| Full Name | Stana Jacqueline Katic |
| Born | April 26, 1978 in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada |
| Age | 45 |
| Spouse | Kris Brkljac (m. 2015) |
| Years Active | 1999–present |
| Social Media |
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| Net Worth | $12 million |
As a long-time fan of Stana Katic, I was thrilled when she landed the role of Detective Kate Beckett on Castle back in 2009. Over the last decade, I‘ve loved watching her career grow and expand beyond that star-making part.
While Katic will forever be remembered for embodying Beckett so compellingly, there‘s much more to this talented Canadian-American actress. She‘s shown impressive range across other film and TV projects, displayed her commitment to philanthropy, and revealed unique passions ranging from travel to poetry.
Let‘s take a deeper look at the life and career of the multifaceted Stana Katic.
Her Early Life and Education
Born in Ontario to Serbian parents, Katic‘s family moved around Canada frequently when she was young before settling in Illinois. As a teen, Katic found her passion for acting while performing in school plays. She graduated at the top of her high school class in 1996.
Katic‘s academic talents earned her a full scholarship to the University of Toronto‘s International Relations program. She graduated with honors in 2000 after also studying theater at DePaul University‘s acting conservatory.
It was evident early on that Katic had both brains and artistic instincts – a potent combination.
The Road to Beckett on Castle
After college, Katic hustled to build her acting resume in New York. She supported herself taking odd jobs while auditioning and training. Early bit parts on shows like Alias and The Shield led to larger film roles in titles like Feast of Love and The Spirit.
Her fortunes changed when she landed the role of Detective Kate Beckett on Castle in 2009. As one of her biggest fans, watching Katic embody the intelligent, tenacious Beckett over 8 seasons was a delight.
Behind the Scenes of Castle
Here are some fun facts about Katic‘s time on the Castle set:
- Did many of her own stunts and trained extensively in martial arts for fight sequences.
- Learned how to handle guns with proper techniques.
- Advocated for Beckett to wear more practical footwear than high heels for chasing criminals!
- Had a real camaraderie with co-star Nathan Fillion despite rumored off-screen tension.
- Directed several episodes of the show including "Get A Clue" and "The Human Factor".
Katic deservedly won a People‘s Choice Award for her work as Beckett and earned acclaim for her nuanced portrayal over the years.
Her Continued Success After Castle
While Katic could have rested on her Castle fame, she actively sought out complex roles after the show ended in 2016:
- Starred in and produced the crime drama series Absentia for 3 seasons on Amazon.
- Played rugged roles in films like The Rendezvous, Sister‘s Keeper, and Cadaver.
- Expanded into directing with projects like We Are Here and The Possession of Hannah Grace.
- East West Players honored her with the EWP Visionary Award in 2021 for her contributions to expanding diversity in Hollywood.
It‘s clear Katic is determined to keep stretching herself as an actor and storyteller. Fans are eager to see what compelling character she‘ll bring to life next!
Katic‘s Passions and Causes
Beyond her acting talents, I greatly admire how Katic uses her platform to give back:
- Founded The Alternative Travel Project to advocate sustainable transportation.
- Worked with various charities including Clothes Off Our Back, Make-A-Wish Foundation and Project Angel Food.
- Collaborated with Oceana to make a PSA about shark finning.
- Awarded the Bob Hope Award for Excellence in Entertainment from the TV Academy in 2020 honoring her humanitarian work.
Katic also has some fascinating hobbies and interests:
- Fluent in 5 languages – English, French, Serbian, Italian and Croatian.
- Avid traveler who loves exploring the world and taking fans along via Instagram.
- Launched lifestyle site ThisIsStanaKatic.com covering food, art, wellness and more.
- Co-owns a wine label Spellbound Petite Sirah with winemaker Marko Karakasevic.
- Published poet and contributor to magazines like Elite Traveler.
Why Katic Remains a Fan Favorite
What makes Katic so beloved by those like me who‘ve followed her career closely over the years?
Her acting range and commitment to every role: Katic pours her heart and soul into each part she takes on. She disappears completely into characters like Beckett and Emily Byrne.
Her intelligence and relatability: Katic earned accolades as a student and continues to engage in intellectual pursuits. But she‘s down-to-earth too – the kind of star you‘d love to grab a coffee with.
Her inherent kindness: Whether working with charities or engaging with fans, Katic has always come across as gracious and caring. She uses her position to help others.
Her adventurousness: Katic is always up for an adventure – whether on-screen in daring roles or globetrotting to exotic destinations in real life. Her boldness is infectious.
Her determination: Since starting out in acting over 20 years ago, Katic has never slowed down in pursuing her dreams. She sets an inspiring example of perseverance.
The Next Chapter for Stana Katic
While Katic made her mark starring as Detective Kate Beckett, I‘m certain she still has iconic roles left to take on that will further highlight her talents. I‘ll definitely be first in line to watch whatever she does next.
Given Katic‘s fearless spirit, creative passions, and genuine nature, there are no limits to what she can accomplish in Hollywood and beyond. She‘s shown she‘s got the brains, talent, and determination to keep achieving great things.
To me, Stana Katic represents the total package – an accomplished actor, philanthropist, explorer and artist. Her fans will eagerly follow wherever her journey leads next. One thing is for sure, it‘s sure to be an adventure!