Emilia Jones is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about names in the entertainment industry. From starring in indie hits to taking the spotlight in major award-winning films, Jones has carved out a unique place for herself as a talented, versatile actress. But who exactly is Emilia Jones, and what makes her such a standout performer? This article takes a closer look at her career, her rise to fame, and what’s next for this multi-talented star.
Early Life and Background
Born into a Creative Family
Emilia Annis I. Jones was born on February 23, 2002, in Westminster, London, England. She comes from a family deeply rooted in entertainment. Her father is Aled Jones, a well-known Welsh singer and broadcaster, famous for his version of “Walking in the Air” from The Snowman. Emilia’s upbringing in a creative environment played a key role in shaping her love for performance and storytelling.
First Steps in Acting
Emilia’s acting career began early. She landed her first film role at the age of 8 in One Day (2011), playing the younger version of Anne Hathaway’s character. From there, she began appearing in British television series, including a role in Doctor Who in 2013 and a guest spot in Wolf Hall.
Breakthrough Role: CODA
Starring in a Sundance Favorite
In 2021, Emilia Jones gained international recognition for her starring role as Ruby Rossi in the critically acclaimed film CODA. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, where it won multiple awards and eventually went on to win Best Picture at the Oscars.
In CODA (which stands for Child of Deaf Adults), Emilia plays a teenage girl who is the only hearing member of her deaf family. Her performance required not just emotional depth but also fluency in American Sign Language (ASL) and musical talent—she had to sing and play the guitar convincingly on-screen.
Critical Acclaim
Jones was widely praised for her portrayal of Ruby. Critics applauded her for delivering a performance that was both nuanced and emotionally resonant. It was a role that showcased her acting range, musical ability, and dedication to authenticity.
Her performance led to nominations at the BAFTA Awards, Critics’ Choice Awards, and other major ceremonies, positioning her as a serious talent to watch.
Other Notable Roles
Locke & Key
Before CODA, Emilia Jones made waves with her role as Kinsey Locke in the Netflix fantasy-horror series Locke & Key (2020–2022). The show, based on the popular graphic novels by Joe Hill and Gabriel Rodríguez, follows the story of siblings who discover magical keys in their ancestral home.
As Kinsey, Emilia portrayed a complex teenager navigating grief, supernatural forces, and personal identity. Her performance resonated with fans and solidified her status in the world of streaming content.
Other Appearances
Emilia has also appeared in other films and shows including:
- Horrible Histories: The Movie – Rotten Romans (2019)
- Utopia (UK version, 2013)
- Brimstone (2016)
Her body of work demonstrates her ability to transition seamlessly between genres—comedy, drama, horror, and historical pieces.
Emilia Jones’ Talents Beyond Acting
Musical Skills
One of the things that sets Emilia apart from many young actresses is her musical ability. Not only did she sing in CODA, but she also trained extensively in voice and guitar. Her performances in the film—especially her duet of “You’re All I Need to Get By”—left audiences emotional and captivated.
Dedication to Craft
In preparation for CODA, Jones spent months learning American Sign Language and working with members of the Deaf community to ensure authenticity in her portrayal. Her commitment to her craft speaks volumes about her professionalism and passion for storytelling.
Awards and Recognition
Though still early in her career, Emilia Jones has already received numerous accolades:
- Sundance Special Jury Award (Ensemble Cast) – CODA
- Gotham Awards Nomination – Breakthrough Performer
- BAFTA Rising Star Award Nomination
- Critics’ Choice Movie Award Nomination
With this momentum, industry insiders consider Jones a frontrunner for future leading roles and major awards.
Upcoming Projects
Expanding Her Horizons
Following the success of CODA, Emilia has been cast in several upcoming films, including thrillers and dramas that will further test her acting range. She has expressed interest in writing and producing in the future, showing ambition beyond the screen.
Her upcoming roles promise to be just as diverse and emotionally rich as those she’s taken on so far.
Personal Life and Public Imag
Keeping It Low-Key
Despite her fame, Emilia Jones is known for keeping a relatively private personal life. She occasionally shares insights into her world through interviews and social media, but for the most part, she stays grounded and focused on her career.
Style and Influence
On the red carpet, Emilia is often praised for her elegant yet youthful style. She has graced the covers of magazines like Teen Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and W Magazine, further establishing herself as a fashion-forward artist and icon for young creatives.
Conclusion
Emilia Jones represents the new generation of actors who combine raw talent, technical skill, and emotional intelligence. From her powerful performance in CODA to her engaging work in Locke & Key, she’s already accomplished more than many actors twice her age. With a growing list of projects and an ever-expanding fan base, Emilia Jones is clearly here to stay—and the best is yet to come.
FAQs
Who is Emilia Jones?
Emilia Jones is a British actress and singer best known for her roles in CODA and Locke & Key. She is recognized for her versatility and musical talents.
How old is Emilia Jones?
As of 2025, Emilia Jones is 23 years old, born on February 23, 2002.
What is Emilia Jones’ most famous role?
Her most famous role is Ruby Rossi in the Academy Award-winning film CODA (2021).
Does Emilia Jones know sign language?
Yes. She learned American Sign Language (ASL) for her role in CODA and was praised for her fluency and dedication.
Is Emilia Jones also a singer?
Yes. Emilia has a strong singing voice and showcased her musical skills in CODA. She also plays guitar and has an interest in further musical pursuits.
What’s next for Emilia Jones?
She has several upcoming film roles and has expressed interest in exploring behind-the-scenes work like producing and writing.
