Fans of the beloved Christmas film Love Actually would be hard-pressed to recognise one of its most memorable stars today. Heike Makatsch, who famously portrayed the seductive secretary Mia in the 2003 classic, has undergone a stunning transformation for a gritty new television role.
From Festive Flirt to Thriller Star
The German actress has swapped romantic comedy for dark suspense in Apple TV+'s first German-language series, titled Where's Wanda?. The show launched on Wednesday 2 October, 2024, marking a dramatic career shift for Makatsch, now 53.
In Love Actually, she played the office temptress who pursued her married boss, Harry, played by Alan Rickman, sporting a sharp, dark bob. Her character's actions caused heartache for Harry's wife, Karen, portrayed by Emma Thompson, in one of the film's most poignant subplots.
Today, her appearance is completely different. Embracing a long blonde hairstyle, Makatsch looks worlds away from the 'office tart' that both captivated and infuriated audiences two decades ago.
The Hunt for Wanda
Where's Wanda? is a darkly comic thriller that follows a desperate married couple, Dedo and Carlotta Klatt. Makatsch stars alongside Axel Stein, with their on-screen daughter Wanda played by Lea Drinda.
The plot centres on the couple's frantic search for their 17-year-old daughter after she vanishes. When police efforts stall, they take the investigation into their own hands. Over the course of ten episodes, they scrutinise their neighbourhood and use surveillance technology to spy on potential suspects.
A Lasting Legacy and New Beginnings
Makatsch's role as Mia in Love Actually left a lasting impression, with many considering her character one of the film's most despised. A pivotal scene saw her at a Christmas party wearing devil horns and a low-cut dress, attempting to seduce Rickman's character.
The film famously left it ambiguous whether Harry physically cheated, though script editor Emma Freud later confirmed the affair did happen. This was underscored when Karen found a necklace meant for Mia, a moment of devastating betrayal for viewers.
Beyond her iconic role, Makatsch's career includes parts in major films like Resident Evil (2002) and The Book Thief (2013). In her personal life, she was in a seven-year relationship with James Bond star Daniel Craig after meeting on the set of Obsession. She later had two children with musician Max Martin Schroder.
Her latest transformation for Where's Wanda? proves her versatility as an actress, moving seamlessly from a globally recognised romantic comedy to a tense, contemporary thriller. Love Actually remains available for streaming on Netflix.
