Top 10 Coolest Things About Zendaya

Zendaya has built one of the most versatile careers of her generation, moving seamlessly from Disney beginnings to prestige TV, blockbuster franchises, fashion power moves, and producer credits. She takes on complex leads, does serious stunt and performance training, and often steps behind the scenes to help shape the projects she’s in. Here are ten highlights that show how wide her range really is—and how intentionally she’s navigated it.

‘Euphoria’ (2019–) – historic Lead Actress Emmy wins

Zendaya stars as Rue Bennett, a teenager navigating addiction and recovery in the HBO drama ‘Euphoria’. For this role she has won two Primetime Emmys for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, becoming the youngest two-time winner in that category. Her performance helped push conversations about representation and addiction into mainstream TV. She has also contributed original music and collaboration performances connected to the series.

‘Spider-Man’ (2017–2021) – redefining MJ in the MCU trilogy

In Marvel Studios’ ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy, Zendaya plays Michelle “MJ” Jones-Watson opposite Tom Holland’s Peter Parker. Her version of MJ is a fresh take, introduced as a classmate whose role expands into a central partner across the three films. The trilogy became one of the defining box-office stories of recent superhero cinema. Her MJ is now a core character in the wider Marvel Cinematic Universe continuity.

‘Dune’ (2021–2024) – leading a sci-fi epic as Chani

Denis Villeneuve’s adaptation of ‘Dune’ cast Zendaya as Chani, a Fremen fighter and key figure in Paul Atreides’ journey. After a brief introduction, her role expanded into a primary lead as the saga continued. The films combined large-scale desert production, practical effects, and IMAX photography, with Zendaya’s character anchoring much of the cultural and political perspective of Arrakis. Her portrayal connected the story’s personal arc with its broader themes of power and survival.

‘Challengers’ (2024) – star and producer with elite tennis prep

Zendaya headlines ‘Challengers’ as Tashi Duncan, a former prodigy turned coach in a high-stakes love triangle set against pro tennis. She also served as a producer, contributing to creative decisions beyond acting. For authenticity, she trained intensively with renowned coach Brad Gilbert to nail the movement and on-court details. The film pairs character drama with technically precise sports choreography.

‘The Greatest Showman’ (2017) – doing her own aerial work

In the musical ‘The Greatest Showman’, Zendaya plays trapeze artist Anne Wheeler. She trained extensively in aerial silks and performed demanding wire-assisted sequences that required strength, timing, and choreography. The film’s soundtrack features her standout duet “Rewrite the Stars,” performed with Zac Efron. Her work blended acting, singing, and stunt performance within a single role.

‘K.C. Undercover’ (2015–2018) – shaping a Disney lead on and off screen

Zendaya starred as K.C. Cooper, a math-savvy teen spy, in the Disney Channel series ‘K.C. Undercover’. She used her leverage to help shape the project—advocating for her character’s intelligence, her family’s portrayal, and diverse representation across the cast. She also took on a producer role, gaining early experience behind the camera. The series became a bridge from child actor to multifaceted young adult lead.

‘Shake It Up’ (2010–2013) – breakout that built performance chops

Zendaya’s first major role was Rocky Blue in Disney Channel’s dance-centric sitcom ‘Shake It Up’. The show combined comedy with choreographed numbers, giving her sustained training in performance, timing, and stage presence. It also introduced her to a global audience and opened doors to music collaborations. This foundation later supported her transition into dramatic and action-driven roles.

‘Malcolm & Marie’ (2021) – a contained, black-and-white two-hander

Zendaya co-stars in ‘Malcolm & Marie’, a tightly focused drama shot in black and white. The production was mounted with a small crew under strict safety protocols, emphasizing dialogue, performance, and craft. She also took on a producer role, aligning creative choices with the film’s intimate scope. The project spotlighted her ability to carry a film built almost entirely on character dynamics.

‘Space Jam: A New Legacy’ (2021) – voicing an iconic character

Zendaya voices Lola Bunny in ‘Space Jam: A New Legacy’, joining a hybrid live-action and animated feature anchored by the Looney Tunes ensemble. Voice acting required a different toolset—expressing physicality and humor purely through vocal performance. Her casting refreshed a well-known character for a new generation. The film expanded her portfolio into family-focused animation and franchise storytelling.

‘Smallfoot’ (2018) – animated musical chops as Meechee

In the animated feature ‘Smallfoot’, Zendaya voices Meechee, contributing both character work and musical performance. The role added to her track record of switching between live-action and voice projects. It also showed her ability to deliver songs and character beats that connect with younger audiences. The film’s success reinforced her versatility across formats and genres.

Share your favorite Zendaya moment—or a role you think deserves more love—in the comments!