Behind every rising star is a stable foundation, and for young actress Anna Cathcart, that anchor is her close-knit family in Vancouver. Best known for her standout roles in Netflix's To All the Boys franchise and her starring turn in the spin-off series XO, Kitty, Cathcart has grown up in the public eye. Yet, despite her early entry into Hollywood, she maintains a grounded perspective on life. This balance stems directly from her parents and her older sister, Sara, who originally sparked her interest in the entertainment industry.
Understanding Anna's journey requires looking beyond her red-carpet appearances and examining the family dynamics that shaped her work ethic. From her early days auditioning for commercials to balancing public high school and university studies at the University of British Columbia, her family has provided quiet, unwavering support without chasing the spotlight for themselves.
The Role of Anna Cathcart's Sister, Sara
The catalyst for Anna's entire acting career is her older sister, Sara. Long before Anna stepped onto the set of the PBS Kids series Odd Squad or joined the Disney Channel universe in Descendants, Sara was dabbling in commercial acting. She appeared in spot advertisements for household brands, which planted the first seed of curiosity for a young Anna.
In various interviews, Anna has recalled watching her older sister go to auditions and thinking it looked like fun. When a talent agent eventually noticed Sara during a routine agency visit, their mother mentioned that Sara had a younger sister at home who might also want to try. That casual introduction opened the door for Anna's first commercial auditions at age seven or eight.
As they grew older, the sisterly dynamic evolved into a profound partnership. When Anna relocated temporarily to Seoul, South Korea, to film XO, Kitty, she and Sara later transitioned into living together out of their family home. Sharing a living space during major career milestones helped Anna maintain a sense of normalcy amid the chaos of international production schedules. Whether they're relaxing at home with their dog or navigating the pressures of young adulthood, Sara remains Anna's most trusted confidante and sounding board.
Parental Influence and Keeping Grounded in Vancouver
Unlike many child actors who are homeschooled on studio lots or moved to Los Angeles at a young age, Anna grew up firmly rooted in Vancouver, British Columbia. Her parents made a conscious effort to prioritize traditional education and personal development alongside her blossoming film career.
Anna attended a standard public high school in Vancouver through her teenage years, even while shooting major motion pictures. She has often described that period as managing two full-time jobs at once. During intensive shoots like Odd Squad, she completed mandatory tutoring blocks on set, but returning home meant slipping back into ordinary teenage routines. Her parents enforced boundaries that protected her mental health and kept her shielded from the superficial pressures often associated with early fame.
This emphasis on education didn't stop after secondary school graduation. Rather than moving straight to full-time acting in global hubs, Anna enrolled at the University of British Columbia, choosing to major in sociology and creative writing. Her parents encouraged her intellectual pursuits, ensuring she had a backup plan and a rich understanding of the world that would ultimately feed her creative performances.
The Blend of Her Heritage and Upbringing
Growing up in a multicultural household in Canada also shaped Anna's identity. She is of mixed Chinese and Irish descent, a background that has influenced her appreciation for diverse storytelling and cultural representation. In interviews discussing her career milestones—particularly leading an international cast in XO, Kitty—she frequently highlights the importance of sharing narratives from multifaceted perspectives.
Her family's multicultural roots fostered an environment of openness and adaptability. By encouraging her to explore diverse interests ranging from hip-hop dancing and roller-skating to writing and film analysis, her parents allowed her to discover her artistic voice organically rather than forcing her into a rigid career mold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Anna Cathcart have any siblings?
Yes, Anna has an older sister named Sara. Sara was actually the first to dabble in commercial acting, which inspired Anna to enter the industry.
Where did Anna Cathcart grow up?
Anna was born and raised in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, where she attended regular public school and later pursued her university education.
Did Anna Cathcart's parents push her into acting?
No, her entry into acting was entirely organic. She started by accompanying her sister to commercial auditions, and her parents focused heavily on maintaining normalcy, ensuring she completed her standard schooling and attended university.
What is Anna Cathcart studying in college?
Anna attends the University of British Columbia, where she focuses her studies on sociology and creative writing.
