Actress Anne Hathaway has marked the 25th anniversary of her breakthrough role in The Princess Diaries, describing it as “one of the most magical things that has ever happened to me.”
A Milestone Celebration
The 43-year-old American played Mia Thermopolis in the 2001 Disney coming-of-age film, which follows Mia as she discovers she is the crown princess of Genovia.
In an Instagram post accompanied by a video of her making the film, Hathaway said: “25 years later and it’s still one of the most magical things that has ever happened to me. Thank you all for loving The Princess Diaries as much as I do- I am forever grateful for my PD family.”
Tribute to Garry Marshall
Hathaway also paid tribute to the film’s director, Garry Marshall, who died in July 2016, adding: “Love you Garry, miss you every day.” In the video, she recalls that making the film was “truly a magical experience” and “so much fun.”
Return to the Role
She reprised the role of Mia in 2004 for The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement and is reportedly set to star in an upcoming third film in the series.
Mandy Moore, who played Lana Thomas, the popular cheerleader who bullied Mia in the original, also posted to celebrate the milestone. Moore said: “Five years ago, The Princess Diaries hit the big screen and I walked my very first red carpet for my very first movie. How crazy is that? Having started in musical theatre, I could’ve never imagined that I’d spend the next 25 years getting to blend my love of singing and acting in so many incredible ways. It’s truly been a dream come true. And to watch 16-year-old Mandy talk about landing her first big break is such a surreal experience because I can honestly say she’s still living the dream she was so excited about back then. That little chapter of my life, and yes, Stupid Cupid too, will always hold such a special place in my heart, so thank you for celebrating 25 years of The Princess Diaries with me.”
Hathaway’s Career Highlights
Hathaway went on to win a best supporting actress Oscar for her role as Fantine in Les Misérables (2013), having been nominated for best actress for Rachel Getting Married (2008). She most recently appeared in Sir Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of The Odyssey as Penelope.
