Notting Hill Cast: Who Played William Thacker and Anna Scott?

Can the most famous film star in the world fall for the man on the street?

Released on May 21, 1999
Comedy Drama Romance Action & Adventure Big City 1990s London

In the charming romantic comedy 'Notting Hill,' we are introduced to William Thacker, a modest and unassuming owner of a quaint bookstore in the heart of London. William leads a seemingly ordinary life, filled with routine and predictability. However, his world is turned upside down when he has a fateful encounter with the dazzling Hollywood actress Anna Scott, who walks into his shop one day. What begins as a humorous mishap involving a spilled glass of orange juice quickly escalates into a surprising and tender kiss, setting the stage for an unexpected love story that transcends the bounds of their disparate worlds.

As their connection deepens, William—a quintessential everyman—finds himself swept off his feet by Anna's allure and charisma. Yet, the journey of love proves to be anything but easy. The couple faces various challenges as they navigate the contrasts between a life of fame and glamour and one grounded in simplicity and normalcy. The film expertly illustrates how their differing lifestyles create both tension and intrigue, making viewers question whether true love can flourish amidst such stark disparities. Both characters must confront their insecurities and preconceived notions about life, celebrity, and personal fulfillment.

Ultimately, 'Notting Hill' is not just a tale of romance; it is also a poignant exploration of acceptance and compromise. As William and Anna fight to bridge the gap between their worlds, they learn valuable lessons about vulnerability and authenticity. The film masterfully captures the essence of love in all its complexity, inviting audiences to reflect on the power of unexpected connections and the lengths to which we go to nurture them. Through its witty dialogue and endearing moments, 'Notting Hill' remains a timeless classic that celebrates love in its many forms, reminding us that it's often the most unlikely encounters that lead to the most profound relationships.

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Full Cast of Notting Hill

Julia Roberts

as Anna Scott

Julia Roberts delivered a luminous performance as Anna Scott in the 1999 romantic comedy "Notting Hill," directed by Roger Michell. Portraying a world-famous American movie star who unexpectedly falls for a humble British bookstore owner, Williams Thacker, played by Hugh Grant, Roberts captivated audiences with her radiant screen presence and nuanced portrayal of celebrity vulnerability. Her character's oscillation between the confident public persona and the insecure private individual provided Roberts with a rich canvas to showcase her dramatic range. The palpable on-screen chemistry between Roberts and Grant, coupled with her ability to convey both the glamour and the loneliness of fame, made Anna Scott an iconic role and further cemented Roberts' status as America's Sweetheart. Her performance was praised for its charm, wit, and emotional depth, earning her a nomination for a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Comedy or Musical, and played a significant part in the film's enduring popularity.

Hugh Grant

as William Thacker

Hugh Grant delivered a quintessentially charming and understated performance as William Thacker in the 1999 romantic comedy "Notting Hill." As the unassuming owner of a travel bookstore in the vibrant London neighborhood, Grant's portrayal of Thacker is the epitome of British humility and awkwardness, which contrasts endearingly with the glamorous world of Hollywood personified by Julia Roberts' character, Anna Scott. Grant's ability to oscillate between self-deprecating humor and genuine vulnerability allows the audience to connect with his character on a deeply personal level. His performance is marked by an everyman relatability, making the unlikely romance that unfolds both believable and enchanting. Grant's signature stutter and bumbling charm are on full display, contributing to the film's enduring appeal as a modern classic in the romance genre. His chemistry with Roberts is palpable, and together they navigate the complexities of their characters' relationship, with Grant's Thacker serving as the emotional anchor of the story. Through his nuanced acting, Grant brings a sense of authenticity to the fairy-tale narrative, ensuring that William Thacker remains one of his most beloved and memorable roles.

Gina McKee

as Bella

Gina McKee delivered a nuanced and heartfelt performance as Bella in the romantic comedy 'Notting Hill' (1999), alongside Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant. As the sister of William Thacker (Grant), Bella is a pivotal character who embodies the film's exploration of love in its various forms. McKee's portrayal of Bella is both tender and grounded, providing a stark contrast to the glamorous yet tumultuous romance unfolding between the lead characters. Bella's own storyline, marked by her struggle with a chronic illness and her quest for genuine connection, adds depth to the film's narrative. McKee's ability to convey Bella's quiet strength, vulnerability, and unwavering support for her brother's journey towards true love resonates with audiences and complements the film's ensemble, earning her critical praise for her performance. Her scenes are touching and provide a poignant counterpoint to the main romantic arc, showcasing McKee's talent for bringing authenticity and warmth to her roles.

Tim McInnerny

as Max

Tim McInnerny's portrayal of Max in the romantic comedy "Notting Hill" is a delightful embodiment of the everyman's friend, the confidant who is both witty and grounded. As the older, more experienced sibling to Hugh Grant's William Thacker, McInnerny brings a warm, albeit sometimes exasperated, presence to the screen. His performance is notable for its understated humor and the nuanced dynamics he shares with the rest of the cast, particularly in his interactions with Grant, where a blend of brotherly affection and playful teasing perfectly captures the essence of a long-standing, loving family relationship. Max's character serves as a relatable touchstone for the audience, offering sage advice while also being swept up in the whirlwind romance that unfolds. McInnerny's ability to convey genuine concern, coupled with a dash of envy and a keen sense of comedic timing, makes his character a memorable and endearing part of the film's ensemble.

Rhys Ifans

as Spike

Rhys Ifans delivers a memorable and scene-stealing performance as Spike, the quirky, slacker housemate of the protagonist, William Thacker, in the 1999 romantic comedy "Notting Hill." His portrayal of the character is marked by an effortless blend of comedic timing and an endearing lack of self-awareness. Spike, with his unkempt appearance and laissez-faire attitude, provides a stark contrast to the more polished and strait-laced characters in the film, yet Ifans imbues him with such warmth and humor that he emerges as one of the most likable figures in the story. His character's loyalty to William and his irreverent interactions with the other characters, including a hilarious encounter with the famous actress Anna Scott played by Julia Roberts, offer some of the film's most genuinely funny moments. Ifans' performance is a testament to his ability to create a character that is both a caricature and deeply human, leaving an indelible impression on audiences and contributing significantly to the film's charm and success.

Emma Chambers

as Honey

Emma Chambers delivered a delightful and memorable performance as Honey in the romantic comedy "Notting Hill" (1999). Her portrayal of the quirky, lovable, and slightly neurotic younger sister to Hugh Grant's character, William, provided a significant source of humor and warmth in the film. Chambers's ability to convey Honey's earnest and endearingly awkward personality endeared her to audiences, and her comic timing was impeccable, often stealing scenes with her unexpected one-liners and expressive facial reactions. Her character's subplot, involving an unrequited love for William's friend and the simple joy she finds in the everyday, added depth to the narrative. Emma Chambers brought a unique blend of charm and vulnerability to Honey, making her an unforgettable part of the "Notting Hill" experience and showcasing her talent for physical and verbal comedy.