Famke Janssen began her career as a model, working for prestigious brands like Yves Saint Laurent, Giorgio Armani, and Victoria's Secret.1 However, she eventually transitioned into acting, leveraging her experience in front of the camera and her strong presence. Janssen took acting classes and workshops to hone her skills and build a strong acting portfolio.1 She networked in the acting industry, attending events and connecting with directors, producers, and casting agents to open doors for auditions and roles.1 Janssen's successful transition from modeling to acting demonstrates how dedication, training, and passion can enable models to embark on new career paths in the performing arts.1

Famke Janssen's portrayal of Dr. Jean Grey/Phoenix in the X-Men franchise has been a defining aspect of her career. She first brought the powerful mutant to life in the 2000 film "X-Men" and continued to play the character in subsequent installments12. Janssen's performance in "X-Men: The Last Stand" (2006) earned her a Saturn Award for Best Supporting Actress, highlighting the impact of her portrayal2. Her involvement in the franchise extended beyond the main trilogy, with cameo appearances in "The Wolverine" (2013) and "X-Men: Days of Future Past" (2014)12.

Despite her significant contributions to the X-Men series, Janssen has expressed mixed feelings about the franchise. In 2019, she criticized the industry for what she perceived as sexism, particularly regarding the recasting of her character with a younger actress3. However, Janssen has recently hinted at the possibility of reprising her role as Jean Grey, stating, "Never say never," and expressing openness to returning to the character under the right circumstances45. This potential return has generated excitement among fans and demonstrates the enduring appeal of Janssen's portrayal of Jean Grey.

Beyond her acting career, Famke Janssen is actively involved in various causes. In 2008, she was appointed a Goodwill Ambassador for Integrity by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, advocating against corruption123. Janssen is also a vocal supporter of animal rights, having appeared in PETA campaigns to raise awareness for animal welfare3. Additionally, she has worked with Gorbachev’s Green Cross International on water-related issues and collaborated with the UN to raise awareness around animal poaching3. Her commitment to these causes highlights her dedication to making a positive impact beyond the entertainment industry.