Leilani Sarelle was born on September 28, 1966, in Los Angeles County, California. Growing up in the heart of California gave her early exposure to the entertainment world, but her journey into Hollywood was one she carved for herself. From a young age, she showed a mix of artistic creativity and athletic discipline, two qualities that would define much of her life later.
She attended William S. Hart Senior High School, graduating in 1984, before moving on to College of the Canyons. Her academic focus did not stop there; Sarelle later attended UCLA, where she majored in French, showing her love for languages and culture.
Quick Bio
| Full Name | Leilani Sarelle Figalan |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | September 28, 1966 |
| Age | 58 years (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Los Angeles County, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 1.69 m (5’6”) |
| Occupation | Actress, Artist, Photographer |
| Education | UCLA (French Major), Culinary & Wine Certification |
| Known For | Roxy in Basic Instinct (1992) |
| Years Active | 1985 – 2016 |
| Spouse (ex-husband) | Miguel Ferrer (1991–2003) |
| Children | Lukas (1993), Rafael (1996), Sarah Rita |
| Estimated Net Worth | $1–5 million |
Education and Skills Beyond Acting
Unlike many actors who plunge directly into Hollywood, Sarelle invested time in building a well-rounded profile. Alongside her acting ambitions, she earned a certification in wine studies from the Institute of Culinary Education (iCue). This passion for culinary arts and wine is something she continues to enjoy in her personal life.
Her skills extend into athletics as well. Leilani trained in boxing, gymnastics, swimming, surfing, tennis, soccer, and golf. She also learned to play the piano and became scuba diving certified, reflecting her adventurous spirit. Bilingual in English and French, she combined intellect with artistry—traits that carried her gracefully through her career.
Early Career in Hollywood
Leilani Sarelle entered the entertainment world in the mid-1980s. Her first roles were guest appearances in television shows, where she gradually honed her craft. Early credits include Highway to Heaven and Remington Steele, both of which introduced her to wider audiences.
By 1986, she landed a role in the cult horror movie Neon Maniacs, giving her a chance to explore the genre film world. Through the late ’80s, she appeared in several projects, including Shag (1989) and Days of Thunder (1990), which further built her resume.
Breakthrough with Basic Instinct
Leilani Sarelle’s defining career moment came in 1992, when she played Roxy, the lover of Catherine Tramell (played by Sharon Stone) in Basic Instinct. The film became a global sensation, not just for its controversial content but for its daring performances.
Sarelle’s portrayal of Roxy was bold and memorable. She embodied mystery and vulnerability in equal measure, making her character stand out even in a film dominated by Stone and Michael Douglas. This role cemented her place in Hollywood history and remains her most recognized performance.
Expanding Her Acting Career
Following Basic Instinct, Sarelle took on diverse roles in film and television. She appeared in Little Sister (1992), The Harvest (1993), and Breach of Trust (1995). While some projects were smaller in scale, they showcased her range as an actress.
In the 2000s, she reappeared in indie films and television, including For the Love of Money (2012), Night Claws (2012), and Black Road (2016). Each of these projects reinforced her ability to balance mainstream fame with independent, character-driven roles.
On television, her appearances spanned decades. From early series like Tour of Duty, L.A. Law, and Dream On, to later roles in Sleeper Cell (2005), The Unit (2009), The Mentalist (2010), Glee (2012), and Femme Fatales (2012), she proved her versatility across genres.
Personal Life and Family
Behind the camera, Leilani Sarelle built a personal life filled with family and resilience. In 1991, she married actor Miguel Ferrer, known for his work in Twin Peaks and NCIS: Los Angeles. Their marriage lasted until 2003, and during this time they welcomed two sons: Lukas (1993) and Rafael (1996).
Later, Sarelle was in a relationship with Amal Guessous, a designer. Together, they had a daughter named Sarah Rita, adding to the joys of her family life. Though she divorced Ferrer and faced personal changes, Sarelle maintained a balance between motherhood and her creative pursuits.
Physical Appearance and Charisma
Leilani Sarelle stands at around 1.69 meters (5’6”), with a presence that combines elegance and approachability. During her acting years, her striking looks and natural poise added to her on-screen impact. Even today, her images radiate the same charisma that first captivated audiences in the ’90s.
Social Media and Present Life
Though she stepped back from the Hollywood spotlight, Leilani Sarelle continues to share glimpses of her life through social media. On Instagram (@leilanisarelle), she describes herself as a mother of three, a UCLA French major, and a culinary arts graduate with wine certification. Her posts often reflect her role as an artist, mother, and creative individual.
Estimated Net Worth
Leilani Sarelle’s net worth is not precisely documented, but estimates suggest it falls between $1 million and $5 million, primarily from her acting career and later creative endeavors. Given her lower profile in recent years, much of her financial life remains private, aligning with her preference for living away from the tabloid spotlight.
Fun Facts About Leilani Sarelle
- She was featured in Celebrity Sleuth magazine in 1995 under the profile Basic Instinct: Leilani Sarelle.
- Sarelle is PADI scuba certified, highlighting her adventurous personality.
- Fluent in French, she has used her language skills in her personal and professional life.
- Outside of acting, she is also a photographer and visual artist, expressing her creativity through new mediums.
Legacy in Hollywood
While Sarelle may not have maintained a constant Hollywood presence, her impact remains significant. Her performance in Basic Instinct secured her a place in film history, and her varied roles across film and television proved her adaptability. Fans of ’90s cinema remember her with admiration, and new generations continue to discover her work.
Her legacy is one of balance: between Hollywood fame and personal privacy, between acting and artistic exploration, and between public recognition and private fulfillment.
Quick Profile Summary
- Full Name: Leilani Sarelle Figalan
- Date of Birth: September 28, 1966
- Age: 58 (as of 2025)
- Height: 1.69 m (5’6”)
- Occupation: Actress, Artist, Photographer
- Education: UCLA (French major); culinary and wine studies
- Family: Sons Lukas (1993), Rafael (1996); Daughter Sarah Rita
- Known For: Roxy in Basic Instinct (1992)
- Net Worth: Estimated $1–5 million
- Social Media: Instagram @leilanisarelle
Conclusion
Leilani Sarelle’s story is more than just a Hollywood tale. It’s about a woman who embraced success, stepped into iconic roles, and later built a fulfilling life outside the industry. She represents the many layers of an artist: actress, mother, student, athlete, linguist, and creative spirit.
Today, she stands as a reminder that life beyond fame can be just as rich, rewarding, and inspiring as life within the spotlight. Her journey continues to resonate with fans who appreciate authenticity, versatility, and the enduring charm of a true Hollywood talent.
Faq’s about Leilani Sarelle
1. How old is Leilani Sarelle today?
Leilani Sarelle was born on September 28, 1966, which makes her 58 years old as of 2025.
2. What is Leilani Sarelle best known for?
She is best known for playing Roxy in the 1992 thriller Basic Instinct, a role that remains her most iconic in Hollywood.
3. Who was Leilani Sarelle married to?
Leilani Sarelle was married to actor Miguel Ferrer from 1991 until 2003. They share two sons together.
4. Does Leilani Sarelle have children?
Yes, she has three children: two sons, Lukas and Rafael, from her marriage with Ferrer, and a daughter, Sarah Rita, from her later relationship with Amal Guessous.
5. What is Leilani Sarelle’s height and net worth?
She stands about 1.69 m (5’6”) tall. Her estimated net worth is between $1 million and $5 million, mainly from her acting career and personal projects.
