Anne Hathaway has carved a remarkable career defined by versatility, grace, and emotional depth. Since her breakout role in The Princess Diaries (2001), where she portrayed the clumsy yet endearing Mia Thermopolis, Hathaway has proven that she is far more than a fairytale princess. Her ability to transform onscreen—seamlessly moving from comedy to intense drama—has made her one of the most respected and admired actresses of her generation.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1982, Hathaway was drawn to performance from an early age, thanks in part to her actress mother. Her early roles showcased her charm and relatability, but she was never content to remain in lighthearted teen fare. As she matured, so did her roles—each one demonstrating a deeper layer of her talent.
Her turn as the fashion assistant Andrea Sachs in The Devil Wears Prada (2006) placed her firmly in the spotlight, holding her own alongside Meryl Streep. The role allowed Hathaway to portray both vulnerability and quiet strength, and it marked a significant step in her evolution as a dramatic actress.
Hathaway’s most transformative role came in 2012’s Les Misérables, where she played the tragic Fantine. Her heartbreaking performance, including a raw rendition of “I Dreamed a Dream,” earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. She committed fully to the role, even cutting her hair and losing weight to embody the character’s suffering—further evidence of her dedication to her craft.
Her career continued to evolve with diverse roles in films like Interstellar (2014), Love & Other Drugs (2010), and Ocean’s 8 (2018), showcasing her range in genres from science fiction to romance to action-comedy. Hathaway has also lent her voice to animated films and taken on stage work, further expanding her artistic reach.
Beyond the screen, Hathaway is known for her poise, intelligence, and advocacy. She uses her platform to speak on issues such as gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights, and she has served as a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador.
With a career spanning more than two decades, Anne Hathaway remains a symbol of elegance and strength. Her journey from a young actress in a tiara to an Oscar-winning powerhouse is a testament to her talent, resilience, and undeniable presence in modern cinema. And if her past roles are any indication, her most unforgettable performances may still lie ahead.
