Anne Hathaway is a beloved actress known for her wide range of roles across various genres. From dramatic performances to lighthearted comedies, Hathaway has captivated audiences around the world. One of her most iconic roles came in 2001, when she starred as the awkward teenager Mia Thermopolis in The Princess Diaries. The movie, directed by Garry Marshall, was based on Meg Cabot’s novel and became an instant classic. Fans fell in love with Anne Hathaway’s portrayal of Mia, a relatable and endearing character who discovers she is heir to the throne of a small European country. The Princess Diaries made Anne Hathaway a household name and launched her career into stardom.
But how old was Anne Hathaway when she took on the role of Mia Thermopolis? Was she really a teenager like the character she played, or was there a significant age difference between the actress and her on-screen persona? This article will explore Anne Hathaway’s age during The Princess Diaries, the impact it had on her career, and the behind-the-scenes journey of bringing the beloved character to life.
Anne Hathaway’s Age at the Time of Filming
Anne Hathaway was born on November 12, 1982, in Brooklyn, New York. This means that, when filming for The Princess Diaries began in 2000, Hathaway was 17 years old, having just turned 18 before the film’s release in August 2001. Her age at the time of filming was relatively close to the character she portrayed—Mia Thermopolis, who is 15 years old in the book and around the same age in the movie. Although there is a slight age difference between Hathaway and Mia, it is still very close, which helped the actress relate to her character’s feelings of awkwardness and self-discovery.
At the time, Hathaway’s youth and inexperience in Hollywood worked to her advantage. She had a fresh, relatable energy that resonated with audiences, particularly teenagers, who could identify with her portrayal of Mia’s journey from an ordinary, shy girl to a confident young woman. Hathaway’s performance felt genuine, capturing the innocence and vulnerability of the character while also showcasing her transformation as Mia embraces her royal identity.
Anne Hathaway’s Early Career and The Princess Diaries
Before landing the role of Mia Thermopolis in The Princess Diaries, Anne Hathaway had already been working as an actress. She had appeared in the short-lived television series Get Real (1999-2000), where she played a character named Meghan Green. While the show was not a major success, it did give Hathaway a platform to showcase her acting talent and gain some recognition.
However, The Princess Diaries was the movie that truly catapulted her into the spotlight. It was her first major film role, and it set the stage for the career that would follow. Hathaway’s casting as Mia was a pivotal moment in her career, as it marked her transition from a relatively unknown actress to an international star.
The film’s success at the box office and its widespread popularity with both children and adults solidified Hathaway’s place in Hollywood. Her portrayal of Mia was charming and relatable, capturing the essence of the character with warmth and authenticity. Audiences were drawn to her natural beauty, sense of humor, and the vulnerability she brought to the role.
The Role of Mia Thermopolis
In The Princess Diaries, Mia Thermopolis is an ordinary high school student living in San Francisco with her single mother. Mia’s life changes dramatically when she learns that she is the heir to the throne of Genovia, a fictional European country. With the guidance of her estranged grandmother, Queen Clarisse Renaldi (played by Julie Andrews), Mia embarks on a journey to embrace her royal duties and transform into a proper princess.
Mia’s character is initially awkward and unsure of herself, much like a typical teenager navigating the challenges of adolescence. Her transformation throughout the film—both physically, as she learns how to present herself as a princess, and emotionally, as she grows into her newfound role—was a major part of the film’s appeal. Hathaway’s performance as Mia made the character feel real and relatable, which is why the movie continues to be so beloved to this day.
The Impact of the Film on Anne Hathaway’s Career
The Princess Diaries was a major turning point in Anne Hathaway’s career. Not only did it introduce her to a massive audience, but it also proved that she could lead a film successfully. Her portrayal of Mia Thermopolis won her praise from critics and fans alike, and it opened the door for many more opportunities in the entertainment industry.
Following the success of The Princess Diaries, Hathaway went on to star in a variety of roles that showcased her versatility as an actress. In 2006, she earned critical acclaim for her role in The Devil Wears Prada, where she starred alongside Meryl Streep as the assistant to a powerful fashion magazine editor. Hathaway’s performance in The Devil Wears Prada further cemented her reputation as one of Hollywood’s most talented actresses.
In addition to her career in film, Hathaway’s age and growing popularity made her a fashion icon and a beloved public figure. Her success in The Princess Diaries set the stage for a long and successful career, one that continues to evolve as she takes on more complex and diverse roles.
Anne Hathaway’s Age Compared to Her Co-Stars
While Hathaway was around 17-18 years old during the filming of The Princess Diaries, it’s interesting to compare her age with that of some of her co-stars, especially Julie Andrews, who played her grandmother, Queen Clarisse Renaldi. Julie Andrews was in her mid-60s at the time of filming, making her almost four decades older than Hathaway. Despite the significant age difference between them, the chemistry between Hathaway and Andrews was undeniable, and the two actresses became close friends during the production of the film. Their relationship on screen as grandmother and granddaughter was heartwarming, adding depth to the movie.
Another notable co-star in The Princess Diaries was Heather Matarazzo, who played Mia’s best friend, Lily Moscovitz. Matarazzo was born in 1982 as well, meaning she was the same age as Hathaway during the film’s production. The two actresses had a strong friendship both on and off screen, and their bond translated well into their performances as Mia and Lily. The supportive and loyal friendship between Mia and Lily became one of the most beloved aspects of the film.
The Success of The Princess Diaries and Its Legacy
When The Princess Diaries was released in 2001, it quickly became a box office hit, grossing over $165 million worldwide. The film’s success led to a sequel, The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004), which saw the return of Anne Hathaway as Mia. While the second film wasn’t quite as successful as the first, it still garnered a dedicated fan base and contributed to Hathaway’s rise in Hollywood.
Since then, The Princess Diaries has remained a beloved classic, frequently rewatched by fans of all ages. The film’s message of self-discovery, empowerment, and embracing who you truly are has resonated with generations of viewers. Anne Hathaway’s portrayal of Mia continues to be one of her most iconic roles, and the film will always be a significant part of her career legacy.
Anne Hathaway Today
Today, Anne Hathaway is recognized as one of Hollywood’s most talented and versatile actresses. Her career has spanned over two decades, and she has starred in a wide range of films, from romantic comedies to serious dramas. Hathaway’s ability to play both lighthearted and serious roles has earned her numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Les Misérables (2012).
While Hathaway has taken on many different roles throughout her career, her portrayal of Mia Thermopolis in The Princess Diaries will always be remembered as a defining moment in her early career. It launched her into stardom and set the stage for her continued success in the entertainment industry.
Conclusion
Anne Hathaway was 17 years old when The Princess Diaries began filming, making her only a few years older than the character she portrayed, Mia Thermopolis. Her youth and relatability played a significant role in the success of the film, as audiences connected with her portrayal of an awkward teenager discovering her royal heritage. The Princess Diaries remains one of Anne Hathaway’s most beloved and iconic roles, and it continues to be a fan favorite, thanks in large part to her authentic performance.
Hathaway’s career has flourished since the release of The Princess Diaries, but the film will always hold a special place in her heart—and in the hearts of fans—making it a landmark film in her journey as an actress. From a young, budding talent to a respected Hollywood star, Anne Hathaway’s journey is a testament to her dedication and ability to capture the hearts of audiences around the world.
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