| Full Name | Anna Cooke Kendrick |
| Age | 38 years old |
| Birthday | August 9, 1985 |
| Birthplace | Portland, Maine, United States |
| Relationship Status | Single |
| Height | 5‘ 2" |
| Net Worth | $20 million |
| Social Media | Facebook, Twitter, Instagram |
Anna Kendrick is an award-winning American actress and singer known for her versatility and comedic timing. She rose to fame with her portrayal of Jessica Stanley in the Twilight saga and has since starred in major box office hits like Pitch Perfect, Into the Woods, Trolls, and A Simple Favor. With her sharp wit, refreshing candor, and undeniable talent, Anna Kendrick has solidified herself as one of Hollywood‘s most beloved and bankable stars.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Anna Kendrick was born on August 9, 1985 in Portland, Maine. From a young age, she was drawn to performing. Kendrick caught the acting bug early, making her Broadway debut at just 10 years old as Dinah Lord in the musical High Society. This precocious start launched a prolific career for the young performer. Kendrick went on to garner a Theatre World Award nomination for her Broadway debut, impressing critics with her vocal chops and stage presence at such a young age.
After finding success on Broadway, Kendrick started auditioning for film and TV roles. She made her on-screen debut in the 2003 musical comedy Camp, playing the supporting role of Fritzi. Though only a teenager, Kendrick held her own against the adult cast. She also appeared in a Broadway production of A Little Night Music before graduating high school.
At just 18 years old, Kendrick made the decision to move to New York City to attend the prestigious Tisch School of the Arts at NYU. There she honed her acting skills and graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater.
Theater Beginnings
Kendrick‘s professional career began on the Broadway stage at age 10 when she played Dinah Lord in the musical High Society, becoming the second youngest Tony nominee in history. She credits these early theater experiences with teaching her dedication and discipline.
Rise to Stardom
After a few small film and TV roles, Kendrick got her big break when she was cast as Jessica Stanley in the 2008 blockbuster film Twilight based on the bestselling book. Though a supporting part, her performance as an envious human friend of Bella stood out. She went on to reprise the role in the next three installments of the vampire romance franchise.
Big Break
Kendrick‘s stellar talent was recognized with her casting as junior business executive Natalie Keener in the 2009 George Clooney drama Up in the Air. Her nuanced performance earned her acclaim from critics and numerous accolades, including Academy Award, Golden Globe, and Screen Actors Guild Award nominations for Best Supporting Actress.
This breakout role cemented Kendrick as a rising A-list star and opened the door to more leading roles. Kendrick herself has said shooting Up in the Air was a major boost to her confidence.
Continued Success
After Up in the Air, Kendrick leveraged her newfound stardom into a series of high-profile projects. In 2012, she starred as college a cappella singer Beca Mitchell in the surprise smash hit Pitch Perfect, which became one of the most profitable musicals of all time. Kendrick’s performance of “Cups” in the film became a Billboard hit.
She went on to reprise her fan favorite role of Beca in the two Pitch Perfect sequels, further showcasing her singing talent. Kendrick also spread her wings into animation, voicing the character of Poppy in the hit musical Trolls (2016) and its 2020 sequel.
Kendrick‘s other notable films include the musical fantasy Into the Woods (2014), the mystery thriller A Simple Favor (2018) opposite Blake Lively, and the action flick The Accountant (2016) with Ben Affleck. Her flair for comedy has been on display with supporting roles in 50/50 (2011), Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates (2016), and the HBO series Love Life (2020).
Musical Endeavors
In addition to her acting, Kendrick is an accomplished singer who recorded songs for the Pitch Perfect soundtrack which charted on the Billboard Hot 100. She also earned a top 10 hit with "Cups (When I‘m Gone)" from Pitch Perfect. Kendrick‘s musical versatility has become an important part of her star persona.
Why We Love Anna Kendrick
Her Wit: Kendrick is celebrated for her quick wit and self-deprecating sense of humor. She‘s hilarious on talk shows and social media without ever being mean-spirited.
Her Talent: She can nail comedy, drama, action and musical roles with apparent ease. Kendrick has proven herself exceptionally versatile.
Her Authenticity: Kendrick is refreshingly honest about the less-than-glamorous sides of fame. She‘s outspoken about women‘s issues and unafraid to speak her mind.
Fun Facts About Anna Kendrick
- Kendrick published a memoir in 2016 titled Scrappy Little Nobody, which became a New York Times bestseller.
- She was nominated for a Tony Award in 1998 for her Broadway debut in High Society at just 12 years old.
- Kendrick is only 5‘ 2" tall. Her stature often requires her to wear heels to events to avoid height differences with co-stars.
- She is an accomplished singer who recorded songs for the Pitch Perfect soundtracks which charted on the Billboard Hot 100.
- Kendrick broke out on Twitter in early 2009, becoming one of the first celebrities to leverage the platform to connect with fans.
The Essence of Anna Kendrick
With her genuine personality and admirable work ethic, Anna Kendrick has become one of the most down-to-earth figures in show business. She‘s beautiful yet approachable, hilarious yet hard-working, glamorous yet grounded. Kendrick brings depth and heart to every role while still commanding leading lady status. Her versatility and magnetism have made her a mainstay in Hollywood. And with her quick wit and refreshing candor, she always keeps fans entertained off-screen as well. Anna Kendrick is a true star for the 21st century.
