Dafne Keen’s journey from a young girl in Madrid to a rising star in Hollywood is nothing short of inspiring. Born on January 4, 2005, to British actor Will Keen and Spanish actress María Fernández Ache, Dafne grew up in a household deeply rooted in the arts. Her early exposure to the world of acting, coupled with the support of her parents, laid the foundation for her burgeoning career.
At just nine years old, Dafne made her acting debut in the television series “The Refugees” (2015), where she starred alongside her father. This experience not only honed her acting skills but also gave her a taste of the collaborative nature of the industry.
Dafne’s breakthrough came in 2017 when she portrayed Laura, also known as X-23, in the critically acclaimed film “Logan.” Her performance was lauded for its intensity and emotional depth, earning her the Empire Award for Best Newcomer and nominations from various film critic associations.
Following “Logan,” Dafne continued to showcase her versatility by taking on the role of Lyra Belacqua in the television adaptation of Philip Pullman’s “His Dark Materials” (2019–2022). Her portrayal of the adventurous and determined Lyra further cemented her status as a talented young actress capable of leading a major series.
In 2024, Dafne returned to the big screen, reprising her role as Laura/X-23 in “Deadpool & Wolverine.” This marked her re-entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe and allowed audiences to see a more mature and evolved version of her character.
That same year, she expanded her repertoire by joining the “Star Wars” universe as Jecki Lon in the series “The Acolyte.” Her involvement in such a high-profile franchise demonstrated her growing prominence in the industry and her ability to adapt to diverse roles.
Despite her rising fame, Dafne remains grounded. She continues to pursue her education and has expressed interest in exploring other facets of filmmaking, such as directing and photography. Her dedication to her craft and her desire to continually learn and grow are evident in her thoughtful approach to her career.
Dafne’s influences include renowned actors like Meryl Streep and Olivia Colman, and she draws inspiration from classic films and musicals. This eclectic mix of inspirations reflects her appreciation for storytelling in all its forms and her commitment to bringing authenticity to her performances.
Looking ahead, Dafne is set to star in upcoming projects like the horror film “Whistle” and Jay Hernandez’s directorial debut “Night Comes.” These roles indicate her willingness to take on challenging and diverse characters, further showcasing her range as an actress.
Dafne Keen’s rise in the entertainment industry is a testament to her talent, hard work, and the strong foundation provided by her family. As she continues to take on new and exciting roles, audiences can look forward to witnessing the evolution of a truly remarkable actress.
