Avantika Vandanapu, a former child co-star of Mahesh Babu, is gaining widespread attention for her standout performance in the recently released Mean Girls musical. The 2004 cult classic film received an indirect reboot through a musical adaptation, where Avantika Vandanapu takes on the role of Karen Smith, a character that has become iconic in pop culture.
While not the protagonist, Karen Smith’s character plays a significant role in the storyline, and Avantika Vandanapu’s portrayal is earning praise for its freshness and charm. Born into a Telugu family in San Francisco, Avantika started her journey in the entertainment industry early, initially gaining recognition as the runner-up in an American children’s dance reality show.
Avantika made her debut in Telugu cinema with the film “Brahmotsavam,” sharing the screen with Mahesh Babu, Kajal Aggarwal, and Samantha Ruth Prabhu. She continued her career with films like “Manantha” and “Premam,” and in 2021, she starred in the Disney Channel original “Spin.” Her latest venture into the Mean Girls musical is proving to be a breakthrough moment in her career.
Notably, Avantika Vandanapu met the original Karen Smith, Amanda Seyfried, who portrayed the character in the Mean Girls film. Seyfried, in a media byte at the Golden Globes, expressed her excitement for Avantika, stating, “Can’t wait to see you, baby, keep the legacy going.”
The two Karens shared a memorable moment at an industry event, recreating a pose reminiscent of a key scene in the Mean Girls film.
