CELEBRITY
mary joan schutz: The Private Life of Gene Wilder’s First Wife
Whenever the name Gene Wilder comes up, audiences instantly recall his legendary performance as Willy Wonka or his comedic brilliance in Young Frankenstein and Blazing Saddles. He remains one of Hollywood’s most beloved figures. But behind his iconic roles was a deeply personal life that shaped the man audiences adored.
Before Wilder’s highly publicized marriage to comedian Gilda Radner, he was married to Mary Joan Schutz, a woman whose quiet presence was integral to his early years of success. Though she never chased fame, Mary’s story provides an intimate glimpse into the lesser-known side of Wilder’s life.
This article explores the life of Mary Joan Schutz—her background, her relationship with Wilder, their marriage and family, their eventual separation, and her legacy after stepping away from Hollywood.
Who Was Mary Joan Schutz?
Mary Joan Schutz is best remembered as the first wife of actor Gene Wilder. Unlike her husband, who built a career in front of millions, Schutz preferred to keep her life private. She was not an actress or public figure, but her marriage tied her to one of the most recognizable faces of comedy and film.
Her story stands out because she entered Wilder’s life when he was still on the rise. Their marriage coincided with his transition from theater to Hollywood stardom, a period filled with both opportunities and strain.
Early Life of Mary Joan Schutz
Details about Mary Joan Schutz’s early years remain scarce. Unlike many connected to Hollywood, she avoided publicity and rarely shared personal information. Very little is known about her childhood, education, or family background, which speaks volumes about her commitment to privacy.
What can be inferred is that she came from a modest background, leading a fairly ordinary life until her connection with Wilder brought her into Hollywood’s orbit. Even then, she maintained her distance from the spotlight.
How Did Mary Joan Schutz Meet Gene Wilder?
The meeting between Mary Joan Schutz and Gene Wilder was facilitated by Wilder’s sister, Corinne Silberman-Pearlman. At the time, Mary was a divorced single mother, raising her young daughter, Katharine.
Wilder was already showing promise as a stage actor and budding film star. What drew him to Mary was not only her personality but also the chance to be part of a family. His connection with Katharine became just as important as his romance with Mary, and it soon solidified their bond.
Marriage to Gene Wilder
In October 1967, Mary Joan Schutz and Gene Wilder married, marking the beginning of a new chapter in both of their lives. For Wilder, this meant not only becoming a husband but also embracing the role of stepfather to Katharine.
Their wedding was not a Hollywood spectacle but a modest celebration of their commitment to one another. At the time, Wilder’s career was picking up momentum, and his marriage offered him stability in the midst of professional growth.
Gene Wilder’s Bond with Katharine Schutz
One of the most heartwarming aspects of Mary and Gene’s union was Wilder’s relationship with Katharine, Mary’s daughter from her first marriage.
Wilder quickly took on a fatherly role, offering Katharine love and stability. He even legally adopted her, giving her his last name and making their family bond official.
For a time, their home life reflected happiness and unity. Wilder’s rising fame did not stop him from embracing his family responsibilities. However, as Hollywood demands grew, maintaining this balance became increasingly difficult.
Life Together in Hollywood
During their marriage, Mary Joan Schutz stayed away from the Hollywood spotlight, unlike many other celebrity spouses. She focused on her family, preferring a grounded life while Wilder’s star rapidly ascended.
Wilder’s breakthrough came soon after their marriage. In 1968, he earned critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for The Producers. By the early 1970s, his performances in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory and Young Frankenstein cemented his status as a Hollywood favorite.
But with success came pressure. The long hours, travel, and stress associated with filmmaking placed strain on his marriage. As Wilder’s fame grew, the gap between his public career and private life widened.
Separation and Divorce
By the mid-1970s, the cracks in Mary and Gene’s marriage had begun to show. After seven years together, they officially divorced in 1974.
The separation was not only difficult for Mary and Gene but also for Katharine, who had come to see Wilder as her father. Their relationship reportedly grew strained after the divorce, creating emotional distance.
