Cameron Diaz Actress, Model, and Author

Cameron Diaz (born August 30, 1972) is an American actress, model, and author who became one of Hollywood’s most popular stars of the late 1990s and 2000s, known for her charm, comedic timing, and versatile performances.

Born in San Diego, California, Diaz began her career as a fashion model before transitioning into acting. Her breakout role came opposite Jim Carrey in The Mask (1994), which launched her into international stardom.

She went on to star in major films including There’s Something About Mary (1998), Charlie’s Angels (2000), Gangs of New York (2002), and the Shrek series, in which she voiced Princess Fiona.

Beyond acting, Diaz is a bestselling author of health and wellness books and has been recognized for her influence as a cultural figure, blending Hollywood stardom with advocacy for healthy living.

Cameron Diaz
Photo: David Shankbone, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons (edited)

Date of Birth: August 30, 1972

Place of Birth: San Diego, California, U.S.

Nationality: American

Known for: The Mask, There’s Something About Mary, Charlie’s Angels, Shrek


Career Highlights and Achievements

Over her two-decade career, Diaz received multiple Golden Globe nominations and established herself as a leading actress in both comedies and dramas. Her roles in romantic comedies made her a household name, while her work in animated films cemented her legacy across generations.

Personal Life

Diaz married musician Benji Madden in 2015, and they have one daughter. She retired from acting in 2014 but remains active as an author and entrepreneur, continuing to shape cultural conversations around wellness and lifestyle.

Legacy

Cameron Diaz is celebrated as one of the most successful actresses of her era, leaving a lasting impact on Hollywood through her blend of humor, elegance, and relatability on screen.


Filmography

Year Title Role Notes
Feature Films
1994The MaskTina CarlyleBreakthrough debut role.
1995The Last SupperJudeIndependent dark comedy.
1996Feeling MinnesotaFreddie ClaytonRomantic crime drama.
1997My Best Friend’s WeddingKimmy WallaceMajor commercial success.
1998There’s Something About MaryMary JensenIconic comedy role.
1999Being John MalkovichLotte SchwartzCritically acclaimed performance.
1999Any Given SundayChristina PagniacciSports drama.
2000Charlie’s AngelsNatalie CookAction-comedy franchise launch.
2001Vanilla SkyJulie GianniPsychological drama.
2002Gangs of New YorkJenny EverdeaneHistorical epic.
2003Charlie’s Angels: Full ThrottleNatalie CookSequel.
2003Bad SantaSueDark holiday comedy.
2004Shrek 2Princess Fiona (voice)Animated franchise peak.
2005In Her ShoesMaggie FellerDramatic lead role.
2006The HolidayAmanda WoodsRomantic comedy hit.
2007Shrek the ThirdPrincess Fiona (voice)Animated sequel.
2008What Happens in VegasJoy McNallyBox-office success.
2010Knight and DayJune HavensAction-comedy.
2011The Green HornetLenore CaseComic-book adaptation.
2011Bad TeacherElizabeth HalseyProvocative comedy lead.
2012What to Expect When You’re ExpectingJulesEnsemble comedy.
2013The CounselorMalkinaCrime thriller.
2014The Other WomanCarly WhittenCommercial comedy hit.
2014Sex TapeAnnie HargroveMainstream comedy.
2014AnnieMs. HanniganMusical remake.

Career Highlights & Industry Impact

  • One of the highest-grossing actresses of the late 1990s and 2000s.
  • Successfully balanced commercial comedies with critically acclaimed films.
  • Key female figure in modern Hollywood romantic and ensemble comedies.

References


Back