7 Shocking Facts About Rebecca Mader: From L'Oréal Model To The Wicked Witch Of The West (2025 Update)

Rebecca Mader, the English actress who captivated audiences as the enigmatic Charlotte Lewis in Lost and the deliciously wicked Zelena in Once Upon a Time, had a career trajectory that few fans realize began not on a soundstage, but on the catwalk. Her journey from a young woman modeling for major beauty brands in New York City to becoming one of television’s most beloved villains is a compelling story of transformation and relentless pursuit of an acting dream.

As of late 2025, Mader continues to be a prominent figure in the fan convention circuit, frequently reuniting with her former co-stars and engaging with the loyal fandoms of her two biggest shows. This article provides a deep dive into her full biography, her significant modeling career, and all the latest news concerning her professional and personal life.

Rebecca Mader: Full Biography and Profile

Rebecca Leigh Mader’s life story is a classic tale of a British actress making it big in Hollywood, but with a unique detour through the competitive world of high-fashion advertising. Her early life and career foundation are essential to understanding the star she is today.

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• Full Name: Rebecca Leigh Mader
• Date of Birth: April 24, 1977
• Age (as of 2025): 48
• Birthplace: Cambridge, England, United Kingdom
• Nationality: British
• Descent: Partial German
• Height: 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m)
• Spouse(s): Joseph Arongino (m. 2003; div. 2008); Marcus Kayne (m. 2016)
• Children: Two (Son, Milo, born November 2019; Second child, born 2021)
• Notable Roles: Charlotte Lewis (Lost), Zelena / The Wicked Witch of the West (Once Upon a Time), Tabitha Taylor (All My Children).

The Unexpected Modeling Career of Rebecca Mader

The keyword "Rebecca Mader model" is not just a footnote; it represents the crucial launching pad for her entire acting career. Before she was an actress, Mader was a working model in New York City, a role she took on to facilitate her primary goal: becoming an actress.

From Cambridge to the Catwalk: Her New York Years

After moving from her native Cambridge, England, to the United States, Mader signed with a major agency, Ford Models. Her striking features, notably her piercing green eyes and signature red hair, made her a perfect fit for beauty and commercial advertising. She has stated that she modeled for nearly eight years while simultaneously attending acting classes and auditions.

Her work in the modeling industry was far from obscure. Mader appeared in major advertising campaigns for globally recognized brands. These high-profile modeling jobs provided the financial stability and visibility she needed to pursue her true passion.

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Key Modeling Campaigns:

• L'Oréal: Featured in multiple advertisements for the global cosmetics giant.
• Colgate: Appeared in commercials for the oral hygiene brand.
• Wella Hair: Modeled for the international hair care company.

This background is vital because it explains her early appearances in film. Her first major screen credits were often uncredited or supporting roles in films like Hitch and The Devil Wears Prada, where her model looks were a natural fit for the scenes. Her transition was smooth, moving from advertising campaigns to daytime soap operas like All My Children, before landing her breakout role in Lost.

From 'Lost' to 'Once Upon a Time': Her Defining Roles

Rebecca Mader is best known for two iconic television characters, both of whom are central to the fantasy and mystery genres. These roles cemented her status as a fan-favorite actress and significantly boosted her topical authority in the sci-fi and fantasy space.

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Charlotte Lewis in Lost (2008–2009)

Mader joined the acclaimed ABC series Lost in its fourth season as Charlotte Lewis, a cultural anthropologist on a mission to the mysterious island. Charlotte was part of the freighter team, and her character was instrumental in unraveling the secrets of the Dharma Initiative and the history of the island. Her relationship with Daniel Faraday (played by Jeremy Davies) became a fan-favorite storyline, adding a layer of tragic romance to the show's complex mythology.

Zelena / The Wicked Witch of the West in Once Upon a Time (2014–2018)

Perhaps her most enduring and defining role is that of Zelena, the Wicked Witch of the West, in the fantasy series Once Upon a Time. Debuting in Season 3, Zelena was the jealous half-sister of Regina Mills (The Evil Queen, played by Lana Parrilla). Mader’s portrayal was a masterclass in blending menacing villainy with comedic timing, making the character an instant hit.

Zelena’s popularity was so immense that she was promoted to a series regular, a rare feat for a late-stage villain. Her complex arc—from pure evil to a redeemed mother and sister—allowed Mader to showcase incredible range. She is frequently cited as one of the show's most memorable characters, often appearing at fan conventions alongside co-stars Lana Parrilla and Sean Maguire (Robin Hood).

Rebecca Mader’s Latest Projects and 2025 Updates

For fans seeking the freshest information on Rebecca Mader, 2025 has proven to be a busy year, especially on the convention and reunion circuit, demonstrating her continued connection to her major fandoms.

• The "Nuked" Premiere: In August 2025, Mader attended the Los Angeles Premiere of the film Nuked at The Garland in North Hollywood. This appearance indicates her continued involvement in new film projects.
• Convention Appearances: Mader is a highly sought-after guest for major comic conventions throughout 2025. Her schedule includes appearances at the Rhode Island Comic Con, Comic Con Brussels, Dragon Con, and the Emerald City Comic Con (ECCC), often with her Once Upon a Time co-stars.
• The "OUAT" Reunion: In September 2025, a photo of Mader reuniting with Lana Parrilla and Sean Maguire went viral, delighting Once Upon a Time fans who affectionately call them the "most missed trio." This reunion underscores the strong bonds formed on the show and the enduring fan interest in the cast.

Outside of her professional life, Mader is focused on her family. She and her husband, film producer Marcus Kayne, who were married in 2016, welcomed their son Milo in late 2019 and their second child in 2021. Her social media presence often balances professional updates with glimpses into her life as a mother, connecting with fans on a more personal level.