Elle Fanning, born April 9, 1998, is an acclaimed American actress with a career spanning over two decades. She rose from child prodigy roles to international stardom, amassing an estimated net worth of $12 million by 2025.
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mary Elle Fanning |
| Birthdate | April 9, 1998 |
| Birthplace | Conyers, Georgia, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5’9” (175 cm) |
| Profession | Actress |
| Sister | Dakota Fanning |
| Breakthrough | Somewhere (2010), Super 8 (2011) |
| Net Worth | $12 million (2025) |
| Awards | Emmy & Golden Globe nominations |
Early Life and Family
Elle Fanning, born April 9, 1998 in Conyers, Georgia, grew up in a family deeply connected to sports and entertainment. Her father, Steven Fanning, played minor league baseball, while her mother Heather Joy Arrington was a professional tennis player. Her older sister, Dakota Fanning, became a child star, inspiring Elle’s own career path.

Education and Childhood
- Attended Campbell Hall School in North Hollywood, California.
- Balanced academics with acting commitments from a very young age.
- Developed interests in ballet and fashion alongside her film career.
Career Timeline
2001–2005: Early Roles
- Debut in I Am Sam (2001), playing the younger version of Dakota’s character.
- Appeared in Daddy Day Care (2003).
- Guest roles in TV series like CSI: Miami and Judging Amy.
2006–2010: Rising Child Actress
- Babel (2006) showcased her dramatic talent.
- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008) brought critical recognition.
- Somewhere (2010), directed by Sofia Coppola, marked her breakthrough as a leading actress.
2011–2015: Mainstream Recognition
- Super 8 (2011) earned her widespread acclaim.
- Ginger & Rosa (2012) highlighted her ability in independent cinema.
- Cast as Princess Aurora in Maleficent (2014), opposite Angelina Jolie.
- Reprised Aurora in Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019).
2016–2020: Expanding Horizons
- Starred in 20th Century Women (2016).
- Teen Spirit (2018) showcased her singing and acting versatility.
- The Roads Not Taken (2020) with Javier Bardem.
2020–2023: Television Success
- Lead role in The Great (2020–2023), portraying Catherine the Great.
- Earned Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her performance.
2024–2026: Continued Influence
- Appeared in Sentimental Value (2025 Cannes premiere).
- Collaborated with fashion houses like Gucci and Cartier.
- Ongoing projects in film and television solidify her as a versatile star.
Filmography Highlights
- Phoebe in Wonderland (2008)
- Super 8 (2011)
- Maleficent (2014)
- Teen Spirit (2018)
- The Great (2020–2023)
- Sentimental Value (2025)
Personal Life
- Close relationship with sister Dakota Fanning.
- Known for her fashion influence, frequently attending Cannes and Met Gala.
- Private about romantic life, linked to actor Max Minghella.

Family Background
- Born April 9, 1998 in Conyers, Georgia (USA).
- Daughter of Steven Fanning (former baseball player) and Heather Joy Arrington (former professional tennis player).
- Her older sister, Dakota Fanning, is also a well‑known actress. The two share a very close bond and often attend premieres and fashion events together.
Romantic Life
- Elle Fanning has generally kept her relationships private.
- Since 2024, she has been in a relationship with Gus Wenner, CEO of Rolling Stone.
- In interviews, she has expressed her desire to start a family, saying she “really wants children.”
- The couple has appeared together at major events, including the Golden Globes 2026.
Personal Interests
- Elle has trained in ballet, piano, and singing since childhood.
- She is passionate about fashion, frequently attending the Cannes Film Festival and the Met Gala, where she is considered a style icon.
- She collaborates with luxury brands such as Gucci and Cartier, reinforcing her influence beyond cinema.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Birthdate | April 9, 1998 |
| Birthplace | Conyers, Georgia, USA |
| Parents | Steven Fanning (baseball), Heather Joy Arrington (tennis) |
| Sister | Dakota Fanning (actress) |
| Current Relationship | Gus Wenner (CEO of Rolling Stone) |
| Private Life | Discreet, passionate about dance, music, and fashion |
| Personal Projects | Expressed desire to have children |
Her private life reflects a balance between family ties, artistic passions, and a discreet but meaningful romantic relationship, all while being under the spotlight of Hollywood and the fashion world.
Net Worth
- Estimated at $12 million (2025).
- Income sources: acting, endorsements, modeling, voice acting.
Net Worth (2025–2026)
- As of 2025, Elle Fanning’s net worth is estimated at $12 million.
- Earlier estimates placed her wealth around $8 million, but her recent projects and endorsements have significantly increased her earnings.
- Compared to her sister Dakota Fanning, Elle’s net worth is slightly lower, with a difference of about $4 million.

Sources of Income
- Acting: Major films (Maleficent, Super 8, The Great) and independent cinema.
- Television: Lead role in The Great (2020–2023), which boosted her profile and income.
- Fashion & Endorsements: Collaborations with luxury brands like Gucci and Cartier.
- Modeling & Public Appearances: Regular presence at Cannes Film Festival and Met Gala.
- Voice Acting & Gaming Projects: Involvement in creative collaborations, including video games.
Analysis
Elle Fanning’s net worth reflects her ability to balance blockbuster success with artistic credibility. Unlike many child stars, she transitioned smoothly into adult roles, ensuring steady income and long‑term career sustainability. Her growing influence in fashion and endorsements suggests her wealth will continue to rise in the coming years.
Analysis
Elle Fanning’s career illustrates a rare trajectory: from child prodigy to respected adult actress. Her versatility across independent films and blockbusters, combined with her fashion influence, positions her as a cultural icon. Unlike many child stars, she transitioned smoothly into adult roles, maintaining credibility and acclaim.
Conclusion
Elle Fanning’s biography reflects her evolution from a child actress to an international star. With over two decades in the industry, she continues to balance mainstream success with artistic credibility, making her one of the most influential actresses of her generation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Elle Fanning
Who is Elle Fanning?
Elle Fanning is an American actress born on April 9, 1998, in Conyers, Georgia. She is best known for her roles in Maleficent, Super 8, and the TV series The Great.
What is Elle Fanning’s net worth?
As of 2025–2026, Elle Fanning’s net worth is estimated at $12 million, earned through acting, endorsements, and fashion collaborations.
What are her most famous roles?
- Princess Aurora in Maleficent (2014, 2019)
- Alice in Super 8 (2011)
- Catherine the Great in The Great (2020–2023)
- Ginger in Ginger & Rosa (2012)
Is Elle Fanning related to Dakota Fanning?
Yes. Dakota Fanning is her older sister, also a successful actress. The two share a close relationship and often appear together at film festivals and fashion events.
Who is Elle Fanning dating?
Since 2024, Elle Fanning has been in a relationship with Gus Wenner, CEO of Rolling Stone. She has publicly expressed her desire to start a family.
What awards has she received?
Elle Fanning has received multiple nominations, including Golden Globe and Emmy Award nominations for her role in The Great.
What are her passions outside of acting?
Elle is passionate about fashion, ballet, piano, and singing. She is considered a style icon, frequently attending the Cannes Film Festival and the Met Gala.

