Published by britishpop

Daughter of actress Blythe Danner and producer Bruce Paltrow, Gwyneth grew up in the world of film.

Born in Los Angeles, she tried many roles, before finding a style which suited her skills, with the help of her parents. In 1990, she took to the stage opposite her mother in 'Picnic', before going to university to study history of art. After only a year however, she realised it wasn't for her and returned to acting, taking a part in 'Shout' alongside John Travolta and Heather Graham.

The role of Young Wendy in 'Hook' followed, but it wasn't until 1995 that she gained credibility for her performance in 'Seven', opposite then boyfriend, Brad Pitt. Her reputation grew with the title role in 'Emma' and leading roles in 'Hard Eight', 'Great Expectations' and 'A Perfect Murder'.

In 1999 she shared the screen with Matt Damon and Jude Law for 'The Talented Mr Ripley', before winning the Oscar for Best Actress for her role in 'Shakespeare in Love'. She was directed by her father for the first time in 'Duets' the following year, before donning a latex fat suit for her role in 'Shallow Hall'. She gave a highly-acclaimed performance in 'The Royal Tenenbaums' in the same year, going on to film 'Possession' and the title role in 'Sylvia'.

In 2004 she gave birth to a daughter, with her husband, Coldplay frontman Chris Martin.