Vanessa Kirby’s Top 7 Roles
Vanessa Kirby has carved out an impressive career, moving seamlessly from stage to screen with roles that show her range and depth. Born in London, she first caught attention with her theater work before breaking through in film and television, earning praise for her ability to bring complex characters to life.
Her performances span gritty dramas, action-packed blockbusters, and historical epics, showcasing her knack for stealing scenes no matter the genre. From royal figures to fierce action heroes, here are seven of her standout roles that highlight why she’s become a name to watch.
Princess Margaret in ‘The Crown’ (2016-2017)
Kirby’s portrayal of Princess Margaret in the Netflix series ‘The Crown’ put her on the map. Playing the spirited younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II, she brought charm and heartbreak to a woman navigating love, duty, and rebellion in the royal spotlight.
Her performance earned her a BAFTA Award for Best Supporting Actress and an Emmy nomination. Kirby captured Margaret’s fiery personality and inner turmoil, making her a fan favorite in a show packed with stellar performances.
Martha Weiss in ‘Pieces of a Woman’ (2020)
In ‘Pieces of a Woman,’ Kirby plays Martha, a woman grappling with the devastating loss of her newborn. Her raw, emotional performance anchors the film, showing a mother’s grief in a way that feels painfully real.
The role earned her the Volpi Cup for Best Actress at the Venice Film Festival and an Oscar nomination. Kirby’s ability to convey deep pain without overacting makes this one of her most powerful performances.
The White Widow in ‘Mission: Impossible – Fallout’ (2018)
Kirby steps into the action world as Alana Mitsopolis, aka the White Widow, in ‘Mission: Impossible – Fallout.’ She plays a cunning arms dealer with a mix of charm and menace, holding her own against Tom Cruise’s Ethan Hunt.
Her cool confidence and sharp wit make the character unforgettable in a high-stakes spy thriller. Kirby reprised the role in ‘Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One’ (2023), proving she’s a perfect fit for the franchise.
Hattie Shaw in ‘Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw’ (2019)
As Hattie Shaw in ‘Hobbs & Shaw,’ Kirby dives into the ‘Fast & Furious’ universe as a tough MI6 agent and sister to Jason Statham’s character. Her blend of grit and humor lights up the screen in this action-packed spin-off.
She delivers sharp one-liners and handles intense fight scenes with ease, showing she can shine in big-budget blockbusters. Kirby’s chemistry with the cast adds spark to the film’s over-the-top energy.
Empress Joséphine in ‘Napoleon’ (2023)
Kirby takes on the historical role of Empress Joséphine in Ridley Scott’s ‘Napoleon,’ opposite Joaquin Phoenix. Her portrayal of the complex, ambitious wife of Napoleon Bonaparte adds emotional depth to the epic drama.
She brings grace and strength to Joséphine, balancing vulnerability with resilience. Kirby’s performance stands out in a film filled with grand battles and intricate relationships.
Estella in ‘Great Expectations’ (2011)
In the BBC’s adaptation of ‘Great Expectations,’ Kirby plays Estella, the cold and manipulative young woman who breaks hearts in Charles Dickens’ classic tale. Her performance captures Estella’s icy charm and hidden pain.
Kirby’s take on the character adds layers to a role that could easily feel one-dimensional. She makes Estella both captivating and tragic, leaving a lasting impression in a star-studded cast.
Joanna in ‘About Time’ (2013)
Kirby has a smaller but memorable role as Joanna in the romantic comedy ‘About Time,’ directed by Richard Curtis. She plays a lively friend in a story about love and time travel, adding warmth to the film’s quirky vibe.
Though her screen time is brief, Kirby’s charm shines through, making Joanna a standout in a feel-good movie. Her performance hints at the star power she’d later unleash in bigger roles.
Which of Vanessa Kirby’s roles is your favorite, or is there another performance you think deserves a spot? Share your thoughts in the comments!
