The role of the Red Queen in Tim Burton’s 2010 adaptation of Alice in Wonderland was brought to life by the talented British actress Helena Bonham Carter. Known for her eccentric roles and captivating performances, Bonham Carter’s portrayal of the Red Queen—with her oversized head and imperious attitude—became one of the film’s most memorable characters. But how old is the actress who took on this iconic role?
Helena Bonham Carter’s Age
Helena Bonham Carter was born on May 26, 1966, in London, England. As of January 2025, she is 58 years old.
At the time of Alice in Wonderland‘s release in 2010, Bonham Carter was 43 years old. Her performance as the Red Queen showcased her unique ability to bring a quirky yet menacing edge to the character, cementing her as one of the standout actors in the film.
Career Highlights
Helena Bonham Carter has a long and illustrious career spanning decades, with many iconic roles to her name. Beyond her performance as the Red Queen in Alice in Wonderland and its sequel, Alice Through the Looking Glass (2016), some of her notable roles include:
- Bellatrix Lestrange in the Harry Potter series (2007–2011).
- Mrs. Lovett in Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007).
- Princess Margaret in The Crown (Netflix series, 2019–2020).
- Lucy Honeychurch in A Room with a View (1985).
Her versatility as an actress, combined with her distinctive presence, has made her a beloved figure in both mainstream blockbusters and critically acclaimed indie films.
Helena Bonham Carter as the Red Queen
In Alice in Wonderland, the Red Queen, whose real name is Iracebeth of Crims, is portrayed as a tyrannical ruler with a quick temper and a penchant for shouting “Off with their heads!” The character’s oversized head (a visual effect achieved through CGI) and exaggerated personality were perfectly complemented by Bonham Carter’s theatrical performance.
Her work on the film earned praise for its humor and boldness, making the Red Queen one of the standout elements of the movie.
Helena Bonham Carter, born in 1966, is 58 years old as of 2025. Her portrayal of the Red Queen in Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland at the age of 43 remains a defining performance in her career, showcasing her talent for bringing unique and unforgettable characters to life. Whether through her role as the Red Queen or her many other iconic performances, Bonham Carter continues to captivate audiences worldwide.