Zendaya: Everything you wanted to know about the Euphoria star
Is there anything she can't do?
Zendaya really is everywhere at the moment - and it's safe to say that the child star turned global icon has had a very busy few years! If you weren't familiar with Zendaya's early work as a young actress, you may have spotted her more recently in HBO's Euphoria, hit movie Dune, or her turn as MJ in the Spiderman films.
After her Golden Globe win for her role as Rue Bennett in Euphoria, Zendaya certainly isn't stopping anytime soon! If you've only just come across the incredible actress (although we're not sure how!), then we've got you sorted with this deep dive into Zendaya's career as well as what's to come, including her new film Challengers...
Who is Zendaya?
Zendaya is an actress, singer and dancer. She first got her start on the Disney dance-themed show 'Shake Up', which she joined at the age of 14. She has since been able to have a long career, that her seen her become even more of a star in her adulthood.
She is now best known for her roles as Anne Wheeler in The Greatest Showman, MJ in the MCU Spiderman films and as Rue in Euphoria - the role which won her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 2020, and again in 2022.
She is also singer and is well known for her fashion and social media presence, as well as her catchy tunes in The Greatest Showman, including 'Rewrite the Stars' with Zac Efron.
How old is Zendaya?
Zendaya was born on 1st September 1996 making her 28-years-old at the time of writing. This also means she's a virgo for all you astrologers out there ♍️.
To celebrate her birthday and thank everyone for their love, Zendaya has taken to sharing super cute throwback pictures to her Instagram page - and 2024 was no different, sharing an adorable snap of her younger self, she wrote: 'Just popping on here to say how appreciative I am for all of the kind birthday wishes, it truly means the world to me…Here’s to 28! 🫶🏽Z'. (sic)
In a sweet post in 2023, the star wrote: 'Every year I grow I’m reminded of how precious this life is, thank you all for helping me fill it up with so much love. Your kind words and constant support means everything to me. Thank you so so much and here’s to 27💕'.
Is Zendaya her real name?
Zendaya is in fact her real name. It is just her first name, as she dropped her surnames for her public persona. Her full name is Zendaya Maree Stoermer Coleman.
How did Zendaya get famous?
2010: Zendaya joins the cast of Disney's Shake It Up'
Zendaya first got her big break when she joined the cast of the hit Disney Channel TV show Shake It Up. The show premiered on 7th November 2010 and was watched by a whopping 6.2 million viewers, propelling Zendaya into a world of fame from a very young age.
She starred on the show alongside Bella Thorne, as the show continued for three seasons, with the last episode airing on 10th November 2013.
2011: The start of Zendaya's music career
Zendaya released her first single 'Swag it Out' in 2011. The single was released independently. In June of the same year, she released the song 'Watch Me' featuring her Shake It Up co-star Bella Thorne. This second song was more successful, peaking at 86 on the Billboard Hot 100.
These releases marked the beginning of Zendaya's music career.
2012: Zendaya stars in her first film
In 2012 Zendaya starred in Frenemies, marking her first film role. She starred in the Disney Channel film alongside her Shake it Up costar Bella Thorne, in what was the beginning of her incredibly successful movie career.
March - May 2013: Zendaya takes part in Dancing With the Stars
In 2013 Zendaya joined the cast of series 16 of Dancing With the Stars. At 16-years-old she became the youngest contestant to have starred on the show, and she was partnered with professional dancer Valentin Chmerkovskiy.
Zendaya and Valentin did well, making it to the final, but she sadly lost out to country music singer Kellie Pickler and her dance partner Derek Hough. She finished as a runner up, but the show no doubt increased her exposure.
2013: Debut album 'Zendaya'
In September 2013, Zendaya released her debut, self-titled, album. She began recording for the album with Hollywood Records a year prior, in August 2012.
Zendaya described her sound as 'pop music with an urban twist' - and it's fair to say the album is full of bops!
June 2014: Disney's Zapped
In 2014, Zendaya starred in another Disney creation, in the form of the original movie Zapped.
Zendaya starred in multiple films and series for Disney Channel, taking on the main role in K.C. Undercover from 2015.
