5 Surprising Ventures Of Catherine Heigl: From Hollywood Rom-Com Queen To Entrepreneur And Artist In 2025

The latest updates on Catherine Heigl in late 2024 and heading into 2025 reveal a fascinating professional pivot, moving beyond her iconic roles in *Grey's Anatomy* and romantic comedies to embrace new identities as a producer, entrepreneur, and visual artist. The actress, famous for playing Dr. Izzie Stevens and rom-com leads, has successfully transitioned into a multi-hyphenate career, focusing on passion projects that align with her personal life and advocacy work, proving that her career resurgence post-*Firefly Lane* is just the beginning of her next chapter. The conclusion of the beloved Netflix series *Firefly Lane*, where Heigl starred as Tully Hart, marked the end of a major chapter, but it simultaneously opened the door for a wave of fresh, diverse projects. As of December 2025, Heigl is deeply involved in new film projects, a surprising art venture with her husband, and the continued expansion of her successful animal wellness brand, showcasing a dedication to creative and business pursuits that offer a deeper look into the star's personal passions.

Catherine Heigl: Complete Biography and Career Milestones

Katherine Marie Heigl, known professionally as Catherine Heigl, has forged a distinctive path in Hollywood, balancing early modeling success with a career defined by both television drama and blockbuster romantic comedy.

• Full Name: Katherine Marie Heigl
• Date of Birth: November 24, 1978
• Place of Birth: Washington, D.C., U.S.
• Spouse: Josh Kelley (m. 2007)
• Children: Three (Naleigh, Adalaide, and Joshua Jr.)
• Early Career: Began as a child model with Wilhelmina Models at age nine.
• Breakthrough Role (Film): *Knocked Up* (2007)
• Breakthrough Role (TV): Dr. Izzie Stevens on *Grey's Anatomy* (2005–2010), winning an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series in 2007.
• Notable Filmography: *Knocked Up*, *27 Dresses*, *The Ugly Truth*, *Life As We Know It*.
• Recent TV Success: Tully Hart on the critically acclaimed Netflix drama *Firefly Lane* (2021–2023).
• Current Ventures: Founder of Badlands Ranch (premium dog food/treats) and New Lane Road Mercantile (home goods/pet supplies), and a visual artist.

Heigl's career has been characterized by both immense popularity and periods of intense media scrutiny, particularly following her departure from *Grey's Anatomy* and comments about *Knocked Up*. However, her recent work, especially as an executive producer and lead in *Firefly Lane*, cemented her return to major television success and allowed her to take control of her narrative.

The New Era: Upcoming Films and The End of Firefly Lane

After the emotional conclusion of *Firefly Lane*, which wrapped up its final season, Heigl has strategically shifted her focus back to the big screen and new television development. The series, which saw Heigl star alongside Sarah Chalke, was a massive hit for Netflix, successfully adapting Kristin Hannah's novel and giving Heigl a powerful, complex character to portray. While fans were disappointed there would be no *Firefly Lane* season 3, the final chapter provided a definitive and moving end to the decades-long friendship of Tully and Kate. Heigl's upcoming film slate is already generating buzz, highlighting a move towards more diverse and challenging roles outside of the romantic comedy genre she was once synonymous with.

Confirmed Upcoming Film Projects (2025 and Beyond)

One of the most anticipated projects is the musical romantic comedy *That's Amore!*, where Heigl will star opposite John Travolta. The film, directed by Nick Vallelonga, is described as a rom-com, signaling a return to a genre where she has historically excelled, but with a new, musical twist. Another project, *Poise*, is slated for a 2025 release and is already being discussed as a potential awards contender. This dark comedy is expected to offer Heigl a role that is both complex and demanding, showcasing her range far beyond the comedic timing of films like *27 Dresses* or *The Ugly Truth*. She is also attached to a project titled *That Night* (TBA).

From Hollywood Star to Entrepreneur and Visual Artist

The most significant and surprising development in Catherine Heigl’s recent life is her successful transformation into a dedicated entrepreneur and a recognized visual artist. This pivot reflects a deeper commitment to her passions, particularly animal advocacy and creative expression outside of acting.

The Success of Badlands Ranch

Heigl's move into the pet wellness space is a direct reflection of her lifelong passion for animal welfare. She is the founder of Badlands Ranch, a premium line of dog food and treats. The brand is not merely an endorsement; Heigl is deeply involved in the product formulations, branding, and the corporate giving program, which supports animals in need. The company's mission is closely tied to the Jason Debus Heigl Foundation, which was co-founded by Heigl and her mother, Nancy Heigl, in honor of her late brother. Badlands Ranch and her other business, New Lane Road Mercantile (which sells home goods and pet supplies), demonstrate her commitment to conscious consumerism and philanthropy.

A Surprising Art Exhibition: "Mountain Love Song" (2025)

In a move that caught many by surprise, Catherine Heigl is preparing for an art exhibition alongside her musician husband, Josh Kelley. The captivating showcase, titled "Mountain Love Song," is set to open on January 22nd, 2025, at Gallery MAR. The exhibition features new works by Heigl, who is described as an interdisciplinary artist and devoted collector. This artistic endeavor provides a unique and personal window into her creative life, showcasing a talent that extends beyond the screen. The event also serves a charitable purpose, raising support for animals in need.

Personal Life, Body Image, and Industry Scrutiny

Despite her career success, Heigl has always been open about the pressures of working in Hollywood. In a recent interview, she discussed the constant pressure she has faced regarding her appearance, revealing that she has been told to lose weight since she was 16 years old. She described the industry’s obsession with body image as "bizarre," providing a candid perspective on the emotional toll of maintaining a public profile. Heigl's personal life remains a central anchor. She and her husband, singer-songwriter Josh Kelley, have been married since 2007 and share three children. Their family life, often documented on social media, showcases a grounded existence on their ranch, which is far removed from the hustle of Los Angeles. The family's focus on adoption and animal rescue highlights the genuine commitment to the causes she champions through her professional ventures, ensuring that Catherine Heigl's most enduring role is that of a passionate advocate and a dedicated family woman.