Remember Renee Olstead? The sharp-witted daughter from the hit sitcom Still Standing and the talented jazz singer who stole scenes in The Secret Life of the American Teenager? Well, a decade ago, she made headlines for a different kind of performance—a massive birthday celebration that solidified her bold move into the adult entertainment world. Let’s take a trip back to a wild night in Chicago and see what she’s been up to since.
A Birthday Party for the Books
Back in June 2014, just after being crowned Penthouse Pet of the Year, Renee Olstead decided to celebrate her 25th birthday in style. The venue? Chicago’s iconic Admiral Theatre. The event? An 18+, Bring-Your-Own-Beverage party where she was the main event. Fans flocked to see the star in her element, embracing a new chapter of her career with open arms.
At the time, a thrilled Olstead told reporters what the celebration meant to her:
“I can’t think of a better way to spend my birthday than sharing it with my fans. I know we’re going to have an incredible time together—and Chicago certainly knows how to have fun!”
The event was more than just a party; it was a statement. Olstead was taking control of her image and career, moving from the polished world of Hollywood television to the unfiltered, creator-driven space of adult content. And she was bringing her fanbase along for the ride.
Pioneering the Creator Economy
While that 2014 party feels like a lifetime ago, Olstead was actually ahead of a massive industry trend. Long before every celebrity seemed to have an OnlyFans, she launched her own subscription website, giving her direct control over her content and a direct line to her audience. This move was a blueprint for the creator-owned platforms that dominate the landscape today.
In a 2023 interview with The Daily Beast, Olstead reflected on her decision, explaining that the move was about empowerment and autonomy—a way to escape the restrictive confines she felt in mainstream Hollywood. She found a community that embraced her authenticity, and in turn, she became a powerful advocate for sex worker rights and destigmatizing the industry.
So, What’s Renee Olstead Doing Now?
A decade later, Renee Olstead is still thriving, balancing her multifaceted career with grace and confidence. She remains a prominent figure in the adult world through her popular creator platforms, but her artistic passions haven’t taken a backseat.
Music is still a core part of her identity. She continues to release jazz music, sharing her soulful voice with a dedicated following. Her Instagram, where you can find her as @renee_olstead, is a vibrant mix of her life—showcasing her music, her advocacy for veganism, and snapshots of her life with her partner.
Looking back, that birthday bash in Chicago wasn’t just a fleeting moment. It was the public launch of a new era for Renee Olstead—one defined by courage, creativity, and the power of forging your own path. As she told The Daily Beast, reflecting on her journey:
“I am more myself than I’ve ever been.”
And that’s a reason to celebrate, no matter what year it is.
* Photo from avn.com
