Cara Delevingne: From Model to West End Star, Her Journey and the Magic of Theatre

Cara Delevingne has never been one to shy away from a challenge. From capturing hearts on the runway to stealing scenes on the silver screen, Delevingne’s journey has been anything but ordinary. Now, at 31, she is embracing a new role as Sally Bowles in the West End revival of “Cabaret,” a part that has reignited her passion for the stage and demonstrated her versatility as a performer.

Early Beginnings: A Star in the Making

London-born Delevingne began her career in the spotlight as a model in her teens, quickly rising to prominence and clinching the Model of the Year title at the British Fashion Awards not once, but twice. Her pivot to acting saw her making a notable debut in Joe Wright’s 2012 film adaptation of “Anna Karenina.” Since then, Delevingne has built an impressive portfolio, with roles in films like “Paper Towns” and “Suicide Squad,” and TV appearances in “Carnival Row” and “Only Murders in the Building.”

A Passionate Football Fan

Amidst her bustling career, Delevingne has never lost touch with her roots as a football fan. Growing up, she was a regular at Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge, cheering for her favorite player, Gianfranco Zola. Her lifelong passion for Chelsea FC remains strong, evident from her excitement about attending a recent match, which she described as a nostalgic treat, reconnecting her with cherished childhood memories.

The Stage Calls: Debut in “Cabaret”

Delevingne’s latest venture has brought her to the theatrical stage, a platform that has long intrigued her. Playing Sally Bowles in “Cabaret” at London’s prestigious West End, she describes the experience as both intense and rewarding. “It’s a pinch-me moment,” Delevingne says, acknowledging the challenge of stepping into a role made famous by numerous talented predecessors. The live theatre experience, she notes, is vastly different from film, filled with an immediacy and a rawness that heightens every emotion.

Challenges and Triumphs

Her transition to stage hasn’t been without its hurdles. Delevingne admits to battling nerves and finding her footing as a live performer. Yet, she also reveals a personal connection to her character, Sally, whom she finds both complex and fascinating. This role has allowed Delevingne to explore deeper emotional and psychological landscapes, enhancing her performance with a rich backstory she crafted for Sally.

Theatre’s Timeless Relevance

Delevingne also reflects on the broader significance of “Cabaret,” a show that resonates due to its themes of love, prejudice, and resilience against societal tumult. She believes in the power of theatre to address contemporary issues, making a case for more accessible ticket pricing and initiatives like Jeremy O Harris’s Black Out nights, which promote inclusivity.

London: The City That Never Leaves You

Despite her global travels and residence in LA, Delevingne holds a deep affection for London, her hometown. The city’s familiar discomforts, from unpredictable weather to bustling traffic, are, for her, a reminder of home. And it’s the simple pleasures like Sunday pub lunches, replete with gravy and potatoes, that she misses the most when abroad.

Future Aspirations and Continued Advocacy

Looking ahead, Delevingne expresses a keen interest in taking “Cabaret” to Broadway, highlighting her newfound love for theatre and the unique fulfillment it brings. Her involvement in Taylor Swift’s “Bad Blood” video and her candid discussions about personal challenges, including a destructive house fire and encounters with Harvey Weinstein, showcase her resilience and advocacy for change within the entertainment industry.

As Delevingne continues to evolve as an artist, her journey from model to actress to stage performer highlights a career marked by bravery, passion, and a relentless pursuit of personal authenticity and professional excellence. Her story is not just one of fame but of returning to one’s passions and transforming adversity into art.