Though Wilder later spoke warmly about his experiences as a husband and father, it was clear that the end of his marriage to Mary Joan Schutz left behind unhealed wounds.
Life After Gene Wilder
Following the divorce, Mary Joan Schutz chose privacy over publicity. Unlike many ex-spouses of celebrities who write memoirs or give interviews, she avoided public discussions of her life with Wilder.
She did not remarry publicly, nor did she attempt to build a presence in Hollywood. Instead, she focused on her daughter and personal life, away from cameras and headlines.
Her decision to retreat from fame reflects the life she had always wanted—quiet, grounded, and private.
Gene Wilder’s Later Marriages
After his marriage to Mary Joan Schutz ended, Gene Wilder’s love life continued to attract public interest.
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In 1984, he married comedian Gilda Radner, with whom he shared a famously deep and loving relationship until her untimely death in 1989.
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Later, he married Karen Boyer, his final spouse, with whom he shared a quiet life until his passing in 2016.
Though Wilder’s subsequent relationships were more publicly visible, his marriage to Mary Joan Schutz marked a crucial stage in his early personal and professional journey.
Mary Joan Schutz’s Legacy
Mary Joan Schutz may not have been a public figure, but her legacy lies in her role as Gene Wilder’s first wife and as the mother of Katharine, whom Wilder adopted.
Her presence gave Wilder stability during the formative years of his Hollywood career. Without her, Wilder’s path might have been more turbulent.
Lessons from Mary Joan Schutz’s Life
From Mary Joan Schutz’s life, we can draw some valuable lessons:
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Privacy is powerful. Even when linked to fame, Mary chose to live quietly.
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Family bonds can shape futures. Her daughter’s relationship with Wilder showed the depth of family beyond blood.
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Not all legacies are public. Some stories, like Mary’s, are written in private moments rather than public stages.
Final Thoughts
The story of Mary Joan Schutz is one of quiet strength. She may not have stood in the limelight, but her marriage to Gene Wilder and her role as a mother left a meaningful impact on both his personal life and early career.
While Wilder will forever be remembered for his brilliance in film, Mary Joan Schutz will be remembered as the woman who walked beside him during his early rise to fame and for the family bond she helped him build.
FAQs About Mary Joan Schutz
Who is Mary Joan Schutz?
Mary Joan Schutz was the first wife of actor Gene Wilder, known for his iconic role as Willy Wonka.
When did Mary Joan Schutz marry Gene Wilder?
She married Gene Wilder in October 1967.
Did Mary Joan Schutz have children with Gene Wilder?
No. She had a daughter, Katharine, from a previous marriage. Wilder later adopted her.
When did Mary Joan Schutz and Gene Wilder divorce?
They divorced in 1974, after about seven years of marriage.
What happened to Mary Joan Schutz after the divorce?
She lived a private life, away from Hollywood and media attention.
What is Mary Joan Schutz remembered for?
She is remembered as Gene Wilder’s first wife and the mother of his adopted daughter, Katharine.
Kristine Saryan is an American actress best known for her brief yet memorable appearances in the hit television series Gilmore Girls. She is also widely recognized as the wife of actor Scott Patterson, who famously portrayed Luke Danes on the show. While Scott became a household name through his starring role, Kristine quietly left her own mark within the same television universe.
This article takes an in-depth look at Kristine Saryan’s life, including her early background, acting career, marriage, family life, and personal values—offering readers a complete picture of the woman who captured Scott Patterson’s heart.
Quick Bio
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kristine Saryan |
| Famous As | Actress, Wife of Scott Patterson |
| Date of Birth | 1984 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 41 Years |
| Place of Birth | California, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Mixed (Reportedly Caucasian) |
| Profession | Actress, TV Personality |
| Known For | Gilmore Girls, Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life |
| Spouse | Scott Patterson (Actor, Musician) |
| Children | Nicholas Patterson (Son) |
| Years Active | 2000–Present |
| Net Worth (Approx.) | $1 Million (as of 2025) |
Early Life and Background
Kristine Saryan has always preferred to live away from public attention, which is why very little information is available about her early life. She was born in the United States, and most online sources list her birth year as either 1984 or 1981, leading to ongoing discussion about her exact age. If the 1984 date is correct, Kristine Saryan would be around 40 years old in 2024.
