Julia Stiles

Julia Stiles began her acting career at age 11 with New York's La MaMa Experimental Theatre Club, performing in plays by writers including William Shakespeare and David Mamet. Stiles made her film debut at age 15 in "I Love You, I Love You Not," followed by a lead role in "Wicked," for which she received the Karlovy Vary Film Festival Award for Best Actress. She gained widespread recognition with the high school romantic comedy "10 Things I Hate About You," an adaptation of Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew. The film's success led to further roles in modern adaptations of Shakespeare plays, including "Hamlet" and "O."

Stiles went on to star in drama films such as "Save the Last Dance" and "Mona Lisa Smile," and appeared in all three installments of the original Jason Bourne trilogy as Nicolette Parsons. During this period, she earned a bachelor's degree in English literature from Columbia University. Stiles' filmography includes both studio productions and independent films, such as "The Business of Strangers," reflecting her range across genres from teen romantic comedies to art house dramas.

On television, Stiles portrayed Lumen Pierce in "Dexter," earning nominations for the Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series and the Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress. She later starred in the thriller series "Riviera" on Sky Atlantic and appeared in the comedy-drama "Hustlers" and the thriller "Orphan: First Kill." Stiles has also maintained a stage presence, performing in David Mamet's play "Oleanna" on and off Broadway and in London.

Stiles expanded her career into directing with her feature debut "Wish You Were Here," a romantic drama adapted from Renée Carlino's novel, for which she also co-wrote the screenplay. In recognition of her work as an actor and director, Stiles received the Barbara Bridges Inspiration Award at Denver Film's annual Women+Film awards luncheon.

Her accolades include a Teen Choice Award and two MTV Movie Awards, as well as nominations for a Golden Globe Award and a Primetime Emmy Award. Stiles is an advocate for Amnesty International and Habitat for Humanity. With a career spanning film, television, stage, and directing, Stiles is recognized for her versatility and enduring presence in the entertainment industry.