From her early days as a Disney Channel sensation to her current reign as an Emmy-winning actress, fashion icon, and producer, Zendaya has consistently defied expectations, captivating audiences.
She’s not just an “It” girl, but a generational icon.
As a favorite among filmmakers and audiences alike, Zendaya has demonstrated a remarkable ability to transform and give authenticity to every character she portrays. In honor of her birthday, let’s explore 10 pivotal roles that have solidified her status as a star.
Shake It Up (2010-2013)
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This Disney Channel sitcom introduced Zendaya to a global audience as Rocky Blue, one of two best friends who land roles as background dancers on a popular local show called “Shake It Up, Chicago!” The series followed her and Bella Thorne’s characters friendship, and the ups and downs of aspiring to be professional dancers.
K.C. Undercover (2015-2018)
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Zendaya took on the lead role of K.C. Cooper in this Disney Channel spy comedy, playing a high school math whiz who discovers her parents are secret agents and is recruited to join their covert organization. As K.C. balances school life with thrilling spy missions, she learns about teamwork and self-reliance. This series was significant as Zendaya also served as a co-producer, giving her more creative control and demonstrating her ambition beyond acting.
Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
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In her first major blockbuster film, Zendaya played Michelle “MJ” Jones, a sarcastic and observant classmate of Peter Parker, who eventually becomes his love interest and confidante. The film reintroduces Spider-Man to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This role was a crucial step into mainstream Hollywood, proving her ability to hold her own in a massive franchise and generating significant buzz for her unique portrayal of a beloved character.
The Greatest Showman (2017)
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Zendaya showcased her musical and aerial talents as Anne Wheeler, a talented trapeze artist who falls in love with the wealthy playwright Phillip Carlyle (Zac Efron) in P.T. Barnum’s extravagant circus. Her performance in this visually stunning film, particularly her breathtaking trapeze duet with Efron.
Euphoria (2019-Present)
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In her most critically acclaimed role to date, Zendaya utterly transformed into Rue Bennett, a struggling teenage drug addict. The show gives an unflinching look at contemporary adolescence. The HBO drama follows Rue and her peers as they grapple with love, loss, and mental health. Her performance earned her two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, making her the youngest two-time winner in the category.
Dune (2021)
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Zendaya took on the enigmatic role of Chani, a mysterious Fremen warrior from the desert planet Arrakis, who appears in the visions of Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet), a young nobleman whose family is thrust into a war for control of the planet’s most valuable resource. This epic sci-fi blockbuster launched a new cinematic universe.
Malcolm & Marie (2021)
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In this intense, black-and-white two-hander, Zendaya starred as Marie, the girlfriend of a filmmaker (John David Washington) whose relationship is tested over the course of one night after the premiere of his new movie. The film delves into their raw emotions, past traumas, and unspoken resentments. This independent project was filmed during the pandemic and allowed Zendaya to deliver an incredible performance, showcasing her ability to carry an entire film with just one other actor.
Dune: Part Two (2024)
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Zendaya reprised her role as Chani, with significantly expanded screen time in the highly anticipated sequel to the sci-fi epic. As Paul Atreides fully embraces his destiny as the Fremen’s messiah, Chani becomes a fierce and vital warrior, a love interest, and a moral compass.
Challengers (2024)
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In this sports romantic drama, Zendaya plays Tashi Duncan, a former tennis prodigy turned coach who becomes entangled in a complex love triangle with her husband, Art (Mike Faist), and her ex-lover, Patrick (Josh O’Connor), when the two men face off in a challenger tournament. This role allowed Zendaya to explore a more mature and manipulative character.
The Odyssey (2026)
Zendaya attends the 2025 Met Gala Celebrating “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” at Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 05, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)
Zendaya is set to star in Christopher Nolan’s highly anticipated adaptation of Homer’s epic poem, The Odyssey. The film chronicles the treacherous 10-year journey of Odysseus as he tries to return home after the Trojan War. With a star-studded cast that includes Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Charlize Theron, and Anne Hathaway, Zendaya is part of a monumental ensemble.
