Actress Elle Fanning explained that a big role in a famous franchise almost slipped away not because of talent, but because her social media reach at the time wasn’t as large as expected. She recalled that feedback from the industry sometimes weighs as much as the script itself, and that having a smaller Instagram following could influence early casting conversations. While the exact project wasn’t named, the sentiment reflects a broader pattern in which actors’ visibility can intersect with decisions in the audition room. Today, Fanning’s profile has grown to millions of followers, yet she emphasizes that social metrics aren’t the sole gatekeeper for creative opportunities.
She noted that there was no coercion from producers to accept major projects. The star argues that the entertainment landscape is not a guarantee of success for every film, and even big ambitions can meet unexpected outcomes. This perspective aligns with the industry’s recent emphasis on a combination of talent, timing, and audience resonance, rather than a single metric. Fanning’s experience serves as a reminder that careers in film often hinge on a mix of professional relationships, project fit, and evolving audience preferences rather than a fixed ladder of opportunities.
In a separate discussion, Fanning reflected on her post-The Great career moments, mentioning a personal aspiration that surprised fans: a desire to understand pregnancy through performance after her portrayal of Empress Catherine II. On set for the series, makeup artists used a prosthetic skin that simulated pregnancy, which shaped her perception of the character and her own comfort in future roles. This experience influenced how she approached certain scenes and character choices, illustrating how method work and on-set details can leave a lasting impression on an actor’s artistry. Fanning has spoken about the appeal of portraying complex, layered figures, and how practical effects and costume design can unlock new facets of performance for screen audiences.