7 Things to Know About Anna Cathcart

January 26, 2026 W.A. Muller

Why Anna Cathcart Represents a New Generation of Hollywood Talent

Anna Cathcart is a 22-year-old Canadian actress who has grown from supporting roles in children’s programming to leading her own Netflix series. Born June 16, 2003, in Vancouver, British Columbia, she’s best known for:

Kitty Song-Covey in Netflix’s To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before trilogy and spinoff XO, Kitty
Dizzy Tremaine in Disney’s Descendants 2 and Descendants 3
Agent Olympia in PBS Kids’ Odd Squad (Canadian Screen Award winner)
Balancing a sociology and creative writing degree at the University of British Columbia with her acting career
Mixed Chinese and Irish heritage, championing Asian representation in media

From scene-stealing little sister to the star of her own show, Anna Cathcart has captured hearts worldwide with her charm and talent. This Canadian actress has grown up on our screens, and now she’s taking the lead.

What sets Cathcart apart is her authentic approach to stardom. She never attended formal acting classes, instead drawing inspiration from watching Disney Channel and Netflix shows as a kid. At 12, she was scouted for Odd Squad and filmed for seven months in Toronto—a whirlwind experience she describes as “like having two full-time jobs at once” while juggling school.

Today, she represents a new generation of young actors who refuse to choose between education and their craft. While leading XO, Kitty in Seoul, she was simultaneously starting her freshman year at UBC. Her friends jokingly compared her dual life to Hannah Montana—and the comparison fits.

For affluent audiences who value both cultural representation and authentic storytelling, Cathcart’s rise offers a compelling narrative about modern Hollywood. She’s not just another young actress—she’s a thoughtful artist who uses her platform to champion diversity while maintaining the normalcy of university life.

The Breakout Roles That Made Her a Star

We’ve watched Anna Cathcart blossom on screen, transitioning from a talented child actor to a compelling young lead. Her journey through a variety of roles has not only entertained millions but also showcased her remarkable versatility and growth as an artist. From her early days solving mysteries to her more recent ventures into romantic comedy, Cathcart has consistently delivered performances that resonate with audiences across different age groups.

Her career trajectory began with a significant splash in children’s television, where she quickly demonstrated a natural flair for acting. This early success paved the way for her to join major franchises, cementing her status as a fan favorite. We’ve seen her characters evolve, much like Anna Cathcart herself, growing from spirited supporting players to central figures driving their own narratives. This evolution is a testament to her dedication and the genuine connection she forms with each role she undertakes.

Her Award-Winning Start in Children’s Television

Anna Cathcart‘s acting career began in earnest when she was just 12 years old, landing her first major role as Agent Olympia in the PBS Kids and TVOKids series, Odd Squad. This was a pivotal moment, as she was scouted for the role, a testament to her innate talent and charisma. Filming for seven months in Toronto, this experience was a whirlwind for young Anna and her family, marking the true beginning of her professional life in front of the camera.

Her portrayal of Agent Olympia was nothing short of captivating. Cathcart brought a unique blend of intelligence, humor, and earnestness to the character, quickly making her a beloved figure among young viewers. Her comedic timing and ability to convey complex emotions in a child-friendly manner were widely recognized. This early success wasn’t just popular; it was critically acclaimed. For her outstanding work on Odd Squad, Anna Cathcart won the Canadian Screen Award for Best Performance in a Children’s or Youth Program or Series at the 7th Canadian Screen Awards. This prestigious award underscored her potential and set a high bar for her subsequent performances.

The success of Odd Squad also led to her reprising the role of Agent Olympia in Odd Squad: The Movie in 2016 and later in Odd Squad: World Turned Odd in 2018, further solidifying her presence in children’s entertainment. Her early award recognition was a clear indicator that Anna Cathcart was a talent to watch, distinguishing her as a serious young actress with a bright future.

Becoming a Fan Favorite in Popular Franchises

Following her award-winning turn in Odd Squad, Anna Cathcart quickly transitioned into roles that would make her a household name among a wider audience, particularly within the Disney and Netflix fanbases. Her ability to embody memorable, scene-stealing characters became her trademark, showcasing her knack for making a lasting impression even in supporting roles.

One of her most iconic changes came with her role as Dizzy Tremaine in Disney’s Descendants 2 in 2017. Dizzy, the daughter of Cinderella’s stepsister Drizella, was a spunky, fashion-forward character with a big heart, and Cathcart brought her to life with infectious energy. It’s a fun piece of trivia that Anna Cathcart actually sang a Meghan Trainor song during her audition to secure this role. The film was a massive success, garnering 8.92 million viewers across six networks on its premiere night. She reprised her role as Dizzy in Descendants 3 in 2019, further endearing her to fans of the magical franchise. Coincidentally, and quite remarkably, Anna Cathcart had previously played a younger version of Drizella herself in the ABC series Once Upon a Time, a fascinating full-circle moment for her career. This unique connection highlights the depth of her involvement in the Disney universe and can be explored further on her Drizella and Once Upon a Time) wiki pages.

