Julia Stiles’ Iconic Roles: Why She’ll Always Be Hollywood’s Smart Girl Next Door
Julia Stiles is one of the most recognizable faces in Hollywood, known for her mix of fierce intelligence, emotional depth, and on-screen charisma. From her breakout roles in teen dramas to high-stakes action franchises, the variety in Julia Stiles movies and TV shows has kept fans captivated for decades. Whether you're reminiscing about classic early 2000s films or curious about her more recent work, this article explores her best performances and the legacy she's built in film and television.
Who Is Julia Stiles?
Before diving into her filmography, it’s worth learning a bit about Julia Stiles herself. Born in New York City in 1981, Julia began acting at the age of 11 with stage productions and quickly transitioned into film and TV. She attended Columbia University while acting professionally—a testament to her strong academic drive and work ethic.
Julia Stiles’ Breakout Role: 10 Things I Hate About You
The Movie That Launched a Generation
When we talk about Julia Stiles movies, it’s impossible not to begin with 10 Things I Hate About You
Her chemistry with the late Heath Ledger was unforgettable, and her iconic poem-reading scene still resonates with audiences today. The film helped solidify Julia as a leading lady of teen cinema.
Julia Stiles Dance Movie: Save the Last Dance
A Cultural Touchstone of the Early 2000s
One of the most frequently searched terms about the actress is "Julia Stiles dance movie"—and for good reason.
This movie tackled issues of race, ambition, and identity while featuring incredible dance sequences. Julia’s performance was both emotionally raw and physically impressive, and it showed a new dimension of her acting capabilities.
Expanding Her Range: The Bourne Franchise
Julia Stiles in Action-Packed Thrillers
While many remember her for romantic dramas, Julia Stiles movies and TV shows also include high-octane thrillers like the
From The Bourne Identity (2002) to Jason Bourne (2016), her character evolved from a minor role to someone pivotal in the franchise. These films not only proved her versatility but also introduced her to a broader, global audience.
Underrated Gems and Indie Films
Exploring Julia Stiles’ Indie Side
Julia Stiles has never shied away from smaller, character-driven films. Some underrated Julia Stiles movies worth checking out include:
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The Business of Strangers
(2001) – A psychological drama where Stiles stars opposite Stockard Channing. -
Mona Lisa Smile (2003) – A period drama with Julia Roberts, where Stiles plays a Wellesley student conflicted between tradition and ambition.
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The Prince and Me (2004) – A romantic comedy that added a fairy tale touch to her career portfolio.
Each of these films showcases her ability to shift genres seamlessly while maintaining a powerful screen presence.
Julia Stiles on Television: Recent Projects
Returning to the Small Screen
While most fans focus on Julia Stiles movies, her recent television roles have been equally compelling. One standout performance is her lead role in the thriller series
Stiles also appeared in Season 5 of Dexter (2010), earning critical praise for her portrayal of a trauma survivor with a dark side. These roles reaffirmed her acting depth and her ability to captivate audiences across formats.
What’s Next for Julia Stiles?
Julia Stiles continues to take on diverse roles both in front of and behind the camera. In recent interviews, she has expressed interest in directing and writing, showing her commitment to evolving in the industry.
Whether she’s dancing in Chicago, solving mysteries in CIA offices, or delivering Shakespearean monologues, Julia Stiles remains a force in Hollywood.
From 10 Things I Hate About You to
Whether you're revisiting her iconic Julia Stiles dance movie, exploring her deeper indie projects, or watching her latest TV roles, there’s no denying that Julia Stiles continues to shape and redefine her legacy in the entertainment world.
‘Is Ellie ok?’ Strictly fans left heartbroken as show’s first ever Down syndrome contestant breaks down on live TV and has to be comforted by pros — after admitting doctors once told her parents she would “never walk or...- suong
Strictly fans have voiced their concerns for Ellie Goldstein as the 'upset' star appeared to be comforted by professional dancers on the first live show.
The model, 23, is paired in this year's competition with pro
She is the show's first ever contestant with Down syndrome and on Saturday night performed a cha-cha-cha to Yes, And? by Ariana Grande
But later on in the show as host Claudia Winkleman spoke to a La Voix and Aljaž Škorjanec about their routine, Ellie appeared to get upset.
She was supported by professional dancers Dianne Buswell, Karen Hauer and contestant Harry Aikines-Aryeetey who put their arms around her and looked to be quietly speaking to her.
Those watching at home noticed the moment and penned on X: 'I've noticed Ellie looking uncomfortable. Also noticed her being supported by other dancers.',
Strictly fans have voiced their concerns for Ellie Goldstein as the 'upset' star appeared to be comforted by professional dancers on the first live show
She is the show's first ever contestant with Down syndrome and on Saturday night performed a cha-cha-cha to Yes, And? by Ariana Grande - earning 17 points
'Ellie looks a bit upset so it's lovely to see Harry and Karen comforting her #Strictly #StrictlyComeDancing.',
'Watching #Strictly last night, I noticed that Ellie appeared upset, and was being comforted/reassured by Karen and, I think, Harry?.',
'Is Ellie ok? #strictly.'
After the live show she took to Instagram however to share a positive message to say she'd had an 'amazing day'.
It comes after last week
She said the competition would give her opportunity to show 'what she was capable of'.
When Ellie was born, doctors said that she would 'never walk or talk', and one nurse devastatingly suggested that her parents might want to 'leave her' at the hospital.
But she has defied all expectations going on to model for Vogue and star in CBBC's Malory Towers, before signing up for Strictly.
But later on in the show as host Claudia Winkleman spoke to a La Voix and Aljaž Škorjanec about their routine, Ellie appeared to get upset
Those watching at home noticed the moment and penned on X: 'I've noticed Ellie looking uncomfortable. Also noticed her being supported by other dancers'
Ahead of Saturday's first live show Ellie said: 'Being the first contestant with Down syndrome in the main Strictly series gives me the chance to show everyone who I am, what I've achieved, and what I'm capable of'.
'I hope I can be an inspiration to others watching at home – and most of all, I hope I make people smile and feel happy when they see me dancing!'.
Gucci hired Ellie for its Unconventional Beauty adverts, landing her the cover of Italian Vogue in 2020.
She has graced the covers of numerous magazines, including Elle and Glamour, featured in promotions for Gucci Beauty, Adidas, TK Maxx, Body Shop, Boots, Spotify, Victoria's Secret and Sports Direct, and even hung in the National Portrait Gallery in London on two occasions.
The model, 23, is paired in this year's competition with pro Vito Coppola and is already a favourite with fans
Ellie has been flown to Sweden, Italy and Germany for photoshoots, and has just strutted her stuff on the catwalk at London Fashion Week.
When Mattel launched its first Barbie with Down's syndrome, the company hired the star to help promote the doll.
'I've done so much modelling and I love it,' she previously told Daily Mail.
'And I adored doing the Barbie job — it was great to finally see a doll that looked like me.'
