As of 2025, Elle Fanning’s estimated net worth is $12 million. This impressive figure reflects her multifaceted career in acting, modeling, and endorsements. Since stepping into the spotlight as a child, Elle has grown into one of Hollywood’s most respected actresses, carving out a niche for herself with roles that showcase her versatility and emotional depth. Fanning’s earnings primarily stem from her acting projects, where she commands significant paychecks for her work in both independent films and major studio productions. Her role as Catherine the Great in Hulu’s critically acclaimed series The Great not only earned her critical acclaim but also contributed significantly to her financial success. She reportedly earned $500,000 per episode by the show's later seasons. In addition to acting, Elle has made waves in the fashion world. As a brand ambassador for major luxury houses like L’Oréal and Cartier, her endorsement deals bring in millions annually. She’s also a favorite on the front row of fashion shows and frequently collaborates with high-profile designers. Elle’s financial success is a testament to her hard work, her ability to navigate between indie projects and mainstream hits, and her growing influence in Hollywood and beyond. With several projects in the pipeline for 2025, her net worth is only expected to rise.
Gen Z sees Elle Fanning as one of Hollywood’s most authentic and stylish young stars. Many admire her ability to stay grounded despite growing up in the limelight, especially in an industry that often forces child stars to grow up too fast. Her seamless transition from childhood roles to mature, complex characters resonates with Gen Z, who value versatility and individuality.
Her role as Catherine the Great in The Great has become a fan favorite among Gen Z, with many praising her comedic timing and portrayal of a witty, determined woman challenging societal norms. It’s a role that feels fresh and empowering to younger audiences, who are always on the lookout for strong female leads.
Fashion-savvy Gen Zers also adore Elle’s red carpet appearances, where she consistently turns heads with her daring yet whimsical style. Her ability to blend vintage inspiration with modern trends has made her a fashion icon for many in her generation.
However, not all feedback is glowing. Some Gen Zers feel Elle leans too heavily into niche indie projects, which can alienate those who don’t watch smaller films. Others wish she was more vocal about social issues, as many young celebrities are today.
Despite these critiques, the overall Gen Z verdict is clear: Elle Fanning is admired for her talent, grace, and ability to stay true to herself in a world where that’s not always easy.
Elle Fanning, born Mary Elle Fanning on April 9, 1998, in Conyers, Georgia, grew up in a tight-knit, creative family. She is the younger sister of actress Dakota Fanning, and the two share a bond that has been pivotal in both of their lives. Their mother, Heather Joy, was a professional tennis player, and their father, Steven J. Fanning, played minor league baseball, bringing a sense of discipline and focus to their household.
Elle’s entry into Hollywood came almost accidentally. At just two years old, she appeared as the younger version of her sister’s character in I Am Sam (2001). From that moment, it was clear Elle had a natural talent for acting, and she soon began landing her own roles.
As a child, Elle showed an incredible emotional range in films like Babel (2006) and Phoebe in Wonderland (2008), captivating audiences with her ability to bring depth to her characters. Unlike many child actors, she never seemed forced into the spotlight; instead, acting was something she genuinely loved.
Elle’s upbringing was rooted in creativity and balance. While she spent much of her childhood on film sets, she also enjoyed normal experiences like playing with friends and indulging her love of music and fashion. Her family emphasized staying grounded, which likely contributed to her ability to navigate the pressures of fame with grace.
Today, Elle’s early years are celebrated as the foundation of her impressive career, which has spanned two decades and continues to flourish.
Elle Fanning has evolved from being Dakota Fanning’s talented little sister to a bona fide star in her own right. With a career that began at the tender age of two, Elle has seamlessly transitioned from child star to leading lady, thanks to her thoughtful role choices and her ability to bring authenticity to her characters.
Elle’s big-screen debut came in 2001 when she played the younger version of Dakota Fanning’s character in I Am Sam. Her natural ability to convey emotion at such a young age immediately caught the attention of Hollywood. She continued to take on small but impactful roles in films like Daddy Day Care (2003) and Babel (2006), proving her versatility even as a child actor.
Elle’s breakout moment came with Sofia Coppola’s Somewhere (2010), where her understated and tender performance as the daughter of a troubled actor earned her widespread acclaim. This collaboration with Coppola marked the beginning of a series of roles that showcased her talent for nuanced and emotionally rich performances.
Her performance in Super 8 (2011) brought her further recognition. The J.J. Abrams-directed film gave her the chance to shine in a major sci-fi production, showcasing her ability to carry a film even as a teenager.
As Elle matured, she struck a perfect balance between mainstream success and indie credibility. In 2014, she starred opposite Angelina Jolie in Disney’s Maleficent, where her portrayal of the kind-hearted Princess Aurora added depth to the classic fairytale character. The film’s massive box-office success led to a sequel, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019), further solidifying her status as a Hollywood A-lister.
In between blockbusters, Elle explored smaller, character-driven films. She starred in The Neon Demon (2016), a haunting look at the modeling world, and 20th Century Women (2016), where she held her own alongside veteran actresses like Annette Bening.
