Who Is Margaret Qualley? All About the American Actress

margaret qualley
Margaret Qualley at a red carpet event

Margaret Qualley is one of Hollywood’s most captivating rising stars. With a background in ballet, a lineage rooted in entertainment, and a portfolio of critically acclaimed roles, she’s quickly become a household name. But who is Margaret Qualley, really? Let’s dive into her life, career, and personal journey.

Quick Bio

AttributeDetails
Full NameSarah Margaret Qualley
Date of BirthOctober 23, 1994
Age30 years (as of 2024)
BirthplaceKalispell, Montana, USA
Height5′8″ (1.73 m)
ProfessionActress, Model, Dancer
ParentsAndie MacDowell & Paul Qualley
SiblingsRainey Qualley, Justin Qualley
SpouseJack Antonoff (m. 2023)
Notable WorksMaid, The Leftovers, Hollywood
Modeling AffiliationsChanel, Valentino, Ralph Lauren

Early Life and Family Background

margaret qualley

Born in Kalispell, Montana, on October 23, 1994, Margaret Qualley grew up surrounded by creativity. Her mother, Andie MacDowell, is a celebrated actress, while her father, Paul Qualley, was a model and rancher. Margaret is the youngest of three siblings, including Rainey Qualley, a singer and actress, and Justin Qualley, a real estate agent.

After her parents divorced in 1999, Margaret split her time between Montana and North Carolina. Her upbringing was steeped in artistic influence, which laid the foundation for her future in the entertainment industry.

Education and Ballet Training

Margaret’s first passion was dance. At age 14, she enrolled at the North Carolina School of the Arts, later earning an apprenticeship at the American Ballet Theatre. Her dedication to ballet was intense, but by 16, she decided to pivot toward modeling and acting. She studied briefly at New York University and attended a summer program at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.

Modeling Career

Before her acting breakthrough, Margaret made waves in the fashion world. She debuted at New York Fashion Week at just 16, walking for Alberta Ferretti. She later graced runways for Chanel, Valentino, and Ralph Lauren. Her elegance and poise, shaped by ballet, made her a natural fit for high fashion. Today, she remains a Chanel brand ambassador, frequently appearing in campaigns and editorials.

Acting Debut and Early Roles

Margaret’s acting debut came in Palo Alto (2013), a film directed by Gia Coppola. Her breakout role followed in HBO’s The Leftovers (2014–2017), where she played Jill Garvey, a troubled teenager navigating a post-apocalyptic world. Her performance was praised for its emotional depth and complexity.

Major Film Roles

Margaret’s film career blossomed with roles in:

  • The Nice Guys (2016) – as Amelia Kuttner
  • Novitiate (2017) – as Sister Cathleen
  • Death Note (2017) – as Mia Sutton
  • Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019) – as Pussycat, a member of the Manson Family

Her portrayal in Hollywood alongside Brad Pitt and Leonardo DiCaprio showcased her ability to hold her own among industry giants.

Breakthrough with Netflix’s Maid

In 2021, Margaret starred in Maid, a Netflix miniseries based on Stephanie Land’s memoir. She played Alex Russell, a young mother escaping domestic abuse and navigating poverty. The role was especially poignant as she acted opposite her real-life mother, Andie MacDowell. Margaret’s performance earned her Emmy and Golden Globe nominations, solidifying her status as a leading actress.

Recent Projects and Career Expansion

Margaret’s recent work reflects her versatility and bold choices:

  • Poor Things (2023)
  • Kinds of Kindness (2024)
  • Drive-Away Dolls (2024)
  • The Substance (2024)

She’s also set to appear in Honey Don’t! and Huntington, continuing her streak of compelling roles in both indie and mainstream cinema.

Age and Physical Appearance

margaret qualley

As of 2024, Margaret Qualley is 30 years old. She stands at 5′8″ (1.73 m) and weighs approximately 56 kg (123 lbs). Her ballet background gives her a graceful, poised presence both on-screen and off. With blue eyes, light brown hair, and a lean frame, she embodies a blend of classic beauty and modern edge.

Personal Life and Relationships

margaret qualley

Margaret’s romantic history includes high-profile relationships with:

  • Nat Wolff (2013)
  • Pete Davidson (2019)
  • Shia LaBeouf (2020–2021)

In 2021, she began dating musician Jack Antonoff, and the couple married in August 2023. Their relationship inspired Lana Del Rey’s song “Margaret,” a tribute to their love story.

Public Image and Advocacy

Margaret is admired for her authenticity, humility, and environmental consciousness. She’s spoken openly about mental health, body positivity, and climate activism. Her work with juvenile detention centers and support for sustainable living reflect her commitment to using her platform for good.

Awards and Recognition

Margaret Qualley’s talent has earned her numerous accolades:

  • Primetime Emmy NominationMaid (2022)
  • Golden Globe NominationMaid and The Substance
  • Critics’ Choice Awards – Multiple nominations
  • Screen Actors Guild NominationOnce Upon a Time in Hollywood

Her performance in The Substance (2024) has garnered widespread acclaim, with critics praising her emotional range and intensity.

Conclusion

From ballet studios to Hollywood sets, Margaret Qualley has carved a unique path defined by discipline, artistry, and authenticity. Her journey reflects a blend of inherited talent and personal grit. As she continues to evolve, Margaret stands as a symbol of modern stardom—graceful, grounded, and fiercely talented.

FAQs

Who is Margaret Qualley?
Margaret Qualley is an American actress, model, and former ballet dancer. She gained fame for her roles in Maid, The Leftovers, and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.

How old is Margaret Qualley?
She was born on October 23, 1994, which makes her 30 years old as of 2024.

Who are Margaret Qualley’s parents?
Her mother is actress Andie MacDowell, and her father is Paul Qualley, a former model and rancher.

Is Margaret Qualley married?
Yes, she married musician Jack Antonoff on August 19, 2023, in a private ceremony attended by close friends and celebrities.

What is Margaret Qualley’s height?
She stands at 5′8″ (1.73 m), with a graceful posture influenced by her ballet training.

What are Margaret Qualley’s most famous roles?
Her standout performances include Alex Russell in Maid, Pussycat in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, and Ann Reinking in Fosse/Verdon.

Did Margaret Qualley train as a dancer?
Yes, she trained in classical ballet at the North Carolina School of the Arts and earned an apprenticeship at the American Ballet Theatre.

What fashion brands has Margaret Qualley worked with?
She has modeled for Chanel, Valentino, Ralph Lauren, and Alberta Ferretti, and is a Chanel brand ambassador.

What awards has Margaret Qualley been nominated for?
She’s received Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her roles in Maid and The Substance.

What inspired Lana Del Rey’s song “Margaret”?
The song was inspired by Margaret’s relationship with Jack Antonoff and reflects their love story.

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