Dakota Fanning is stepping into a new era — both personally and professionally. As she approaches her 30th birthday, the actress reflects on growing up in the spotlight, sibling dynamics with younger sister Elle, and her role in the stylish, psychological thriller Ripley.
Fanning, who began acting at age six, says turning 30 feels surprisingly exciting. “There’s something empowering about entering this new chapter,” she says. “I feel more myself than I ever have.” Her close bond with Elle Fanning has been a consistent part of her journey. Despite both finding success in Hollywood, Dakota admits she still has a bit of big sister energy. “I definitely like to boss Elle around,” she laughs. “It’s a running joke in our family — I’ve always been the more assertive one.”
That same confidence translates to her latest role as Marge Sherwood in Ripley, a haunting, atmospheric series based on Patricia Highsmith’s novel The Talented Mr. Ripley. Opposite Andrew Scott’s chilling portrayal of Tom Ripley, Fanning brings depth and subtle strength to Marge, a character unraveling the mystery around her.“Playing Marge was challenging and rewarding,” she says. “She’s intelligent and curious, but also vulnerable. There’s so much tension simmering beneath the surface — it was thrilling to tap into that.”
With a career spanning over two decades, Fanning is embracing her evolution as a woman and an artist. Whether commanding the screen or sharing sisterly laughs with Elle, she’s carving her path with grace and grit