September 2014: Zendaya's 18th birthday and FeedONE
Zendaya celebrated her 18th birthday by using her influence to create a positive difference! She did this by asking her friends and fans to partner with Convoy of Hope and feedONE in order to feed children at three schools for an entire year.
July 2017: Zendaya lands role in Spider-Man: Homecoming
In 2017, Zendaya made her debut as Michelle (MJ) in Spider-Man: Homecoming, starring alongside Tom Holland. This was Zendaya's first feature film, beginning a very successful career in movies.
December 2017: Zendaya stars in The Greatest Showman
Later in 2017, Zendaya landed the role of Anne Wheeler in The Greatest Showman. She starred alongside Zac Efron and Hugh Jackman, with her character having an on-screen romance with Zac (or as he's known in the film, Phillip Carlyle).
Zendaya and Zac had an incredible connection in the film, with them singing the duet 'Rewrite The Stars'.
Of course, as any good on-screen romance does, the film sparked rumours that Zac and Zendaya were dating - however, this turned out to be exactly that, a rumour!
2018: Zendaya becomes an ambassador for Lancôme
A year later, in 2018, Zendaya became a global ambassador for the beauty brand Lancôme. At just 22-years-old, she became their youngest ever ambassador of Lancôme, who are typically associated with more 'mature' women.
Lancôme global brand president Françoise Lehmann said: "Today, we are happy to announce we have a new member joining our family. She is young but wise beyond her years. Zendaya brings a youthful and a unique approach to beauty that perfectly complements Lancôme's vision and creativity."
2019: The OA and Euphoria
In 2019, Zendaya appeared in season two of Netflix's The OA, appearing as a character named Fola.
In June, however, she landed what could be described as her largest TV role to date, as the star was cast in HBO's Euphoria as main character Rue. Zendaya landed the role alongside other big names such as The Kissing Booth's Jacob Elordi, Alexa Demie and Barbie Ferreira.
Zendaya even had a musical number in the show, collaborating with Labrinth on the track 'All for Us' in the final episode of season one. Following the show's huge success, it was later renewed for a second season.
July 2019: Zendaya returns in Spider-Man: Far From Home
2019 was another busy year for the actress, as Zendaya returned for another Spider-Man film, reprising her role as MJ in Spider-Man: Far From Home. Again, working with fellow actors Tom Holland (Peter Parker/Spider-Man) and Jacob Batalon (Ned Leeds), Zendaya also co-starred alongside Jake Gyllenhaal.
After a pretty dramatic ending to the film, fans couldn't wait to see the gang return.
October 2021: Zendaya appears in Dune
In October 2021, Zendaya appeared in hit film Dune alongside Timothée Chalamet. Despite fans being slightly disappointed with the shot amount of time Zendaya actually appeared in the film, director Denis Villeneuve promised that her character would have a bigger role and more screen time in Dune Part II.
December 2021: Spider-Man: No Way Home
In December 2021, the hugely anticipated Spider-Man: No Way Home was released. The film was a monumental success - grossing over $600 million at the box office globally just over a week after its release. This made it the third biggest opening ever.
Starring alongside Tom Holland yet again, the film also welcomed an appearance from Benedict Cumberbatch, with his Marvel character Doctor Strange playing an important role in the movie's plot. Warning, spoilers to follow...
Prior to the film's release, anticipation was built due to rumours that previous Spiderman actors Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield would be making an appearance. As fans soon found out, Doctor Strange's malfunctioned spell resulted in Peter Parker and the gang being brought into the MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe), and subsequently we saw the return of previous Spiderman villains on the hunt for 'their' Peter Parker.
January 2022: Euphoria season two
After the roaring success of the first series, Euphoria was renewed for a second season which began to be released in January 2022.
The series saw the return of fan favourite characters, such as Zendaya's Rue, Jules, Maddy, Cassie, Fezco and Nate Jacobs. Fans were also introduced to some new faces, as the season was set to be a dramatic one.
January 2022: Zendaya to play Ronnie Spector in upcoming biopic
Zendaya paid a touching tribute to Ronnie Spector following the musician's death in January 2022. The actress is set to star as the late rock star in an upcoming biopic about her life, including her career as the lead singer of legendary girl group the Ronettes.
