Born in the London suburb of Dulwich to well-known author-illustrator parents on April 27, 1976, Sally Hawkins proved a quick study at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and began working in professional theater soon after graduation.

In her early film and television roles, she gained a reputation for playing damsels in distress in projects such as BBC's Byron and the big-screen drama Vera Drake. But Hawkins diversified with credits in comedies, action flicks and thrillers, including Cassandra's Dream, which found her acting among an all-star ensemble cast.

For her star-making turn as a relentlessly upbeat teacher in Happy-Go-Lucky (2008), the actress teamed up with Mike Leigh, the same director who cast her in her first feature film (2002's All or Nothing). The performance earned Hawkins her first Golden Globe win and a long list of critical accolades.