Courtney Henggeler

Biography

Courtney Henggeler is an American actress, model, and writer best known for her role as Amanda LaRusso in the hit Netflix series Cobra Kai. With a career spanning over two decades, she has appeared in numerous TV shows and films, gaining recognition for her versatile acting skills. While Cobra Kai has been her breakthrough role, Henggeler has steadily built an impressive career in Hollywood.

Early Life and Background

Birth and Family

Courtney Healy Henggeler was born on December 11, 1978, in Phillipsburg, New Jersey, USA. She was raised in Pennsylvania before later moving to Los Angeles to pursue an acting career.

Education and Early Interests

Henggeler developed an interest in acting during her high school years. Inspired by a childhood friend, she auditioned for a school play and fell in love with performing. She later trained in acting, honing her skills before stepping into Hollywood.

Career

Early Career and Struggles

Courtney Henggeler’s journey in Hollywood was not immediate. Like many aspiring actors, she faced struggles in getting significant roles. She made her acting debut in 2003 with the horror movie The Bog Creatures, though it went largely unnoticed.

She continued to take small roles in television and films throughout the early 2000s, working steadily to establish herself in the industry.

Breakthrough with The Big Bang Theory

In 2008, Henggeler gained recognition with her role as Missy Cooper, the twin sister of Sheldon Cooper (played by Jim Parsons) in The Big Bang Theory. Although she only appeared in one episode (Season 1, Episode 15: The Pork Chop Indeterminacy), her character became a fan favorite.

This appearance opened doors for her in Hollywood, leading to more guest roles in popular TV series.

Television Success and Guest Roles

Following The Big Bang Theory, Henggeler made guest appearances in several well-known TV shows, including:

• House (2010) – Played a guest role in the popular medical drama.
• Criminal Minds (2013) – Featured in an episode of the crime thriller series.
• Mom (2013-2015) – Had a recurring role as Claudia, appearing in multiple episodes.
• NCIS (2013) – Played a small but notable role in the long-running procedural drama.

These roles helped her establish credibility as a talented supporting actress in television.

Breakthrough with Cobra Kai

In 2018, Henggeler landed her biggest role yet as Amanda LaRusso in Cobra Kai, the sequel series to The Karate Kid films. She stars alongside Ralph Macchio (Daniel LaRusso) and William Zabka (Johnny Lawrence) as Daniel’s wife and business partner.

Her portrayal of Amanda—a strong, witty, and grounded character—has received widespread praise. Unlike many characters in the Karate Kid universe who are deeply involved in martial arts rivalries, Amanda provides a comedic and rational counterbalance, often calling out the absurdity of the ongoing conflicts.

Cobra Kai has been a major success, transitioning from YouTube Red to Netflix and becoming one of the most popular streaming shows worldwide. Henggeler’s role has grown significantly as the series progresses, making her a standout in the cast.

Film Career and Other Projects

Outside of television, Courtney Henggeler has also appeared in films such as:

• Friends with Benefits (2011) – Had a minor role in this romantic comedy starring Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis.
• Kristin’s Christmas Past (2013) – Featured in this holiday-themed film.
• Fixed (2021) – Starred alongside Andy Daly in this comedy-drama.

Additionally, she has ventured into writing and producing, working on new projects beyond acting.

Personal Life

Marriage and Family

Courtney Henggeler is married to Ross Kohn, a producer, and they have two children. She often shares glimpses of her family life on social media, showing her humorous and down-to-earth personality.