The popular sitcom ‘What I Like About You’ has made a return to screens after nearly two decades, now available for streaming on Netflix. Originally aired on The WB from September 2002 until March 2006, the show spanned four seasons and etched itself into early 2000s pop culture, charming audiences with its blend of comedy and nostalgia. At its heart, the series revolved around the lives of two sisters, Holly and Valerie Tyler, portrayed by Amanda Bynes and Jennie Garth, respectively, as they navigated New York City together.
Amanda Bynes, who fronted the show as the lovable yet impulsive Holly Tyler, had emerged from her childhood fame on Nickelodeon. She joined the network at the tender age of 10, appearing on the sketch show ‘All That’ in 1996. Following the success of ‘What I Like About You,’ Bynes transitioned to the big screen, featuring in notable films such as ‘She’s the Man’ (2006) and ‘Hairspray’ (2007), the latter earning her a Screen Actors Guild Award nomination.
However, Bynes’ career took a tumultuous turn in 2010 when she stepped away from acting following a series of personal struggles, including mental health issues and substance abuse. In 2013, her parents were awarded conservatorship over her affairs, a legal arrangement that lasted until March 2022. Since then, Bynes has made attempts to reconnect with her fanbase, recently launching a podcast which was put on hold shortly after its debut. In a surprising turn of events, she also announced her presence on OnlyFans, where she expressed a desire to engage directly with fans without sharing explicit content.
Jennie Garth, who played Holly’s more reserved sister Valerie, has enjoyed a diverse career since ‘What I Like About You’. The former star of ‘Beverly Hills, 90210’ not only participated in the fifth season of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ in 2007 but also ventured into reality television with her own series ‘Jennie Garth: A Little Bit Country’ in 2012. Other notable projects include appearances on ‘90210’, ‘BH90210’, and various voice roles in animated series like ‘American Dad!’.
In her personal life, Garth has experienced significant ups and downs, including two marriages and a diagnosis of mitral valve prolapse, which she publicly revealed years after her initial diagnosis. In recent years, she started a podcast with fellow ‘90210’ alum Tori Spelling, and has since expanded her podcasting ventures further, reflecting her commitment to staying relevant in the entertainment industry.
Wesley Jonathan, who played Holly’s best friend Gary Thorpe, has continued to maintain an active presence in the acting world. Gaining early fame through the series ‘City Guys’, Jonathan has appeared in productions such as ‘The Soul Man’ and ‘Mind Your Business’, showcasing his versatility as an actor. He is married to Tamara Mitchell, and the couple welcomed a daughter in 2014.
Leslie Grossman has established a successful career following her stint on ‘What I Like About You’, collaborating frequently with writer Ryan Murphy on shows including ‘Nip/Tuck’, ‘Charmed’, and ‘American Horror Story’. Her role in the latter series has been particularly noteworthy, being a consistent presence since season seven. Recently, Grossman participated in a Netflix series based on the Menendez brothers’ infamous crime story, while also navigating her personal life, which saw her recently elope with film producer Sascha Pen.
Allison Munn, who joined the cast in the second season of ‘What I Like About You’ as Tina Haven, has also enjoyed a thriving acting career. With notable roles in ‘One Tree Hill’ and the Nickelodeon hit ‘Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn’, Munn continues to lend her voice to various characters in animation today. She has built a solid family life with her husband, Scott Holroyd, and they share two children.
Nick Zano, who portrayed Vince, became a familiar face on television after the series concluded. With a filmography that includes ‘Final Destination’, ‘Beverly Hills Chihuahua’, and a starring role in ‘DC’s Legends of Tomorrow’, Zano has cultivated a robust acting career. Known for his previous relationships in the industry, including a notable romance with Kat Dennings, he is currently in a long-term partnership with Leah Renee Cudmore and the couple has two children together.
As ‘What I Like About You’ makes its streaming debut on Netflix, it not only revives fond memories for fans but also highlights the diverse paths that its cast has taken since the show concluded. Each member has carved out their own niche within the industry while navigating both the challenges and triumphs of their personal lives, proving that their time in the spotlight has continued to shape their careers well beyond the show’s finale.