She is often described as Caucasian-American, although she has never publicly confirmed details about her family background. What is clear is that Kristine developed an interest in acting at a young age and was drawn to performance and storytelling well before appearing on Gilmore Girls.
Acting Career
Kristine Saryan gained public recognition through her role as Chrissy, one of Miss Patty’s dance students, in Season 4 of Gilmore Girls. Although her screen time was limited, viewers noticed her confidence and natural on-screen presence.
Her connection to the series became even more meaningful after she later married Scott Patterson, one of the show’s main stars. In 2016, Kristine appeared again in the Netflix revival Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life, delighting longtime fans.
Beyond Gilmore Girls, Kristine Saryan has been involved in several small television projects, short films, and independent productions. Rather than actively pursuing fame, she has chosen roles selectively and eventually stepped back from acting to focus on her family.
Relationship With Scott Patterson
Kristine Saryan and Scott Patterson began their relationship in the early 2000s. The couple reportedly met while working in the entertainment industry, possibly during the original Gilmore Girls era. Despite a notable age difference—often estimated between 20 and 26 years—their relationship grew steadily and organically.
Scott Patterson, born in 1958, is best known for playing Luke Danes, the gruff but lovable diner owner on Gilmore Girls. While public discussion often centers on their age gap, both Scott and Kristine have emphasized that their relationship is built on mutual respect, shared values, and genuine love.
They married in a private ceremony in 2014, choosing to keep the event intimate and away from media attention.
Marriage and Family Life
Shortly after their wedding, Kristine Saryan and Scott Patterson welcomed their son, Nicholas Patterson, who was also born in 2014. Scott has frequently spoken about how fatherhood transformed his life and how much joy Nicholas brings to their family.
The couple is known for fiercely protecting their privacy. Despite Scott’s fame from projects such as Gilmore Girls and Saw IV, they maintain a quiet, grounded lifestyle focused on raising their son away from the spotlight.
The Age Difference Discussion
One of the most searched topics about Kristine Saryan is her age difference with Scott Patterson. Many fans frequently ask, “How old is Kristine Saryan?” While her exact birth year has never been officially confirmed, most reports suggest an age gap of approximately 26 years.
Scott Patterson has addressed this topic publicly, explaining that age has never defined their relationship. He has stated that they met at a time when both were emotionally mature and ready for commitment. Their long-lasting marriage reflects the strength of their bond beyond numbers.
Kristine Saryan in Gilmore Girls
Kristine Saryan remains closely associated with Gilmore Girls, even though her role was relatively small. Her portrayal of Chrissy in Season 4 permanently linked her to one of television’s most beloved shows.
Her return in Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life renewed fan interest, especially when viewers realized that Scott Patterson’s real-life wife had appeared in the same series. The revival highlighted how the Gilmore Girls universe played a role in bringing the couple together.
Personality and Lifestyle
Unlike many Hollywood spouses, Kristine Saryan is known for her private and low-key lifestyle. She rarely attends red carpet events and avoids interviews, choosing instead to focus on family and personal well-being.
People who have worked with her describe her as intelligent, graceful, and kind, with a natural charm that doesn’t rely on public attention. Her modest and grounded approach to life has earned admiration from fans.
Motherhood and Her Son Nicholas
Motherhood has been one of the most defining aspects of Kristine Saryan’s life. Her son Nicholas is often described by Scott Patterson as his greatest source of happiness, and Scott has praised Kristine for being a loving and devoted mother.
Although little is publicly known about Nicholas, it’s clear that both parents prioritize raising him in a supportive, private, and nurturing environment.
Comparison With Vera Davich
Kristine Saryan is sometimes confused online with Vera Davich, Scott Patterson’s ex-wife before Gilmore Girls. While both names appear together in search results, they are entirely different individuals.
