Anya Taylor-Joy hits back at childhood critics after Hollywood success

Anya Taylor-Joy has revealed the cruel schoolyard taunts she endured as a child.

The 30-year-old actress admitted that classmates repeatedly told her she was “not beautiful” long before she became one of Hollywood’s biggest stars.

The Queen’s Gambit star opened up about her painful early years in a candid interview with The Hollywood Reporter, recalling how difficult it was to fit in after moving from Buenos Aires to London at the age of six.

According to Anya, she was quickly singled out by other pupils after starting at a prestigious London school. 

One seemingly innocent moment was kissing a classmate on the cheek that reportedly left her ostracised, with fellow students turning against her and mocking her appearance.

It’s a far cry from the glamorous image fans know today. 

The Gorge actress has become a fashion favourite and one of the most in-demand actresses in the world, fronting campaigns and dazzling on red carpets across the globe.

She has previously spoken about feeling like an outsider, explaining that constantly moving between countries left her feeling disconnected from her peers. 

But she now believes those experiences helped shape the adventurous lifestyle she enjoys today.

Anya’s journey to fame began unexpectedly when she was spotted outside Harrods by Sarah Doukas, founder of Storm modelling agency. 

Although The Northman star initially had little interest in modelling, she saw it as a possible route into acting.

That gamble paid off spectacularly as following standout roles in The Witch and Split, Anya became a household name thanks to Netflix smash hit The Queen’s Gambit. 

She has since starred in blockbuster films including Dune: Part Two and Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga.

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