Elle Fanning
Mary Elle Fanning is an American actress, recognized for her versatile roles across film and television. She began her career as a child actress, often portraying younger versions of her sister Dakota Fanning’s characters.
Fanning gained early critical attention for her performances in films such as “Phoebe in Wonderland” and Sofia Coppola’s “Somewhere.” Her breakthrough came with her starring role in the 2011 science fiction film “Super 8,” directed by J.J. Abrams.
Since then, Fanning has appeared in a diverse range of projects including “Maleficent” and its sequel “Maleficent: Mistress of Evil,” “The Neon Demon,” and “20th Century Women.” She also stars as Empress Catherine II in the Hulu series “The Great,” for which she has received Emmy and Golden Globe nominations.
LatestElle Fanning’s Quietly Radical Career Trajectory· Aug 1, 2026
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Elle Fanning has truly blossomed, with Young Hollywood tracking her “quietly radical career trajectory.” We’ve covered her “masterclass in building a career” and look forward to what’s next.
The latest on Elle Fanning —movies, TV shows, and news— plusexclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes videosfrom the Young Hollywood archive. 4 videos and 132 articles featuring Elle Fanning.
ABOUT ELLE FANNING
Elle Fanning has been a captivating presence on screen since her childhood, growing up in front of the world while building one of the most interesting filmographies of her generation. Hailing from Conyers, Georgia, she began her career in film at a very young age, initially appearing in projects alongside her sister, Dakota Fanning. She soon carved her own path with roles that highlighted her prodigious talent, such as her first lead part in “Phoebe in Wonderland”, signaling a penchant for complex and thoughtful characters that would define her future choices.
Her transition from a gifted child actor to a bona fide leading lady was cemented with her starring role in J.J. Abrams’ science-fiction tribute, “Super 8”. The film was a critical and commercial success that proved she could carry a major movie. Soon after, Fanning achieved global stardom playing Princess Aurora opposite Angelina Jolie in Disney’s blockbuster “Maleficent” and its sequel, bringing a modern sensibility and strength to the classic fairytale character. These films established her as a versatile performer capable of headlining both ambitious genre films and massive commercial franchises.
Fanning has consistently sought out collaborations with visionary directors, earning critical acclaim for her fearless performances. She has worked with Sofia Coppola on multiple occasions, including the Venice Golden Lion-winning “Somewhere” and “The Beguiled”. She also delivered a much-discussed performance in the provocative and stylish thriller “The Neon Demon”. Her work on the small screen has brought her even wider recognition. As Empress Catherine II in the satirical series “The Great”, Fanning has earned multiple nominations for the Primetime Emmy Award and Golden Globe Award, also serving as an executive producer on the series.
Today, Elle Fanning is celebrated for her incredible range and intelligence as a performer. From indie dramas and blockbuster fantasies to her tour-de-force comedic and dramatic work in historical television, she has built a career defined by bold choices and consistently compelling performances. She is recognized not just as a movie star, but as a respected artist who continues to evolve and challenge expectations with every role she takes.
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Super 8 Cast Shares Super Secrets?
Find out what Elle Fanning and the Super 8 boys could and could not give away.
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Brenton Thwaites Makes Waves and Drops Names
Kyle Chandler Goes Back To His Childhood
‘Maleficent’ Star Elle Fanning on Playing Sleeping Beauty
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Super 8 Cast Shares Super Secrets?
‘Maleficent’ Star Elle Fanning on Playing Sleeping Beauty
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Kyle Chandler Goes Back To His Childhood
Brenton Thwaites Makes Waves and Drops Names
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ELLE FANNING
Who is Elle Fanning?
Elle Fanning is an acclaimed American actress known for her versatile career that began in childhood. She has starred in a wide range of projects, from independent films to major blockbusters and critically lauded television series.
What movies and TV shows is Elle Fanning known for?
Elle Fanning is known for her starring roles as Catherine the Great in the series “The Great”, Princess Aurora in the “Maleficent” films, and her breakout performance in “Super 8”.
What awards has Elle Fanning won?
Elle Fanning has received numerous award nominations for her work, including Primetime Emmy Award, Golden Globe Award, and Critics’ Choice Television Award nominations for “The Great”. The cast of “The Great” also won a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series.
Where is Elle Fanning from?
Elle Fanning was born in Conyers, Georgia. She grew up in a creative family and began her acting career at a very young age.
How did Elle Fanning get famous?
Elle Fanning gained initial recognition as a talented child actor but achieved widespread fame with her lead role in the 2011 sci-fi film “Super 8”. Her status as a global star was cemented by playing Princess Aurora in Disney’s “Maleficent” franchise.
