The year was two thousand and one. A somewhat awkward, undeniably charming teenager named Mia Thermopolis stumbled upon a life-altering secret: she was, in fact, a princess. *The Princess Diaries* wasn’t just a movie; it was a cultural phenomenon, a heartwarming tale of self-discovery, and a Cinderella story for the new millennium. It launched careers, fueled dreams of royalty, and cemented itself in the hearts of countless viewers. But what happened to the cast of *The Princess Diaries* after their royal appointment? This article will delve into the lives and careers of the principal cast members, exploring their achievements, transformations, and what they’ve been up to since gracing the screen in Genovia’s finest.
A Star is Crowned: Anne Hathaway (Mia Thermopolis)
Before Genovia, Anne Hathaway was a promising young actress, but *The Princess Diaries* catapulted her to global superstardom. Her portrayal of the clumsy-yet-lovable Mia resonated with audiences of all ages. Hathaway seamlessly embodied Mia’s awkwardness, her intelligence, and her ultimate transformation into a poised and confident princess. The film was more than just a box office hit; it was a launching pad for a career that would span genres and earn her critical acclaim.
Post-*Princess Diaries*, Hathaway’s trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. She quickly proved her versatility with roles in comedies like *The Devil Wears Prada*, where she held her own against the formidable Meryl Streep. Her dramatic range shone in films like *Brokeback Mountain* and *Rachel Getting Married*, earning her an Academy Award nomination. Hathaway’s dedication to her craft, her ability to inhabit diverse characters, and her undeniable screen presence have made her one of the most sought-after actresses in Hollywood.
Her performance as Fantine in the musical *Les Misérables* earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, showcasing her powerful vocals and raw emotional depth. She tackled action roles in *The Dark Knight Rises*, proved her comedic timing again in *Ocean’s Eight*, and explored complex themes in films like *Interstellar*. Each role further solidified her reputation as a chameleon, an actress capable of tackling any genre with grace and skill.
In recent years, Anne Hathaway has continued to challenge herself with diverse projects. She has starred in films like *The Hustle*, *Serenity*, and *Locked Down*, each demonstrating her willingness to experiment and take on unconventional roles. She also received acclaim for her role in the Apple TV+ series *WeCrashed*, portraying Rebekah Neumann, wife of WeWork founder Adam Neumann. With a constant stream of interesting and varied roles, Anne Hathaway remains a force to be reckoned with, a true Hollywood icon who continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Anne Hathaway’s success is a testament to her talent and dedication and her journey is far from over.
Anne Hathaway is married and has children, keeping her family life relatively private.
Royal Dignity: Julie Andrews (Queen Clarisse Renaldi)
Even before *The Princess Diaries*, Julie Andrews was a legend. Her iconic roles in *Mary Poppins* and *The Sound of Music* had already cemented her place in cinematic history. She was a global icon, a symbol of grace, talent, and timeless elegance. What made *The Princess Diaries* so special was that it introduced her to a new generation of fans, showcasing her warmth, wit, and undeniable charm.
As Queen Clarisse Renaldi, Andrews brought a regal presence and a touch of humor to the role. She was the perfect mentor to Mia, guiding her through the intricacies of royal life while also showing a genuine affection for her granddaughter. The film allowed Andrews to showcase her comedic timing and her ability to connect with audiences of all ages.
After *The Princess Diaries*, Julie Andrews continued to work steadily in film, television, and voice acting. She lent her voice to beloved animated characters in films like *Shrek* (as Queen Lillian) and *Despicable Me* (as Marlena Gru). Her voice work brought a new dimension to these already popular franchises, delighting both children and adults.
Andrews also returned to television, hosting her own children’s show, *Julie’s Greenroom*, on Netflix. The show showcased her passion for the arts and her desire to inspire creativity in young people. With a career spanning decades, Julie Andrews remains an icon of the silver screen and a beloved figure worldwide. Her continued success is a testament to her enduring talent and her ability to connect with audiences on a deep and emotional level. Her legacy will continue for generations to come.
The Royal Protector: Hector Elizondo (Joseph)
Hector Elizondo was already a well-respected character actor with a long and distinguished career before taking on the role of Joseph, Queen Clarisse’s head of security and Mia’s confidante. But his portrayal of Joseph added another layer to his already impressive resume. Joseph was more than just a security guard; he was a mentor, a friend, and a surrogate father figure to Mia. He provided guidance, support, and a much-needed dose of reality to the young princess.
