Early Career and Breakthrough (1999-2005)
Anne Hathaway began her acting career with a role in the television series Get Real (1999-2000), which, despite its short run, gave her early exposure. However, her big break came with the Disney film The Princess Diaries (2001), where she played the role of Mia Thermopolis, a shy teenager who discovers she is the heir to a European kingdom. The film was a commercial success, and Hathaway’s performance was well-received, establishing her as a rising star.
Transition to Adult Roles (2005-2010)
Hathaway sought to break away from her image as a teen star and took on more mature roles. In 2005, she starred in Brokeback Mountain, a critically acclaimed film directed by Ang Lee, where she played the wife of a cowboy struggling with his sexuality. Her role demonstrated her ability to handle complex characters and earned her recognition from critics.
In 2006, Hathaway starred in the comedy-drama The Devil Wears Prada, alongside Meryl Streep. The film was a box office hit and became a cultural phenomenon, with Hathaway’s portrayal of the ambitious assistant Andy Sachs earning her praise. This role further solidified her position as a leading actress in Hollywood.
Critical Acclaim and Awards (2008-2012)
Hathaway continued to take on challenging roles, including her performance in Rachel Getting Married (2008), where she played a recovering drug addict. Her portrayal earned her numerous awards nominations, including her first Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
One of her most iconic roles came in 2012 with Les Misérables, where she portrayed Fantine, a destitute factory worker and single mother. Hathaway’s dedication to the role, including cutting her hair and losing weight, garnered widespread acclaim. She won several awards, including the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, a Golden Globe, a BAFTA, and a SAG Award.
Diversifying Roles and Continued Success (2013-2020)
Following her Oscar win, Hathaway took on a variety of roles, showcasing her range as an actress. She starred in the science fiction film Interstellar (2014) directed by Christopher Nolan, which was a critical and commercial success. Hathaway also ventured into comedy with The Intern (2015), where she played the CEO of a fashion company, opposite Robert De Niro.
Hathaway explored darker and more complex roles in films like Colossal (2016), a science fiction black comedy, and Ocean’s 8 (2018), a female-led heist film. In Serenity (2019), she took on a thriller role, further diversifying her filmography.
Recent Work and Future Projects (2021-Present)
Anne Hathaway continued to work in both film and television. She starred in The Witches (2020), a dark fantasy comedy film based on Roald Dahl’s novel, and appeared in the anthology series Modern Love (2019). In 2022, Hathaway starred in WeCrashed, an Apple TV+ series based on the rise and fall of WeWork, demonstrating her talent for both dramatic and real-life inspired roles.
Philanthropy and Other Interests
Beyond her acting career, Hathaway is known for her philanthropic efforts. She is a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador and advocates for gender equality and women’s rights. Hathaway is also involved in various charitable causes, including support for LGBTQ+ rights and child marriage prevention.
Personal Life
Anne Hathaway married actor and businessman Adam Shulman in 2012, and the couple has two children. She has been open about balancing her career and personal life, as well as her experiences with body image and the pressures of Hollywood.
Legacy and Impact
Anne Hathaway’s career is characterized by her ability to seamlessly transition between genres, from light-hearted comedies to intense dramas. Her commitment to her craft and her willingness to take on diverse and challenging roles have made her one of the most respected actresses in Hollywood. With a career spanning over two decades, Hathaway continues to be a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, known for her talent, versatility, and dedication to social causes.
