Emerald Fennell Bio
Emerald Lilly Fennell is an English actress, filmmaker, and writer born on the 1st of October, 1985, in London, England. Known for her roles in period films and television series like ‘Call the Midwife’ and ‘The Crown’, she has garnered critical acclaim for her directorial debut ‘Promising Young Woman’, which won her an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. Fennell’s work has earned her multiple accolades, including BAFTA awards and Emmy nominations, highlighting her significant impact on the film and television industry.
Early Life and Background
Emerald Fennell was born in Hammersmith, London, to jewellery designer Theo Fennell and author Louise Fennell. She has a sister, Coco Fennell, who is a fashion designer. Fennell was educated at Marlborough College, a public school in Marlborough, Wiltshire. She then studied English at Greyfriars, Oxford, where she acted in university plays. At Oxford, Fennell was spotted by Lindy King of United Agents, which set her on a path toward a career in the entertainment industry.
Path to Hollywood
Fennell made her acting debut in 2007, appearing in an episode of the crime drama series ‘Trial & Retribution’. In 2008, she was commissioned to write a film script, co-produced by Madeleine Lloyd Webber, titled ‘Chukka’, a romantic comedy about teenagers. She went on to guest star in episodes of the comedy drama ‘New Tricks’ and the period drama ‘Any Human Heart’ in 2010. Fennell starred as Agnes in the Channel 4 sitcom ‘Chickens’ from 2011 to 2013 and had supporting roles in period drama films such as ‘Albert Nobbs’ and ‘Anna Karenina’.
Emerald Fennell Career
Early Career (2007–2012)
Fennell’s early career included notable roles in various television series and films. She gained recognition for her performance as Nurse Patsy Mount in the BBC One period drama series ‘Call the Midwife’, which aired from 2013 to 2017. During this time, she also published her first novel, a children’s fantasy titled ‘Shiverton Hall’, which was shortlisted for the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize in 2014. Fennell’s work in the entertainment industry began to gain traction, leading to more significant opportunities.
Breakthrough (2019–2020)
Emerald Fennell’s breakthrough came when she was hired as the head writer for the second season of the BBC spy thriller series ‘Killing Eve’, which premiered in April 2019. Her work on the series earned her two Primetime Emmy Award nominations. In 2020, she made her feature film directorial debut with ‘Promising Young Woman’, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival to critical acclaim. The film received five Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director, and won her the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
Notable Works and Milestones
Fennell’s signature work includes ‘Promising Young Woman’, which has been praised for its bold storytelling and innovative approach to the thriller genre. She has received numerous awards for her writing, including the Academy Award and several Critics Choice Awards.
Emerald Fennell Award Nominations
Emerald Fennell has received multiple nominations throughout her career, including three Primetime Emmy Award nominations for her work on ‘Killing Eve’ and a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Picture for ‘Promising Young Woman’.
Emerald Fennell Awards Won
Emerald Fennell won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for ‘Promising Young Woman’ in 2021, marking a significant achievement in her career.
Emerald Fennell Family
Emerald Fennell is married to film and advertising director Chris Vernon. The couple has two children, the elder of whom is a son born in 2019.
Personal Life
Fennell confirmed her pregnancy with their second child at the 93rd Academy Awards in April 2021. She maintains a relatively private personal life, focusing on her career in the entertainment industry.
