Age Wasn't Just a Number for Megan Follows in Anne of Green Gables
Picture this: it's 1985, and Megan Follows, a fresh-faced 13-year-old, is about to become a global sensation. She's been cast as the titular character in the TV adaptation of Lucy Maud Montgomery's beloved novel, Anne of Green Gables. But here's the twist - Anne, the character Megan is playing, is supposed to be 11. So, how old was Megan Follows when she stepped into Anne's red hair and fiery spirit?
Megan was indeed 13 when she took on the role that would define her career. But let's rewind a bit. Born on March 14, 1968, in Toronto, Canada, Megan was no stranger to the spotlight. Her parents, Ted Follows and Dawn Greenhalgh, were both actors, so it's safe to say show business was in her blood. By the time she was cast as Anne, she had already appeared in several TV shows and movies.
Age is Just a Number
So, why did the producers cast a 13-year-old to play an 11-year-old? Well, Megan was the perfect blend of youth and maturity. She could capture Anne's childlike wonder and imagination, but also bring a depth of emotion that only a slightly older actor could. Plus, let's face it, Megan's fiery red hair and freckles were a dead ringer for Anne's description in the book.
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Megan's age didn't just affect her character; it also influenced the production. The show was filmed in Canada, and the crew had to ensure Megan's safety and well-being. They had strict rules about working hours and made sure Megan had time for school and play. It was a balancing act, but one that Megan embraced with her signature enthusiasm.
Growing Up on Screen
Over the course of the series, which spanned from 1985 to 1989, Megan grew up right before our eyes. She was 13 when she started, and by the time the series ended, she was 17. This growth was mirrored in her character, Anne, who evolved from a spirited orphan to a mature young woman.
Megan Follows Anne Of Green Gables
Megan's growth wasn't just physical. She also honed her acting skills over the course of the series. She learned from her co-stars, like Colleen Dewhurst (Marilla Cuthbert), and directors like Kevin Sullivan. By the time she was 17, she was a seasoned actress, ready to take on new challenges.
Legacy and Lessons
Today, Megan Follows is a respected actress with a career spanning over four decades. She's continued to take on diverse roles, from Shakespearean plays to modern TV series. But she'll always be Anne to many of us. And that's okay. Because Anne of Green Gables taught us all a thing or two about growing up, and Megan Follows did it with grace and charm.
Anne of Green Gables (1985)
So, the next time you're watching Anne of Green Gables, remember Megan Follows was 13 when she started. And maybe, just maybe, you'll appreciate the magic of a young actor growing up on screen, just like Anne herself.
And here's a fun fact to leave you with: Megan Follows is the godmother of Catherine Bell, who played her on-screen sister, Diana Barry. Talk about a lasting bond!