Zendaya Biography
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Zendaya Maree Stoermer Coleman |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | September 1, 1996 |
| Age | 30 years (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Oakland, California, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Actress, singer, producer |
| Years Active | 2009-present |
| Height | 5 ft 10 in (1.78 m) |
| Partner | In a relationship with actor Tom Holland |
| Children | None |
| Net Worth | ~$30 million |
| Known For | Emmy-winning performance in Euphoria and global film franchises |
Early Life & Background
Zendaya grew up as the daughter of teachers Claire Stoermer and Kazembe Ajamu Coleman. She trained at the Oakland School for the Arts, performed with the California Shakespeare Theater, and worked as a Kidz Bop dancer before signing with Disney Channel at 13.
Career Journey
Disney Beginnings
Zendaya co-starred on Disney Channel's Shake It Up (2010-2013) alongside Bella Thorne, launching a music career with singles like "Replay." She headlined the sitcom K.C. Undercover from 2015 to 2018, serving as producer to ensure the show highlighted a smart Black girl lead.
Music and Film Breakthroughs
Her self-titled debut album (2013) mixed R&B and pop influences. Zendaya transitioned to film with The Greatest Showman (2017) and joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as MJ in Spider-Man: Homecoming and its sequels, sparking international acclaim.
Prestige Television
In 2019 she took on HBO's Euphoria as recovering addict Rue Bennett, becoming the youngest woman to win the Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series (twice, in 2020 and 2022). She also narrates and produces the series.
Blockbusters & Fashion Influence
Zendaya portrays Chani in Denis Villeneuve's Dune films, starred in Luca Guadagnino's tennis drama Challengers (2024), and became a red-carpet icon as a longtime ambassador for Valentino and Bulgari. She frequently co-produces projects through her company, Monster of a Woman.
Recent & Upcoming Work
In 2026 she returns for Dune: Messiah (in development), produces and stars in the Netflix sci-fi limited series Quantum Hearts, and executive produces Euphoria Season 3 while developing a feature adaptation of Ronnie Spector's memoir Be My Baby.
Filmography (Selected)
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010-2013 | Shake It Up | Rocky Blue | Disney Channel breakout |
| 2015-2018 | K.C. Undercover | K.C. Cooper | Star and producer |
| 2017-2025 | Spider-Man Trilogy | MJ | MCU franchise |
| 2017 | The Greatest Showman | Anne Wheeler | Musical hit |
| 2019-present | Euphoria | Rue Bennett | Emmy-winning role |
| 2021-2024 | Dune / Dune: Part Two | Chani | Epic sci-fi |
| 2024 | Challengers | Tashi Duncan | Luca Guadagnino film |
| 2026 | Quantum Hearts | Aria Vega | Netflix limited series |
Awards & Nominations
| Year | Award | Category | Work | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Primetime Emmy Awards | Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series | Euphoria | Won |
| 2022 | Primetime Emmy Awards | Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series | Euphoria | Won |
| 2021 | Critics Choice Awards | Best Actress in a Drama Series | Euphoria | Won |
| 2024 | Golden Globe Awards | Best Actress - Drama | Challengers | Nominated |
Net Worth & Income Sources
Estimated Net Worth: ~$30 million (2026)
Zendaya earns from HBO salary and producer fees, Marvel and Legendary film contracts, music royalties, partnerships with Bulgari, Louis Vuitton, and Lancôme, as well as investments in sustainable fashion startups.
Personal Life
She divides time between Los Angeles and London, enjoys photography, and is an avid basketball fan. Zendaya and Tom Holland maintain a low-profile relationship, often supporting each other's projects and philanthropic work.
Philanthropy & Advocacy
Zendaya supports Convoy of Hope, Black Lives Matter, and campaigns for voting rights with Michelle Obama's When We All Vote. She funds scholarships at the California Shakespeare Theater and amplifies mental health resources for Gen Z.
Social Media Presence
- Instagram: @zendaya shares film stills, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and fashion shoots.
- Twitter: @Zendaya uses her platform to thank fans, promote voting drives, and highlight charitable causes.
- Facebook: Official page aggregates trailers, interviews, and campaign partnerships.
Lesser-Known Facts
- Zendaya's name means "to give thanks" in Shona.
- She learned trapeze for The Greatest Showman, performing many aerial moves herself.
- Zendaya designs capsules for Tommy Hilfiger and sustainable footwear brands.
- She travels with her miniature schnauzer Noon and credits pets for keeping her grounded.
Latest News & Updates (2026)
Zendaya is filming Quantum Hearts in Vancouver, collaborating with Denis Villeneuve on Dune: Messiah pre-production, and hosting Bulgari's 2026 "Serpenti for Water" initiative funding clean water projects. She is also producing a documentary about young Black women in STEM.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Zendaya?
Zendaya is an American actress, singer, and producer known for being the youngest two-time Emmy-winning lead actress for HBO's Euphoria and for starring in the Spider-Man and Dune franchises.
What is Zendaya most famous for?
She is most famous for portraying Rue Bennett in Euphoria, MJ in Marvel's Spider-Man films, and Chani in Dune.
Is Zendaya active on social media?
Yes. Zendaya is active on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, where she shares project news, style moments, and advocacy campaigns.