Elle Fanning is a highly acclaimed American actress who has evolved from a prolific child star into one of Hollywood’s most respected leading talents. Born in 1998 in Georgia, she followed her older sister, Dakota Fanning, into acting at just two years old, initially playing younger versions of Dakota's characters in films like I Am Sam (2001). Over more than two decades, she has transitioned seamlessly into mature, complex roles, earning an Academy Award nomination for her "meta" performance in the 2025 family drama Sentimental Value . Career Milestones
: After her debut, Fanning starred in notable early films such as Daddy Day Care (2003), The Door in the Floor (2004), and Babel (2006). Elle Fanning
: Per family tradition, both she and her sister use their middle names as their given names (her full name is Mary Elle Fanning). Elle Fanning is a highly acclaimed American actress
: Fanning is known for working with legendary directors and taking "bold, artistic" risks in independent films like The Neon Demon (2016) and 20th Century Women (2016). Production and Other Ventures Career Milestones : After her debut, Fanning starred
Fanning has expanded her influence beyond acting, frequently serving as an on her projects, including The Great , The Girl from Plainville , and Margo’s Got Money Troubles . In 2021, she and Dakota launched their own production company, Lewellen Pictures, to develop more female-led narratives. She is also a fixture in the fashion world, having modeled for brands like Miu Miu, Prada, and Cartier, and notably served as the youngest-ever jury member at the Cannes Film Festival in 2019. Personal Background
: Described by peers as having a "high-energy" and "delightful" personality, she remains close with her sister, Dakota, with both maintaining that there is "zero competition" between them. Elle Fanning Gets the Money Shot | The New Yorker
: Fanning was raised in a highly athletic family; her father was a minor league baseball player and her mother a college tennis player.