Meg Ryan made her directorial debut with the film 'Ithaca,' released in 2015. The film was an adaptation of William Saroyan's novel 'The Human Comedy' and also starred Ryan alongside Tom Hanks. This marked a significant new venture in her career, allowing her to explore storytelling from behind the camera. 'Ithaca' showcased her ability to translate a narrative vision into film.

In 2006, Meg Ryan expanded her family by adopting a little girl from China, naming her Daisy True Ryan. This personal milestone was an important event in her life, reflecting her commitment to family and motherhood. Ryan has been open about her experiences as an adoptive mother and has spoken about the joy and fulfillment it has brought her.

Meg Ryan took on a different type of role in the film 'In the Cut,' released in 2003. Directed by Jane Campion, this erotic thriller represented a significant departure from her previous work in romantic comedies. Ryan played the character Frannie Avery, a teacher entangled in a complex relationship amid a murder investigation. This film showcased her versatility as an actress and her willingness to embrace more challenging roles.

In the early 2000s, Meg Ryan decided to take a break from her prolific acting career. After the release of films like 'Proof of Life' in 2000, Ryan took time away from acting, focusing on personal life and other passions. Her reduced screen presence marked a significant pause in her otherwise active role in Hollywood, leading to her rare but still notable appearances in subsequent years.

'You've Got Mail,' a romantic comedy featuring Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks, was released in 1998. Directed by Nora Ephron, the film reunited the successful acting pair after 'Sleepless in Seattle.' Meg Ryan played Kathleen Kelly, an independent bookstore owner, whose online romance develops with an unknown correspondent. The movie was an exploration of burgeoning digital communication and earned attention for its engaging narrative.

French Kiss, a romantic comedy film released in 1995, starred Meg Ryan and Kevin Kline. Directed by Lawrence Kasdan, the movie showcased Ryan's comedic talents in the role of Kate, who embarks on a journey to France and gets involved in various mishaps. Meg Ryan's performance further solidified her position in Hollywood as a leading star in romantic comedies.

Meg Ryan starred in the romantic comedy 'Sleepless in Seattle,' released in 1993, directed by Nora Ephron. The film paired her again with Tom Hanks, marking another successful collaboration. Meg Ryan's performance as Annie Reed, a journalist captivated by a widower's story, contributed to the film's status as a classic of the genre. The film was both critically acclaimed and commercially successful.

Meg Ryan appeared in the biographical film 'The Doors,' directed by Oliver Stone and released in 1991. She played Pamela Courson, the girlfriend of Jim Morrison, lead singer of The Doors. This role allowed Ryan to explore a more dramatic character, diverging from the romantic comedy genre for which she was predominantly known at the time, showcasing her range and talent as an actress.

The romantic comedy film 'When Harry Met Sally...', directed by Rob Reiner and written by Nora Ephron, was released in 1989. Meg Ryan starred alongside Billy Crystal in the iconic film. It was a major success and Ryan's performance, particularly the famous 'I'll have what she's having' scene, became significant for her career. The film cemented her status as a leading actress in the romantic comedy genre.

Meg Ryan was born on November 19, 1961, in Fairfield, Connecticut. Raised in Fairfield, she graduated from Bethel High School in 1979. Ryan went on to attend both the University of Connecticut and New York University, during which time she began acting in television commercials. Born Margaret Mary Emily Hyra, she adopted the stage name 'Meg Ryan.'