Cameron Diaz

Overview

Cameron Michelle Diaz, born August 30, 1972, is an American actress who rose to prominence in the 1990s and became a household name for her comedic timing, girl-next-door appeal, and versatile acting abilities. Her career spans a wide range of genres, from action to romantic comedies, solidifying her status as one of Hollywood's most beloved and successful actresses. This timeline highlights some of the pivotal moments in her life and career.

Main Milestones

Birth in San Diego, California

August 30, 1972

Cameron Michelle Diaz was born in San Diego, California, to Emilio Diaz, a foreman for UNOCAL, and Billie Early, an import/export agent. Her multicultural background, with a Cuban-American father and a mother of English, Scottish, and German ancestry, contributed to her unique and relatable appeal. Her early life in Southern California provided a foundation for her future career in the entertainment industry.

Modeling Career Begins

Early 1990s

Before her acting breakthrough, Diaz pursued a career in modeling. At the age of 16, she signed with Elite Model Management and traveled the world, working on campaigns for brands like Calvin Klein and Levi's. This experience exposed her to the world of fashion and photography, honing her skills in front of the camera and preparing her for the transition to acting.

Breakthrough Role in 'The Mask'

1994

In a stroke of unexpected luck, Diaz landed the role of Tina Carlyle in 'The Mask' opposite Jim Carrey. This marked her acting debut and instantly catapulted her to stardom. With no prior acting experience, her performance demonstrated natural charisma and comedic timing, setting the stage for a highly successful career. 'The Mask' became a box office hit, solidifying Diaz's place in Hollywood.

Establishing Versatility

Late 1990s

Following 'The Mask', Diaz actively pursued roles that showcased her range as an actress. She starred in films like 'My Best Friend's Wedding' (1997), 'There's Something About Mary' (1998), and 'Being John Malkovich' (1999), demonstrating her ability to excel in romantic comedies, dramas, and independent films. This period established her as a versatile performer capable of handling diverse roles.

Action and Animation Success

Early 2000s

The early 2000s saw Diaz branch out into action roles, most notably as Natalie Cook in 'Charlie's Angels' (2000) and its sequel 'Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle' (2003). These films showcased her athleticism and comedic sensibilities. She also lent her voice to Princess Fiona in the animated 'Shrek' franchise, a role that further cemented her popularity with audiences of all ages.

Critical Acclaim and Diverse Roles Continue

Mid-2000s

Diaz continued to receive critical acclaim for her performances in films like 'In Her Shoes' (2005) and 'The Holiday' (2006). These roles demonstrated her ability to tackle more dramatic and complex characters. She was consistently praised for her natural acting style and relatable portrayals of women from all walks of life.

Last Film Role in 'Annie'

2014

Diaz's last credited film role was as Miss Colleen Hannigan in the 2014 remake of 'Annie'. While the film received mixed reviews, Diaz's performance was generally praised. This marked a significant pause in her acting career, leading to speculation about her retirement.

Marriage to Benji Madden

2015

In January 2015, Diaz married Benji Madden, the guitarist for the band Good Charlotte. Their relationship and subsequent marriage were relatively private, compared to her previous high-profile romances. This event signaled a shift in Diaz's priorities, hinting at a possible retreat from the spotlight.

Unofficial Retirement from Acting

2018

Though never officially announced, Diaz largely retired from acting. She expressed a desire to focus on other aspects of her life, including her personal well-being and spending time with her family. Her departure from the screen was met with both sadness and understanding from her fans, who respected her decision to prioritize her happiness.

Welcoming Daughter Raddix

January 2020

In January 2020, Diaz and Madden announced the birth of their daughter, Raddix Madden. This milestone marked a significant shift in Diaz's life, as she embraced motherhood and further solidified her commitment to her family. The announcement was met with widespread joy and congratulations from fans and fellow celebrities alike.

Entrepreneurial Ventures and Family Life

2020 - Present

Since stepping away from acting, Diaz has focused on entrepreneurial pursuits. She co-founded Avaline, an organic wine brand, demonstrating her interest in health, wellness, and sustainable living. She has also remained largely out of the public eye, prioritizing her family life and enjoying a quieter existence away from the demands of Hollywood.

Return to Acting Announced

2022

In June 2022, it was announced that Cameron Diaz would be returning to acting in the Netflix film "Back in Action", alongside Jamie Foxx. This marked a surprising, but exciting, development for fans who had missed her presence on screen. Filming began later that year, signaling the start of a new chapter in her already impressive career.

Other Themed Timelines

Breakthrough and Rise to Stardom (1994-1999)

Business Ventures and Entrepreneurship

Continued Success and Box Office Dominance (2000-2009)

Early Life and Modeling Career

Later Film Roles and Semi-Retirement (2010-2018)

Personal Life and Relationships

Public Image and Activism

Return to Acting

Themed Timelines

Talks

Media Collections

Overview

Other Themed Timelines