However, it was her role as Kitty Song-Covey in Netflix’s To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018) that truly catapulted her into global stardom. As the precocious younger sister of the protagonist Lara Jean, Kitty was the catalyst for the entire romantic comedy series, sending out Lara Jean’s secret love letters and setting off a chain of events that captivated millions. Cathcart reprised this beloved role in the sequels, To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You (2020) and To All the Boys: Always and Forever, Lara Jean (2021). Critics praised Anna Cathcart‘s performance, noting that she was one of the only returning cast members to bring the “same type of energy as [she] did in the first film” in the sequel. Her ability to consistently deliver charming and authentic performances ensured her growth from scene-stealing supporting roles to a much-anticipated leading performance in her own spin-off series.

Taking the Lead in a New Era

The journey of Anna Cathcart reached a significant milestone with her recent leading role in XO, Kitty, a Netflix series spun off from the wildly popular To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before franchise. This marked a pivotal moment in her career, as it was her first time taking the helm as the main character, stepping into the spotlight she had so skillfully shared in previous projects. We’ve seen her characters grow, but now, it’s Kitty’s turn to truly shine, and Anna Cathcart was ready for the challenge.

XO, Kitty sees Kitty Song-Covey start on her own adventure, moving to Seoul, South Korea, to attend an international high school and reconnect with her long-distance boyfriend. This setting introduced a rich mix of global storytelling elements, blending the familiar charm of the rom-com genre with the allure of K-drama. The series was filmed entirely in Seoul, immersing Anna Cathcart in a new culture, much like her character. She described the experience of exploring neighborhoods and experiencing a different culture while filming as deeply enjoyable, mirroring Kitty’s own journey of self-findy in a new environment.

The critical reception for XO, Kitty and Anna Cathcart‘s performance was overwhelmingly positive. Reviewers highlighted her confident jump to a leading role. Reviewers described her as “appropriately sweet” in the series and stated she “makes a confident jump to a leading role.” One critic even called Anna Cathcart the “generation’s secret weapon,” suggesting that projects featuring her are consistently of high quality. Her ability to carry a series, infusing it with her signature warmth and wit, has truly cemented her status as a leading lady in this new era of diverse and globally conscious storytelling. We believe her authentic portrayal resonated deeply with audiences, especially those in cosmopolitan hubs like New York, who appreciate diverse narratives and international cultural exchanges.

How Anna Cathcart’s Portrayal of Her Character Evolved

Kitty Song-Covey, as brought to life by Anna Cathcart, has undergone a remarkable evolution throughout the To All the Boys franchise and into her own series, XO, Kitty. We first met Kitty as the precocious, match-making younger sister, a character whose bold actions set the entire romantic comedy plot in motion. She was witty, observant, and undeniably charming, often serving as the comedic relief and the heart of the Covey family. Her youthful exuberance and unwavering belief in love were infectious.

However, in XO, Kitty, we see a more mature, yet still wonderfully optimistic, Kitty emerge. Anna Cathcart has masterfully guided her character from a spirited child into a complex teenager, exploring her own storylines, finding her identity, and navigating new, often challenging, relationships. The series digs into Kitty’s personal journey of self-findy, moving beyond her sister’s shadow to forge her own path in a foreign land. She grapples with a “love square,” friendships, and the complexities of her own burgeoning sexuality, offering a nuanced and relatable portrayal of teenage self-exploration.

Anna Cathcart herself has spoken eloquently about this evolution, comparing revisiting Kitty to “seeing an old friend that you haven’t seen for a few years.” She notes that while the “spirit of Kitty is still there,” her character is “growing up and learning new things and learning what’s important to her, and those things keep shifting around as well.” This parallel between character and actress is striking. Anna Cathcart shared that the timing of XO, Kitty mirrored her own life, as she too was moving away from home for university and learning independence. “It’s very, very monumental for sure to see a character go through it by my side,” she shared in an interview, highlighting her deep personal connection to Kitty’s journey. This intimate understanding allowed her to infuse Kitty’s growth with authenticity, making her transition into a leading role a natural and compelling progression for both the character and the actress.

