Zendaya has become one of Hollywood’s brightest stars, seamlessly transitioning from a Disney Channel favorite to an Emmy-winning actress and global fashion icon. As of 2024, Zendaya boasts an impressive net worth of $30 million, cementing her place as one of the most influential young talents in the entertainment industry. From her early days on “Shake It Up” to headlining blockbuster films and groundbreaking TV series, Zendaya’s rise is nothing short of spectacular.
A Star is Born: Early Life and Family
Born Zendaya Maree Stoermer Coleman on September 1, 1996, in Oakland, California, Zendaya grew up in a multicultural household. Her mother, Claire Stoermer, has Scottish and German roots, while her father, Kazembe Ajamu Coleman, is African-American. Zendaya is the youngest of six siblings, which often gave her a strong foundation and sense of responsibility from a young age.
Her journey into the performing arts began early. At just six years old, Zendaya participated in a play for Black History Month, and she later became deeply involved in theater, thanks to her mother’s job as the house manager at the California Shakespeare Theater. She didn’t just watch from the sidelines – Zendaya sold tickets, ushered, and even performed on stage, which helped nurture her passion for acting.
Zendaya also honed her dance skills with the hip-hop dance group Future Shock Oakland at age eight and performed hula with The Academy of Hawaiian Arts. Her well-rounded artistic upbringing laid the groundwork for her future success.
From Disney Darling to Hollywood Icon
Zendaya’s big break came in 2010 when she landed the role of Rocky Blue on the Disney Channel hit show “Shake It Up.” The series was an instant hit, drawing 6.2 million viewers for its premiere – making it the second-highest-rated premiere in Disney Channel history. This role catapulted Zendaya into the spotlight, but she wasn’t content to stay in one lane.
She went on to star in “K.C. Undercover” (2015-2018), a Disney series that she also co-produced. Even as a young actor, Zendaya was already making moves behind the camera, showing her entrepreneurial spirit early in her career.
Breaking into Blockbusters
Zendaya’s career skyrocketed with her role as MJ in Marvel’s Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017) alongside Tom Holland. She reprised the role in the sequels “Far from Home” (2019) and “No Way Home” (2021), with the latter grossing over $1.9 billion globally.
In 2017, Zendaya also starred in “The Greatest Showman” alongside Hugh Jackman and Zac Efron. Her duet with Efron, “Rewrite the Stars,” became a massive hit, achieving 2x Platinum certification.
More recently, Zendaya appeared in “Dune” (2021) and its highly anticipated sequel “Dune: Part Two” (2024). She reportedly earned $10 million for each project, solidifying her status as one of Hollywood’s highest-paid young stars.
Television Triumphs: Euphoria and Beyond
While Zendaya’s film career soared, it was her performance as Rue Bennett in HBO’s “Euphoria” that cemented her place in television history. In 2020, Zendaya made history as the youngest woman to win the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series – a feat she repeated in 2022.
Her raw and emotional portrayal of Rue captivated audiences and critics alike, and the series continues to be one of HBO’s most-watched shows.
Building a Fashion and Business Empire
Zendaya’s influence isn’t limited to acting. Over the years, she has become a major force in the fashion world. She launched her clothing line, Daya by Zendaya, in 2016, and her red carpet looks consistently earn praise for their daring, sophisticated style.
Zendaya’s fashion endorsements include partnerships with Valentino, Lancôme, Bulgari, and Louis Vuitton. In 2023, she became an official ambassador for Louis Vuitton, adding yet another high-profile brand to her portfolio.
Zendaya’s success has allowed her to invest in real estate. In 2017, she purchased a $1.4 million home in Northridge, California. In 2020, she expanded her real estate holdings with a $4 million property in Encino, sitting on four acres. She also owns a luxury condo in Brooklyn worth $5 million.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Despite her busy career, Zendaya remains committed to philanthropy and social justice. She has supported numerous causes, including UNICEF, Convoy of Hope, and the American Heart Association. Zendaya also participated in the Women’s March and the George Floyd protests, using her platform to advocate for equality and justice.
Personal Life and Relationships
Zendaya’s personal life often garners as much attention as her career. Since 2017, rumors of her relationship with Tom Holland have made headlines. Though they kept things private for years, they were spotted together in 2021, confirming their relationship to fans.
Zendaya is also known for being a vegetarian and often speaks about her love for animals. She cites her vegetarian lifestyle as a personal choice rooted in compassion rather than a dislike for meat.