Elle’s most significant achievement to date is her role as Catherine the Great in Hulu’s hit series The Great. Premiering in 2020, the series became a critical and fan favorite thanks to its irreverent, comedic take on history. Elle’s performance as the ambitious, witty, and determined Catherine earned her multiple nominations, including Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe nods.
By 2025, The Great had wrapped after four critically acclaimed seasons, leaving behind a legacy as one of Hulu’s most beloved original series. Elle’s work on the show not only showcased her comedic timing but also proved her ability to carry a series as its lead.
In 2022, Elle starred in The Girl from Plainville, a Hulu miniseries based on the true story of Michelle Carter. Her chilling performance as a teenager involved in a controversial case garnered widespread praise, further cementing her reputation as a risk-taking actress.
Elle continued to take on challenging roles, with recent films including The Nightingale (2023), an adaptation of Kristin Hannah’s bestselling novel, where she shared the screen with her sister Dakota for the first time since childhood. In 2024, she appeared in Francis, an A24 indie darling that made waves during awards season.
Looking ahead to 2025, Elle has signed on for several exciting projects, including Crimson Sky, a dystopian thriller, and Solstice, a historical drama. She’s also set to make her directorial debut with an untitled indie project, signaling her desire to expand her creative reach.
Elle has also left her mark in the fashion world, becoming a muse for brands like Miu Miu and Valentino. Known for her ethereal red carpet looks, she’s considered one of the best-dressed celebrities of her generation.
With over two decades in the industry, Elle Fanning has proven she’s more than just a child star—she’s a powerhouse of talent who continues to captivate audiences. As she ventures into new territories like directing, her future in Hollywood looks brighter than ever.
Elle Fanning has always been private about her romantic life, preferring to keep the focus on her career rather than her personal relationships. However, her current relationship with British actor Max Minghella (The Handmaid’s Tale) has drawn significant attention. The couple reportedly met on the set of Teen Spirit (2018), where Max directed Elle in the lead role. Their undeniable chemistry sparked dating rumors, and by 2019, they were spotted attending events and traveling together.
Elle and Max have kept their relationship low-key, often avoiding red carpets as a duo and sharing little on social media. When asked about Max, Elle describes him as a great creative collaborator and someone who inspires her artistic choices. Despite their 12-year age gap, the couple seems deeply supportive of each other’s careers.
Before Max, Elle was rarely linked to anyone romantically, which speaks to her focus on work throughout her teenage years. Fans admire her ability to balance her personal and professional life, showing that she values privacy in an age where everything can be overshared.
As of 2025, Elle and Max remain together, and though there’s no engagement news, fans continue to root for the couple. Whether walking the streets of London or spending time on set, their relationship radiates a quiet sense of partnership and mutual respect.
Elle Fanning’s inner circle is as cool and stylish as she is. While she’s not known for being the most social celebrity in Hollywood, Elle has formed close friendships with some of her industry peers and collaborators. One of her most well-known friendships is with actress and fellow indie film darling, Zendaya. The two bonded during fashion events and film award seasons, often photographed laughing together at afterparties. Zendaya has publicly praised Elle’s “dreamlike style” and sharp acting chops, while Elle has expressed admiration for Zendaya’s boldness in the industry. Elle is also close with her sister Dakota Fanning, who doubles as her biggest cheerleader and lifelong best friend. The Fanning sisters frequently attend events together and even shared the screen in The Nightingale (2023), a passion project for both. Their bond remains unshakable despite growing up in the Hollywood spotlight. She’s also formed a friendship with Nicholas Hoult, her co-star in Hulu’s The Great. The two share an easygoing camaraderie, often exchanging jokes in interviews. Fans love their on-screen chemistry and playful dynamic behind the scenes. On the fashion side, Elle has become friends with designers like Alessandro Michele (formerly of Gucci) and Miuccia Prada, making her a regular fixture at their fashion shows. While Elle’s squad isn’t as public as some celebs, her mix of Hollywood heavyweights and family ties keeps her grounded and connected.
When Elle Fanning isn’t acting, she’s immersing herself in creative and relaxing hobbies that reflect her artistic nature. A lover of music, Elle has a talent for playing the piano, which she learned at a young age. She often mentions how it helps her unwind after busy filming schedules. Her love for music even influenced her role in Teen Spirit (2018), where she performed several songs herself. Elle also has a passion for fashion, which extends beyond just wearing designer gowns on the red carpet. She loves experimenting with vintage styles and curating unique looks for her everyday life. A self-proclaimed "fashion nerd," Elle often collaborates with designers and stylists to create memorable outfits, and she’s become a muse for luxury brands like Miu Miu and Valentino. Another of her hobbies is journaling. Elle has revealed that she enjoys writing as a way to process her thoughts and explore ideas for future creative projects. On her downtime, Elle loves baking and trying out new dessert recipes. She’s even joked about how cupcakes and cookies are her “weakness.” Additionally, Elle enjoys traveling, particularly to Italy and France, where she’s said to find inspiration in the architecture, culture, and cuisine. Whether it’s through music, fashion, or food, Elle’s hobbies show her love for all things creative and her commitment to a balanced life.
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