It has been 26 years since Maria Bello captivated audiences as the formidable Lil Lovell, owner of the iconic Coyote Ugly bar, in the 2000 cult classic. Now, at 59, the actress continues to command attention, recently spotted on the set of Grown Ups 3 in Keansburg, New Jersey. Bello is set to reprise her role as Sally Lamonsoff in the popular comedy franchise, marking another significant chapter in a career that has spanned diverse and acclaimed projects.
A Radiant Presence on Set
During her appearance on the Grown Ups 3 set on Friday, August 28, 2026, Maria Bello presented a picture of vibrant energy. She was seen with her blonde hair styled in a chic half-up do, complemented by a delicate floral blouse, classic gold hoop earrings, and a subtle heart necklace. This sighting offered a glimpse into her current professional endeavors, showcasing her enduring appeal and commitment to her craft.
Recent Career Highlights
Bello’s presence on the Grown Ups 3 set follows a period of notable public appearances and continued work. Earlier in August, she attended the premiere of Netflix’s Don’t Say Good Luck in New York City. For this event, she chose an elegant black spaghetti-strap dress, her hair slicked back, projecting a sophisticated image. Prior to that, she embraced a different aesthetic at the premiere of I Want Your Sex, opting for a cream satin slip dress paired with a relaxed black blazer, her blonde hair worn loose around her shoulders.
The Enduring Legacy of Coyote Ugly
For many film enthusiasts, Maria Bello will forever be associated with Lil Lovell, the tough-as-nails proprietor of the Coyote Ugly Saloon. In the film, Lil provides a pivotal opportunity for aspiring songwriter Violet Sanford, portrayed by Piper Perabo, launching her career in the bustling, music-filled environment of the bar. The movie, which also featured performances from Tyra Banks, Bridget Moynahan, Adam Garcia, and John Goodman, achieved unexpected commercial success and has cultivated a dedicated fanbase over the past two decades.
Interestingly, Bello has shared anecdotes from the making of Coyote Ugly, revealing that despite being only 32 at the time, she was told she was “too old” to join her younger co-stars in the energetic bar dancing sequences. This detail adds a layer of irony to her current prominent role in the Grown Ups franchise.
A Diverse and Acclaimed Filmography
Beyond her memorable role in Coyote Ugly, Maria Bello has cultivated an impressive and varied career in Hollywood. Her performances have garnered critical acclaim in a range of films, including the neo-noir crime drama The Cooler, the intense thriller A History of Violence, the gripping suspense film Prisoners, and the historical epic The Woman King.
On the small screen, Bello made a significant impact as psychologist and former army lieutenant Jacqueline “Jack” Sloane in the long-running procedural drama NCIS. Her talent was further recognized with an Emmy nomination for her compelling performance in the critically lauded Netflix series BEEF. More recently, she took on the role of matriarch Belle Buckley in the Netflix drama The Waterfront, starring opposite Holt McCallany.
Return to the Grown Ups Universe
The upcoming Grown Ups 3 sees Maria Bello reuniting with a familiar ensemble cast, including Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Chris Rock, David Spade, Maya Rudolph, and Salma Hayek Pinault. The production is currently underway in New Jersey, with the storyline focusing on the friends embarking on a new adventure as their children have grown into adulthood. While Netflix has not yet announced a release date, the continuation of this beloved franchise is highly anticipated by fans.
Personal Life and Milestones
Away from the demands of her acting career, Maria Bello is a devoted mother to her son, Jackson, who is 25 years old. Jackson is from her previous relationship with Dan McDermott. In a significant personal milestone, Bello married acclaimed French chef Dominique Crenn in May 2024. The couple exchanged vows in a star-studded ceremony held in Mexico, following several years together. However, Bello filed for divorce in May 2025, citing irreconcilable differences.
A Career Full Circle
With her involvement in Grown Ups 3, Maria Bello’s career appears to be coming full circle, demonstrating her sustained relevance and appeal in the entertainment industry. More than a quarter of a century after she first welcomed audiences into the world of Coyote Ugly, Bello continues to be a dynamic and captivating presence in film and television.