Paying tribute to Ronnie, Zendaya wrote: 'This news just breaks my heart. To speak about her as if she's not with us feels strange as she is so incredibly full of life. There's not a time I saw her without her iconic red lips and full teased hair, a true rockstar through and through.
'Ronnie, being able to know you has been one of the greatest honors of my life. Thank you for sharing your life with me, I could listen to your stories for hours and hours. Thank you for your unmeasured talent, your unwavering love for performing, your strength, resilience and your grace. There is absolutely nothing that could dim the light you cast.'
The Dune actress added, "I admire you so much and am so grateful for the bond we share. You are a magical force of greatness and the world of music will never be the same. I wish everyone got to experience you the way I did."
"We celebrate your beautiful life and give you all the flowers you so rightfully deserve. Rest in great power Ronnie," Zendaya concluded. "I hope to make you proud."
February 2022: Waxwork at Madame Tussauds London
In February 2022, Madame Tussauds revealed that a brand new Zendaya waxwork was heading to their London exhibition!
The superstar's waxwork figure will be displayed alongside a collection of fellow famous faces, including Benedict Cumberbatch, Brad Pitt, Kate Winslet, Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson and Angelina Jolie.
September 2022: Zendaya picks up her second Emmy Award
In September, Zendaya won a second Emmy Award from her performance in Euphoria. She picked up the 2022 Award for Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series, after winning that same award in 2020.
Jan 2023: Golden Globe win
Zendaya won a Golden Globe at the 2023 ceremony, becoming the proud owner of the Best Performance in a Television Series – Drama for her role as Rue Bennett in Euphoria. Although she couldn't attend the ceremony, she shared an Instagram post to thank everyone: 'I'm so sorry I wasn't able to be there tonight, but I just wanted to say thank you to @goldenglobes for this incredible honor. To my fellow nominees, it is a privilege to be named beside you, I admire you all deeply. Thank you to my Euphoria family, without you, none of this is possible.
'Lastly, thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who has allowed Rue into theirs. I think everyone knows how much she means to me, but the fact that she can mean something to someone else is a gift. I'm honestly at a loss for words as type this, all can say is thank you thank you thank you. Goodnight.'
That same month, Zendaya was also nominated for a Screen Actors Guild Award for her work in Euphoria - the award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series.
April 2023: Louis Vuitton ambassador
The exciting news was announced in April 2023 that Zendaya had officially joined Louis Vuitton as House Ambassador. After she made an appearance at the designer brand's Paris Fashion Week show, fans began to speculate that she may be joining the house - with her shortly being unveiled as the face of the iconic Louis Vuitton Capucines bag, fronting campaigns for the stunning fashion piece.
April 2023: Zendaya joins Labrinth at Coachella
Zendaya, Labrinth and Euphoria fans alike were, well, euphoric when she joined the 'Jealous' singer on stage during his set at Coachella 2023. Performing at the Mojave Tent at the world-renowned festival, Zendaya joined the singer on stage to perform the track 'All for Us', which appears during the finale season one of the American teen drama series Euphoria, and also features Zendaya.
As fans of the show will know, Labrinth is the stunning vocals behind many songs that soundtrack the show, including 'Still Don't Know My Name', 'Forever' and 'Formula'.
February 2024: Second Challengers trailer is released
Although the movie was first announced back in 2022, the romantic sports drama film Challengers - starring Zendaya, Mike Faist and Josh O'Connor - saw a setback in the release date due to the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike.
With a fresh release date of 26th April 2024, Zendaya began to amp up the excitement as she released the second official trailer for the film in February.
March 2024: Dune Part II release
Following her appearance in Dune Part I in 2021, fans were eager to see more from Zendaya in the highly-anticipated sequel, which was finally released on 1st March 2024 following the original date being pushed back. Starring Zendaya, Timothée Chalamet and Austin Butler, the film was a huge success and hit with fans - scoring an impressive 97% on the popular TV and film review site Rotten Tomatoes.
April 2024: Challengers release
On 26th April, the highly-anticipated Challengers film was released in cinemas. With a star-studded cast, it came as no surprise that the film quickly became the Number 1 movie in the US.
