Amanda Seyfried’s path to stardom is one defined by talent, resilience, and constant reinvention. Starting as a teen model before making her mark in film and television, she has evolved into one of Hollywood’s most respected and relatable actresses. Whether portraying a romantic lead, a conflicted mother, or a real-life icon, Seyfried brings a rare depth and sincerity to every performance.
Started Modeling at Age 11
Before stepping into acting, Amanda Seyfried began her career as a child model at just 11 years old. She appeared in campaigns for clothing brands like Limited Too and was featured alongside future stars like Leighton Meester. Modeling gave her an early taste of the entertainment industry, which she later transitioned from to pursue acting full-time.
Mean Girls Was Her First Major Film Role
Seyfried made her big-screen debut as Karen Smith in the 2004 teen comedy Mean Girls. Originally auditioning for the role of Regina George, she was eventually cast as the hilariously dim-witted Karen—an iconic performance that launched her film career. The role remains a fan favorite and has become a pop culture staple.
She Played a Lead Role in the HBO Series Big Love
Before her movie career took off, Seyfried earned critical praise for her role as Sarah Henrickson in the HBO drama Big Love. She portrayed the daughter of a polygamist family, and her nuanced performance ran for four seasons. The show gave her the space to prove her dramatic range on television long before her breakout in major films.
Owns a Farm in Upstate New York
Amanda Seyfried lives on a working farm in the Catskills, far from the typical Hollywood scene. There, she raises animals alongside her husband, actor Thomas Sadoski. The rural lifestyle offers her a sense of grounding and privacy, especially when she’s not filming.
Received an Emmy for The Dropout
In 2022, Amanda Seyfried won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series for her portrayal of Elizabeth Holmes in The Dropout. Her transformation, both physical and emotional, was widely praised by critics and audiences, marking a turning point in her reputation as a dramatic powerhouse.
Les Misérables Was Her Most Vocally Demanding Role
In Les Misérables (2012), Seyfried played Cosette, a role that pushed her classical vocal training to new limits. Unlike in most musicals, the cast performed their songs live on set—a bold directorial choice by Tom Hooper. Seyfried embraced the challenge, calling it one of the most technically difficult roles she’s ever taken on.
Upcoming Project: The Housemaid
The screen is set for one of the most anticipated psychological thrillers of the year: The Housemaid. Arriving in theaters on December 19, 2025, this film is a highly-anticipated adaptation of Freida McFadden’s best-selling 2022 novel. The film’s plot centers on Millie (played by Sydney Sweeney), a young woman with a troubled past who is desperate for a fresh start. She lands a seemingly perfect live-in housemaid job for the wealthy and seemingly perfect Winchester family: matriarch Nina (Amanda Seyfried) and her charming husband, Andrew (Brandon Sklenar). However, the idyllic facade of the Winchester home quickly crumbles as Millie begins to uncover the family’s dark and dangerous secrets. The story is a masterful game of cat-and-mouse, where nothing is what it seems and everyone has something to hide.
Uses Her Platform to Support Animal Welfare
A lifelong animal lover, Amanda Seyfried is passionate about animal welfare and rescue. She frequently posts about pet adoption and is known for her close bond with her dog, Finn, who’s become a bit of a celebrity himself. Her advocacy extends to promoting responsible pet ownership and supporting shelters and humane organizations.
Married to Actor Thomas Sadoski
Amanda Seyfried married actor Thomas Sadoski in a private ceremony in 2017 after meeting in 2015 on the off-Broadway play The Way We Get By. The couple shares two children and often keeps their family life out of the spotlight. Despite their low-key public presence, they’ve occasionally collaborated professionally and have been active in various charitable causes together.
The Testament of Ann Lee
In her latest film, The Testament of Ann Lee, Amanda Seyfried takes on a dramatic and challenging role as the titular historical figure, the founder of the Shaker religious movement in the 18th century. The film, which is directed by Mona Fastvold, is described as a “historical drama musical,” a genre that uniquely showcases Seyfried’s vocal abilities. The plot follows Ann Lee’s journey from a working-class woman in Manchester, England, to a spiritual leader who her fans believe she is the female Christ.