Who Played Anne with an E: The Fascinating Story Behind the Beloved Redhead is a journey into the world of one of television's most cherished characters. Anne Shirley, known for her fiery red hair and imaginative spirit, has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide since the debut of Anne of Green Gables. This adaptation, titled Anne with an E, brought a fresh perspective to Lucy Maud Montgomery's classic tale, breathing new life into the story through its compelling performances and rich storytelling.
The Netflix series, which aired from 2017 to 2019, quickly became a cultural phenomenon, drawing both newcomers and long-time fans of the original novels. With its vivid portrayal of Prince Edward Island and its deep exploration of themes like identity, family, and belonging, the show resonated deeply with viewers. At the heart of this success lies Amybeth McNulty, the talented actress who brought Anne Shirley to life on screen. Her nuanced performance added layers to the character, making Anne more relatable and complex than ever before.
A Modern Twist on a Timeless Tale
In the early to mid '90s, another adaptation of Anne’s story graced television screens in the form of THE ROAD TO AVONLEA, directed by Kevin Sullivan. While it wasn’t directly tied to “Anne with an E,” it helped pave the way for future interpretations of Montgomery’s beloved novel. For many young readers during that era, books were their primary source of entertainment. From ENCYCLOPEDIA BROWN mysteries to fantasy epics like THE DRAGONRIDERS OF PERN, libraries served as gateways to countless worlds. Among these literary treasures, Anne Shirley stood out as a character whose imagination matched—and often surpassed—that of her readers.
This fascination with Anne extended beyond the page when adaptations began appearing on screen. Each version introduced new elements while staying true to the essence of the story. In “Anne with an E,” the setting remains rooted in late 19th-century Canada, but the narrative takes on contemporary relevance by addressing issues such as gender equality and social justice. These updates allowed modern audiences to connect with Anne’s struggles and triumphs in ways previous generations might not have considered.
As the series unfolded, it became clear that this was more than just another retelling of Anne’s adventures. It was an opportunity to explore deeper themes about identity and self-discovery. Through Amybeth McNulty’s portrayal, viewers witnessed Anne grow from a precocious orphan into a confident young woman navigating the complexities of adulthood—all while maintaining her signature optimism and curiosity.
Beyond Avonlea: Where Are They Now?
For fans eager to know what happened after the final episode of ‘Anne With An E,’ there’s plenty to discover about the cast members’ current projects. Amybeth McNulty, who played the titular role, continues to pursue acting opportunities, bringing her unique talent to various roles. Meanwhile, co-stars Lucas Jade Zumann (Gilbert Blythe) and Dalila Bela (Diana Barry) are also building impressive resumes. Cory Gruter-Andrew, best known for playing Moody Jim Anderson, appeared in films like Summer of 84, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Helen Johns, who portrayed Eliza Barry, offered insights into her character’s motivations in interviews, revealing how she approached portraying someone often misunderstood as overly traditional. Her work highlights the importance of giving depth to supporting characters, ensuring they feel authentic within the larger story. Even lesser-known figures, such as David Fox (who played Matthew Cuthbert), contributed significantly to the show’s charm, leaving lasting impressions despite shorter screen time.
Fans of the series may recall memorable episodes featuring Aunt Josephine, played by veteran actress Sarah Manninen. Her appearances added humor and warmth to the storyline, reminding viewers why family dynamics remain central to Anne’s journey. As each actor moves forward in their careers, they carry pieces of Avonlea with them, inspiring others through their continued dedication to storytelling.
A Legacy of Kindred Spirits
One of the most enduring aspects of Anne Shirley’s legacy lies in her friendships, particularly her bond with Diana Barry. Comparing portrayals of Diana across different adaptations reveals fascinating differences in interpretation. Schuyler Grant’s rendition in the 1985 miniseries emphasized innocence and sweetness, whereas Dalila Bela’s take in “Anne with an E” highlighted Diana’s strength and independence. Both actresses succeeded in capturing the essence of what makes Diana such a beloved companion.
While opinions vary on which actress delivered the better performance, both versions contribute valuable perspectives to understanding Diana’s role in Anne’s life. Beyond mere friendship, their relationship symbolizes acceptance and mutual support—a theme central to Montgomery’s writing. By exploring these nuances, the series reinforces the idea that kindred spirits come in all shapes and forms, united by shared experiences rather than superficial similarities.
As we reflect on the impact of “Anne with an E,” it becomes evident that its success stems not only from faithful adherence to the source material but also from bold choices made by its creators. Whether delving into historical context or tackling modern-day challenges, the show consistently found ways to honor Anne’s spirit while expanding her world. Ultimately, this approach ensured that Anne Shirley remains relevant for generations to come, continuing to inspire and delight audiences everywhere.
