Lauren Taylor is an American actress best known for playing Shelby in the Disney Channel series Best Friends Whenever along with Landry Bender. Lauren previously starred as Harper in the Netflix series Richie Rich. She currently portrays Matilda in Matilda the musical and Glinda in Wicked. Born and raised in San Diego, California, Taylor began performing in musical theatre at age eight in school and community productions. She went on to compete in a 12-part chamber Cappella choir in middle school, which led to performances across the country, including Carnegie Hall. At fourteen, she started singing for the San Diego Symphony Summer Pop Concert Series and opened for acclaimed musical artists Michael Bolton, Wilson Phillips, Debbie Gibson, and Vanessa Williams. Her acting credits also include several national commercials and a starring role in the Netflix series “Richie Rich.” Taylor is an honor student and an all-around athlete who participated in competitive cheerleading for four years. She also played lacrosse and soccer. In her spare time, she enjoys making music, including writing songs and playing guitar, going to the beach, watching movies and spending time with her friends. Taylor currently resides in Southern California with her mother, twin brothers, Conner and Jordan, their Chocolate Lab, Hanna, and two cats, Mojo and Baby.