Erika Eleniak, born on September 29, 1969, in Glendale, California, is an American actress and model. She began her career as a child actress, appearing in Steven Spielberg's celebrated film *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial* (1982). Her prominence grew significantly after being named Playmate of the Month by Playboy magazine in 1989. This led her to the role that made her an international icon: lifeguard Shauni McClain in the popular television series *Baywatch*, which she portrayed from 1989 to 1992. On the big screen, her most significant role was alongside Steven Seagal in the action film *Under Siege* (1992). She also acted in films such as *The Beverly Hillbillies* (1993). Subsequently, her career has focused predominantly on television films and direct-to-video productions, as well as appearances on reality shows. Although she has not received major acting awards, her status as a Playmate and her role in *Baywatch* established her as one of the pop culture icons of the 1990s.