Joan Severance

Joan Marie Severance (born December 23, 1958) is an American actress and former fashion model. Born in Houston, Texas to Martha and John C. Severance, she grew up moving frequently due to her father's job as an IBM systems manager. Severance attended Westbury High School and began modeling at the age of 15 to save money for college. After participating in the 'Miss Houston' beauty contest, she was discovered by photographer Alan Martin, who introduced her to John Casablancas. Casablancas signed her with the Elite modeling agency, leading to assignments in Paris. Severance made her transition to acting and appeared in various movies and TV shows throughout her career.