Renee Olstead might ring a bell for fans of early 2000s TV. Known for her memorable roles in hits like "13 Going on 30" and "Still Standing," Renee's transition from actress to political campaigner is making waves. Currently, she’s shining in her role as deputy campaign manager for Wisconsin state Rep. Francesca Hong's gubernatorial campaign, a surprising yet exciting twist in her career.
Before stepping into the limelight of politics, Renee had already established herself as a familiar face in Hollywood and beyond. Not only did she grace our screens, but she also showcased her talents on stage, performing at the iconic Berlin Live 8 concert with legends like Paul McCartney and Madonna. Her vocal prowess even earned her Grammy and Golden Globe nominations. Despite her achievements, Renee shared, "I adore the thrill of acting as much as I am passionate about making music."
Renee's journey wasn't always smooth. In 2011, she faced a major personal challenge when her private photos fell into the wrong hands due to a hacking scandal. Testifying during the trial of the perpetrator, she bravely opened up about her struggles, revealing that the incident led her to dark moments she never thought she'd face.
Renee Olstead's personal life has seen its share of changes, too. After her first marriage to pianist Tommy King in 2014 ended in divorce, she found love again and married Timothy Faust in 2024. As she moved forward, Renee also embraced new ventures, launching an OnlyFans page in 2020 and becoming a licensed mental health clinician, focusing on sex therapy by 2023.
In a bold move, Renee joined Francesca Hong's campaign, bringing her unique flair and dedication to the table. Since January 2026, she's been a key player in transforming the campaign into the largest grassroots movement in Wisconsin history. Her social media is a testament to her enthusiasm, peppered with campaign event snapshots and advocacy for Francesca’s policies.
When asked about her dual role as a campaign operative and licensed clinician, campaign representatives noted, "Renee Faust’s commitment to supporting women's health and trafficking survivors is unparalleled, making her an invaluable asset to our team."
Renee Olstead’s ability to reinvent herself and tackle new challenges with passion continues to make headlines, showing that her story is far from over.