Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Vivian Panka Makes History as First Black Regina George

3/19/2026

41 8

Summary

Story summary

Vivian Panka, a 29-year-old actress from Holland, is the first black Regina George to star full-time in the UK Mean Girls.
She is touring the UK and Ireland.
She calls her casting monumental and a dream come true.
She has previously starred in 9 to 5, Heathers, and Dear Evan Hansen.
She emphasizes the role's significance for aspiring actors, especially young black women, and hopes diverse casting becomes standard.

1 of 1

Story summary

Vivian Panka, a 29-year-old actress from Holland, is the first black Regina George to star full-time in the UK Mean Girls.
She is touring the UK and Ireland.
She calls her casting monumental and a dream come true.
She has previously starred in 9 to 5, Heathers, and Dear Evan Hansen.
She emphasizes the role's significance for aspiring actors, especially young black women, and hopes diverse casting becomes standard.