Elisabeth Rohm, best known for her role as Assistant District Attorney Serena Southerlyn on the popular TV series Law & Order, has recently celebrated her 50th birthday. The actress, who has also appeared in movies like Bombshell, Joy and American Hustle, says she feels more confident and happy than ever at this stage of her life.
“I think turning 50 is a milestone that you should embrace and celebrate,” Elisabeth tells Closer. “It’s not something to be afraid of or ashamed of. It’s a sign of wisdom, experience and maturity. I feel more comfortable in my own skin, more grateful for what I have, and more excited for what’s ahead.”
How Elisabeth stays fit and healthy
Elisabeth, who is also a published author and a director, says she takes good care of her physical and mental health by following a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and meditating daily. She also credits her 13-year-old daughter Easton, whom she shares with her ex-fiancé Ron Anthony Wooster, for keeping her young and motivated.
“My daughter is my biggest inspiration and joy. She’s such a smart, funny and kind person. She challenges me to be a better mother, a better human being, and a better artist. She also makes me laugh a lot, which is very important for staying youthful,” Elisabeth gushes.
The actress reveals that she enjoys spending quality time with her daughter, doing activities like hiking, biking, cooking, reading and watching movies together. She also says that they have a very close and honest relationship, and that they talk about everything.
“I think it’s vital to have open communication with your children, especially as they grow older and face more challenges and pressures. I want her to know that she can always come to me for advice, support or just a hug. I also want to teach her to be confident, independent and compassionate,” Elisabeth says.
How Elisabeth balances her career and personal life
Elisabeth admits that juggling her busy career and her personal life is not always easy, but she tries to make the best of it. She says she loves her work as an actress and a director, and that she is always looking for new opportunities and challenges.
“I love telling stories that matter, that touch people’s hearts and minds, that make them think and feel. I love working with talented and passionate people who share my vision. I love being creative and expressive,” Elisabeth says.
She adds that she is very proud of her latest project, a Lifetime movie called Girl in the Basement, which she directed in 2021. The movie is based on the true story of Elisabeth Fritzl, who was held captive by her father in a basement for 24 years.
“It was a very intense and emotional experience to direct this movie. It’s a very dark and disturbing story, but also a very powerful and inspiring one. It’s about survival, resilience and hope. It’s about finding your voice and your freedom,” Elisabeth says.
She also says that she is open to returning to Law & Order someday, if the opportunity arises. She says she has fond memories of working on the show for four seasons, from 2001 to 2005.
“I love this show. I love Dick Wolf and the whole Wolf Entertainment camp. And I loved playing Serena Southerlyn. It’s smart TV; it’s responsible TV. It’s also ripped from the headlines and all of that. But I really, really loved my years on Law & Order, so I would absolutely consider doing that again,” Elisabeth says.
Elisabeth says that she tries to balance her work commitments with her personal life by being organized, flexible and realistic. She says she has learned to prioritize what matters most to her, and to say no to things that don’t serve her well.
“I think it’s important to have boundaries and to respect your own time and energy. You can’t do everything or please everyone. You have to focus on what makes you happy and fulfilled. And you have to make time for yourself, for your family and friends, for your hobbies and passions,” Elisabeth says.
She also says that she has learned to embrace change and uncertainty as part of life, and to trust that everything will work out for the best.
“I think one of the benefits of turning 50 is that you have more perspective on life. You realize that nothing is permanent or perfect. You learn to appreciate what you have, while being open to new possibilities. You learn to let go of what you can’t control, while taking action on what you can. You learn to live in the present moment, while having faith in the future,” Elisabeth says.