Zendaya Maree Stoermer Coleman, born on September 1, 1996, in Oakland, California, is an Emmy-winning actress, singer, dancer, model, and activist. From her early beginnings on the Disney Channel to her acclaimed performances in Euphoria, Spider-Man, and Dune, Zendaya has proven herself as one of Hollywood’s most versatile and influential talents.
Quick Facts of Zendaya
| Full Name | Zendaya Maree Stoermer Coleman |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | September 1, 1996 |
| Place of Birth | Oakland, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Actress, Singer, Dancer, Model |
| Education | Oakland School for the Arts |
| Relationship Status | In a relationship with Tom Holland (as of 2024) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $20 million |
| Notable Works | Euphoria, Spider-Man franchise, Dune, The Greatest Showman |
| Major Achievements | Two Primetime Emmy Awards, CFDA Fashion Icon Award |
| Charitable Work | Supports UNICEF, Convoy of Hope, Black Lives Matter, mental health awareness |
Early Life and Family Background
Zendaya was born to Claire Stoermer and Kazembe Ajamu Coleman, the youngest of six siblings. Her name, derived from the Shona word “Tendai”, means “to give thanks,” reflecting her family’s deep cultural roots.
Her mother worked as a teacher and later as the house manager for the California Shakespeare Theater, exposing Zendaya to the arts from a young age. This early experience fueled her passion for acting and performance. Zendaya attended the Oakland School for the Arts, where she honed her skills in drama, dance, and music, laying a solid foundation for her future career.
Career Beginnings and Key Milestones
Zendaya started as a child model and backup dancer before landing her breakthrough role as Rocky Blue on Disney Channel’s Shake It Up in 2010. The show propelled her to stardom and showcased her acting and dancing abilities.
In 2017, she starred as Michelle “MJ” Jones in Marvel’s Spider-Man: Homecoming, solidifying her place in mainstream Hollywood. Zendaya’s role as Rue Bennett in HBO’s Euphoria earned her two Primetime Emmy Awards, making her the youngest actress to win in her category.
Other notable roles include The Greatest Showman (2017) alongside Hugh Jackman and Zac Efron, and Dune (2021), where her performance as Chani received critical acclaim.
Notable Works and Achievements
- Television: Shake It Up (2010–2013), Euphoria (2019–present)
- Films: Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017), Far From Home (2019), No Way Home (2021), The Greatest Showman (2017), Dune (2021)
- Awards: Two Primetime Emmy Awards, Critics’ Choice Television Award, CFDA Fashion Icon Award (2021)
Zendaya’s versatility and dedication to her craft have made her a favorite both on-screen and on the red carpet.
Current Relevance and Recent Updates
Zendaya continues to shine in Hollywood with upcoming projects like Dune: Part Two while maintaining her iconic portrayal of Rue in Euphoria. She has also become an influential voice in social justice, addressing racial inequality, mental health, and inclusivity in entertainment.
Her relationship with Tom Holland, her Spider-Man co-star, is widely celebrated for its authenticity and support.
Personal Life and Relationships
Zendaya keeps her personal life relatively private but credits her family for grounding her. She emphasizes humility, hard work, and balance despite her fame. Her long-term relationship with Tom Holland has drawn media attention, but she remains focused on her career and advocacy work.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
As of 2024, Zendaya’s net worth is estimated at $20 million. She earns income from:
- Film and TV projects
- Brand endorsements with Valentino, Lancôme, and Bulgari
- Her Daya by Zendaya clothing line
Zendaya owns a luxurious Los Angeles home and enjoys a high-end lifestyle while remaining dedicated to philanthropy and grounded values.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Zendaya is a vegetarian due to her love for animals.
- She authored a book, Between U and Me: How to Rock Your Tween Years with Style and Confidence (2013).
- Her first name is pronounced “Zen-DAY-uh,” a clarification she often shares.
- She started as a backup dancer in a Sears commercial featuring Selena Gomez.
Charitable Work and Legacy
Zendaya supports organizations such as UNICEF, Convoy of Hope, and the Black Lives Matter movement. Her advocacy for mental health and inclusivity in Hollywood demonstrates her commitment to leaving a lasting impact beyond entertainment.
Zendaya has redefined possibilities for young women of color in Hollywood, combining artistry, activism, and fashion influence into a singular legacy.
Future Plans and Impact on Culture
Looking forward, Zendaya has several major projects in the pipeline, including Dune: Part Two. Her influence extends beyond entertainment, as she continues to inspire conversations around representation, fashion, and social advocacy, solidifying her role as a cultural icon.