Days prior to the film's release, Zendaya shared some behind the scenes snaps from filming, writing a touching message about her first time leading a film 'in this way'. She wrote: 'A little bts dump in honor of @challengersmovie coming out in a couple days. This is my first time leading a film in this way so ya girls been nervous but everyones excitement and encouragement has meant the world to me. I'm so honored that I get to do this beside these incredibly talented, brilliant (and hilarious) people and on behalf of all of us, we hope you enjoy the film and again…try not to judge the characters too much lol but also #teamtashi'. (sic)
Zendaya's tribute to Angus Cloud
At the end of July 2023, the tragic news was announced that Euphoria star Angus Cloud had passed away, at the age of 25. Zendaya had starred alongside the actor in HBO's Euphoria, with Angus playing the role of Fezco - her on-screen friend.
On 1st August, Zendaya paid tribute to her late friend, writing: 'Words are not enough to describe the infinite beauty that is Angus (Conor). I’m so grateful I got the chance to know him in this life, to call him a brother, to see his warm kind eyes and bright smile, or hear his infectious cackle of a laugh (I’m smiling now just thinking of it) I know people use this expression often when talking about folks they love…“they could light up any room they entered” but boy let me tell you, he was the best at it. I’d like to remember him that way. For all of the boundless light, love and joy he always managed to give us. I’ll cherish every moment.
'My heart is with his mother and family at this time and please be kind and patient as grief looks different for everyone.'
Fellow Euphoria stars also shared tributes to Angus, with cast members such as Storm Reid (who plays Gia), Alexa Demie (Maddy) and Javon Walton (Ashtray) all sharing messages.
Are Zendaya and Tom Holland dating?
There have been dating rumours swirling around about Zendaya and Tom Holland since forever - well since they starred in 'Spiderman: Homecoming' together back in 2017 (especially when it was revealed she was playing MJ, Spiderman's love interest). For a long time these rumours were just that - rumours. Whilst the two were very close friends, that seemed to be the extent of their relationship... That was until 2021 came around.
In 2021 the rumours returned with a new intensity. When pictures emerged of Zendaya and Tom kissing, the relationship was pretty much confirmed. Tom then sent fans into overdrive, posting a picture of him and Zendaya on Instagram for her birthday - he captioned the post: 'My MJ, have the happiest of birthdays. Gimme a call when your up xxx.' (sic).
Zendaya even returned the favour posting a matching Instagram post for Tom on the day 'No Way Home' was released. She posted two images of Tom, one of him dressed as Spiderman on the set of the film, the other of him dressed as Spiderman as a child. It's fair to say that the post pretty much broke the Internet for the day.
The post was captioned: 'My Spider-Man, I’m so proud of you, some things never change and good thing ❤️' (awww).
From then on the pair really haven't hid their love for each other, getting cozy on the red carpet and gushing over each in interviews. Tom and Zendaya have even been photographed out and about looking pretty loved up.
Are Zendaya and Tom Holland still together?
Despite the pair not really discussing their relationship, it looks like things are going pretty well for the couple! Although they like to keep things private, we do see the pair share the love now and then on Instagram.
In June 2022, Zendaya took to Instagram to share a lovely message for Tom's birthday, referring to him as 'the one who makes me the happiest'.
Then, in April 2023, the pair showed their support for one another on their socials. After Zendaya appeared on stage at Coachella alongside Labrinth, eagle-eyed fans noticed Tom liking a series on posts celebrating her epic performance!
On top of that, just weeks later Zendaya showed her support for Tom as he announced a new series coming to Apple TV. Being one of the first to like his post, fans were overjoyed with the love and support the pair showed one another!
Is she pregnant?
Zendaya is not pregnant. In fact, in 2022 she defiantly shut down pregnancy rumours, saying on Instagram: 'See now, this is why I stay off Twitter... Just making stuff up for no reason...weekly'. (sic)
Did Zendaya date Jacob Elordi?
For those of you who don't know, Jacob Elordi plays the role of Nate Jacobs alongside Zendaya in Euphoria. Of course, we all love an off-screen romance, don't we...
Rumours began to circulate in 2018 that Zendaya was dating Jacob. These rumours emerged after they had finished the first series of the show between 2018 and 2019. Whilst a relationship was never officially confirmed, it appeared to have ended by summer of 2020, when Jacob was pictured getting close to Kaia Gerber who he eventually dated for a year.
