5 Surprising Facts About Donna From That '70s Show: Where Laura Prepon Is Now In 2025

Few characters define an era of television nostalgia quite like Donna Pinciotti, the fiercely independent, red-haired neighbor and love interest from the iconic sitcom That '70s Show. The actress behind the role, Laura Prepon, has successfully navigated a decades-long career, transitioning from teen star to critically acclaimed dramatic actress and, most recently, a television director. As of late 2024 and heading into 2025, Prepon’s life is defined by major professional milestones—notably a huge behind-the-scenes role on the spin-off—and significant personal changes, including a very recent and public separation from her husband, actor Ben Foster. Her journey proves that the girl from Point Place, Wisconsin, has truly grown up, taking control of her career and her life.

The enduring popularity of the character "Donna from That '70s Show" continues to drive curiosity, especially with the character's return in the Netflix sequel, That '90s Show. This article delves into the latest updates on Laura Prepon’s career, her surprising pivot to directing, her ventures into entrepreneurship and writing, and the details of her most recent personal news, offering the most current and comprehensive look at the star today.

Laura Prepon: A Quick Biography and Profile

Laura Prepon, the actress who brought Donna Pinciotti to life, has an extensive career that spans comedy, drama, and directing. Here is a detailed profile of the star:

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• Full Name: Laura Helene Prepon
• Date of Birth: March 7, 1980
• Age (as of late 2024): 44
• Birthplace: Watchung, New Jersey, U.S.
• Primary Occupations: Actress, Television Director, Author, Entrepreneur
• Years Active: 1997–present
• Spouse: Ben Foster (m. 2018; separated September 2024)
• Children: Two (a daughter, Ella, and a son)
• Breakthrough Role: Donna Pinciotti on That '70s Show (1998–2006)
• Other Major Role: Alex Vause on Orange Is the New Black (2013–2019)
• Directing Credits: Multiple episodes of Orange Is the New Black, and all eight episodes of That '90s Show Part 3 (Season 2)
• Author: Co-author of the best-selling nutrition book, The Stash Plan (2016)
• Business Venture: Founder of PrepOn Kitchen, a line of cookware and kitchen tools (exclusive to HSN)

The Evolution of Donna Pinciotti: From Basement to Director's Chair

For millions of fans, Laura Prepon will forever be recognized as Donna Pinciotti, the smart, feminist teenager who was the on-again, off-again girlfriend of Eric Forman (played by Topher Grace) for eight seasons of That '70s Show. The show, which ran from 1998 to 2006, cemented her status as a pop culture icon. Donna’s character arc—from a high school student to a radio station intern—was central to the series' narrative, alongside co-stars like Ashton Kutcher (Kelso), Mila Kunis (Jackie), and Wilmer Valderrama (Fez).

The biggest news for fans of the original series is Prepon's deep involvement in the sequel, That '90s Show, which premiered on Netflix. She returned to reprise her role as Donna, now married to Eric Forman and mother to Leia Forman, who spends the summer with her grandparents, Kitty and Red Forman (Kurtwood Smith and Debra Jo Rupp). While her on-screen appearances in the first two parts were cameos, Prepon took on a far more significant role behind the camera for the latest installment.

In a major career pivot, Laura Prepon directed all eight episodes of That '90s Show Part 3 (which will serve as the show's second season). This was a full-circle moment, allowing her to guide the next generation of actors in the same basement set where she launched her own career. Co-stars praised her for bringing her extensive experience to the set, especially her unique ability to relate to the young cast, having been in their shoes. She also shared details about recreating the iconic opening credits of the original series, a nod to the show's enduring legacy that only a director with her history could perfectly execute.

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Beyond Point Place: Directing and the Orange Is the New Black Era

While Donna Pinciotti remains her most recognizable role, Prepon’s career post-That '70s Show proved her versatility. Her second major television role was the dramatic, Emmy-winning Netflix series Orange Is the New Black (OITNB), where she played Alex Vause, the complex and manipulative ex-girlfriend of Piper Chapman. This role showcased a completely different side of her acting range, moving from network comedy to prestige streaming drama. She appeared in all seven seasons, becoming a fan-favorite character and a central figure in the series.

It was during her time on Orange Is the New Black that Prepon began to hone her skills behind the camera, a crucial step that led to her directing role on That '90s Show. She directed several episodes of the Netflix prison dramedy, demonstrating a natural aptitude for visual storytelling and working with large ensemble casts. Her directing debut was a 2011 TV movie titled Neighbros, but her work on OITNB solidified her reputation as a capable director, proving she is far more than just an actress.

This career path highlights a key theme in Prepon's professional life: a continuous search for new challenges and creative control. Her ability to successfully transition from acting to directing while simultaneously maintaining a public profile as an author and entrepreneur is a testament to her drive. Fans and critics alike see her as a powerful voice in Hollywood, especially as she uses her platform to take on leadership roles.

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Entrepreneurship, Wellness, and the Latest Personal News

Away from the sound stages and production sets, Laura Prepon has dedicated significant time to her passions for wellness and entrepreneurship. In 2016, she co-authored the book The Stash Plan: Your 21-Day Guide to Shed Weight, Feel Great, and Take Control of Your Health. The book, which became a best-seller, details a regimen focused on meal preparation and nutritional planning, reflecting her personal commitment to health and family life.

This interest in cooking and preparation naturally led to her next major business venture: PrepOn Kitchen. Launched exclusively on HSN, PrepOn Kitchen is a line of cookware and kitchen tools designed to make meal prepping easier and more efficient. This endeavor allows her to engage with her audience on a more personal level, sharing practical tips and products that align with her lifestyle brand.

In terms of personal life, Laura Prepon made headlines in late 2024 with the news of her separation from her husband, actor Ben Foster, after six years of marriage. Foster filed for divorce in Tennessee, citing "irreconcilable differences," with the date of separation listed in court documents as September 9, 2024. The couple, who married in 2018, share two young children, and reports indicate they are working toward an amicable separation and co-parenting arrangement. This recent development is the most current and significant personal update for the star, marking a new chapter in her life as she balances her demanding professional career with the responsibilities of single motherhood.

What’s Next for Laura Prepon in 2025?

As 2025 begins, Laura Prepon's focus appears to be firmly set on her roles as a director, mother, and entrepreneur. While there are no specific new acting roles announced, her success directing all eight episodes of That '90s Show Part 3 strongly positions her for future directing opportunities, both within the Netflix universe and beyond. Her work on the show, where she successfully blended nostalgia with fresh storytelling, has opened up a new and exciting avenue for her career.

Fans can also expect her to continue developing her PrepOn Kitchen brand, leveraging her platform to promote healthy living and efficient cooking. Her recent personal changes will undoubtedly shape her public narrative, but her history shows a pattern of resilience and professional growth. From her early days as Donna Pinciotti, the smart girl-next-door, to her current status as a director, author, and single mother navigating a high-profile divorce, Laura Prepon continues to evolve, proving that her story is far more complex and compelling than the character she first became famous for.