Hey guys! Ever wondered what to watch if you're on a Zendaya binge? Well, you've landed in the right spot! We're diving deep into the amazing world of Zendaya, exploring her best movies and TV shows. Get ready to update your watchlist!

Zendaya's Early Career: Disney Channel Days

Zendaya Maree Stoermer Coleman, aka Zendaya, started her career with Disney Channel, capturing the hearts of many young viewers. Her early roles set the stage for her future success, showcasing her talent and charisma right from the get-go. These roles allowed her to hone her skills and build a strong foundation in the entertainment industry.

Shake It Up (2010-2013)

"Shake It Up" was Zendaya's breakthrough role, where she starred as Rocky Blue alongside Bella Thorne as CeCe Jones. The show revolved around two best friends who dream of becoming professional dancers and get their chance as background dancers on a local TV show.

The show was a massive hit among the tween and teen audience, known for its catchy songs, energetic dance sequences, and relatable storylines about friendship and pursuing dreams. Zendaya's character, Rocky, was portrayed as the more responsible and academically inclined of the duo, balancing her passion for dance with her studies and social life. "Shake It Up" not only highlighted Zendaya's acting and dancing abilities but also her singing talent, as she performed several songs for the show's soundtrack. The series ran for three seasons and helped solidify Zendaya as a prominent figure in the Disney Channel lineup, paving the way for her future roles and projects.

Frenemies (2012)

In "Frenemies," Zendaya played Halley Brandon, one of the three main characters in this Disney Channel Original Movie. The film follows three separate stories about the complexities and challenges of friendship. Zendaya's segment explores the dynamic between Halley and her best friend, Avalon Greene, played by Bella Thorne.

The story revolves around their friendship being tested when they both get the opportunity to start a web magazine, leading to rivalry and jealousy. The movie delves into themes of loyalty, competition, and the importance of communication in maintaining healthy relationships. Zendaya's portrayal of Halley showcased her ability to convey a range of emotions, from excitement and enthusiasm to hurt and disappointment, as she navigates the ups and downs of friendship. "Frenemies" allowed Zendaya to further demonstrate her acting versatility and appeal to a broad audience, solidifying her status as a rising star in the Disney Channel universe. The film was a success, drawing in millions of viewers and contributing to Zendaya's growing popularity and recognition.

Zapped (2014)

While not a starring role for Zendaya, she did make a cameo appearance in "Zapped", starring alongside her "Shake It Up" co-star, Bella Thorne. The movie follows Zoey Stevens, played by Thorne, a skilled dancer whose life is upended when her mother remarries, and she finds herself living with a group of messy, rambunctious boys. Zoey accidentally discovers a way to control the boys around her using a smartphone app, leading to comedic and chaotic situations.

Zendaya's cameo appearance added a fun element to the film, delighting fans of "Shake It Up" who were excited to see the duo reunite on screen. Although her role was brief, it highlighted her continued presence in the Disney Channel family and her willingness to support her friends and colleagues. "Zapped" was a popular movie among its target audience, and Zendaya's appearance served as a pleasant surprise for viewers, reinforcing her connection with Disney Channel fans. This cameo was a testament to her loyalty and camaraderie within the Disney community, further endearing her to audiences who had followed her career since her early days on "Shake It Up."

Transition to More Mature Roles

As Zendaya matured, she started taking on roles that reflected her growth as an actress. These roles allowed her to explore more complex characters and themes, proving her versatility and commitment to her craft. Her transition marked a significant shift in her career, appealing to a broader audience and earning critical acclaim.

K.C. Undercover (2015-2018)

In "K.C. Undercover," Zendaya starred as K.C. Cooper, a high school student who is also a trained spy. The series blends action, comedy, and family dynamics, as K.C. juggles her responsibilities as a spy with the typical challenges of being a teenager.

Zendaya not only starred in the show but also served as a producer, giving her more creative control and input into the series' direction. "K.C. Undercover" allowed Zendaya to showcase her physical abilities through action-packed scenes, as well as her comedic timing and acting range. The show addressed themes of family, friendship, and empowerment, resonating with its young audience. Zendaya's involvement as a producer demonstrated her dedication to creating positive and engaging content for young viewers. The series ran for three seasons and further solidified Zendaya's status as a role model for young people. It also provided her with valuable experience behind the camera, preparing her for future roles and projects in the entertainment industry. "K.C. Undercover" was a significant step in Zendaya's career, allowing her to transition from her earlier Disney roles to more mature and multifaceted characters.

Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017), Far From Home (2019), No Way Home (2021)

Zendaya's role as Michelle "MJ" Jones-Watson in the Marvel Cinematic Universe's "Spider-Man" trilogy marked a significant turning point in her career. In "Spider-Man: Homecoming," she was introduced as the quirky and observant classmate of Peter Parker, played by Tom Holland. Her character gradually evolved over the subsequent films, becoming an integral part of Peter's life and the Spider-Man storyline.

