Elle Fanning is diving into the digital world of OnlyFans, but not for the reasons you might think. The 27-year-old actress has opened an account as part of her preparation for her new Apple TV series, "Margo's Got Money Troubles," which is set to premiere on April 15. In this intriguing show, Fanning steps into the shoes of Margo Millet, a college dropout and new mom who turns to the platform in a desperate bid to escape financial turmoil, following a scandalous affair with her English professor that leaves her pregnant and alone.
Fanning's commitment to her craft is evident, as she wasn't about to approach this role without thorough preparation. During a recent SXSW panel, she explained how she and the show's writing team collectively created an OnlyFans account to explore the platform's nuances. "Obviously, I am an Instagram user and a TikTok user. I got to look at that," she shared with People, hinting at her diligence in understanding social platforms. "Also, we had to dive into OnlyFans a little bit. We did create an account for the writer's room, and for me, so I could check out how the website is."
"There was a lot of looking at OnlyFans with the writers, but we all gave consent to each other before we did it," showrunner Eva Anderson noted at SXSW. "We were very responsible, and we just tried to get as much information as we could before we started."
For the record, Fanning didn't post any content; the account was purely for research. This meticulous approach highlights the team's dedication to authenticity, as they delved into the OnlyFans universe to accurately portray Margo's journey.
Based on Rufi Thorpe's bestselling 2024 novel, the series boasts an impressive lineup of stars: Michelle Pfeiffer plays Margo's mother, with Nick Offerman as her father. Nicole Kidman steps in as a mediator between Margo and her professor, while Marcia Gay Harden and Greg Kinnear complete the stellar ensemble. The series is a creation of David E. Kelley, with his wife, Michelle Pfeiffer, playing a central role.
Fanning, fresh off her first Oscar nomination for "Sentimental Value," describes Margo as "a hopeful character" who inspires through her resilience. "She's dealt these hardships in life, but somehow she always is able to overcome them," Fanning shared, emphasizing the character's enduring spirit.
Mark your calendars for April 15, when "Margo's Got Money Troubles" makes its debut on Apple TV, promising drama, insight, and a touch of humor.