Elle Fanning: From 'The Great' Princess to OnlyFans Star in New Series 'Margo's Got Money Troubles'

If there's one actress who knows how to stay on our radar, it's Elle Fanning. Dakota's younger sister has just stolen our hearts (and sparked more than a few nervous laughs) with her latest project: "Margo's Got Money Troubles". It's a series that had its world premiere at SXSW 2026 and is already shaping up to be one of the most talked-about shows of the year. And for good reason: the story follows Margo, a single mum who, juggling nappies and mounting debts, decides to start an OnlyFans account just to make ends meet. But what's really got us gobsmacked is how Elle prepped for the part.

From the Red Carpet to the Digital Trenches

When an actress says she "immerses" herself in a role, it usually means reading books or watching documentaries. Elle Fanning took it literally, and to understand her character Margo, she actually created a real account on OnlyFans. Yes, you read that right. For a few weeks, the actress explored the platform to get the full picture of what it means to put yourself out there and earn a living in the digital economy. Of course, she didn't share any explicit content, but the anecdote alone is pure rock star behaviour. In interviews after the Austin premiere, Elle confessed with a laugh that it was "an eye-opening and kinda terrifying experience." This, folks, is how you build a character.

Margo, a Heroine for Our Times

Based on the novel by Rufi Thorpe, the series introduces us to a young woman who, besides dealing with unplanned motherhood, has to face an absentee dad with a wrestling past (played by Nick Offerman) and a rather unconventional mum (none other than Michelle Pfeiffer). The drama has a dark comedy vibe and a pace that grabs you from the very first episode. But what we love most is seeing Fanning in a down-to-earth role, a far cry from the wigs and corsets of "The Great", where she played Catherine the Great. Speaking of that series…

From the Russian Court to American Precarity

Those of us who've followed Elle since her early days remember her incredible work in "The Great", where she proved she can shift from absurd comedy to drama with astonishing ease. Her Catherine was naive, ambitious, and adorable. Now, in Margo, we see the other end of the spectrum: an ordinary girl with very real problems, using her wit and her body as a last resort. It's a twist that confirms Fanning isn't afraid to take risks.

A History of Unforgettable Characters

And since we're on the topic of taking risks, we can't forget her foray into psychological horror with "The Neon Demon". That Nicolas Winding Refn film, where Elle played a model consumed by the obsession with beauty, became a cult classic. Fanning was already showing that ability to walk the line between innocence and the sinister back then. And now, with Margo, she adds another layer of vulnerability and strength.

• OnlyFans as Method Acting: Elle ventured onto the platform to deeply research her character.
• SXSW Premiere: The series was one of the festival's highlights, with critics praising its writing and performances.
• Multi-faceted Talent: Besides acting, Elle Fanning has serious dance skills. Did you know she can teach you how to do a ballet turn? That's right, a video is circulating where Elle Fanning teaches you how to do a ballet turn, showcasing her training from a young age.

More Than Just a Pretty Face: The Art of Transformation

One of the most viral moments from this promotional tour has undoubtedly been the video where Elle Fanning teaches you how to do a ballet turn. Yes, the actress studied ballet for years, and it shows in her poise and discipline. But beyond the technique, what comes across is her passion for the craft. She's not just a celebrity walking the red carpet; she's an artist who inhabits her characters down to the last detail.

The big question now is: can Margo win over Singaporean audiences when the series drops on Apple TV+? If Fanning's level of commitment is anything to go by, it's a clear yes: the wait will be worth it. In the meantime, we can rewatch her previous roles, practise our ballet turns (with her tutorial), and dream that someday she'll pop by here to share more stories about her venture into the digital world. Brava, Elle!