Film and stage actress Anna Kendrick was born on August 9, 1985 in Portland, Maine. She claims to have taken an interest in acting at age 10, when she was brought by her parents to several auditions in New York. This led to a role in the Broadway musical High Society in 1998, which earned her numerous nominations—from Theatre World Awards, Drama Desk Awards, and the Tony Awards, making her the second youngest nominee in the awards’ history.
Her initial success in theater led to roles in many more productions, until she made her first foray into film, the 2003 musical comedy Camp. Her performance got her nominations from the Chlotrudis Awards and the Independent Spirit Awards. Her follow-up film came in 2007; Rocket Science was also applauded by critics, singling out her performance.
Kendrick attained mainstream success through her role in Twilight, the 2008 film based on the hit novel of the same name. Her portrayal of Jessica Stanley, one of Bella Swan’s (Kristen Stewart) first friends, endeared her to the film’s fan base. She reprised the role in the sequels: New Moon in 2009 and Eclipse in 2010. Her popularity enabled her to land a handful more films, such as The Marc Pease Experience and the adaptation of the graphic novel Scott Pilgrim vs the World.
The actress was also praised for her work on Up in the Air in 2009, which allowed her to star alongside George Clooney and Vera Farmiga.
Younger sister of Michael Cooke Kendrick.
Was nominated for Broadway's 1998 Tony Award as Best Actress (Featured Role - Musical) for "High Society." She was the second youngest nominee (after 1991's Tony winner in the same category, Daisy Eagan) in Tony history,
Close friends with Adam Lambert.
Says she is inspired by Parker Posey, Molly Shannon and Amy Poehler.
2010: Rising Star Award - for: Up in the Air (2009/I)
2009: Austin Film Critics Award - Best Supporting Actress for: Up in the Air (2009/I)
2009: National Board of Review, USA Award - Best Supporting Actress for: Up in the Air (2009/I)
2009: Toronto Film Critics Association Awards - Best Supporting Actress for: Up in the Air (2009/I)