AnnaSophia Robb Inspires Audiences (Exclusive Interview)

Actress AnnaSophia Robb. Photo by Jonathan Ressler.

At the age of 17, AnnaSophia Robb has already worked with some of the biggest names in Hollywood – like Johnny Depp, Charlize Theron, and Hillary Swank – and she’s still only finishing up her junior year in high school. But for the Colorado native, there’s more to life than simply being a Hollywood movie star. The award-winning actress who has built her career on solid performances in films like, “The Reaping, “Sleepwalking,” “Because of Winn-Dixie,” “Bridge to Terabithia,” is gradually taking on more mature dramatic roles and proving she has the power to make a difference both on-screen and off.

At a young age, Robb began to discover that as an actress, she had a special platform to promote charitable causes and make a difference in the world. While working with Mia Farrow (who is the UNICEF goodwill ambassador for Darfur) on “Samantha: An American Girl Holiday,” she discovered her own desire to bring about positive change.

“Everyone can make a difference,” Robb said. “But I realized that I have a little bit more of an advantage.”

Through her work as a global humanitarian, she is bringing much needed awareness to the issues of human rights, animal rights and the environment. Some of the causes she supports include The White House Project, whose mission is to advance women in business, politics and the media, and Peace Jam, which fosters youth leadership initiatives.

“Acting is something that I feel passionate about, but it doesn’t really satisfy, because there’s always another role,” Robb said. “So I want to focus on helping – something that is solid and something that isn’t about me. I feel like I’ve been blessed so much, that why shouldn’t I help?”

On the Big Screen

In her new movie, “Soul Surfer,” which is based on a true story, Robb plays Bethany Hamilton, an up-and-coming surfer who loses her arm in a shark attack. Despite the challenges she faces, Hamilton overcomes the odds and inspires others through her faith and courage.

AnnaSophia Robb stars in “Soul Surfer.” Photo by Noah Hamilton. Courtesy of FilmDistrict & TriStar.

Like Robb, Hamilton uses her talent to support causes that are making a positive difference in the lives of people around the world. At the age of 21, Hamilton continues to motivate and encourage others by telling her story and through her involvement with organizations like World Vision and The Foundation for a Better Life.

“If you realize how much she has done as one person,” Robb said, “if every individual tries to make that sort of impact, and live day by day with a positive attitude, like they can overcome anything and go after their dreams, I think we would have a much happier world.”

Directed by Sean McNamara, “Soul Surfer,” which also stars Dennis Quaid, Helen Hunt, Kevin Sorbo, Lorraine Nicholson and Carrie Underwood is now in theaters nationwide.

For more information about AnnaSophia Robb, visit her official website at www.annasophiarobb.com. You can also find out more about Bethany Hamilton’s story at www.bethanyhamilton.com.

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– AnnaSophia Robb participates in fundraiser screening for Make-A-Wish Foundation

“AnnaSophia Robb inspires audiences”
Copyright © 2011 by Michael Aaron Gallagher – All rights reserved.