At just 25 years old, Zendaya has already made a significant impact in the film industry, breaking stereotypes and carving out a bold yet strategic career path. Rising from Disney’s iconic lineup, she has established a strong image as a confident and resilient figure, setting herself apart from her predecessors.
From Disney to Stardom
Zendaya first caught attention in 2009 when she auditioned for Disney Channel’s new series Shake It Up. Although she initially aimed for the lead role of CeCe Jones, that part went to Bella Thorne, leaving Zendaya to play her best friend, Rocky Blue. While the show was marketed with both actresses as leads, Rocky often felt like a secondary character. However, Zendaya’s talent shone through, making her role an essential part of the show’s success.
With Shake It Up becoming a hit, Zendaya quickly transitioned to the next stage of her career. In 2014, she starred in her own series, K.C. Undercover, where she not only acted but also served as a co-producer. This allowed her to influence the character’s direction, making K.C. Cooper a much more dynamic and captivating spy than initially planned.
A Turning Point in Her Career
Zendaya’s career took a major turn in 2016 when she landed her first major film role in Spider-Man: Homecoming. Playing Michelle, a quirky classmate of the protagonist, Zendaya initially thought it was just another typical teen movie. Released in 2017, the film grossed nearly $900 million globally, propelling both Tom Holland and Zendaya into the spotlight. Despite her limited screen time, Zendaya’s performance earned critical acclaim, and she reprised her role in Spider-Man: Far From Home, which crossed the $1 billion mark at the box office.
That same year, Zendaya starred in The Greatest Showman alongside Hugh Jackman and Zac Efron. The film was a commercial success, grossing nearly $500 million worldwide, and the song “Rewrite the Stars,” performed by Zendaya and Efron, became a chart-topping hit.
Becoming a Fashion Icon
Following the success of Spider-Man and The Greatest Showman, Zendaya continued to diversify her career. She lent her voice to animated films like Smallfoot and Space Jam: A New Legacy, showcasing her versatility. In 2019, she starred in HBO’s critically acclaimed series Euphoria, playing Rue, a high school student struggling with addiction. Her compelling performance earned her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress.
Zendaya’s film portfolio expanded further with Malcolm & Marie, where she demonstrated her ability to take on complex adult roles. She also starred in the epic sci-fi film Dune, directed by Denis Villeneuve, alongside an impressive cast including Timothée Chalamet. In Dune, Zendaya portrayed Chani, a strong and resilient character who plays a crucial role in the film’s story.
Beyond acting, Zendaya has made significant strides in fashion. At just 16, she launched a clothing line inspired by her Shake It Up wardrobe. By 22, she became the youngest ambassador for Lancôme, known for her dynamic and bold style. Her red-carpet appearances consistently make waves, with designers eager to dress her for high-profile events.
At the recent Venice Film Festival promoting Dune, Zendaya wowed audiences in a stunning Balmain gown, accentuated by a striking emerald necklace from Bvlgari.
From her Disney origins to becoming a Hollywood powerhouse, Zendaya has transformed her image from a “Disney princess” to a sought-after actress and fashion icon. As she continues to build her career, Zendaya exemplifies resilience, talent, and style, solidifying her place in the entertainment world at just 25 years old.
