Amanda Seyfried has reflected on her evolving status in the film industry, revealing that she only began to see herself as a “movie star” following the success of her latest project, *The Housemaid*. Despite her impressive filmography, including iconic roles in *Mean Girls* and *Mamma Mia!*, the actress has long been hesitant to embrace this label.
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At the recent Hamptons International Film Festival, Seyfried spoke candidly about her experiences in the industry during an interview with Alec Baldwin, co-chair of the event. The actress, now 40, embarked on her career in soap operas before achieving breakout success with the 2004 comedy *Mean Girls*. Since then, she has become known for a diverse range of roles in films like *Les Misérables* and *Jennifer’s Body*.
Seyfried’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. She described a complex relationship with her career, citing moments of uncertainty and fear about the box office outcomes of her films. When asked whether she anticipated the success of *Mamma Mia!* in 2008, she admitted, “I never feel that kind of stuff.” Her apprehension extends to her recent projects, as she revealed feelings of cynicism that have developed over the years.
“I’m terrified every time I have a studio movie,” Seyfried explained, admitting to keeping a close watch on box office returns and directly communicating with studio heads about their performance. This anxious mentality reflects her ongoing struggle to reconcile her achievements in Hollywood with her fluctuating career trajectory.
Historically, Seyfried has downplayed the notion of being a movie star, often responding to such labels with humility. “I’m not really,” she would tell people, pointing to the inconsistent nature of her work. “Sometimes I’m working less, sometimes I’m working more. I always work, thank God.” However, following the remarkable success of *The Housemaid*, which grossed $400 million globally and featured co-stars Sydney Sweeney and Brandon Sklenar, her perspective has shifted.
“The Housemaid has transformed how I view myself. I’m a movie star now,” she stated confidently. This milestone not only marked a turning point for Seyfried personally but also resulted in immediate buzz about a sequel to the film, reflecting its significant impact on the box office and audience reception.
Currently, Seyfried is involved in another project, *The Life and Deaths of Wilson Shedd*, which premiered at the Hamptons festival shortly after its initial debut at the Toronto International Film Festival. Her role as a teacher caught in an abusive relationship who finds herself at a maximum-security prison looks set to showcase her acting depth once more. Seyfried’s character becomes romantically entangled with a charismatic inmate, played by Scoot McNairy, which adds complex layers to the narrative.
Directed by Tim Blake Nelson, this film is yet to have a confirmed theatrical release date, but early reactions from festival audiences suggest it may become another notable entry in Seyfried’s career.
As Seyfried navigates her evolving identity in Hollywood, it is clear that *The Housemaid’s* triumph has altered her self-perception. With multiple successful movies to her name, the actress is now ready to fully embrace the reality of her stardom while continuing to pursue complex and challenging roles that resonate with her creatively.
The industry will undoubtedly continue to watch her journey closely as she balances her status as a leading actress with the ongoing pursuit of meaningful storytelling.