Crowned Miss Centralian in high school in 1987.

Auditioned for the roles of Cici, Hallie, and Maureen before landing the role of Lois in Scream 2 (1997).

Former model.

Pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter charge. She was sentenced to three years' probation, a one-year suspension of her license, a $2,800 fine and 750 hours of community service. She was also ordered to make a public-service announcement. [27 November 2001]

Originally cast in the role of Inara, on the short-lived TV series "Firefly" (2002), but was replaced (by Morena Baccarin) after one day's shooting.

Attended Knott County Central High School, Hindman, Kentucky.

Parents are Curtis and Floneva.

On 13 June 2001, Gayheart struck 9-year-old Jorge Cruz Jr. as he jaywalked across the street. According to the police report, the boy was walking home from school, and crossed the street about 160 feet from the nearest crosswalk. While several cars stopped to let him go, Gayheart allegedly swerved around the traffic and into a two-way left-turn lane, striking the boy; he died the next day at Los Angeles Children's Hospital. His parents, Jorge Cruz and Silvia Martinez, filed a wrongful-death lawsuit on 6 August 2001 against her. Gayheart paid for Cruz's hospital and funeral expenses. [13 June 2001]

Formerly engaged to director Brett Ratner [1997].

Studied at Lee Strasberg Theatre Institute.

Is of Irish, Italian, German and Cherokee descent.

Measurements: 34B-25-35 (Source: Celebrity Sleuth magazine)