In recent news, Anne Hathaway has appeared on the cover of People magazine as the 2026 "World's Most Beautiful Star," where she reflects on her 20-year career and personal evolution. At 43, the Oscar-winning actress is now looking forward to a major year ahead, including the much-awaited sequel to 'The Devil Wears Prada.'
A New Chapter of Confidence and Radiance
Anne Hathaway has been officially crowned the "World's Most Beautiful" Star for 2026 by People magazine, a move that will not surprise anyone but will delight millions. The 43-year-old actress, who appears on the cover in a gorgeous black Tamara Ralph gown, radiates confidence that she acknowledges took decades to develop.
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Hathaway discusses her personal development in her open cover story, stating that she felt as though she was in a "long, unbroken awkward phase" for the majority of her early career, which continued well into her late 30s.
But today, she is embracing a more vibrant and at peace version of herself. She emphasized that her current glow isn't just about the right lighting—though she jokingly warns that "bad lighting is mean"—but about letting go of the crushing need for perfection.
Hathaway has become a symbol of ageless grace by abandoning her role as her own worst critic, demonstrating that beauty is firmly anchored in self-acceptance and the support of a loving family, which includes her husband Adam Shulman and their children.
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Reflecting on a Legacy of Iconic Performances
The award comes as Hathaway reflects on the cinematic turning points that shaped her development from a teenage sensation to an Academy Award winner. Her variety has been nothing short of remarkable, from her gritty, Oscar-winning performance of Fantine in 'Les Misérables' to the whimsical charm of 'The Princess Diaries,' which initially introduced her to the world as Mia Thermopolis.
During her interview, she reflected on the physical and emotional demands of her past roles, such as playing Catwoman in 'The Dark Knight Rises.'
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She recalled feeling protective of her craft when faced with questions about her weight rather than her strength, noting that her focus has always been on the discipline required to tell a story. This retrospective look serves as a reminder of why she is still regarded as one of the most influential people in the business; she has continuously struck a balance between thought-provoking independent films and huge blockbusters, always appreciative of the work that enables her to "keep the lights on" while pushing her creative boundaries.
The Return of Andy Sachs and a Record-Breaking Year
2026 is expected to be the "Year of Anne," with her comeback to the role that made her a fashion icon—Andy Sachs in 'The Devil Wears Prada 2.' Scheduled to hit theaters on 1st May, the sequel reunites her with Meryl Streep and Emily Blunt, a collaboration Hathaway describes as "beautiful and joyful." She teased that her character has changed dramatically over the past 20 years and that she now wears "consignment luxury" clothing, which is indicative of a seasoned journalism profession. However, her hectic schedule goes far beyond the Prada sequel.
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With an amazing lineup of films that includes Christopher Nolan's highly personal epic 'The Odyssey,' the psychological drama 'Verity,' and the science fiction thriller 'Flowervale Street,' Hathaway is expected to rule the box office. It is evident that Anne Hathaway is not just Hollywood's most attractive actress of the year but also one of its most enduring and potent forces as she returns to the forefront with a renewed sense of calm and perspective.
