Katie Findlay, the doe-eyed and effortlessly pretty Canadian actress, has captivated audiences with her girl-next-door charm across a number of popular television series. Known for her natural presence on screen, Katie Findlay brought depth and nuance to roles that often lingered in viewers’ minds long after the credits rolled. One of her standout appearances was on The Carrie Diaries (The CW, 2013–14), where Katie Findlay portrayed Maggie Landers, a sharp-witted high school friend of young Carrie Bradshaw. Her performance added both warmth and complexity to the show’s nostalgic coming-of-age storyline.
Before that, Katie Findlay had already made a name for herself in more dramatic territory. Born on August 28, 1990, in Windsor, Ontario, she initially dedicated over a decade of her life to ballet, training rigorously until a back injury changed her trajectory. That setback turned into a pivotal moment, as Katie Findlay shifted her focus toward acting—a path that would soon define her career. Her early network appearances included guest spots on Fringe (Fox, 2008–2013) in 2010, followed by a role on the lighthearted detective series Psych (USA, 2006–2014), marking her first real steps into American television.
But it was her portrayal of Rosie Larsen in The Killing (AMC, 2011–13; Netflix, 2014) that truly put Katie Findlay on the map. Though she appeared in only about half of the first two seasons, her character—the missing teenager at the heart of the mystery—became iconic. The haunting promotional imagery featuring Katie Findlay’s serene face alongside the chilling question “Who Killed Rosie Larsen?” in blood-red letters became synonymous with the show’s eerie tone. It was a powerful example of how Katie Findlay’s presence could resonate even beyond her actual screen time.
Transitioning from that intense role, Katie Findlay embraced a lighter but equally engaging dynamic in The Carrie Diaries. As Maggie, she balanced youthful exuberance with emotional depth, forming a crucial part of the show’s ensemble cast. Then, in 2014, Katie Findlay took on a dramatically different character in Shonda Rhimes’ hit legal thriller How to Get Away with Murder (ABC, 2014– ). This time, she played Rebecca Sutter—a troubled, nose-pierced bartender whose life becomes entangled in a web of secrets and lies following a student’s murder. It was a bold departure from her earlier, more wholesome roles, showcasing Katie Findlay’s range as an actress unafraid to explore darker, more complex territory.
Throughout her career, Katie Findlay has demonstrated a remarkable ability to embody characters who feel both authentic and unforgettable. Whether through quiet vulnerability or simmering intensity, Katie Findlay continues to leave a lasting impression on the world of television.
When it comes to Katie Findlay’s filmography, fans and critics alike have noticed a clear standout in her career. Katie Findlay’s highest rated movie is undoubtedly Straight Up (2019), a romantic dramedy that earned praise for its fresh take on love and identity—many consider it a highlight in Katie Findlay’s body of work. On the other end of the spectrum, Katie Findlay appeared in The Dark Stranger (2015), which ended up being her lowest rated film to date. While Katie Findlay delivered a solid performance, the movie itself didn’t resonate as strongly with audiences or reviewers. Overall, Katie Findlay continues to build a diverse portfolio, but it’s clear that Straight Up remains a personal best in her acting journey.