Zendaya's portrayal of MJ brought a fresh and modern twist to the character, deviating from previous interpretations while still capturing the essence of the intelligent and independent love interest. Her chemistry with Tom Holland was praised by audiences and critics alike, adding depth and authenticity to their on-screen relationship. The "Spider-Man" films catapulted Zendaya to international stardom, exposing her talent to a global audience and establishing her as a prominent figure in Hollywood. These films not only showcased her acting abilities but also her ability to hold her own in a large-scale, high-profile franchise. Zendaya's involvement in the MCU has undoubtedly broadened her reach and opened doors to even more opportunities in her acting career, solidifying her status as one of the leading actresses of her generation. The success of the "Spider-Man" trilogy has further cemented her reputation as a versatile and bankable star.

The Greatest Showman (2017)

In "The Greatest Showman," Zendaya starred as Anne Wheeler, an acrobat and trapeze artist who joins P.T. Barnum's circus. The film, a musical drama, tells the story of Barnum's creation of the Barnum & Bailey Circus and the lives of the performers who made it a success. Zendaya's character, Anne, is a talented and passionate performer who faces prejudice and societal challenges due to her interracial relationship with Phillip Carlyle, played by Zac Efron.

Zendaya's performance in "The Greatest Showman" was widely praised for her acting, singing, and acrobatic skills. She delivered a compelling portrayal of Anne's determination and resilience in the face of adversity. The film's soundtrack, featuring Zendaya's duet with Zac Efron on the song "Rewrite the Stars," became a massive hit, further showcasing her vocal talent. "The Greatest Showman" was a commercial success, grossing over $435 million worldwide, and it helped solidify Zendaya's reputation as a versatile performer capable of handling both dramatic and musical roles. Her involvement in the film broadened her audience and introduced her to a new demographic, proving her appeal beyond her Disney Channel roots. Zendaya's role in "The Greatest Showman" highlighted her commitment to taking on diverse and challenging roles, contributing to her continued growth and success in the entertainment industry.

Euphoria (2019-Present)

"Euphoria" is arguably one of Zendaya's most impactful roles to date. In this HBO drama series, she plays Rue Bennett, a teenage drug addict struggling with addiction, mental health issues, and navigating the complexities of adolescence. The series explores dark and mature themes, delving into the lives of high school students as they grapple with issues such as drugs, sex, identity, trauma, and social media.

Zendaya's portrayal of Rue has been critically acclaimed for its raw emotion, vulnerability, and authenticity. She has received numerous accolades for her performance, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, making her the youngest actress to win the award twice. "Euphoria" has allowed Zendaya to showcase her range as an actress, demonstrating her ability to tackle complex and challenging roles with depth and nuance. The series has also sparked important conversations about mental health, addiction, and the pressures faced by young people today. Zendaya's commitment to the role extends beyond her performance, as she has also spoken openly about her own struggles with anxiety and depression, using her platform to raise awareness and promote mental health advocacy. "Euphoria" has not only elevated Zendaya's career but has also solidified her status as a powerful and influential voice in the entertainment industry.

Malcolm & Marie (2021)

In "Malcolm & Marie," Zendaya stars alongside John David Washington in this black-and-white romantic drama. The film follows a filmmaker, Malcolm, and his girlfriend, Marie, as they return home after the premiere of his latest movie. The evening takes a turn as simmering tensions and unresolved issues between the couple come to the surface, leading to a night of intense emotional confrontations.

Zendaya's performance in "Malcolm & Marie" was highly praised for its depth and complexity. She delivered a powerful portrayal of Marie, capturing her vulnerability, intelligence, and inner turmoil. The film provided Zendaya with an opportunity to showcase her acting range in a more intimate and character-driven setting. "Malcolm & Marie" was notable for its minimalist production, with a small cast and crew, and it was filmed entirely in black and white, adding to its artistic and cinematic appeal. The film explores themes of love, relationships, ambition, and the challenges of communication. Zendaya's involvement in "Malcolm & Marie" demonstrated her willingness to take on challenging and unconventional roles, further solidifying her reputation as a versatile and talented actress. The film received mixed reviews overall, but Zendaya's performance was consistently highlighted as a standout, earning her critical acclaim and reinforcing her status as one of the leading actresses of her generation.

Upcoming Projects

Zendaya has several exciting projects on the horizon, including:

• Dune: Part Two (2024): Reprising her role as Chani.
• Challengers (2024): A sports drama where she plays a tennis coach.

Keep an eye out for these and other future projects that are sure to showcase her continued growth and versatility!

Conclusion

From her Disney Channel beginnings to her current status as a Hollywood superstar, Zendaya has proven time and again that she is a force to be reckoned with. Her talent, hard work, and dedication have made her a role model for many, and her future looks brighter than ever. So, what are you waiting for? Start watching!