Anne Hathaway marks 25 years of 'The Princess Diaries' with BTS throwback
Synopsis
Twenty-five years after her debut role launched her career, Anne Hathaway returned to Instagram with rare behind-the-scenes footage from 'The Princess Diaries' — and a touching note for the late Garry Marshall. The post is a reminder of how a film the industry expected to underperform went on to gross $165.3 million and make Hathaway a star.
Key Takeaways
Anne Hathaway shared rare behind-the-scenes photos and videos on Instagram to mark 25 years of 'The Princess Diaries' .
Her caption included a tribute to late director Garry Marshall , who helmed the film and passed away in 2016 .
The 2001 Walt Disney Pictures film grossed $165.3 million worldwide, defying expectations due to its G-rating .
The film marked Hathaway 's screen debut and established her as a bankable Hollywood star.
Co-stars included Julie Andrews , Mandy Moore , Hector Elizondo , and Heather Matarazzo .
Anne Hathaway is marking a quarter-century since her film debut with a heartfelt tribute to 'The Princess Diaries', sharing rare behind-the-scenes footage and photographs on Instagram on Monday. The post, which quickly drew attention from fans worldwide, underscores how enduring the 2001 Walt Disney Pictures coming-of-age comedy has proven to be.
What Hathaway Shared
The actress posted an array of throwback pictures and videos from the film's production, offering followers a glimpse into what life on set looked like 25 years ago. In her caption, Hathaway wrote: “25 years later and it’s still one of the most magical things that has ever happened to me! Thank you all for loving ‘The Princess Diaries’ as much as I do, I am forever grateful for my PD family!! Love you Garry, miss you every day.” The tribute included a poignant mention of the late director Garry Marshall, who passed away in 2016.
About the Film
'The Princess Diaries' was directed by Garry Marshall from a screenplay by Gina Wendkos, adapted from Meg Cabot's eponymous novel. The film starred Anne Hathaway as Mia Thermopolis, a shy American teenager who discovers she is the crown princess of the fictional kingdom of Genovia, and receives royal tutelage from her estranged grandmother Clarisse Renaldi, played by Dame Julie Andrews. The ensemble cast also included Hector Elizondo, Heather Matarazzo, Mandy Moore, Caroline Goodall, and Robert Schwartzman.
Box Office and Legacy
Produced by Walt Disney Pictures, the film was considered a sleeper hit, grossing $165.3 million worldwide despite industry scepticism over its G-rating and subject matter. Critics offered mixed reviews at the time, though both Hathaway and Andrews drew consistent praise for their performances. The film is widely credited with establishing Hathaway as a bankable Hollywood star at a remarkably young age.
Retrospective Recognition
In the years since its release, 'The Princess Diaries' has attracted retrospective appreciation for its themes of self-discovery, identity, and its female-driven narrative — qualities that resonate strongly with contemporary audiences. Notably, this is one of the rare Disney live-action films of its era to maintain a devoted multigenerational fan base. The anniversary tribute reflects how the film has transcended its original cultural moment to become a touchstone of early-2000s cinema.
With fan interest in a potential third instalment periodically surfacing over the years, Hathaway's anniversary post is likely to reignite conversation around the franchise's future.
Point of View
Or continue to leave one of its most loyal fanbases without closure. Hathaway's very public, emotionally resonant tribute suggests she remains open to the conversation.
NationPress
4 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Anne Hathaway post for the 25th anniversary of 'The Princess Diaries'?
Anne Hathaway shared an array of behind-the-scenes photos and videos from the making of 'The Princess Diaries' on Instagram, along with a heartfelt caption expressing gratitude to fans and a tribute to late director Garry Marshall.
Who directed 'The Princess Diaries'?
'The Princess Diaries' was directed by Garry Marshall from a screenplay by Gina Wendkos. Marshall, who also directed the sequel, passed away in 2016, and Hathaway's anniversary post included a personal tribute to him.
How did 'The Princess Diaries' perform at the box office?
The film grossed $165.3 million worldwide, making it a sleeper hit. It defied industry expectations of underperformance stemming from its G-rating and subject matter.
Who starred alongside Anne Hathaway in 'The Princess Diaries'?
The film featured Julie Andrews, Hector Elizondo, Heather Matarazzo, Mandy Moore, Caroline Goodall, and Robert Schwartzman alongside Anne Hathaway, who played the lead role of Mia Thermopolis.
What is the legacy of 'The Princess Diaries'?
The film is credited with launching Anne Hathaway's career and has since gained retrospective praise for its themes of self-discovery, identity, and its female-driven narrative. It remains a beloved touchstone of early-2000s cinema with a multigenerational fan base.
