Names/Elle/Elle Fanning
EntertainmentAmerican1996 – present

Elle Fanning

Actress in 'Maleficent,' 'The Great,' and indie films

Biography

Elle Fanning (born April 9, 1996) is an American actress who began her career as a child performer and has evolved into a respected adult actress known for her diverse and critically acclaimed roles. She gained prominence through family films like 'Super 8' (2011) and 'We Bought a Zoo' (2011), showcasing her talent in major studio productions. Her role as Princess Aurora in 'Maleficent' (2014) brought her wider recognition, while her performance as Catherine the Great in the satirical FX series 'The Great' (2020-present) demonstrated her range and dramatic capabilities. Fanning has collaborated with acclaimed directors including Sofia Coppola in 'The Beguiled' (2017), further establishing her credibility in the industry. She is the younger sister of actress Dakota Fanning, and the two have occasionally worked together professionally. Elle's career trajectory from child actress to accomplished adult performer has made her one of the most respected actresses of her generation, with a reputation for choosing challenging and diverse roles that continue to showcase her growing talent and maturity as an artist.

The Name Elle

Elle Fanning's prominence as a critically acclaimed actress has contributed to the name Elle becoming increasingly popular for girls in contemporary American culture.

Quick Facts
Category

Entertainment

Nationality

American

Born

1996

Thinking about the name

Elle

French origin

A French-origin name meaning 'she,' this elegant two-syllable form has become a standalone classic in English-speaking countries. Elle is streamlined yet sophisticated, offering the brightness of Eleanor or Helen in minimalist form. Its simplicity and chic sound have made it increasingly popular with parents seeking understated style.