Julie McCullough is a multifaceted American entertainer known for her work as a model, actress, and stand-up comedian. Born on January 30, 1965, in Honolulu, Hawaii, McCullough's career has spanned several
decades, marked by notable roles and public controversies. This article explores her journey from her early life to her diverse career in the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Background
Julie McCullough was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and is of Irish descent. Her early life was marked by frequent relocations due to her mother's remarriage to a Marine named Herman Paynter. This lifestyle led her to live in various states across the U.S., including North Carolina, West Virginia, Florida, Louisiana, Missouri, Texas, Nevada, and California, as well as in Canada and Italy. Despite these moves, McCullough considers herself Southern, having attended high school in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, and Allen, Texas.
Her upbringing in diverse locations likely contributed to her adaptability and resilience, traits that would serve her well in her future career. McCullough's early exposure to different cultures and environments may have also influenced her comedic style and acting versatility.
Modeling and Playboy Fame
McCullough's career in modeling began in her teenage years. After graduating from high school in 1983, she was approached by a photographer to pose for Playboy magazine. This opportunity led to her becoming Playboy's Playmate of the Month for February 1986. Her association with Playboy was significant, as she appeared in several issues, including a cover feature in February 1985 and a pictorial in September 1986.
Her modeling career was not without controversy. In 1989, McCullough was stripped of her title as Azalea Queen of Wilmington at the North Carolina Azalea Festival due to her Playboy centerfold appearance. Despite this setback, she continued to work in the modeling industry, even voicing herself in the video game Playboy: The Mansion in 2004.
Acting and Comedy
McCullough transitioned from modeling to acting, securing roles in various television shows and films. She is perhaps best known for her role as Julie Costello on the popular TV show "Growing Pains" from 1989 to 1990. Her time on the show ended controversially, allegedly due to co-star Kirk Cameron's objections to her Playboy past.
Beyond "Growing Pains," McCullough appeared in other TV series such as "The Golden Girls," "Beverly Hills, 90210," and "The Drew Carey Show." She also ventured into stand-up comedy, performing at venues like the Hollywood Improv and the Laugh Factory. Her comedic work has been well-received, showcasing her ability to engage audiences with humor and wit.
McCullough's career reflects her versatility and resilience in the face of challenges. From her early modeling days to her current work in comedy, she has continually reinvented herself, maintaining a presence in the entertainment industry for decades.
