The career of Los Angeles native Miranda Cosgrove began at age seven through television commercials before transitioning into film and global television success. By 2012, Guinness World Records recognized her as the highest-paid child actor, cementing her status as a central figure in youth entertainment throughout the 2000s and early 2010s.
Early Roles and Breakout Performances
Cosgrove made her film debut in 2003 as Summer Hathaway in School of Rock. Following this, she took the titular lead in iCarly, which premiered in 2007 and ran until 2012, significantly impacting cable television ratings for the 9-14 demographic.
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Expanding into music, she recorded the iCarly theme song, Leave It All to Me, in 2007. Her studio album Sparks Fly reached number eight on the Billboard 200, while her single Kissin U achieved gold certification. Simultaneously, she entered the Despicable Me franchise in 2010, providing the voice for the character Margo in her highest-grossing film series.
Professional Evolution
Beyond acting, she graduated from the University of Southern California in 2012. Her later career included roles in independent films such as The Intruders, 3022, and North Hollywood. She also served as an executive producer for the iCarly revival on Paramount+, which aired from 2021 to 2023, and hosts the series Mission Unstoppable.
Fast facts
- Born: 1993, Los Angeles
- Education: University of Southern California
- Notable TV: iCarly, Drake & Josh
- Film Debut: School of Rock (2003)
- Voice Role: Margo in Despicable Me
- 2022 Awards: Kids' Choice Award, Teen Choice Award
Questions readers ask
What was Miranda Cosgrove's first major film role?
She played Summer Hathaway in the 2003 film School of Rock.
Did she study at university?
Yes, she attended the University of Southern California, graduating in 2012.
Achievements
- Notable work: iCarly
- Notable work: School of Rock
- Notable work: Drake & Josh
- Worked as actor, singer and pop singer