Celebrity Info
Liesel Matthews, the talented heiress to the Hyatt Hotels fortune, certainly didn’t need to pursue acting as a career—after all, her family’s wealth is practically legendary. And yet, despite having more than enough financial security, Liesel Matthews chose to step into the spotlight, where her natural ability quickly earned her recognition. Born into one of America’s most powerful families—regularly featured near the top of Forbes’ list of richest families—Liesel Matthews was actually named after the beloved character Liesel Von Trapp from The Sound of Music, which gives you a sense of the cultural backdrop she grew up in. Her family not only controls Hyatt but also holds stakes in major enterprises like the Royal Caribbean cruise line.
In 1995, Liesel Matthews landed a breakout role in Alfonso Cuarón’s A Little Princess, delivering a deeply moving performance as a young girl who falls from privilege into servitude at a boarding school after losing her father in World War I. Critics praised her work, and it seemed like a promising start to a flourishing acting career. She followed that up with a smaller but memorable part in 1997’s Air Force One, playing one of the First Family members taken hostage during a high-stakes terrorist takeover. But surprisingly, that would be her final major role on screen.
Instead of chasing Hollywood fame, Liesel Matthews made the bold decision to step away from acting altogether. She shifted her focus toward meaningful social impact by founding Young Ambassadors for Opportunity, a nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to microfinance loans in developing nations. This move showed just how driven she was by purpose, not publicity. Then, in 2002, a major legal battle unfolded when Liesel Matthews sued her own father and several cousins, accusing them of secretly diverting funds from her trust without her consent. The case concluded with a staggering $280 million settlement awarded to Liesel Matthews—a sum that only underscored the complexities of immense wealth and family dynamics.
Given all this, it’s really no surprise that Liesel Matthews found fulfillment beyond the camera. With so much at her disposal—from influence to resources—it was almost inevitable that she’d channel her energy into something bigger than movies. And honestly, who could blame her?
When it comes to Liesel Matthews, her most acclaimed work by far is A Little Princess from 1995—a film that truly stands out in her career. Many critics and fans alike have praised her performance in this beloved classic, making it the highest-rated project associated with Liesel Matthews. On the other hand, when we look at her filmography, the movie that didn’t quite resonate as strongly was Air Force One, released in 1997. While the film had its merits, it ended up being the lowest rated among her works. Overall, Liesel Matthews continues to be remembered most fondly for her role in A Little Princess, which remains a shining highlight in her acting journey.
United States