Behind the Scenes with the Real Anna Cathcart

Beyond the captivating roles she brings to life on screen, Anna Cathcart is an incredibly grounded and fascinating individual. We’ve often wondered about the person behind the characters, and it turns out, her life is just as dynamic and inspiring as her on-screen personas. From juggling demanding academic pursuits with a thriving acting career to embracing her rich heritage, Anna Cathcart offers a refreshing perspective on young stardom.

Her authenticity shines through in every interview and public appearance, revealing a thoughtful and humorous personality that resonates deeply with her fans. We admire her commitment to personal growth and her ability to maintain a sense of normalcy amidst the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. It’s clear that her life off-camera is just as thoughtfully constructed as her performances, making her a true role model for a new generation.

Balancing University and Stardom

One of the most impressive aspects of Anna Cathcart‘s journey is her unwavering commitment to education while simultaneously building a successful acting career. As of 2023, she is attending the University of British Columbia, majoring in sociology and creative writing. This isn’t a casual pursuit; she actively balances her demanding academic schedule with her filming commitments, a feat that truly sets her apart.

She has openly discussed the challenges of juggling academics and filming, describing it as “like having two full-time jobs at once” during her high school years, especially when filming Odd Squad required her to move to Toronto for seven months. While on set, she was tutored in two-hour blocks, ensuring her studies never fell by the wayside. This dedication continued into her university years. When she began filming XO, Kitty in Seoul, she was simultaneously starting her freshman year at UBC. Her friends, recognizing the unique duality of her life, jokingly compared her to Hannah Montana, a fitting analogy for someone navigating the contrasting worlds of a normal student life and a burgeoning international acting career.

Anna Cathcart finds frustration, rather than nerves, in the unpredictability of her future, a stark contrast to her younger self who “loved having a plan.” This ability to adapt and thrive in uncertainty is a testament to her maturity and resilience. Her decision to pursue a degree, particularly in subjects like sociology and creative writing, reflects a deep intellectual curiosity and a desire for personal development beyond her professional life. This balance not only grounds her but also enriches her performances, bringing a depth of understanding to her characters that few young actors possess.

The Importance of Her Mixed-Asian Heritage

Anna Cathcart‘s identity is deeply rooted in her mixed heritage, a significant aspect of her life that she accepts and champions. Born to a Chinese mother and an Irish father, she represents a growing demographic in an increasingly globalized world. This dual heritage has not only shaped her personal perspective but has also profoundly influenced her career, particularly her roles in major productions like Descendants and the To All the Boys franchise.

Growing up mixed Asian in Vancouver, a city known for its diversity and large Asian population, provided Anna Cathcart with a unique and positive experience. She never felt “out of place,” recalling how her mother would even come into her elementary school to share Chinese New Year traditions and make dumplings with her classmates. “It was really amazing that I’ve always felt very proud of my ethnicity and very proud of who I was, and like it was something to be celebrated,” she shared in an interview, highlighting the impactful community she experienced.

This personal connection to her heritage has made her a powerful advocate for representation in entertainment. Playing mixed-Asian characters like Dizzy in Descendants and, most notably, Kitty Song-Covey, has allowed her to connect with audiences on a deeper level. She finds it “very special” to play mixed kids as a mixed kid herself, emphasizing the positive impact it has on viewers who feel seen and understood. She particularly appreciates how her character Kitty, in XO, Kitty, explores her own multicultural identity, navigating a Korean-American background while studying in Seoul. Anna Cathcart is incredibly proud to be the lead on a series that shares experiences from an Asian point of view, acknowledging the strides made in Asian representation while also recognizing there’s “still room to grow.” She considers it an honor for viewers to see her and feel represented, solidifying her role as a significant role model for young actors and diverse audiences alike. We, at PARK Magazine, recognize the profound importance of such representation, especially in a cultural melting pot like New York.

Fun Facts and a Surprising TV Coincidence

Beyond her professional achievements and thoughtful insights, Anna Cathcart is also known for her charming personality and a few intriguing personal details that endear her even more to her fans. We love learning about the quirks and unexpected aspects of our favorite stars, and Anna Cathcart certainly delivers.

