Anneliese van der Pol is a talented Dutch-American actress and singer best known for her role as Chelsea Daniels on Disney Channel’s That’s So Raven. With a career that spans television, film, and musical theatre, she has charmed audiences with her acting skills and powerful vocals both on-screen and on stage.
Quick Bio
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Anneliese Louise van der Pol |
| Date of Birth | September 23, 1984 |
| Place of Birth | Naaldwijk, Netherlands |
| Nationality | Dutch-American |
| Profession | Actress, Singer |
| Famous For | Chelsea Daniels on That’s So Raven |
| Height | 5 feet 4 inches (1.63 meters) |
| Broadway Debut | Beauty and the Beast (as Belle) |
| Years Active | 1999–present |
| Estimated Net Worth | $1–2 million (approximate) |
Early Life and Background
Anneliese van der Pol was born in Naaldwijk, Netherlands, to a Dutch father and an American mother. At a young age, her family relocated to the United States, where she was raised in California. Growing up in a culturally diverse household, she was exposed to both European and American influences, which played a key role in shaping her artistic sensibilities. From a very early age, Anneliese showed an interest in performing, often participating in school plays and local productions. Her parents recognized her talent and encouraged her to pursue the arts seriously.
Anneliese van der Pol’s Age and Physical Appearance
As of 2025, Anneliese van der Pol is 40 years old, yet she continues to maintain a youthful energy and strong screen presence. Standing at approximately 5 feet 4 inches, she is known for her expressive features, deep hazel eyes, and signature auburn hair. Her physical charisma combined with her vocal strength and comedic timing have contributed to her continued success in the entertainment industry.
Education and Training in the Arts
Anneliese honed her craft at the Orange County High School of the Arts (OCHSA) in California, a school renowned for producing top-performing young talents. She studied acting and musical theatre, refining both her voice and stage presence. In addition to formal education, she gained experience by performing in community theatre productions, including notable roles in classics such as Grease, Evita, and The Sound of Music. These early experiences laid a solid foundation for her transition into professional acting.
Breakthrough on That’s So Raven
Her big break came in 2003 when she landed the role of Chelsea Daniels, Raven-Symoné’s hilarious and loyal best friend in Disney Channel’s That’s So Raven. The show was a massive hit, becoming one of Disney’s most iconic series. Anneliese’s character brought a perfect mix of goofy charm and heartwarming sincerity, and she quickly became a fan-favorite. Her comedic timing and chemistry with the rest of the cast made the show’s success even more impactful. This role catapulted her into the spotlight and gave her a dedicated fan base.
Life Beyond Disney: Stage Career and Broadway Debut
While many young stars struggle to transition from Disney fame, Anneliese van der Pol successfully shifted to Broadway. In 2007, she made her Broadway debut as Belle in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, becoming the final actress to play the character before the show closed. Her performance was praised for her vocals, stage presence, and emotional depth. She continued to act in regional theatre productions, including Vanities, Meet Me in St. Louis, and The Importance of Being Earnest. Her theatrical work showcased her versatility and ability to perform in a variety of roles beyond teen comedy.
Film and Other Television Roles
In addition to her Disney fame, Anneliese has appeared in various film and television projects. Notably, she played Jennifer in the 2010 parody film Vampires Suck, a spoof of the Twilight franchise. She also made guest appearances in series like Shake It Up, Friends with Benefits, and Shalom Sesame. Although her film roles have been fewer compared to television and theatre, each appearance added depth to her portfolio and allowed her to reach new audiences.
Return to Disney with Raven’s Home
In 2017, Anneliese made a much-celebrated return to Disney with Raven’s Home, the spin-off of That’s So Raven. She reprised her role as Chelsea Daniels, now a single mom raising her son alongside Raven and her children. The show was praised for retaining the original spirit while addressing modern parenting and friendship themes. Anneliese’s return was widely appreciated by both longtime fans and a new generation of viewers. Her ability to step back into the role with such ease was a testament to her enduring talent.
Music Career and Vocal Talent
Beyond acting, Anneliese van der Pol is an accomplished singer. She has a background in musical theatre and has lent her voice to several Disney soundtracks. Her contributions to That’s So Raven and DisneyMania albums include covers of classics like “Over It” and “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes”. Her rich, expressive voice has been praised by both fans and critics. She has also performed live concerts and cabaret-style shows across the U.S., where she blends musical performances with comedic storytelling.
Anneliese van der Pol’s Net Worth
While she may not be one of the highest-paid celebrities, Anneliese van der Pol has built a comfortable net worth estimated to be around $1–2 million. Her earnings come from television roles, Broadway performances, voice work, and music. Residuals from her Disney projects and ongoing performances in stage productions continue to add to her income. Her smart career choices and ability to evolve within the entertainment industry have helped maintain her financial stability.
Personal Life and Relationships
Unlike many of her peers, Anneliese van der Pol tends to keep her personal life private. She has never been married and has not made any official public announcements about long-term relationships. Over the years, there have been a few rumored romances, but nothing confirmed. She maintains a low-key lifestyle, often focusing on her craft rather than celebrity status. Anneliese is also known to be active in local theatre communities and supports arts education programs.
Legacy and Fan Following
Even after more than two decades in the spotlight, Anneliese van der Pol remains beloved by fans. Her role as Chelsea Daniels continues to be one of Disney Channel’s most memorable characters. Fans admire her for staying grounded, embracing her Disney roots, and continuing to contribute meaningfully to theatre and entertainment. She also engages with fans on social media, often sharing behind-the-scenes content, musical performances, and humorous moments from her day-to-day life.
What’s Next for Anneliese van der Pol?
As of 2025, Anneliese is rumored to be working on new stage productions and may be developing original content for streaming platforms. She continues to perform live at musical and fan conventions and has hinted at a possible solo music release in the near future. Her ability to transition smoothly between theatre, television, and music ensures that her career remains vibrant and relevant. Whether on a Broadway stage or behind a microphone, Anneliese van der Pol’s journey is far from over.
Conclusion
Anneliese van der Pol’s career is a testament to her versatility, passion, and authenticity. From her beginnings as a child actor to becoming a Disney Channel star, Broadway performer, and musical talent, she has remained a respected figure in the entertainment industry. Her charm, comedic talent, and musical gifts continue to captivate audiences around the world, proving that she is much more than just a former Disney star—she’s a true performer with staying power.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Anneliese van der Pol known for?
She is best known for her role as Chelsea Daniels on Disney Channel’s That’s So Raven and Raven’s Home.
How old is Anneliese van der Pol now?
She is 40 years old, born on September 23, 1984.
Has Anneliese van der Pol been on Broadway?
Yes, she played Belle in Beauty and the Beast, marking her Broadway debut.
Is Anneliese van der Pol still acting?
Yes, she continues to act in television, theatre, and live musical performances.
What is Anneliese van der Pol’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is between $1 and $2 million.
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