Zendaya: Must-See Movies & TV Shows

Zendaya has captivated audiences with her incredible talent and versatility. From her Disney Channel beginnings to her critically acclaimed performances in dramatic roles, she has proven herself to be a true star. This article highlights some of Zendaya's must-see movies and TV shows, showcasing her evolution as an actress and her undeniable impact on the entertainment industry.

Early Success on Disney Channel

Zendaya's career took off with her roles on the Disney Channel, where she quickly became a household name among younger audiences.

Shake It Up (2010-2013)

Shake It Up was Zendaya's breakout role, where she starred as Rocky Blue, a talented dancer. The series followed Rocky and her best friend CeCe Jones as they pursued their dreams of becoming professional dancers on a local TV show. This role not only showcased Zendaya's dancing skills but also her comedic timing and ability to connect with viewers. The show's popularity helped launch her into the mainstream, setting the stage for future success.

Frenemies (2012)

In Frenemies, a Disney Channel Original Movie, Zendaya played Halley Brandon, one of the three main characters in interconnected stories about friendship. This role allowed her to explore different facets of her acting abilities, further solidifying her status as a rising star within the Disney universe.

Transition to Mature Roles

As Zendaya matured, she successfully transitioned into more complex and challenging roles, proving her range and commitment to her craft.

K.C. Undercover (2015-2018)

K.C. Undercover saw Zendaya taking on the role of K.C. Cooper, a high school math whiz who is also a spy. This series allowed her to showcase her action skills and further develop her comedic talents. Beyond her on-screen performance, Zendaya also served as a producer for the show, demonstrating her growing influence and business acumen.

Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017) & Sequels

Zendaya joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Michelle "MJ" Jones-Watson in Spider-Man: Homecoming. This role marked a significant step in her career, introducing her to a broader audience and showcasing her ability to hold her own alongside established actors. Her portrayal of MJ, a witty and unconventional character, has been praised for its unique charm and modern sensibility. She continued to play MJ in Spider-Man: Far From Home and Spider-Man: No Way Home, becoming an integral part of the franchise.

The Greatest Showman (2017)

In The Greatest Showman, Zendaya played Anne Wheeler, an acrobat and trapeze artist. This musical film not only highlighted her singing and dancing talents but also allowed her to explore themes of love, acceptance, and overcoming prejudice. Her performance resonated with audiences, further cementing her status as a versatile and compelling actress.

Euphoria (2019-Present)

Euphoria is arguably Zendaya's most transformative role to date. As Rue Bennett, a teenager struggling with drug addiction, she delivers a raw and powerful performance that has earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards, including two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. This role has allowed her to explore complex emotional landscapes and demonstrate her depth as an actress.

Malcolm & Marie (2021)

In Malcolm & Marie, Zendaya starred alongside John David Washington in this black-and-white drama that explores the complexities of a relationship. Her performance as Marie, a woman confronting her partner about their relationship, was praised for its emotional intensity and maturity. This role further solidified her reputation as a serious and accomplished actress.

Dune (2021)

Zendaya appeared as Chani in Denis Villeneuve's Dune, an epic science fiction film based on Frank Herbert's novel. While her screen time in the first film was limited, her presence was impactful, and she is expected to play a more significant role in the sequels. This role marks her foray into large-scale science fiction and further expands her repertoire.

Upcoming Projects

Zendaya continues to take on exciting and challenging roles, ensuring her continued presence in the entertainment industry. Fans eagerly anticipate her future projects, which promise to showcase even more of her incredible talent.

Zendaya's journey from a Disney Channel star to an Emmy-winning actress is a testament to her hard work, talent, and dedication. Her ability to seamlessly transition between genres and mediums has made her one of the most sought-after actresses of her generation. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to her work, there's no shortage of captivating performances to discover.