Here are some fun facts about Anna Cathcart:

Self-Taught Star: Remarkably, Anna Cathcart has never really attended acting classes. She states that she gained her acting skills and ideas by watching movies and TV shows, particularly on Disney Channel and Netflix. Her childhood dream was to be on Disney Channel, and she attributes her “acting classes” to watching it daily.
Audition Song Choice: To land the role of Dizzy Tremaine in Descendants 2, Anna Cathcart sang a Meghan Trainor song during her audition, showcasing her playful spirit and vocal talents.
Drizella Double Take: In a truly unique coincidence, Anna Cathcart played a younger version of Drizella in the ABC Studios series Once Upon a Time. Years later, she would go on to portray Drizella’s daughter, Dizzy Tremaine, in the Descendants franchise. This fascinating connection highlights her intertwined history with iconic Disney-inspired characters. You can explore more about Drizella and the Once Upon a Time) series.
Still Gets Asked for a Kids’ Menu: On her 17th birthday, Anna Cathcart humorously posted on Instagram that she was “still being asked if i need a kids menu��❤️,” a relatable anecdote for many who look younger than their age.
Pineapple Allergy & Horror Movie Fear: She is allergic to pineapple and admits to being too afraid to watch horror movies, despite finding them “cool.”
Hygiene Habits: Anna Cathcart is very particular about hygiene, especially regarding food.
Celebrity Crush: Her celebrity crush is Tom Holland, particularly in his role as Peter Parker.
Family Inspiration: Her older sister, Sara Cathcart, inspired Anna Cathcart to get into acting, as Sara had done commercials as a child. Anna Cathcart simply “wanted to do what her sister did.”

These tidbits paint a picture of a relatable, down-to-earth individual who maintains her sense of humor and personal interests even as her star continues to rise.

What’s Next for the Rising Star?

As Anna Cathcart continues to captivate audiences with her talent and genuine personality, we eagerly anticipate what the future holds for this remarkable young actress. Her career trajectory suggests a path filled with diverse opportunities, both in front of and behind the camera. With a strong foundation established through critically acclaimed roles and a growing global fanbase, her potential is truly limitless.

Her active presence on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok allows her to connect directly with her fans, sharing glimpses into her life and projects. This engagement fosters a strong community around her, making her journey feel even more personal to her supporters. For more official details about her career, her IMDb Page offers a comprehensive overview of her filmography and upcoming projects, while her Facebook and Twitter accounts provide additional avenues for connection.

The Future for Anna Cathcart

The immediate future for Anna Cathcart looks bright, primarily centered around the continued success of XO, Kitty. Given its popularity, we anticipate upcoming seasons that will further explore Kitty Song-Covey’s adventures and relationships. The series has opened new doors for Anna Cathcart, showcasing her ability to lead a major production and connect with an international audience.

Beyond XO, Kitty, her filmography indicates an interest in a variety of projects. She has lent her voice to animated series like Monster High (with roles slated for 2024 and 2025) and Star Wars: Visions, demonstrating her versatility across different mediums. We can expect to see her continue to explore diverse film roles that challenge her as an actress.

Looking further ahead, Anna Cathcart has expressed aspirations beyond acting. Her pursuit of a creative writing degree at the University of British Columbia hints at a potential interest in behind-the-camera roles, such as directing and writing. This artistic curiosity is a hallmark of many successful performers who seek to tell stories from multiple perspectives. As Anna Cathcart grows and gains more experience, we wouldn’t be surprised to see her take on more creative control in future projects, bringing her unique vision to life. Her journey is a testament to the evolving landscape of entertainment, where young talent like hers is not just performing but also shaping the narratives of tomorrow.

Frequently Asked Questions about Anna Cathcart

We often receive questions about Anna Cathcart, her career, and her personal life. Here, we address some of the most common inquiries to provide a comprehensive overview of this rising star.

How old is Anna Cathcart?

Anna Cathcart was born on June 16, 2003. As of 2025, she is 22 years old.

What is Anna Cathcart’s ethnicity?

She is of mixed heritage, with a Chinese mother and an Irish father. Anna Cathcart proudly accepts her dual heritage and champions Asian representation in media.

What are Anna Cathcart’s most famous roles?

Her most notable roles include Kitty Song-Covey in Netflix’s To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before film series and the spin-off XO, Kitty, Dizzy Tremaine in Disney’s Descendants franchise (Descendants 2 and Descendants 3), and Agent Olympia in the PBS Kids series Odd Squad.

Conclusion

Anna Cathcart‘s journey from a talented child actor in Odd Squad and the Descendants franchise to a leading lady in Netflix’s XO, Kitty is a testament to her undeniable talent, dedication, and authentic spirit. We’ve watched her grow, not just as an actress but as an individual who thoughtfully steers the complexities of fame, education, and identity. Her commitment to balancing a thriving career with her university studies, coupled with her passionate advocacy for mixed-Asian representation, makes her a truly inspiring figure for audiences worldwide, especially for those who appreciate diverse stories in vibrant cultural centers like New York.

As she steps into new roles and explores future aspirations, PARK Magazine will continue to follow the career of this bright, emerging cultural icon. We celebrate her ability to connect with audiences through compelling storytelling and her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact.