Esther McGregor is rapidly establishing herself as a distinct voice in contemporary cinema and television, moving beyond the shadow of her famous lineage to craft a career defined by bold choices and artistic versatility. Born Esther-Rose McGregor on October 22, 2001, she has transitioned from high-fashion modeling and independent music into some of the most talked-about film and television projects of the 2020s. While many first recognized her through a high-profile cameo in the Star Wars universe, her recent trajectory involves collaborations with Academy Award-winning directors and leading roles in prestige streaming dramas.

Breakthrough Performances in 2024 Cinema

The year 2024 marked a significant turning point for Esther McGregor, as she appeared in two major feature films that premiered at prestigious international film festivals. These roles demonstrate her shift from supporting characters to more complex, emotionally resonant parts in auteur-driven cinema.

Isabel in the Erotic Thriller Babygirl

One of Esther McGregor’s most significant film roles to date is in Babygirl, an erotic thriller directed by Halina Reijn and produced by A24. The film, which stars Nicole Kidman and Antonio Banderas, explores themes of power dynamics, desire, and professional boundaries within a high-stakes corporate environment.

In Babygirl, Esther portrays Isabel Mathis, the daughter of Nicole Kidman’s character. This role required a nuanced performance, as the film delves into the domestic consequences of the protagonist's secret life. Working under the direction of Reijn—known for her provocative storytelling in Bodies Bodies Bodies—Esther was part of a cast that included Harris Dickinson and Sophie Wilde. The film’s debut at the Venice International Film Festival placed Esther in the middle of the global cinematic conversation, highlighting her ability to hold her own alongside industry veterans like Kidman. Her portrayal of Isabel is noted for its groundedness, providing a necessary emotional anchor in a story that frequently pushes boundaries.

Young Martha in The Room Next Door

Continuing her streak in prestige cinema, Esther McGregor joined the cast of The Room Next Door, directed by the legendary Pedro Almodóvar. This project is particularly notable as it marks Almodóvar’s first full-length feature film in the English language. The movie stars Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore and focuses on the complex relationship between two friends and a daughter.

Esther plays the character of "Young Martha," appearing in crucial flashback sequences that inform the current-day motivations of the characters played by Swinton and Moore. Portraying a younger version of a character played by an actress of Tilda Swinton’s caliber is a daunting task, yet Esther’s performance was praised for capturing the specific ethereal and intense energy required for an Almodóvar heroine. The film explores themes of mortality, friendship, and the lingering effects of the past, and Esther’s contribution to the narrative's historical layers is vital to the film's overall emotional impact.

Television Career and Streaming Success

Esther McGregor’s transition into acting was not limited to the big screen. She has maintained a consistent presence in television, ranging from massive franchise cameos to leading roles in coming-of-age dramas that have found a dedicated following on streaming platforms.

The Debut Cameo as Tetha Grig in Obi-Wan Kenobi

For many fans, their first glimpse of Esther McGregor on screen came in the 2022 Disney+ miniseries Obi-Wan Kenobi. This appearance was a significant cultural moment, as she shared a scene with her father, Ewan McGregor, who returned to his iconic role as the Jedi Master.

In the second episode of the series, Esther plays Tetha Grig, a spice dealer on the planet Daiyu. The interaction between Obi-Wan and Tetha is brief but memorable, showcasing a playful yet gritty side of the Star Wars underworld. While the role was a cameo, it served as a symbolic passing of the torch and a professional milestone. Esther has noted in interviews that her parents were protective of her career, insisting she wait until she was an adult to take on significant professional roles. The Obi-Wan Kenobi appearance was one of the first projects where she felt ready to step into the professional world of her father, albeit on her own terms through a standard audition process.

Natalie in the Coming-of-Age Series High School

Later in 2022, Esther McGregor took on a much more substantial role in the Amazon Freevee original series High School. The show is based on the best-selling memoir by the Grammy-nominated indie-pop duo Tegan and Sara Quin. Produced by Plan B Entertainment and directed by Clea DuVall, the series is a 1990s-set drama that explores identity, sisterhood, and the origins of creative passion.