There is no personal or professional connection between Kristine Saryan and Vera Davich beyond their association with Scott Patterson. Any perceived resemblance is purely coincidental.
Movies and Television Appearances
In addition to Gilmore Girls, Kristine Saryan has appeared in smaller film and television projects, including independent productions and short films. She has also been linked to Kidnapped: The Hannah Anderson Story and has experience in theater.
Although her acting résumé is modest, her performances reflect a genuine passion for storytelling. Many fans hope she may one day return to acting.
Public Image and Social Media Presence
Kristine Saryan maintains little to no presence on major social media platforms. There are very few verified accounts or public images of her, which adds to her quiet and private image.
Scott Patterson occasionally shares limited glimpses of family life, but both are careful to maintain boundaries—earning respect for keeping their personal lives out of the public eye.
Kristine Saryan in 2024
As of 2024, Kristine Saryan continues to live a peaceful and fulfilling life with her husband and son. While she is not actively pursuing new acting roles, her association with Gilmore Girls keeps her name relevant.
Fans continue searching for Kristine Saryan age, biography details, and Wikipedia-style information, showing sustained interest in her life story.
Interesting Facts About Kristine Saryan
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She played Chrissy in Gilmore Girls Season 4
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She married Scott Patterson in 2014
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Their son Nicholas was born the same year
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Her age difference with Scott is widely discussed
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She values privacy over public attention
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She appeared in Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life
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Her husband portrayed Luke Danes
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Fans admire her calm, graceful presence
Conclusion
Kristine Saryan may not seek the spotlight, but her presence leaves a lasting impression. Through her acting work, her marriage to Scott Patterson, and her dedication to family life, she represents grace, balance, and authenticity in an industry often defined by excess.
Whether people search for Kristine Saryan age, biography, or her Gilmore Girls connection, one thing remains clear—she is far more than a celebrity spouse. She is a woman of quiet strength, talent, and genuine character who continues to live life on her own terms.
In early 2020, the internet was taken by surprise when a short video went viral showing a confident blonde woman dancing to the song “Get the Gat” alongside LSU football players during their White House visit.
The clip spread rapidly, generating millions of views and sparking one immediate question across social media:
“Who is she?”
That woman was Gemi Bordelon — a Louisiana-based businesswoman, community figure, and the wife of former LSU football player Ben Bordelon. Her confident energy and natural charisma turned her into an overnight internet sensation, even though she never sought public attention.
Today, Gemi Bordelon remains a widely searched name thanks to her connection to LSU football culture, her memorable viral moment, and her authentic, down-to-earth personality.
Early Life & Background
Gemi Bordelon has kept much of her personal life private. She was born and raised in Louisiana, a state deeply rooted in strong community ties, cultural pride, and football tradition.
Those familiar with her often describe Gemi as:
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Confident
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Strong-minded
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Outgoing and fun
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A natural leader
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Deeply loyal to family and community
These traits would later shine unexpectedly during her now-famous LSU moment.
Her Connection to LSU Football
Gemi’s strong ties to Louisiana State University come through her husband, Ben Bordelon, who:
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Played offensive tackle for LSU
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Went on to play for the San Diego Chargers
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Later became CEO and President of Bollinger Shipyards, one of Louisiana’s most prominent shipbuilding companies
The Bordelon family has long been active supporters of LSU athletics, making Gemi a recognizable and respected presence within the LSU community.
The Viral “Get the Gat” Video: How It All Happened
During LSU’s White House visit celebrating their 2019 National Championship, players were filmed dancing in a hallway to the viral track “Get the Gat.”
Standing confidently among the athletes was a stylish woman who instantly caught viewers’ attention — Gemi Bordelon.
Why Did the Video Go Viral?
The moment resonated because Gemi stood out:
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She matched the players’ energy effortlessly
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Her confidence felt natural and unforced
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Her joy and charisma were unmistakable
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Viewers were intrigued by who she was
Within hours:
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Her name trended across Twitter
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TikTok users recreated the dance
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LSU fans embraced her as a cult favorite
Even years later, searches for “Gemi Bordelon Get the Gat” remain popular, cementing the clip as one of the most iconic viral moments tied to college football.
