Cindy Lou Who actress grew up to be a mega famous rockstar

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By James Kay

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The actress who played Cindy Lou Who in The Grinch grew up to be a famous rockstar, and you've probably heard some of her hits!

I know it's still November, but we are on the cusp of the new month so it's completely fine to be talking about Christmas movies.

Everyone has their favorite when it comes to festive flicks, and personally, I opt for Home Alone or Love Actually... However, I also find Christmas isn't complete without a full watch-through of every single Harry Potter movie.

The Grinch is also a firm favorite for many people across the world, but did you know that the actress who played Cindy Lou Who has gone on to have an incredible music career?

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Jim Carrey stars as The Grinch in the Christmas classic. Credit: Universal/Getty/Getty

The film revolves around a cynical grump, The Grinch, played by Jim Carrey, who hatches a plot to spoil Christmas for the cheerful residents of Whoville. However, a chance encounter with the adorable Cindy Lou Who, played by a seven-year-old Taylor Momsen, transforms the Grinch's perspective on the true meaning of the holiday season.

Momsen later transitioned from acting to becoming the frontwoman for the rock band The Pretty Reckless. The band, with four studio albums to its name, including the latest Death by Rock and Roll, has made waves on various charts, including a notable debut at the top of Billboard's Top Album Sales chart.

In a 2020 interview with Today, Momsen revealed the impact of her time on the set of The Grinch had on both her acting and music careers.

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Taylor Momsen is now the lead singer of The Pretty Reckless. Credit: Frazer Harrison/Getty

Reflecting on working with Carrey, she expressed admiration, stating: "I remember him being so kind, so concerned, but so methodical with what he was doing. Even at that young of an age, I remember watching him and going, 'I'm watching an artist right now at work.'"

Momsen emphasized the appeal of The Grinch, attributing its success to the heartwarming message it conveys. She said: "I think that people love The Grinch just simply because the core of the story is so sweet and heartwarming, and it has such a good message."

The actress-turned-musician also credited her move into the music industry to the film, particularly the influence of celebrated composer James Horner.

Recalling her experience in the recording studio, Momsen said: "That was such an impactful moment in my life because it made me go, 'I wanna make music for the rest of my life. I love being in a recording studio.'"

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Momsen's career is pretty remarkable! Credit: Michael Tran/Getty

From her first time in a recording studio singing 'Where Are You Christmas', Momsen found inspiration that fueled her passion for music.

She shared: "I'm in my bedroom singing 'Where Are You Christmas' with the flashlight. I mean, essentially, that was my first music video. So I always get a kick out of that. And I remember thinking that was a really fun scene to film."

Why not enjoy some of Momsen's music alongside the Grinch this Christmas?

Featured image credit: Universal/Getty