How tall is Zendaya?
Zendaya is 5'10”, or 177.8cm, tall.
Where is Zendaya from?
Zendaya was born and grew up in Oakland, California. She currently lives in Los Angeles.
Who are Zendaya's parents?
Zendaya's parents were both teachers. Her dad, Kazembe Ajamu, gave up his job to support Zendaya when she moved to LA as a child to further her career, whilst her mum, Claire Stoermer, worked to support her. Kazembe then starting working as Zendaya's manager, a position he still holds today.
Claire worked as house manager at the California Shakespeare Theatre, which meant Zendaya was exposed to acting from a young age. It was her mum's work as a teacher that truly inspired her, however.
In an interview with Teen Vogue Zendaya said: 'Growing up, I watched my mom teach in the heart of Oakland, California, at inner-city schools that were always underfunded.
'Watching her was magical; it instilled within me a true appreciation of and devotion to the importance of education.'
Claire now owns her own handmade jewellery brand, Kizzmet Jewellery, which Zendaya has often been seen wearing.
Zendaya's parents are separated but remain on 'good terms'.
Does Zendaya have siblings?
Zendaya is one of six children, so she has five siblings. She has three sisters: Kaylee, Katianna and Annabella, and two brothers: Austin and Julien.
Her siblings sometimes appear on her Instagram. In an interview with Time in 2015 she explained that her big sister is one of her biggest influences.
The star said: 'I look up to my big sister and realise the influence she’s had on me and making me a better person. Having such a big, grounded family, I realised as you get older how important that is.'
How Zendaya uses her platform to voice change
It's no secret that Zendaya uses her platform to voice her opinion and encourage positive change. Back in 2015, she posed for the cover of Modeliste magazine, however spoke out after she saw the photos come back with heavy touch-ups.
Taking to her Instagram, she wrote: 'Had a new shoot come out today and was shocked when I found my 19 year old hips and torso quite manipulated. These are the things that make women self conscious, that create the unrealistic ideals of beauty that we have.
'Anyone who knows who I am knows I stand for honest and pure self love. So I took it upon myself to release the real pic (right side) and I love it😍😘 Thank you @modelistemagazine for pulling down the images and fixing this retouch issue.'
The 28-year-old also took to her Instagram to share an important message about her Euphoria character Rue, who struggled with addiction throughout the series. The actress was asked about Rue's journey in season two, when she then highlighted the importance of having 'characters that are flawed'.
Zendaya shared an image of her character Rue, followed by a transcribed snippet from her interview.
What is Zendaya's net worth?
As of 2022 Zendaya's net worth is estimated to be $15 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
Zendaya listed in the Time 100 Most Influential People
In May 2022, Zendaya was listed in the Time 100 Most Influential People. Time magazine shared a short quote from Dune director Denis Villeneuve, on Instagram, where he said: "To me, @zendaya is a thousand years old. She has already lived many lives before this one. And yet, she is as young as springtime.
'By some inextricable paradox, she also gives the impression of having been born sometime far into the future. She is timeless, and she can do it all.'
Which films has Zendaya been in?
The actress has racked up a pretty impressive filmography over the years. On top of starring in 2024's romantic sports comedy-drama film Challengers, she's also set to feature in a number of new titles - including a biopic about Ronnie Spector, where she will star as the late lead singer of legendary girl group the Ronettes.
Take a look through some of the biggest films that Zendaya has been in...
The Greatest Showman
Zendaya starred in hit film The Greatest Showman, alongside huge names such as Hugh Jackman and Zac Efron, appearing as the character Anne Wheeler. Anne and her brother perform a trapeze and acrobatic act at P.T. Barnum's circus.
Spider-Man: Homecoming and Spider-Man: Far from Home
In July 2017, Zendaya made her feature film debut as Michelle (or as we fondly call her, MJ) in the superhero film Spider-Man: Homecoming, co-starring British actor Tom Holland. After wearing no makeup to her screen test, the decision was made to carry this through in production - the actress even made her own embellishments on the role, an example being carrying around a mug of herbal tea.
