Rachel McAdams is a Canadian actress who began her career in Canadian television and film after graduating from York University in 2001. She received a Genie Award nomination for her role in the drama film "Perfect Pie" (2002) and won a Gemini Award for her work in the comedy series "Slings & Arrows" (2003-2005). She is also known for her role in the comedy film "My Name Is Tanino" (2002).
November 17, 1978: Rachel McAdams is born
Rachel Anne McAdams was born on November 17, 1978, in London, Ontario, Canada.
1982: Birth of Rachel McAdams' Sister, Kayleen
Rachel McAdams' younger sister, Kayleen, was born in 1982. Kayleen would later become a make-up artist.
1992: Inspiration for Regina George
Rachel McAdams drew inspiration from Alec Baldwin's performance in the 1992 drama "Glengarry Glen Ross" for her portrayal of Regina George in "Mean Girls."
2001: Rachel McAdams Graduates from York University
Rachel McAdams graduated from York University's four-year theatre program with a Bachelor of Fine Arts honours degree in 2001.
2001: Debut in Television and Canadian Film
Rachel McAdams marked her entry into television with the MTV pilot "Shotgun Love Dolls" and debuted in Canadian cinema with the comedy "My Name is Tanino" in 2001.
2001: Early Career and Theatre Work
While attending York University, Rachel McAdams actively participated in theatre productions with the Toronto-based Necessary Angel Theatre Company in 2001.
2002: Rachel McAdams' Early Roles in Film and Television
In 2002, Rachel McAdams earned a Genie Award nomination for her role in the drama "Perfect Pie." She also made her Hollywood film debut in the comedy "The Hot Chick."
2002: Hollywood Debut and Television Work
In 2002, Rachel McAdams made her Hollywood debut in "The Hot Chick" and starred in the Canadian mini-series "Slings and Arrows," for which she won a Gemini Award.
2002: Rachel McAdams makes Hollywood Debut
In 2002, Rachel McAdams transitioned to Hollywood with her role in the comedy "The Hot Chick."
2002: Filming of "The Notebook" Begins
Production for the romantic drama "The Notebook," starring Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling, commenced in late 2002.
2003: Completion of Filming for "The Notebook"
Filming for "The Notebook," featuring Rachel McAdams, concluded in early 2003.
2004: "The Notebook" and Critical Acclaim
In 2004, Rachel McAdams starred opposite Ryan Gosling in the romantic drama "The Notebook," garnering critical praise for her performance.
2004: Breakthrough with "Mean Girls" and "The Notebook"
Rachel McAdams rose to fame in 2004 with her performances in the comedy "Mean Girls" and the romantic drama "The Notebook."
2004: Critical Acclaim for "Mean Girls"
Rachel McAdams' performance as Regina George in the 2004 comedy "Mean Girls" earned her critical acclaim and two MTV Movie Awards.
2005: Relationship with Ryan Gosling Begins
Rachel McAdams began dating her "The Notebook" co-star Ryan Gosling in 2005.
2005: Continued Success in Romantic Comedies and Thrillers
Rachel McAdams furthered her career in 2005 by starring in popular films like "Wedding Crashers," "Red Eye," and "The Family Stone."
2005: Hurricane Katrina Relief Efforts
Following Hurricane Katrina's devastation in 2005, Rachel McAdams volunteered in Biloxi, Mississippi, and Louisiana to assist with the cleanup efforts.
2005: Brief Romance with Ryan Gosling
Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling, her co-star in "The Notebook," were romantically involved in 2005.
2005: Wedding Crashers Release
In 2005, Rachel McAdams starred in the romantic comedy "Wedding Crashers," where she played the role of a politician's daughter involved in a love triangle. The film was a commercial success.
2005: Red Eye and The Family Stone Premieres
In 2005, Rachel McAdams demonstrated her versatility by taking on roles in two contrasting films. She starred opposite Cillian Murphy in Wes Craven's thriller "Red Eye" and shared the screen with Sarah Jessica Parker and Diane Keaton in the family comedy-drama "The Family Stone." Both films achieved commercial success.
February 2006: Stage Appearance and Awards Recognition
In February 2006, Rachel McAdams made a one-off stage appearance in "The Vagina Monologues" in Toronto and received a Rising Star Award nomination from BAFTA.
March 2006: Vanity Fair Cover Controversy
In March 2006, Rachel McAdams declined to participate in a nude photoshoot for Vanity Fair's Hollywood issue, withdrawing from the cover alongside actresses Scarlett Johansson and Keira Knightley.
2006: Day Without Immigrants Protest
Rachel McAdams participated in the "Day Without Immigrants" demonstration in Los Angeles in 2006, showing solidarity against policies that criminalize undocumented immigrants.
2007: GreenIsSexy.org Launch and TreeHugger/Live Earth Judging
In 2007, Rachel McAdams co-founded the eco-friendly lifestyle website GreenIsSexy.org and served on a judging panel for TreeHugger/Live Earth.
