fame on the sitcom 'That '70s Show'

Mila Kunis | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Update : December 04, 2024

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Who is Mila Kunis?

Mila Kunis, born Milena Kunis on August 14, 1983, in Chernivtsi, Ukraine, is a renowned actress who immigrated to the United States with her family at the age of seven. Settling in Los Angeles, Kunis faced the challenges of adapting to a new culture and language. Despite starting with just $250, her parents worked hard to provide a better life for their children. Kunis began her acting journey in a children's program, which led to her first significant role in the sitcom *That "70s Show* at the age of 14. This breakthrough opened doors for her in both television and film.

Kunis has built a diverse and successful career in Hollywood, becoming a household name through her roles in popular films such as *Forgetting Sarah Marshall* (2008), *Black Swan* (2010), and *Bad Moms* (2016). Her portrayal of Rachel in *Forgetting Sarah Marshall* showcased her comedic talent, while her performance in *Black Swan* earned her critical acclaim and award nominations. In addition to her film work, she has lent her voice to the character Meg Griffin in the animated series *Family Guy*, further solidifying her presence in the entertainment industry. Today, Kunis is recognized not only for her acting skills but also for her resilience and dedication to her craft.

Early Life and Journey to the USA

Mila Kunis, born Milena Kunis on August 14, 1983, in Chernivtsi, Ukraine, faced significant challenges early in her life. At the age of seven, she immigrated to the United States with her family, arriving in Los Angeles with only $250. Her parents, Mark and Elvira, sacrificed their professional careers in Ukraine in the hope of a better future for their children. Mark worked as a cab driver, while Elvira found employment running a pharmacy. The family's initial struggles highlighted their determination to adapt and thrive in a new country.

Adjusting to life in America was not easy for Kunis, who grappled with a language barrier and cultural differences. She described her experience as akin to being "blind and deaf," emphasizing the overwhelming nature of her new environment. Despite these challenges, Kunis quickly adapted, thanks in part to her parents" encouragement and support. They enrolled her in a children's acting program to help her socialize and find her footing in a new culture. This decision would ultimately pave the way for her successful acting career, showcasing her resilience and ability to overcome adversity.

TV Shows: That "70s Show and Family Guy

Mila Kunis gained prominence in the entertainment industry with her breakout role as Jackie Burkhart on the hit sitcom *That '70s Show*, which premiered in 1998. At just 14 years old, Kunis showcased her comedic talent as the self-absorbed and glamorous character, quickly becoming a fan favorite. The series, which explored the lives of a group of teenagers in the 1970s, provided Kunis with a platform to hone her acting skills and develop her comedic timing. Her portrayal of Jackie not only earned her critical acclaim but also established her as a rising star in Hollywood.

Following her success on *That '70s Show*, Kunis expanded her career into voice acting, landing the role of Meg Griffin on the animated series *Family Guy*. This role allowed her to showcase her versatility as an actress, as she transitioned from live-action sitcoms to animated comedy. Kunis has voiced Meg since 1999, contributing to the show's irreverent humor and cultural impact. Her work on both series helped solidify her status as a talented actress capable of handling diverse roles, paving the way for her successful film career in the years to come.

Movies: Sarah Marshall, Black Swan, and Bad Moms

Mila Kunis made a significant impact in the film industry with her breakout role in the 2008 romantic comedy, *Forgetting Sarah Marshall*. In this film, she portrayed Rachel, a hotel concierge who becomes romantically involved with the heartbroken lead character, played by Jason Segel. The film was both a critical and commercial success, showcasing Kunis's comedic timing and charm. Her performance earned her widespread recognition and solidified her place as a leading actress in Hollywood. The chemistry between Kunis and Segel added depth to the film, making it a memorable entry in the romantic comedy genre.

In 2010, Kunis took on a more dramatic role in Darren Aronofsky's psychological thriller *Black Swan*, where she starred alongside Natalie Portman. Kunis played Lily, a rival ballerina, and her performance garnered critical acclaim, earning her nominations for both a Golden Globe and a Screen Actors Guild Award for Best Supporting Actress. The film demanded a physical transformation, as Kunis trained extensively to portray a ballerina convincingly. Her ability to switch between drama and comedy highlighted her versatility as an actress, further establishing her reputation in the industry.

Kunis continued to explore the comedy genre with the 2016 hit *Bad Moms*, where she played a stressed-out mother seeking liberation from societal expectations. The film resonated with audiences, becoming a box office success and leading to a sequel, *A Bad Moms Christmas*. Kunis's portrayal of a relatable, flawed character struck a chord with many viewers, showcasing her ability to balance humor with genuine emotion. The success of *Bad Moms* not only reinforced her status as a leading actress but also opened doors for more female-led comedies, contributing to a shift in the industry’s representation of women in film.

Personal Life: Dating to Married and Children

Mila Kunis has had notable relationships throughout her life, most prominently with actor Macaulay Culkin. The couple dated for eight years, but their split in early 2011 was more complicated than initially suggested. Kunis later reflected on their breakup, admitting, "I fd up," which highlights the emotional toll it took on her. Despite the challenges, Kunis has always prioritized her personal growth and happiness, which eventually led her to a more fulfilling relationship with Ashton Kutcher, her former co-star from *That '70s Show*.

In 2012, Kunis began dating Kutcher, and their chemistry blossomed into a serious relationship. The couple got engaged in March 2014, and Kunis announced her pregnancy during an appearance on *The Ellen DeGeneres Show* in May of that year. They welcomed their first child, a daughter named Wyatt Isabelle Kutcher, on September 30, 2014. Their family continued to grow when they married over the Fourth of July weekend in 2015 and later welcomed their second child, a son named Dimitri Portwood Kutcher, on November 30, 2016. Together, they navigate the challenges of parenthood while maintaining a close-knit family life.

Quick Questions and Answers

What is Mila Kunis's full name?

Mila Kunis was born as Milena Kunis on August 14, 1983, in Chernivtsi, Ukraine.

When did Mila Kunis move to the United States?

Mila Kunis immigrated to the United States with her family at the age of seven, settling in Los Angeles.

What was Mila Kunis's breakout role?

Kunis gained fame for her role as Jackie Burkhart on the sitcom That '70s Show, which she joined at the age of 14.

Which animated series features Mila Kunis's voice?

Mila Kunis provides the voice for Meg Griffin on the animated television series Family Guy.

What notable films has Mila Kunis starred in?

Kunis has starred in several successful films, including Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Black Swan, and Bad Moms.

Who is Mila Kunis married to?

Mila Kunis is married to actor Ashton Kutcher, her co-star from That '70s Show.

How many children does Mila Kunis have?

Mila Kunis has two children with Ashton Kutcher: a daughter named Wyatt Isabelle and a son named Dimitri Portwood.

What challenges did Mila Kunis face when moving to America?

Upon arriving in America, Kunis struggled with language and cultural barriers, feeling as if she were 'blind and deaf" in her new environment.