Esther portrays Natalie, a character who is part of the central social circle of the twin sisters. The role allowed Esther to showcase her range in a grounded, naturalistic setting. Unlike the heightened reality of Star Wars, High School required a performance rooted in the awkwardness and sincerity of teenage life. Natalie is a pivotal character in the narrative, representing the friendships and romantic tensions that define the formative years of the protagonists. The series received critical acclaim for its authentic portrayal of the 90s era and its queer-inclusive storytelling, further establishing Esther as an actress who gravitates toward projects with social and cultural depth.

Upcoming Projects and the 2025 Outlook

The momentum Esther McGregor built in 2024 is set to continue into 2025 and beyond, with several high-profile projects in various stages of production and development.

Mirren Sinclair Sheffield in We Were Liars

One of the most anticipated television events of 2025 is the Amazon Prime Video adaptation of E. Lockhart’s young adult novel We Were Liars. Esther McGregor has been cast in a main role as Mirren Sinclair Sheffield, one of the four "Liars" around whom the story revolves.

The plot of We Were Liars follows the wealthy Sinclair family, who spend every summer on their private island. However, a tragic accident and a web of family secrets lead to a shocking revelation. Mirren is a complex character—described as the "good girl" of the group who struggles with the pressure of family expectations. This role is expected to be Esther's most prominent mainstream television work to date, as the source material has a massive global fan base. The series is being developed by Julie Plec (known for The Vampire Diaries) and Carina Adly MacKinnon, promising a mix of mystery, romance, and atmospheric drama.

Future Film Projects: Clean Hands and Alma

In addition to her television work, Esther is slated to appear in several upcoming independent films that highlight her interest in diverse genres.

  • Clean Hands: This project, currently in post-production, features Esther alongside Zach Braff. While specific plot details remain under wraps, the film is described as a character-driven drama that explores personal redemption and family ties. Esther plays the role of Brooke Simmers.
  • Alma: Directed by Sally Potter, this feature film boasts an impressive cast including Pamela Anderson, Dakota Fanning, and Lindsay Duncan. Esther’s involvement in a Sally Potter project reinforces her standing in the world of high-concept, artistic filmmaking.
  • A Place in Hell: Another project in the pipeline, this film further expands her filmography into the thriller or psychological drama space, though production details are still emerging.

Early Roles and Short Films

Before landing major roles in A24 films and Amazon series, Esther McGregor spent years honing her craft in short films and smaller productions. These early works are crucial for understanding her evolution as an actress who isn't afraid to experiment with form and tone.

Notable Short Film Credits

  • Violet (2021): In this short film, Esther plays the titular character, Violet. The project allowed her to explore a lead role in a contained narrative, focusing on character internalities.
  • Assumptions (2020): A short video project where she played Amelie, Assumptions was part of her early foray into combining her aesthetic sensibilities with performance art.
  • The Palisades (2022): In this short, she played the character Odette. These types of projects often served as creative playgrounds while she was also pursuing music and modeling.
  • Love Music Shelter (2024): A more recent short film where she played Sierra, continuing her commitment to smaller-scale storytelling even as her profile in major cinema grew.

Early TV Appearance: Resting Pitch Face

One of her earliest credited roles was in the 2018 television series Resting Pitch Face, where she appeared as Nicky in one episode. While a minor role, it marked the beginning of her professional journey in the industry during her late teens.

Esther McGregor’s Multi-Hyphenate Context

To fully appreciate Esther McGregor’s acting career, it is helpful to understand her background in other creative fields, as these experiences often inform her screen presence.

Modeling and Fashion Influence

Esther began modeling at age 16 and has been the face of campaigns for luxury brands like Fendi, Miu Miu, and Celine. Her experience in front of the camera for high-fashion photography has given her a unique understanding of visual storytelling and poise, which translates into a commanding presence on film. Her debut on the runway for Miu Miu, handpicked by Miuccia Prada, remains a significant highlight of her fashion career.

