Ella Stiller Grateful for Parents’ Support in Off-Broadway Debut
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/ben-stiller-ella-stiller-christine-taylor-let-liv-screening-2023-tribeca-festival-061223-1-a298b00f68e54ea496f3727886225e12.jpg)
Ella Stiller, daughter of renowned actors Ben Stiller and Christine Taylor, recently opened up about feeling fortunate to have her parents’ unwavering support as she steps into the world of Off-Broadway theatre. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Ella shared how her bond with her parents has only grown stronger since she decided to pursue acting professionally.
At the age of 23, Ella graduated from The Juilliard School in New York City in 2024. She had previously appeared in the 2020 Netflix film “Hubie Halloween” alongside Adam Sandler. Currently, Ella is making waves in the theatre world with her Off-Broadway debut in Julia Randall’s new play “Dilaria.” Moreover, she has exciting upcoming roles in the new season of “And Just Like That…” and “Happy Gilmore 2.”
Reflecting on how her relationship with her parents has evolved alongside her acting career, Ella expressed, “It’s only deepened, because it’s just another thing to connect on, to be able to talk about and to relate to on a deeper level.” She went on to highlight the significance of her parents’ presence and understanding throughout her journey.
Ella’s portrayal of the lead character in “Dilaria” has garnered attention for its depth and complexity. The play revolves around a young woman’s obsession with the online attention received by a deceased classmate, delving into themes of relationships and mental health. Directed by Alex Keegan, the production commenced performances on June 13 at DR2 Theatre in New York City, with the official opening scheduled for June 18.
While Ella is carving her own path in theatre, she acknowledges the influence of her family’s longstanding connection to the performing arts. Her father, Ben Stiller, made his Broadway debut in 1986 and has since become a prominent figure in the industry. Ella expressed her gratitude for being able to share her passion for acting with her family members, who have offered guidance and support along the way.
The actress emphasised the profound impact that theatre holds for her family, noting that they often bond over a shared love for musical theatre. With her Off-Broadway debut, Ella feels a sense of fulfilment in continuing the legacy of her theatre-loving family. She considers herself fortunate to have her parents’ unwavering support and understanding as she navigates her burgeoning acting career.
Looking back on the year following her graduation from Juilliard, Ella expressed her gratitude for the comprehensive training she received, which she finds invaluable in her current projects. Prior to her role in “Dilaria,” Ella worked on the upcoming film “Driver’s Ed,” directed by Bobby Farrelly and featuring a talented ensemble cast.
As Ella continues to explore new opportunities in the industry, she remains grounded by reflecting on the journey that led her to this moment. Her dedication to storytelling and her family’s legacy in theatre serve as guiding forces in her artistic endeavours. Ella’s Off-Broadway debut marks a significant milestone in her career, one that she embraces with humility and gratitude.
In conclusion, Ella Stiller’s theatrical debut symbolises a convergence of talent, heritage, and unwavering familial support. Her journey in the performing arts is not only a testament to her own dedication and skill but also a tribute to the enduring bond she shares with her parents. As she takes the stage in “Dilaria” and prepares for future projects, Ella Stiller stands as a shining example of passion and perseverance in the world of theatre.