From Indie Darling to a Hollywood Force: The Evolution of Greta Lee

After seven consecutive weeks of work, Greta Lee finally took a few well-deserved days off, and the evidence of her downtime was unmistakable. Pulling out her phone, she eagerly shows pictures of pomegranates harvested from her Los Angeles backyard, their deep red juice staining her fingers. Lee spent her brief respite enjoying wine, cheese, and olives before diving straight into gardening, fully immersing herself in the process.

Dressed casually yet with undeniable stylea fringed top by Dries Van Noten, menswear trousers, worn-in New Balance sneakers, and a Marlo bag from The RowLee effortlessly exudes the aura of a laid-back movie star. Yet, amid the glamour, she remains grounded, returning to her garden as a meditative escape. "I involve the kids, and its really rewarding," she says, sharing snapshots of thriving limes, tomatoes, African basil, lemon verbena, onions, and pomegranates from her backyard.

Originally from Los Angeles, Lee moved back in 2020 to film the second season of The Morning Show, leaving behind years of life in New York where her career blossomed and she started her family. The transition has brought a sense of roots and reflection. Being back here, seeing where I grew up, its emotional, she reflects. Theres a lot of opportunity to process everything thats happened.

Lees career trajectory has shifted dramatically in recent years. Known for standout performances in series like Girls and Russian Doll, she emerged as a leading lady following the success of Past Lives, Celine Songs debut feature that premiered at Sundance in 2023 and earned an Oscar nomination for Best Picture in 2024. The film follows Nora, a young woman navigating her journey from childhood in South Korea to adulthood in New York, and its impact continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.

This breakthrough opened doors to projects including Tron: Ares, Kathryn Bigelows political thriller A House of Dynamite, the indie drama Late Fame, and the fourth season of The Morning Show. After two decades in acting, this fall marked Lees first global press tour. Ive learned how to navigate it while staying true to myself, she says. Her co-star Karen Pittman adds, Even without Past Lives, Greta was destined to shine. Her talent is undeniable.

Alongside her acting career, Lee has established herself as a fashion figure, collaborating with Dior and Tiffany, guided by longtime stylist Danielle Goldberg. Their partnership began during a maternity shoot and has evolved into a seamless creative synergy. We dress for ourselves, not to conform, Lee emphasizes. The duo draws inspiration from women with a rich connection to fashion, valuing intellect and style over mere aesthetics.

Lees journey with Dior has been particularly meaningful. From admiring knockoff Dior items as a child to becoming a brand ambassador, she views the opportunity as both surreal and empowering. Designer Jonathan Anderson praises her, noting, She knows herself and becomes the silhouette when wearing Dior.

Despite her rise in fashion and film, Lee maintains authenticity. She avoids social media, prioritizing the live experience over digital validation. Its about being present, she explains. Even during the height of Past Livess success, she resisted returning online, choosing instead to experience her achievements fully.

Currently, Lee is stepping back from immediate acting projects, focusing on select upcoming releases and embracing a slower pace. She is also venturing into directing, with her first feature adapting Monika Kims bestseller The Eyes Are the Best Part. Its not a path I sought out, but the story captivated me, she says, highlighting her openness to new creative challenges.

For Greta Lee, success is no longer just about career milestones. Its about presence, intention, and staying true to her identitywhether in Hollywood, in fashion, or tending to her garden in Los Angeles.

Author: Grace Ellison