Dune and Dune 2
Zendaya played the role of Chani in the 2021 science fiction film Dune. She starred opposite Timothée Chalamet, and whilst some fans were disappointed that she didn't get much screen time, director Denis Villeneuve promised her character would have a bigger role in Dune Part II, which, after having its release date pushed back, was released on 1st March 2024.
Spider-Man: No Way Home
Dubbed as the biggest movie release of 2021, Zendaya starred in yet another instalment of the Spider-Man franchise, reprising her role of MJ in Spider-Man: No Way Home. The film was a huge success, with Marvel fans all over the world rejoicing as (spoiler) former Spiderman stars Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield featured.
Of course, as MJ and Peter Parker's (Tom Holland) romance heated up on screen, fans couldn't help but notice the connection between the actors off-screen too.
Challengers
Zendaya was working on a new film called Challengers throughout 2022 and 2023. The movie is described as an 'American romantic sports comedy-drama', in which the actress stars as Tashi Donaldson - a tennis player turned coach - alongside actors Mike Faist (known from West Side Story and Panic) and Josh O'Connor (known for The Crown and The Durrells).
The film was originally set for release on 15th September 2023, with Zendaya sharing the official trailer to her Instagram page on 20th June. The release date, however, was pushed back due to the SAG-AFTRA strike.
Challengers was then officially released in cinemas on 26th April 2024.
WATCH: Challengers official first trailer:
WATCH: Challengers official second trailer:
Zendaya's tennis ball shoes
During a promo tour for the Challengers film, Zendaya got everyone talking when she sported (pardon the pun) some pretty incredibly - and very fitting - footwear! Yep, attending the photocall of the film at the Hotel Hassler, Rome, Zendaya looked stunning in a custom Loewe dress, paired with custom-designed Loewe white pumps, which featured pin-thin heels puncturing a tennis ball.
With her dress reminiscent of the outfits worn by tennis pros, it's fair to say her choice of footwear was a smash hit!Z
Is Zendaya a singer?
Yes, Zendaya is a singer. She mainly released music as a child, releasing her first song, 'Swag It Out', in 2011. She went on to release a slew of other singles, including 'Watch Me' with Bella Thorne, and released her debut album 'Zendaya' in 2015.
Her most successful single, however, was the song 'Rewrite the Stars' with Zac Efron, that was released as part of the soundtrack for The Greatest Showman in 2017. The track reached the Top 20 on multiple record charts and went multi-Platinum globally.
LISTEN: Zendaya and Zac Efron 'Rewrite the Stars'
The catchy song's popularity was also catapulted by popular singers James Arthur and Anne-Marie's rendition.
Zendaya is no stranger to singing on screen, as the star sang in the final episode of series one of Euphoria. She also sang on co-star Dominic Fike's track 'Elliot's Song' in the second series.
Fans commented their praise for her contribution to the Euphoria soundtrack, and she tweeted to say: 'I stepped away from music quite a while ago, for a number of reasons, but I still really love it, so the kindness and support I've received the past few days just for a little tiny toe dip back into some music means the absolute world to me..thanks <3'
Did Zendaya win Dancing With The Stars?
Zendaya took part in the 16th series of Dancing With the Stars back in 2013. She was partnered with professional dancer Valentin Chmerkovskiy. Whilst she made it to the final, she sadly lost out to country music singer Kellie Pickler and her dance partner Derek Hough, finishing as a runner-up.
Did Zendaya win Lip Sync Battle?
Zendaya took part in an episode of Lip Sync Battle back in 2017. Whilst she performed a great rendition of Bruno Mars' '24K Magic', she lost out to Tom Holland, who performed an elaborate - and somewhat iconic - rendition of Rihanna's 'Umbrella'.
Tom's performance involved him carrying out a complex dance number all whilst dressed in Rihanna-inspired clothing and, of course, lip syncing.
Does Zendaya have a waxwork figure in Madame Tussauds?
Zendaya has waxwork figures in the San Francisco museum which were unveiled 2015, but the star had another waxwork added to the London location, available to visit from February 2022.
Speaking about the figure being added to London, the general manager for the attraction Tim Walter said: 'Zendaya just exudes cool. Not only that, she uses her celebrity status to join conversations, thoughtfully, on important social issues. She is unapologetically herself – and we, along with her fans, love that about her.'
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