Music and Artistic Identity

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Esther formed the band French Thyme. Their music, characterized by a mix of English and French lyrics and a lo-fi, alternative aesthetic, mirrors the types of film projects she chooses—indie-leaning, atmospheric, and emotionally resonant. This musical background is particularly relevant to her role in High School, a series deeply rooted in the music industry.

Tattoo Artistry

In an unconventional move for a rising Hollywood star, Esther is also a licensed tattoo artist and has operated her own studio, Pink Ether, in New York City. This career path reflects her desire for tangible, hands-on creativity and a life outside the traditional celebrity circuit.

Complete Filmography of Esther McGregor

Below is a consolidated summary of Esther McGregor’s film and television appearances as of late 2024 and looking toward 2025.

Feature Films

Year Title Role Notes
2023 Bleeding Love Teenage Girl Supporting role alongside Ewan and Clara McGregor
2024 Babygirl Isabel Mathis Major role; directed by Halina Reijn
2024 The Room Next Door Young Martha Directed by Pedro Almodóvar
TBA Clean Hands Brooke Simmers Post-production
TBA Alma TBA Directed by Sally Potter
TBA A Place in Hell TBA In development

Television and Miniseries

Year Title Role Notes
2018 Resting Pitch Face Nicky 1 Episode
2022 Obi-Wan Kenobi Tetha Grig Episode: "Part II"
2022 High School Natalie Main cast; 7 episodes
2025 We Were Liars Mirren Sinclair Sheffield Main role; Upcoming

Short Films and Videos

  • Assumptions (2020) – Role: Amelie
  • Violet (2021) – Role: Violet
  • The Palisades (2022) – Role: Odette
  • Love Music Shelter (2024) – Role: Sierra
  • Montblanc: Let's Write (2025) – Video project

Career Trajectory and Professional Philosophy

Esther McGregor’s rise in the film industry is characterized by a "quality over quantity" approach. Despite her family connections, she has largely avoided blockbuster typecasting in favor of working with visionary directors. Her filmography suggests a preference for stories that explore female identity, family dynamics, and the complexities of growing up.

She has often spoken about her desire to be "a human on set" before being a professional, a philosophy instilled by her parents. This grounded approach has allowed her to navigate the pressures of the industry while maintaining diverse interests in music and art. As she moves into 2025 with the launch of We Were Liars, Esther McGregor is poised to become one of the most significant actresses of her generation, blending the edge of independent cinema with the reach of global streaming platforms.

Summary

Esther McGregor has transitioned from a notable cameo in Obi-Wan Kenobi to becoming a mainstay in prestige film and television. Her roles in 2024’s Babygirl and The Room Next Door established her as a serious dramatic actress, while her upcoming lead role in We Were Liars is set to cement her status in mainstream media. Her career is a testament to a multifaceted artistic identity that encompasses acting, music, and visual arts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What was Esther McGregor’s first acting role?

While she appeared in a small role in the series Resting Pitch Face in 2018, her major television debut was in the Disney+ series Obi-Wan Kenobi (2022), where she played the character Tetha Grig.

Is Esther McGregor in the movie Babygirl?

Yes, Esther McGregor plays the role of Isabel Mathis in the 2024 A24 film Babygirl. She portrays the daughter of the protagonist played by Nicole Kidman.

Who does Esther McGregor play in High School?

In the Amazon Freevee series High School, Esther McGregor plays Natalie, a central friend to the main characters Tegan and Sara.

What is Esther McGregor's next TV show?

Esther McGregor is starring in the upcoming Amazon Prime Video series We Were Liars, scheduled for release in 2025. She plays the role of Mirren Sinclair Sheffield.

Did Esther McGregor act with her father, Ewan McGregor?

Yes, Esther acted alongside her father in the second episode of Obi-Wan Kenobi. She also appeared in the 2023 film Bleeding Love, which starred both Ewan McGregor and her sister, Clara McGregor.