Elizondo brought a warmth, gravitas, and quiet strength to the role, making Joseph one of the most beloved characters in the film. He perfectly balanced the demands of protecting the Queen with his desire to help Mia navigate her newfound royal responsibilities. His performance resonated with audiences, earning him praise for his nuanced portrayal of a complex and caring character.
After *The Princess Diaries*, Elizondo continued to work steadily in film and television. He had recurring roles on popular shows like *Chicago Hope* and *Last Man Standing*, further solidifying his reputation as a reliable and talented character actor. His range and versatility allowed him to take on a variety of roles, from comedic to dramatic, always delivering memorable performances. Hector Elizondo is truly one of Hollywood’s finest.
Hector Elizondo’s talent continues to shine in various projects, enriching the entertainment landscape. His dedicated acting career is truly commendable.
Other Notable Cast Members
The Best Friend: Heather Matarazzo (Lilly Moscovitz)
Heather Matarazzo, known for her role in “Welcome to the Dollhouse,” brought a raw and realistic energy to the character of Lilly Moscovitz, Mia’s outspoken and fiercely loyal best friend. Lilly was the voice of reason, the grounding force in Mia’s increasingly chaotic life. She represented the normal world that Mia was leaving behind, and their friendship was a vital part of Mia’s journey.
After *The Princess Diaries*, Matarazzo continued to work in independent films and television. She took on challenging roles that explored complex themes, showcasing her range as an actress. She has also been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has used her platform to raise awareness about important social issues.
Matarazzo has remained active in the acting world, taking on diverse roles and embracing new challenges. Her work demonstrates a commitment to authentic storytelling and a desire to connect with audiences on a personal level. Heather Matarazzo’s talent and dedication are to be admired.
The Musical Love Interest: Robert Schwartzman (Michael Moscovitz)
Robert Schwartzman, who played Lilly’s brother and Mia’s initial love interest, Michael Moscovitz, brought a cool and understated charm to the role. While acting was a part of his career, Schwartzman is probably better known for his music career.
Post Princess Diaries, Robert has continued to pursue both acting and music. Most famously, he is the frontman of the band Rooney, a successful pop-rock act with a devoted following. The band has released several albums and toured extensively, showcasing Schwartzman’s musical talents.
He has also continued to act in independent films and television shows, demonstrating his versatility as a performer. He remains a prominent figure in the music and film scenes, juggling his acting career with his passion for creating music. His dedication to his craft is admirable.
The Jerk: Erik von Detten (Josh Bryant)
Erik von Detten was already a familiar face to many, thanks to his roles in shows like “So Weird” and his voice work in “Toy Story.” He brought the perfect amount of arrogance and charm to the role of Josh Bryant, Mia’s initial crush who turned out to be a bit of a jerk.
After *The Princess Diaries*, Von Detten continued to act for a few years before transitioning away from the spotlight. While he stepped away from a prolific acting career, his presence in *The Princess Diaries* remains memorable.
The Genovian Future: Will there be a Princess Diaries Three?
For years, rumors have swirled about a potential *Princess Diaries 3*. Fans have clamored for a reunion with Mia, Clarisse, and Joseph, eager to see what the future holds for Genovia’s royal family. While there have been discussions and expressed interest from the cast, nothing has been officially confirmed.
Anne Hathaway has expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating that she would love to return to the role of Mia. Julie Andrews has also voiced her support, but acknowledged the challenges of moving forward without director Garry Marshall, who passed away in 2016.
The absence of Marshall is a significant hurdle, as he was instrumental in shaping the tone and spirit of the first two films. However, fans remain hopeful that a third installment will eventually materialize, bringing back the magic and charm that made *The Princess Diaries* so beloved. The fans await Princess Diaries Three.
A Royal Legacy
*The Princess Diaries* captured the imagination of a generation, offering a heartwarming and empowering story of self-discovery. The cast members, led by Anne Hathaway, Julie Andrews, and Hector Elizondo, brought the characters to life with charm, wit, and undeniable talent. From Anne Hathaway’s meteoric rise to Julie Andrews’ enduring legacy and Hector Elizondo’s steady presence, the cast of *The Princess Diaries* has continued to shine in various endeavors.
While the future of Genovia remains uncertain, the legacy of *The Princess Diaries* endures. The film’s timeless message of embracing oneself, finding inner strength, and believing in the power of dreams continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. It is a film that has touched hearts, inspired dreams, and reminded us all that even the most ordinary person can become extraordinary. And as we look at the careers of the cast, we see real-life examples of talent, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence. Their stories, like *The Princess Diaries* itself, are a reminder that anything is possible. The cast of the Princess Diaries will forever be in our hearts.