Life After Viral Fame
Despite the sudden attention, Gemi Bordelon never attempted to capitalize on her viral popularity. Instead, she continued focusing on what mattered most to her:
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Family
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Community involvement
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Supporting Louisiana-based businesses
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Standing alongside her husband’s leadership at Bollinger Shipyards
Her decision to remain grounded and private is a major reason her story continues to resonate with people online.
Marriage & Family Life
Gemi Bordelon has been married to Ben Bordelon for many years, and together they’ve built a close-knit family life centered around:
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Southern values
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Family loyalty
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Community engagement
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LSU pride
Friends and acquaintances often describe Gemi as a caring, protective, and energetic mother, as well as a deeply supportive partner.
Career & Professional Involvement
While Gemi is not a public-facing celebrity or influencer, she has strong ties to the business world through:
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Bollinger Shipyards
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Community programs and fundraising efforts
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Louisiana-based industry and charity events
Although her specific professional role remains private, she is known to be active within business and philanthropic circles throughout the state.
Personality: Why Gemi Bordelon Stands Out
Very few people go viral simply by being themselves — but that’s exactly what happened with Gemi.
She is often described as:
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Bold
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Fashion-forward
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Confident
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Approachable
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Fun-loving
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Naturally magnetic
Her viral moment worked because it reflected her real personality, something audiences immediately connected with.
Net Worth (Estimated)
Gemi Bordelon keeps her financial details private. However, based on her family’s business background:
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Estimated net worth: $500,000 – $2 million (approximate)
Her husband, as CEO of Bollinger Shipyards, is estimated to have a significantly higher net worth.
Together, the Bordelon family maintains a comfortable yet grounded lifestyle in Louisiana.
Why Is Gemi Bordelon Still Trending?
Years after the viral video, people continue searching for “Who is Gemi Bordelon?”
Some of the main reasons include:
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Her place in LSU football history
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The lasting popularity of the dance clip
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Fans’ admiration for her confidence
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Her embodiment of Louisiana’s fun-loving spirit
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Renewed interest during each football season
Gemi’s story shows how a spontaneous moment can become a lasting internet memory.
Interesting Facts About Gemi Bordelon
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She went viral dancing with LSU players at the White House
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She is married to former LSU player and CEO Ben Bordelon
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She is connected to major Louisiana industries
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Her daughter, Brooke Bordelon, has social media popularity
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She is admired for her confidence and authenticity
Conclusion: Gemi Bordelon
Gemi Bordelon never intended to become an internet star — yet she captured widespread attention through confidence, joy, and authenticity.
Her story proves that viral fame doesn’t always belong to celebrities. Sometimes, it comes from ordinary people embracing a moment and being completely themselves.
FAQs About Gemi Bordelon
1. Who is Gemi Bordelon?
Gemi Bordelon is a Louisiana businesswoman best known for her viral appearance in the LSU “Get the Gat” video. She is the wife of former LSU football player and Bollinger Shipyards CEO Ben Bordelon.
2. Why did Gemi Bordelon go viral?
She gained attention after confidently dancing with LSU players during their White House visit following the 2019 National Championship.
3. What is her connection to LSU?
Her husband played football for LSU, and the family remains closely connected to the university.
4. Is Gemi Bordelon a celebrity?
No. She gained temporary viral fame but lives a private, grounded life.
5. What does Gemi Bordelon do professionally?
While her specific role is private, she is involved in Louisiana business and community circles.
6. Is Gemi Bordelon married?
Yes, she is married to Ben Bordelon.
7. Does she have children?
Yes, including her daughter Brooke Bordelon.
8. What is her net worth?
Her estimated net worth ranges between $500,000 and $2 million.
9. Where does she live?
She lives in Louisiana.
10. Why do people still search for her?
Because her viral video remains iconic, especially among LSU fans.
11. Is Gemi Bordelon on social media?
She keeps her accounts private, though some family members are active online.
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