Miranda Cosgrove, a celebrated actress and singer, first captured hearts as a child star. Known for her roles in iCarly and Drake & Josh, she has grown into a multifaceted performer and producer.
Her journey from a McDonald's commercial at the age of three to becoming an iconic Nickelodeon figure exemplifies her hard work and talent. She has also starred in films such as School of Rock and the Despicable Me franchise.
Miranda Cosgrove is still discussed in 2025. From being one of the highest-paid child actors to receiving a Daytime Emmy nomination, her accomplishments are numerous. Other than acting, she is executive producing the iCarly revival and promoting STEM education.
Things you didn't know about Miranda Cosgrove
1. She was discovered while singing at a restaurant
At just three years old, Miranda Cosgrove was singing and dancing at Taste of L.A., a restaurant in Los Angeles, when a talent agent approached her. This chance encounter marked the beginning of her acting journey, leading to commercial gigs for McDonald’s and Mello Yello.
She started her career in entertainment early and has worked for over 20 years. She started auditioning for theater and TV roles at seven.
2. She is the voice behind Margo in the Despicable Me franchise
Miranda, best known as Carly Shay, brought the character of Margo, Gru's eldest daughter, to life in the Despicable Me films. Her voice work has received widespread acclaim, greatly contributing to the franchise's global success.
Since 2010, she has reprised the role in all subsequent Despicable Me installments, including Despicable Me 4 in 2024, reinforcing her versatility as an actress.
3. She was the highest-paid child actress in 2012
The Guinness Book of World Records says that Miranda made $180,000 per episode of iCarly in 2012, making her the highest-paid child actress.
4. She is passionate about STEM education for girls
Beyond acting, Miranda Cosgrove is a staunch advocate for education, particularly about encouraging girls to pursue STEM fields. She partnered with HP’s “Girls Save the World” program to promote climate change awareness and sustainability.
5. She deferred college to pursue acting
Though accepted into the University of Southern California and New York University, Miranda Cosgrove deferred enrollment to focus on her acting career. She later graduated with a degree in psychology.
More about Miranda Cosgrove
Miranda made her musical debut with an iCarly soundtrack in 2008, featuring the hit Leave It All to Me. Her debut album Sparks Fly was released on April 27, 2010. It peaked at number eight on the US Billboard 200 chart.
She was nominated for a Daytime Emmy for her work as a host on Mission Unstoppable, a CBS show that promotes STEM education. She also donates to organizations like St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and Education Through Music.