"Princess Diaries" At 25: Heather Matarazzo Reveals 10 Behind-The-Scenes Stories

Andrew FirrioloMon, August 3, 2026 at 1:16 PM UTC

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Walt Disney Co. / Via Everett CollectionIt's hard to believe that 25 years ago, we watched Mia Thermopolis become Amelia Mignonette Thermopolis Renaldi, Princess of Genovia.Heather and Anne Hathaway already knew each other before they filmed The Princess Diaries.

Walt Disney Co. / Via Everett Collection

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Heather recognizes Lilly wasn't always the perfect friend — but she appreciates that the character grew.

Walt Disney Co. / Via Everett CollectionAnne Hathaway's iconic fall on the bleachers wasn't planned.

Walt Disney Co.Anne and Heather made up Mia and Lilly's secret handshake.

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Heather says director Garry Marshall made filmmaking feel joyful — including surprising everyone with a Thanksgiving parade and dressing up as Santa Claus.

Walt Disney Co. / Via Everett CollectionWorking with Julie Andrews was everything Heather hoped it would be.

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One of Lilly's funniest lines came from producer Debra Martin Chase.

Walt Disney Co.The ballroom scene was magical, but filming it was exhausting.

Walt Disney Co.Heather still has a couple keepsakes from playing Lilly.

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Where does Heather envision Lilly 25 years later?

Walt Disney Co.Time to rewatch The Princess Diaries for the billionth time!

Relive the magic, streaming on Disney+.

Keep up with Heather on Instagram, @heathermatarazzo.

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What are your favorite Princess Diaries moments?

Share in the comments below!

Note: This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

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Source: “AOL Entertainment”