Anna Kay Faris, born on November 29, 1976, in Baltimore, Maryland, is one of Hollywood’s most beloved comedic actresses. Raised by parents who were educators—her father, Jack Faris, was a sociology professor, and her mother, Karen Faris, a special education teacher—Anna’s early life was rooted in curiosity, humor, and a love for learning. But her natural charisma and wit soon steered her toward a different path: the bright lights of Hollywood.

At just six years old, Anna’s family moved to Edmonds, Washington, a quaint suburb near Seattle. It was here that her passion for acting truly blossomed. With the encouragement of her parents, she joined a local drama school, landing her first role at nine years old in Danger: Memory! at the Seattle Repertory Theater. That moment set the stage for her future in entertainment.

Anna attended Edmonds-Woodway High School, where her quick wit and love for making people laugh made her stand out. After high school, she pursued a degree in English literature at the University of Washington. While her academic path seemed destined for a career in writing, her passion for acting never faded.

Following graduation, Anna moved to Los Angeles, determined to pursue acting full-time. She started with small roles in indie films and TV guest spots before earning her breakthrough.

Anna’s big break came in 2000 when she starred as Cindy Campbell in the horror-comedy Scary Movie. The film, a parody of slasher classics, was an instant hit, earning over $278 million worldwide. Anna’s comedic timing and willingness to embrace slapstick humor made her a fan favorite. Her portrayal of Cindy, a lovable and hilariously naive character, cemented her place in Hollywood.

The success of Scary Movie led to several sequels, with Anna reprising her role in Scary Movie 2, Scary Movie 3, and Scary Movie 4. Each installment showcased her comedic brilliance, solidifying her reputation as one of Hollywood’s top comedic talents.

While Scary Movie made her a household name, Anna worked hard to avoid being pigeonholed. She took on roles that highlighted her versatility, such as the quirky movie star Kelly in Lost in Translation (2003) and the dramatic role of Lashawn Malone in Brokeback Mountain (2005).

In 2008, Anna starred in and produced The House Bunny. Her role as Shelley Darlingson, a former model who mentors a group of awkward sorority sisters, allowed her to balance laugh-out-loud comedy with heartfelt storytelling. The film’s success further proved her ability to lead comedies with substance.

In 2013, Anna transitioned to television with the CBS sitcom Mom. Starring as Christy Plunkett, a single mother navigating recovery and family challenges, Anna delivered a performance that blended humor with emotional depth. Her chemistry with co-star Allison Janney became a hallmark of the show, earning critical acclaim.

Anna stayed with Mom for seven seasons, leaving a legacy of memorable moments. Her time on the show showcased her ability to tackle complex themes while staying true to her comedic roots.

In 2015, Anna launched her podcast, Unqualified, which featured celebrity guests and covered topics like relationships and life advice. The show’s candid tone resonated with listeners, leading to its success. In 2017, Anna released her book, also titled Unqualified, which offered a humorous and heartfelt glimpse into her personal life and career.

Anna has had a colorful personal life. She married actor Ben Indra in 2004 before divorcing in 2008. In 2009, she wed actor Chris Pratt, with whom she shares a son, Jack. Though they separated in 2018, they’ve maintained a strong co-parenting relationship. In 2021, Anna married cinematographer Michael Barrett, keeping their life relatively private.

Anna also dedicates time to philanthropy, supporting organizations focused on children’s health and education. Her advocacy reflects her commitment to making a positive impact.

As of today, Anna remains a beloved figure in entertainment. She has expressed interest in pursuing new creative projects, particularly as a producer championing female-driven stories. Fans eagerly await her next chapter, knowing her talent and charm will continue to shine.