Josephine Langford is an Australian actress best known for her role as Tessa Young in the hit romantic drama series “After” (2019), based on the popular novels by Anna Todd. With her captivating performances, Langford has gained a significant following and has emerged as a rising star in Hollywood.
Early Life and Background
Josephine Langford was born on August 18, 1997, in Perth, Western Australia, to Stephen Langford, a flying doctor, and Elizabeth Langford, a pediatrician. She grew up in a medical family but found her passion for acting at an early age. She is the younger sister of actress Katherine Langford, who gained fame for her role in the Netflix series “13 Reasons Why.”
Despite growing up in the same household, Josephine and Katherine pursued their acting careers independently, often downplaying comparisons between them in interviews. Josephine’s interest in acting began around the age of 13 when she started taking acting classes in Perth. She studied at the Perth Film School and participated in short films and school plays before pursuing a professional career in the entertainment industry.
Acting Career: Early Roles
Langford’s career began with roles in short films like “Sex Ed” (2013) and “Gypsy Blood” (2014). She made her feature film debut in the indie horror thriller “Pulse” (2017), followed by a small role in the critically acclaimed “Wish Upon” (2017), a supernatural horror film that starred Joey King.
These early roles gave Langford experience in front of the camera, but it wasn’t until her breakthrough role in “After” that she gained international recognition.
Breakthrough with “After”
In 2019, Josephine Langford landed the lead role of Tessa Young in the film adaptation of Anna Todd’s popular novel “After.” The novel, originally published on Wattpad, gained a massive following online and was adapted into a film series. Langford’s casting as Tessa, an innocent and studious young woman who embarks on a complicated and passionate relationship with the rebellious Hardin Scott (played by Hero Fiennes Tiffin), brought her into the spotlight.
The first film, “After” (2019), was a commercial success, especially among young adult audiences. While the film received mixed critical reviews, Langford’s performance as Tessa was praised for bringing depth and vulnerability to the character. The chemistry between Langford and Fiennes Tiffin became one of the key selling points of the movie, contributing to the success of the franchise.
Due to the positive response from fans, the “After” series continued with sequels:
- “After We Collided” (2020)
- “After We Fell” (2021)
- “After Ever Happy” (2022)
Throughout the series, Langford’s portrayal of Tessa evolved as the character dealt with love, heartbreak, and personal growth. Her ability to bring emotional complexity to the role has made her a fan favorite and helped her establish a solid fanbase.
Other Film and TV Projects
Outside of the “After” series, Langford has continued to explore other acting opportunities. In 2019, she appeared in the Australian horror film “Into the Dark: They Come Knocking”, which aired as part of Hulu’s horror anthology series. Her performance in the film, where she played a young woman dealing with supernatural forces, highlighted her range beyond romantic dramas.
In 2021, Langford starred in the Netflix film “Moxie”, directed by Amy Poehler. The movie, based on the novel by Jennifer Mathieu, centers around a shy high school student who sparks a feminist revolution at her school. Langford played Emma Cunningham, one of the key supporting characters. “Moxie” allowed Langford to step into a different genre, showcasing her ability to tackle roles that focus on social themes.
Style and Approach to Acting
Josephine Langford is known for her grounded approach to acting. Despite her rapid rise to fame, she has kept a relatively low public profile and avoids much of the glitz and glamour often associated with Hollywood. In interviews, Langford emphasizes her focus on her craft rather than the fame that comes with it. She’s been vocal about her passion for storytelling and the importance of exploring complex characters.
Langford’s performances often demonstrate her ability to tap into deep emotions, whether it’s the turbulence of young love in “After” or the darker elements in horror films like “They Come Knocking.” Her versatility as an actress has made her stand out among her peers, and she has expressed a desire to explore a wide range of genres in the future.
Personal Life and Privacy
Josephine Langford is known for maintaining a private personal life, much like her sister Katherine. Despite being in the public eye, she has managed to keep details of her personal life, including her relationships and family, out of the spotlight. Langford has spoken about the importance of maintaining boundaries between her public and private personas, which has helped her navigate the pressures of fame.
In interviews, Langford has often been asked about her relationship with her sister Katherine. While they are both in the entertainment industry, they have pursued their careers independently, and Josephine has expressed pride in her sister’s accomplishments while emphasizing their individuality.
Future Prospects
As Josephine Langford’s star continues to rise, she is poised to expand her career beyond the “After” series. With a mix of talent, dedication, and a growing portfolio of diverse roles, she is likely to explore more challenging and varied characters in the future.
Given her ability to connect with audiences and deliver powerful performances, Langford is well on her way to establishing herself as one of the leading actresses of her generation. Fans and critics alike are eager to see where her career will take her next.
Conclusion
Josephine Langford’s breakout role in the “After” series has made her a prominent figure in young adult cinema. Her performances have showcased her versatility, emotional depth, and commitment to her craft. As she continues to take on new and challenging roles, Langford is sure to solidify her position as one of Hollywood’s most promising young talents.
