Sofia Carson knows how to make an entrance, and honestly, who doesn’t love a grand reveal? Earlier this year, she literally descended from the rafters at the Kia Forum to host Netflix’s Tudum 2025, a global fan event that captured the attention of nearly 200 countries. It was a moment that perfectly encapsulated her vibrant personality and determination. Carson shared, “Of course that was my first request. I would like to fly into the Forum, please and thank you. And we made it happen.” Isn’t that just a boss move? 💁♀️
From Dreams to Stardom
Fast forward ten years, and you wouldn’t recognize the 32-year-old who once stood at the beginning of her career, dreaming big. Today, Sofia Carson is one of Netflix’s most valuable stars. Her breakout role came as Evie, the blue-haired daughter of the Evil Queen in Disney Channel’s hit musical franchise, Descendants. Can we all agree that this role was iconic? Once the trilogy wrapped up in 2019, she found her footing at Netflix, kicking things off with the dance dramedy, Feel the Beat, in 2020. And let’s not forget her role in 2022’s Purple Hearts, where she portrayed a liberal musician marrying a conservative soldier for health insurance. Talk about a plot twist! 📽️
But what solidified her status? It was her performance in the 2024 holiday thriller, Carry-On, where she starred alongside Taron Egerton. This film has become Netflix’s second-most-popular English-language film ever. Carson reflected on this moment, saying, “That was when we all realized that there’s a really special connection going on between myself and Netflix.” Who else thinks that’s just a testament to her talent? 🎉
Cultural Representation Matters
Recently, Carson starred in The Life List, where she played a young woman needing to complete her childhood bucket list to inherit her mother’s estate. This film topped the charts in over 70 countries, proving that audiences resonate with her work. It’s clear that Sofia has become a major player at Netflix, akin to what Bette Davis was to Warner Bros. back in the day.
Excitingly, her upcoming film, My Oxford Year, out on August 1, follows a lively American navigating the cultural shifts in the UK. Carson explained the allure of such stories: “There’s something so timeless and romantic about diving into another culture, especially British culture, that is really thrilling to a female audience.” I mean, who doesn’t love a good love story wrapped in a cultural exploration? 💕
But it’s not all roses. Carson’s character faces a harsh reality when a pub patron accuses her of filling a diversity quota at Oxford. This moment hit home for her, as she shared, “Being Hispanic and a young woman raised in the United States, I wanted Anna to reflect that population of young women who are often either underrepresented or wrongly represented on film.” It’s refreshing to see someone so committed to authenticity in their work.
Breaking Barriers in the Industry
Before she became a household name, Carson was a college student majoring in communications, navigating auditions and roles. Landing the part of Evie was a game-changer for her. Reflecting on her journey, she said, “Evie changed my life forever.” Can you imagine how surreal that must have felt? 🌟
Carson’s commitment to creating art that matters has been steadfast. She’s adamant about not succumbing to stereotypes or roles that don’t align with her values. “I made a promise to myself early on to never ever—ever—sell myself out for fame,” she asserted. This fierce dedication has led her to positions where she can influence the narratives she’s a part of, like being a producer for Purple Hearts and many other projects.
However, success doesn’t come without its hurdles. Purple Hearts sparked discussions about its themes, and while some viewers criticized it, Carson saw it as a learning experience, stating, “When you release films that cause a lot of discourse, I think that’s only a good thing.” Love that perspective! It’s all about growth, right? 🌱
As she moves forward, Carson remains focused on her artistry, exploring deeper and edgier roles. She’s excited about her next project, Last Night at the Lobster, and the chance to collaborate with incredible talent. Carson’s journey is not just about personal success; it’s about paving the way for authentic representation in the industry.
In a world where streaming is king, Sofia Carson is more than just a star; she’s a trailblazer. So, what do you think? Is she the next big thing in Hollywood? Let’s chat! 💬