Elizabeth Lail, an American actress whose name would soon become familiar to fans of magical storytelling and fairy tale drama, rose to prominence with a role that many could only dream of. Best known for bringing the spirited Anna — the beloved heroine from Disney’s animated phenomenon Frozen (2013) — to life on the popular fantasy series Once Upon a Time (ABC, 2011– ), Elizabeth Lail captured hearts with her charm and talent. Her journey into acting began early, as she was already performing in middle school stage productions, showing a passion and dedication that would shape her future.
After honing her craft through those formative years, Elizabeth Lail decided to pursue her dreams more seriously by enrolling at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, where she studied drama. During her time there, she immersed herself in classical theater, delivering memorable performances in Shakespearean plays like As You Like It and Othello, as well as in Tennessee Williams’ poignant The Glass Menagerie. These experiences helped build a strong foundation for her evolving artistry.
Alongside her stage work, Elizabeth Lail began exploring opportunities in film, taking on roles in student short films such as Model Airplane (2011) and Without (2014). These small but significant steps gave her a taste of on-camera performance and fueled her ambition. By the spring of 2014, when graduation approached, Elizabeth Lail knew it was time to make her move. With her diploma in hand and determination in her heart, she packed her belongings and headed west to Los Angeles — the land of endless possibilities for aspiring actors.
Like so many before her, Elizabeth Lail arrived in Hollywood chasing big dreams, ready to face the challenges of auditions and rejections. But even she couldn’t have predicted just how quickly fate would smile upon her. In a twist that felt straight out of one of the fairy tales she’d come to inhabit, Elizabeth Lail landed the iconic role of Anna on Once Upon a Time. Making her television debut in the fall of 2014, the strawberry-blonde actress stepped into the spotlight with a performance that resonated with audiences worldwide. And just like that, Elizabeth Lail became a name associated with courage, warmth, and the magic of storytelling.
So, when it comes to Elizabeth Lail’s filmography, there are definitely some standout moments—and a few that didn’t quite hit the mark. If we’re talking about her highest rated project, it’s got to be Gonzo Girl from 2023. That one really showcased Elizabeth Lail’s range and brought in some strong reviews. Fans and critics alike seemed to appreciate the depth she brought to her role, making it a clear highlight in Elizabeth Lail’s career so far.
On the flip side, not every project lands perfectly. For instance, Mack & Rita, released back in 2022, ended up being one of her lowest rated films. While it had its moments, it just didn’t resonate as strongly with audiences or reviewers. Still, even in roles like that, Elizabeth Lail brings effort and charm. All in all, Elizabeth Lail continues to build a diverse portfolio, with Gonzo Girl standing tall as her most acclaimed work to date.