By Jenny Holly Hansen | WBN News | April 17, 2025

In the golden age of 90s family television, Raeanin Simpson was a familiar face on screens across North America. Best known for her role as Lila Fowler on the hit teen drama Sweet Valley High, Simpson’s on-screen charm and talent made her a standout among young actors of her time. But long before Hollywood came calling, Raeanin’s story began in the scenic suburbs of Langley, British Columbia—a community she still holds close to her heart.

Early Beginnings in Langley

Raised in Langley, Raeanin Simpson grew up surrounded by the natural beauty, strong community values, and creative spirit that define the Fraser Valley region. Like many Langley kids, her early years included school plays, local community events, and plenty of time spent outdoors. Her talent for performance was evident early on, and with the support of her family and local mentors, she began to pursue acting more seriously in her teenage years.

Langley has long been a nurturing ground for creative talent, with its blend of rural charm and close proximity to Vancouver’s thriving film industry. For Raeanin, being from Langley meant she could tap into opportunities in film and television while staying grounded in the supportive, small-town environment where her dreams first took root.

Rise to Fame

Raeanin’s breakout role came when she was cast as Lila Fowler, the fashionable and confident best friend of Jessica Wakefield in the Sweet Valley High series. The show, based on the popular book franchise, aired from 1994 to 1997 and quickly became a fan favorite. Raeanin’s portrayal brought flair and depth to her character, earning her recognition among teen audiences and industry professionals alike.

While many remember her for Sweet Valley High, Raeanin also appeared in a range of other TV series and movies throughout the 1990s, including The Secret World of Alex Mack, Touched by an Angel, and Diagnosis: Murder. Her versatility and charisma made her a natural fit for a variety of roles across both drama and comedy genres.

Staying Grounded

Despite her success in Hollywood, Raeanin never lost touch with her Langley roots. Friends and fans recall her down-to-earth personality and the pride she took in her Canadian background. She has occasionally spoken about how growing up in Langley shaped her perspective on fame, relationships, and personal values.

Langley itself has also grown in reputation as a film-friendly town, often called “Hollywood North” thanks to the many productions filmed in and around the area. The community takes pride in the accomplishments of locals like Raeanin Simpson, whose success stories serve as inspiration to the next generation of artists and performers.

Life Beyond the Spotlight

While Raeanin has since stepped back from the limelight, her contributions to 90s television remain part of a cultural legacy that many still look back on fondly. ON October 17, 2004, Raeanin passed away. Though her life was cut short, Raeanin’s contributions to the world of entertainment and her connection to her Langley roots remain a cherished part of her story.

Let’s Keep Talking:

Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance.

She is also a business development consultant with Impresario Partners, helping Canadian Business expand overseas.

She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jholly-hansen@wbnn.news. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/.  Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social

Let’s Meet Up:

Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4

TAGS:  #Jenny Holly Hansen #Raeanin Simpson #Sweet Valley High #The Secret World of Alex Mack #Touched by an Angel #Diagnosis Murder

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