Elle Fanning: From 'The Great's Royal Princess to an OnlyFans Star in Her 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 little sister has just stolen our hearts (and prompted more than a few nervous laughs) with her new project: "Margo's Got Money Troubles," 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 mom who, juggling diapers and debt, decides to start an OnlyFans account to make ends meet. But what really has us stunned is how Elle prepped for the role.

From the Red Carpet to the Digital Trenches

When an actress says she "immerses" herself in a character, it usually means reading books or watching documentaries. Elle Fanning took it literally and, to understand her character Margo, she created a real OnlyFans account. Yes, you read that right. For a few weeks, the actress explored the platform to capture the essence of what it means to put yourself out there and seek income in the digital economy. Of course, she didn't share any explicit content, but the anecdote alone is rock-star worthy. In interviews after the Austin premiere, Elle confessed with a laugh that it was "a revealing and slightly terrifying experience." That's how you build a character, folks.

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 absent father with a wrestling past (played by Nick Offerman) and a highly unconventional mother (none other than Michelle Pfeiffer). The drama has shades of dark comedy and a pace that grabs you from the first episode. But what we love most is seeing Fanning in a down-to-earth role, far from the wigs and corsets of "The Great," where she played Catherine the Great. Speaking of that series…

From the Russian Court to American Hustle

Those of us who've followed Elle since her early days remember her incredible work in "The Great: Season One," where she proved she could pivot 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, who uses 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 talking about taking risks, we can't forget her foray into psychological horror in "The Neon Demon." That Nicolas Winding Refn film, where Elle played a model consumed by the obsession with beauty, became a cult classic. In fact, if you look for the DVD of "The Neon Demon" in German or English, you'll realize the movie still has fans worldwide. Fanning already showed that ability to navigate between innocence and the sinister back then. And now, with Margo, she adds another layer of vulnerability and strength.

• Method Acting via OnlyFans: Elle ventured onto the platform to thoroughly research her character.
• SXSW Premiere: The series was one of the festival's highlights, with critics praising its script and performances.
• Multifaceted Talent: Besides acting, Elle Fanning has demonstrated skills in dance. 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 a Pretty Face: The Art of Transformation

One of the most viral moments of this press 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 she conveys is a true 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 question many of us are asking now is: can Margo win over American audiences when the series drops on Apple TV+? If Fanning's level of commitment is anything to go by, we're sure of it: the wait will be worth it. In the meantime, we can revisit her past roles, practice our ballet turns (with her tutorial), and dream that someday she'll come by to tell us more anecdotes about her foray into the digital world. Brava, Elle!