Leslie Easterbrook, best known as tough-as-nails Sgt. Callahan from Police Academy, has had a remarkable career built on reinvention and resilience.

Born in Nebraska and adopted at nine months old, Leslie was raised by loving parents who encouraged her musical talent. Though she initially pursued opera, her path led to acting. Her big break came in 1980 with Laverne & Shirley, but Police Academy made her a star. Despite doubts, she embraced the sexually confident Callahan, transforming her into an unforgettable cult favorite.

To authentically portray Callahan, Leslie trained in martial arts and maintained peak fitness. She also appeared in over 300 TV episodes, including Murder, She Wrote and Baywatch, and later starred in horror films like The Devil’s Rejects.

In Private Resort (1985), she stood out alongside a young Johnny Depp, playing a sultry, sharp-witted woman. Though she limited nudity in the film, producers pushed boundaries, leading to tensions behind the scenes.

Beyond acting, Leslie had a powerful singing voice. She famously performed the national anthem at Super Bowl XVII, overcoming several obstacles — including a late limo and security delays — to make it to the stage.

A painful accident while filming Police Academy inspired her to learn proper firearm safety. She trained hard, even winning a trap shooting competition against seasoned male shooters.

Leslie has also been dedicated to philanthropy, supporting children’s and law enforcement charities. She was married to screenwriter Dan Wilcox until his death in 2024 and remains close with her Police Academy co-stars.

Now 75, Leslie Easterbrook hasn’t officially retired, with her latest film credit from 2022. Still vibrant, fearless, and unforgettable — she’s proven that true icons never fade.