Cameron Diaz, born August 30, 1972, in San Diego, California, is an acclaimed American actress renowned for her roles in iconic comedies such as The Mask (1994), There’s Something About Mary (1998), and the Shrek series.

Early Life

Diaz grew up in Long Beach, California, the daughter of Billie, an import broker of Italian and German descent, and Emilio, a Cuban-American oil foreman. Attending Long Beach Polytechnic High School, she was classmates with future rapper Snoop Dogg. At 16, she began modeling, gracing the covers of magazines like Seventeen and Mademoiselle, and appearing in ads for major brands such as Levi’s and Coca-Cola.

Rise to Stardom

After returning to California at 21, Diaz auditioned for a role in The Mask, impressing producers through multiple callbacks. Cast as Tina Carlyle opposite Jim Carrey, she quickly became a household name. Following this breakout role, Diaz starred in low-budget films like The Last Supper (1995) and Feeling Minnesota (1996), showcasing her talent and versatility.

Her performance in My Best Friend’s Wedding (1997) further solidified her status as a leading actress, as she convincingly held her own alongside Julia Roberts. However, it was her role in the outrageous comedy There’s Something About Mary (1998) that propelled her into superstardom, making her one of Hollywood’s most sought-after actresses.

Expanding Horizons

In 1999, Diaz demonstrated her range in Being John Malkovich, where she played Lotte Schwartz, a quirky pet shop employee. That same year, she starred in Any Given Sunday, portraying a determined football team owner alongside Al Pacino and Jamie Foxx.

Major Hits: Charlie’s Angels and Shrek

The early 2000s saw Diaz collaborate with Drew Barrymore and Lucy Liu in the hit adaptation of Charlie’s Angels (2000). Her voice work as Princess Fiona in the beloved animated film Shrek (2001) showcased her comedic talent, leading to several sequels and cementing her place in family entertainment.

Continuing Success

Throughout her career, Diaz has been celebrated for her comedic timing and ability to handle diverse roles. Other notable films include Vanilla Sky (2001), Gangs of New York (2002), and The Other Woman (2014). With a unique blend of charm, wit, and an adventurous spirit, Cameron Diaz remains a significant figure in the film industry, inspiring audiences worldwide.