide range of projects over the years. Some of her most notable roles include:

• Pamela Swynford De Beaufort –True Blood (2008–2014)
• Maleficent –Once Upon a Time (2014–2017, 2023)
• Holly Golightly –Romy and Michele: High School Reunion (1997)
• Various Roles –Charmed, CSI, The Mentalist, and more

She’s also appeared in films like The Perfect Man and Perfect Stranger, showing off her comedic timing and dramatic chops alike. While she’s often typecast as a villain or femme fatale, Kristin has proven time and again that she’s capable of much more.

Kristin’s Breakout Role in True Blood

When True Blood premiered in 2008, it was a cultural phenomenon. The show brought vampires into the mainstream in a whole new way, and Kristin’s character, Pamela Swynford De Beaufort, quickly became a fan favorite. She wasn’t just a vampire—she was fierce, funny, and full of surprises.

At first, Kristin was up for the role of another character, but the producers saw something special in her. They created Pamela just for her, and the rest is history. Kristin brought a mix of vulnerability and strength to the role, making Pamela one of the most complex characters on the show.

Over the course of six seasons, fans watched Pamela grow from a rebellious fledgling into a powerful vampire in her own right. And even though the show ended years ago, fans still talk about her iconic one-liners and unforgettable moments.

Return to Once Upon a Time as Maleficent

Kristin’s casting as Maleficent in Once Upon a Time was a major moment in her career. She didn’t just play the classic Disney villain—she reimagined her, giving the character depth, nuance, and a whole lot of attitude. Her portrayal was so well received that she returned for multiple seasons, even reprising the role years later in 2023.

What made her version of Maleficent stand out? It wasn’t just the horns and the green smoke—it was the way Kristin played her with intelligence and wit. She wasn’t evil just for the sake of being evil; she had motivations, flaws, and moments of unexpected compassion.

That complexity is something Kristin has always brought to her roles. Whether it’s a centuries-old vampire or a cursed fairy, she finds the humanity in every character she plays.

Life Beyond Acting: Kristin’s Other Passions

Outside of her on-screen work, Kristin is an accomplished artist. She’s painted for years and often shares her work on social media. For her, art is a way to unwind and express herself outside of the spotlight.

She’s also been open about her personal growth over the years, especially after her divorce. In interviews, she’s talked about how life after 40 has brought new clarity and freedom. She’s focused on living authentically and embracing change, something that’s clearly influenced her career choices as well.

And let’s not forget her love for animals. Kristin has been a vocal advocate for pet adoption and has shared photos of her own furry friends online. It’s just another side of her that fans love—she’s not just a star, she’s a real person with real passions and values.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Kristin Bauer leave Once Upon a Time?

Kristin left the show temporarily after the fourth season but returned for special episodes later on. The creative team wanted to bring her back in a meaningful way, and when the timing was right, she reprised the role of Maleficent in 2023 for a special return.

Is Kristin Bauer Van Straten married?

Kristin was married to Abri Van Straten from August 1, 2009, until they separated in 2023. The couple has always kept their private life out of the spotlight, but their split was officially announced that year.

What else has Kristin Bauer Van Straten been in besides True Blood?

Besides True Blood and Once Upon a Time, Kristin has appeared in films like Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion, Perfect Stranger, and The Perfect Man. She’s also had guest roles on shows like CSI, Charmed, and The Mentalist.

Learn more about Kristin Bauer Van Straten’s filmography on IMDb.

Learn more about other actors like Kristin on our site.