The acclaim and popularity of the series focused the spotlight of attention on its stars from the very beginning. Lawrence has picked from among the many opportunities offered and has consistently chosen those which would allow her to stretch as an actor and be seen in different ways by her growing audience. Among the many television movies she has starred in are "The Shaggy Dog," "The Face on the Milk Carton," "The Haunting of Patricia Johnson," "A Friend's Betrayal" and the miniseries, "Degree of Guilt."

Most recently, she brought the house down with her comedic talents, guest starring on "Caroline in the City," and that performance resulted in her winning her own comedy series, scheduled to premiere mid-season. She will, of course, continue her role on "NYPD Blue," making her perhaps the only actress ever to star simultaneously in two series on two different networks.

The pace comes naturally to the high-energy performer. Born and raised in North Carolina, Lawrence broke into show business as a singer and dancer, earning her place on Broadway in some of the juiciest featured roles of musicals like "Zorba the Greek," "Cabaret" and "Fiddler on the Roof." "I've always wanted this career," she says, "and I always believed I'd have it, but you can't imagine the initial awe of finding myself on stage with Anthony Quinn, Joel Grey and Topol."

As difficult as it was to leave New York, Lawrence crossed the country to Los Angeles to begin her film and television career in the early '90s. She has scarcely had a day off since.

"It's so gratifying to see the hard work turn into exciting new opportunities," she said recently. "But 'NYPD' will always be home, and I know I will never work with a finer group of actors than this cast. I'll be around as long as they'll have me."

VITAL STATISTICS
BIRTHPLACE: Charlotte, NC
BIRTHDATE: June 29
HEIGHT: 5'5"
HAIR: Reddish-brown
EYES: Hazel