In the July 7th, 2023 edition of Madame Figaro, “Mission: Impossible 7 – Dead Reckoning Part One” star Vanessa Kirby shines as the cover star. The cover image, captured by photographer Rankin, showcases Kirby’s commanding presence, as she is elegantly outfitted in a sophisticated black dress from Atlein, complimented by an exquisite Cartier necklace.
Within the cover story, stylist Barbara Baumel expertly curates an array of ensembles, featuring renowned designers such as Prada, Alexander McQueen, Victoria Beckham, Valentino, Etam and Celine by Hedi Slimane. Completing the impeccable look, hair stylist Leigh Keates, make-up artist Nikki Wolff, and manicurist Kate Williamson contribute their creative talents.
Vanessa Kirby‘s acting career began on the stage, where she found solace and freedom from the bullying she experienced in school. The theater offered her an escape, a place where she could express herself and live other lives. Her performances in plays by Shakespeare, Chekhov, and Tennessee Williams opened doors to the world of cinema and television.
Her breakthrough came in 2016 when she was cast as Princess Margaret in the critically acclaimed series “The Crown“. This role not only showcased her acting prowess but also caught the attention of Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise, who invited her to join the “Mission Impossible” franchise. Kirby expressed her gratitude towards Cruise for fighting to keep the filming schedule during the pandemic, stating, “I will always be grateful to him. I was so longing for it. When Mission Impossible arrived, I felt like I was back on my favorite playground, reconnecting with the child in me“.
Kirby’s roles have often defied the typical portrayal of women in action films. She appreciates that the “Mission Impossible” franchise allows her to play a character that isn’t sexualized, stating, “What I like about this saga is that it allows a paradigm shift. Action women are freed from injunctions“.
However, Kirby is not just an actress; she’s also a producer. She co-founded Aluna Entertainment with her sister and a partner to tell stories that resonate with her and challenge the status quo. She expressed her frustration with narratives that depict women waiting at home while men go on adventures. Kirby believes women deserve to be portrayed in all their complexity and strength, just like men.
Kirby is also the new ambassador for Cartier, a role she feels resonates with her own journey. She sees the brand’s emblem, the panther, as a symbol of elegance, freedom, and a magnetic gaze, qualities she identifies with. She believes the panther represents a certain idea of femininity that society is still struggling to explore.
In addition to her acting and producing roles, Kirby is an ambassador for the organization War Child. She has visited refugee camps in Syria and Iraq and believes that her work with the organization has changed her perspective on the world and made her more aware of her privilege.
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