Anya Taylor-Joy’s career journey has been marked by personal challenges and moments of inspiration, including a pivotal experience during The Beach Boys’ 50th Reunion concert. Early obstacles and her distinct individuality shaped the performer she is today, as she found her path from Buenos Aires to London and ultimately to the world stage in film and television.
Early Life and Struggles with Belonging
Even when Taylor-Joy was young, it was evident to those around her that she had abilities and perspectives that set her apart. Yet, growing up wasn’t easy—she felt disconnected both in Buenos Aires and after moving to London at age six. School proved difficult, as understanding and acceptance were hard to find, leading her to feel isolated and searching for a sense of identity during an uncertain transition.
First Steps into the Arts and Acting
Taylor-Joy’s entry into creative expression began with ballet, opening opportunities that eventually introduced her to acting. Her film debut as Thomasin in “The Witch,” directed by Robert Eggers, was an ambitious start for any actress. Taylor-Joy infused her character with innocence and depth, crafting a gradual emotional transformation that resonated with audiences. Her courage in tackling challenging material early in her career set the tone for her approach to future roles.
Discovering New Inspirations in England
Upon her move to England, Taylor-Joy initially resisted adapting to her new home, feeling like a stranger in a foreign place. The idea of learning English did not appeal to her at first, as it seemed to separate her from her roots. Gradually, she found comfort and motivation in stories and art that bridged cultural differences—a process that deepened her connection to her work as an actress.
She embraced the English language through watching popular films such as “School of Rock,” “Harry Potter,” and “Jumanji.” Immersing in these stories, she discovered channels for self-expression and a new sense of belonging within her adopted culture.
The Role of Music in Her Development
Music has always played a significant role for Taylor-Joy, contributing to both her outlook on life and her acting technique. It has shaped the way she approaches roles and navigates the complexities of the entertainment industry. As she explained,
“Soundtracks are amazing, they make your whole life a movie,”
—Anya Taylor-Joy, Actress.
Recalling music’s emotional power, Taylor-Joy cited the famous ‘Tiny Dancer’ scene from “Almost Famous” as especially moving, describing how it represents the idea of found family and brings her to tears.
Turning Point: The Beach Boys’ 50th Reunion Concert
Taylor-Joy’s deep love for music and fearless spirit were on full display at the age of 15 during The Beach Boys’ 50th Reunion concert. Her passion distinguished her from the audience, catching the attention of the performers.
“I grew up listening to the music of the ’50s and the ’60s – that was just like my literal jam – and they were playing, and I just ran to the very front and was singing my heart out,”
—Anya Taylor-Joy, Actress.
Her enthusiasm led to an unexpected, transformative experience, as she recounted further:
“And Mike Lovestopped the concert and said, ‘I understand why all of you know all the words to the songs, but there’s a literal child that is singing every single song. I’d like to invite her up on stage.’ He handed me a guitar, and I said, ‘I don’t know how to play the guitar.’ He was like, ‘No, no. Just go for it,’ so I air-guitared like crazy.”
—Anya Taylor-Joy, Actress.
Embracing Differences and Charting Her Career
This concert moment marked a shift in Taylor-Joy’s journey, giving her confidence to pursue her dreams despite feeling like an outsider for much of her life. In the following years, she continued to distinguish herself with leading roles such as Margot in Mark Mylod’s “The Menu,” consistently bringing depth and uniqueness to her characters. Rather than conforming, Taylor-Joy embraced her differences, allowing her distinctiveness to propel her into the spotlight and become a defining part of her career path.
Anya Taylor-Joy’s career journey highlights the importance of staying true to oneself in the face of adversity. Her willingness to stand out—celebrated by figures like Mike Love during that unforgettable Beach Boys concert—became the catalyst that launched her from the sidelines into center stage. Her story serves as an example to those who navigate shifting cultures, demonstrating how personal passions and rare opportunities can intersect to shape a remarkable artistic path.