2007: Breakup with Ryan Gosling
McAdams and Gosling ended their relationship in 2007 after two years of dating.
2007: Career Hiatus
Rachel McAdams took a break from acting in 2007, choosing to prioritize her personal growth and artistic voice.
2008: "Married Life" Marks Return to Film
In 2008, Rachel McAdams returned to film with a starring role in the 1940s film noir "Married Life," where she played Kay Nesbitt, a young widow. The film, while critically noted for McAdams' performance, was not a commercial success.
2008: Brief Reunion with Ryan Gosling
McAdams and Gosling briefly rekindled their romance in 2008.
2008: Return to Acting and Turning Down Roles
Rachel McAdams returned to acting in 2008 after a brief hiatus. She declined roles in notable films such as "The Devil Wears Prada," "Casino Royale," "Mission: Impossible III," "Iron Man," and "Get Smart" during this time.
2009: Taking on the Role of Irene Adler in "Sherlock Holmes"
In late 2009, Rachel McAdams joined the cast of the mystery-adventure film "Sherlock Holmes," starring alongside Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law. She portrayed Irene Adler, a complex character who is both an antagonist and love interest to Sherlock Holmes. McAdams embraced the opportunity to play a strong and independent woman, showcasing a different facet of her acting range. While the film received mixed reviews regarding her character's integration into the plot, "Sherlock Holmes" emerged as a commercial triumph, solidifying McAdams' presence in blockbuster productions.
2009: Starring in "State of Play" and "The Time Traveler's Wife"
In 2009, Rachel McAdams showcased her acting prowess in two prominent films. She starred alongside Russell Crowe in the political thriller "State of Play," portraying an online reporter delving into a conspiracy. Her performance garnered praise for its ambition and strong presence against Crowe's seasoned journalist. The film performed well at the box office. Additionally, McAdams took on the lead role in the romantic drama "The Time Traveler's Wife," based on Audrey Niffenegger's novel. Her portrayal of Clare Abshire, despite the challenges of a well-known character, earned recognition for her ability to bring depth and authenticity to the role. The film achieved commercial success, further solidifying McAdams' versatility as an actress.
2010: Leading the Comedy "Morning Glory"
In 2010, Rachel McAdams took on a leading role in the comedy "Morning Glory," starring alongside seasoned actors Diane Keaton and Harrison Ford. Despite initial doubts about her comedic timing, McAdams rose to the challenge, portraying a television producer striving to improve a struggling morning show's ratings. Her performance received critical acclaim, with praise for her comedic timing and ability to hold her own against industry veterans. While the film enjoyed moderate commercial success, it further showcased McAdams' range and solidified her status as a leading lady in Hollywood.
2010: Relationship with Michael Sheen Begins
Rachel McAdams and her "Midnight in Paris" co-star Michael Sheen began dating in 2010.
2010: Canada for Haiti Telethon and Hair Boom Support
In 2010, McAdams participated in the Canada for Haiti telethon, raising funds for earthquake relief. She also supported Matter of Trust's "hair boom" initiative to address the Gulf of Mexico oil spill.
2011: Occupy Toronto Participation
In 2011, McAdams joined the Occupy Toronto protests, demonstrating her support for the movement's goals.
2011: Reflection on "The Lucky Ones" Role
In 2011, McAdams reflected on her role in "The Lucky Ones," stating that Colee Dunn was one of her favorite characters she had played.
2011: End of GreenIsSexy.org and Foodstock Support
In 2011, McAdams' website GreenIsSexy.org ceased operations after five years. The same year, she showed support for Foodstock, a protest against a proposed mega-quarry in Ontario.
2011: Reflecting on "The Notebook"
In 2011, Rachel McAdams expressed gratitude for the enduring impact of "The Notebook" and its resonance with audiences.
2011: Starring in Woody Allen's "Midnight in Paris"
In 2011, Rachel McAdams starred in Woody Allen's critically acclaimed romantic comedy "Midnight in Paris." The film, which opened the Cannes Film Festival that year, featured McAdams as Inez, the fiancée of Owen Wilson's character. Although a departure from her usual "girl next door" roles, McAdams embraced the opportunity to portray a less likable character, earning praise for her comedic timing and chemistry with the cast. The film became a commercial and critical success, further establishing McAdams' versatility and earning her recognition from the Screen Actors Guild.
2012: "The Lucky Ones" Box Office Performance
As of 2012, "The Lucky Ones" was Rachel McAdams' least commercially successful film.
2012: Navigating Love and Memory in "The Vow"
In 2012, Rachel McAdams starred opposite Channing Tatum in the romantic drama "The Vow." Based on a true story, the film follows a couple's journey to rebuild their relationship after a car accident leaves McAdams' character with amnesia. While the film received mixed reviews, McAdams' performance was generally praised for her ability to portray vulnerability and resilience. "The Vow" became a box-office hit, marking McAdams' biggest commercial success in a leading role up to that point and solidifying her bankability as a romantic lead.
