Julia Stiles recently shared some heartfelt reflections about her iconic role as Kat Stratford in 10 Things I Hate About You, during a screening of her directorial debut Wish You Were Here in New York City. The actress discussed how the film, which remains a beloved part of pop culture, also had a personal impact on her life, especially as a teenager navigating the pressures of Hollywood.
Stiles, who was 17 when she auditioned for the role, recalled how she was vulnerable to harsh comments about her appearance and demeanor, as many young actresses are. However, when she read for the role of Kat, a confident, outspoken character who didn’t care about others’ opinions, Stiles felt an immediate connection. The character resonated with her own journey of self-discovery, making the role even more meaningful.
The 1999 rom-com, which also starred Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Heath Ledger, and Gabrielle Union, revolves around Cameron’s quest to find a date for Kat so he can get closer to her sister, Bianca. The film’s ensemble cast and memorable moments have continued to endure in popular culture.
In her interview, Stiles touched on her current relationship with the cast, noting that she keeps in touch with her co-stars, albeit from a distance. She mentioned that while Joseph Gordon-Levitt lives in L.A. and Josh (Hartnett) stays in London, she was particularly excited to see Larisa Oleynik at the screening. Stiles also reflected on working with the late Heath Ledger, remembering him as “such a force” on set.
Her thoughts on the film and her co-stars highlight how much 10 Things I Hate About You continues to be a special part of her career and personal journey.