2013: Breakup with Michael Sheen
McAdams and Sheen ended their relationship in 2013.
2013: Food & Water First Movement Advocacy
Rachel McAdams actively supported the Food & Water First Movement in 2013 by featuring in promotional videos to raise awareness about preserving farmland and water resources in Ontario, Canada.
2013: Habitat for Humanity Volunteering
In 2013, Rachel McAdams volunteered for Habitat for Humanity in her hometown of St. Thomas, contributing to the organization's mission of providing affordable housing.
2013: Co-stars in "To the Wonder" and "Passion"
In 2013, Rachel McAdams starred in two films: Terrence Malick's romantic drama "To the Wonder" alongside Ben Affleck, and Brian De Palma's erotic thriller "Passion" with Noomi Rapace. In "To the Wonder", she played a horse ranch worker who becomes Affleck's character's love interest. The film received polarized reviews. In "Passion", McAdams and Rapace portrayed business executives in a power struggle.
2013: Stars in Richard Curtis's "About Time"
In 2013, McAdams starred opposite Domhnall Gleeson in "About Time," a romantic comedy-drama directed by Richard Curtis, which became a commercial success. McAdams' performance was praised, particularly her chemistry with Gleeson.
2014: Stars in "A Most Wanted Man" and receives star on Canada's Walk of Fame
In 2014, McAdams appeared in the espionage thriller "A Most Wanted Man" alongside Philip Seymour Hoffman. The film featured McAdams speaking with a German accent, which drew some criticism. However, her performance was generally well-received. In a significant honor that year, McAdams received a star on Canada's Walk of Fame.
2014: Take Me To The River Narration
McAdams provided her voice to narrate the documentary "Take Me To The River" in 2014, a film exploring efforts to protect and preserve significant rivers.
December 2015: Stars in "Southpaw", "Every Thing Will Be Fine", returns to television with "True Detective", and participates in a live read of "The Princess Bride"
In December 2015, McAdams appeared in several projects including the boxing drama "Southpaw" with Jake Gyllenhaal, Wim Wenders' drama "Every Thing Will Be Fine", and the second season of HBO's crime anthology series "True Detective". She also took part in a one-time, staged LACMA Live Read of "The Princess Bride" as Buttercup.
2015: Stars in "Spotlight" and receives critical acclaim and awards nominations
In 2015, McAdams starred as journalist Sacha Pfeiffer in the critically acclaimed drama "Spotlight," which focused on the child-abuse scandal within the Catholic Church in Boston. The film received widespread praise for its intricate storytelling and the performances of its ensemble cast, culminating in an Academy Award for Best Picture. McAdams' performance as Pfeiffer was particularly lauded, earning her nominations for prestigious awards such as the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, the Critics' Choice Movie Award for Best Supporting Actress, and Screen Actors Guild Awards for Outstanding Actress in a Supporting Role and Outstanding Cast in a Motion Picture.
2016: Voices The Mother in "The Little Prince", co-stars in "Doctor Strange", and narrates audiobook of "Anne of Green Gables"
In 2016, McAdams lent her voice to the animated film "The Little Prince" as The Mother of The Little Girl and starred alongside Benedict Cumberbatch in the Marvel Cinematic Universe superhero film "Doctor Strange." She also narrated an audiobook version of L.M. Montgomery's classic novel "Anne of Green Gables."
2016: Relationship with Jamie Linden Begins
Rachel McAdams started a relationship with screenwriter Jamie Linden in 2016.
2018: Stars in "Game Night" and "Disobedience"
In 2018, McAdams returned to the screen after a year's absence, starring in the comedy "Game Night" alongside Jason Bateman and the romantic drama "Disobedience" opposite Rachel Weisz. Her performances in both films were praised, with critics noting her comedic timing and ability to portray complex characters.
2018: Birth of First Child
McAdams and Linden welcomed their first child, a son, in 2018.
2020: Stars in "Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga"
In 2020, McAdams appeared alongside Will Ferrell in the Netflix musical comedy "Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga."
2020: Birth of Second Child
McAdams and Linden's second child, a daughter, was born in 2020.
2021: Stand.earth Collaboration for Old-Growth Forest Protection
In 2021, Rachel McAdams joined forces with Stand.earth, appearing in a video to urge the British Columbia government to halt the logging of ancient rainforests in the province.
May 2022: Reprises role in "Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness"
In May 2022, "Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness" was released, featuring McAdams reprising her role as Christine Palmer. The film received mixed reviews.
April 2023: Stars in "Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret."
Released in April 2023, McAdams starred in the film adaptation of Judy Blume's novel "Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret." The film, and her performance, were well-received by critics.
January 2024: Saturday Night Live Appearance
Rachel McAdams appeared as a cameo guest on Saturday Night Live in January 2024, introducing Reneé Rapp as the musical guest and participating in a comedy sketch.
April 23, 2024: Opening Night of Mary Jane
On April 23, 2024, the play "Mary Jane", starring Rachel McAdams, premiered on Broadway at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre.