The best Zendaya movies and TV shows display her evolution from a Disney star to a leading figure in Hollywood. From her early role in Shake It Up to her compelling performance in Euphoria and her significant contributions to major films like Dune, Zendaya has demonstrated remarkable versatility and depth as an actress.
This list highlights the pivotal projects that have defined her career, providing insights for fans and newcomers alike into her dynamic range and profound impact on the entertainment industry. Join us as we delve into the works that have cemented Zendaya’s status as a significant force in modern cinema and television.
10. Shake It Up (2010-2013)
Genre: Comedy, Family, Dance
Director: Various
Starring: Zendaya, Bella Thorne, Davis Cleveland, Roshon Fegan, Adam Irigoyen
Shake It Up was Zendaya’s breakout role, where she played Rocky Blue, a young dancer with big dreams. The show was a staple for young audiences and highlighted Zendaya’s early acting and dancing talents.
9. Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)
Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Director: Jon Watts
Starring: Zendaya, Tom Holland, Jake Gyllenhaal, Samuel L. Jackson, Marisa Tomei
Zendaya returned as MJ in this sequel, blending action with the complexities of teenage romance. Her character’s relationship with Peter Parker is a focal point, providing depth and charm to the adventurous plot.
8. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Director: Jon Watts
Starring: Zendaya, Tom Holland, Michael Keaton, Robert Downey Jr., Marisa Tomei
Spider-Man: Homecoming marked Zendaya’s first appearance as Michelle “MJ” Jones. Her portrayal added a unique and memorable touch to the Spider-Man narrative, enriching the film with her distinctive humour and presence.
7. The OA (2016-2019)
Genre: Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi
Director: Zal Batmanglij
Starring: Zendaya, Brit Marling, Jason Isaacs, Emory Cohen, Scott Wilson
In The OA, Zendaya appeared in a key supporting role that played into the show’s deep and mysterious storyline. Her performance was part of a larger ensemble that explored complex themes of reality and human connection.
6. The Greatest Showman (2017)
Genre: Biography, Drama, Musical
Director: Michael Gracey
Starring: Zendaya, Hugh Jackman, Zac Efron, Michelle Williams, Rebecca Ferguson
As Anne Wheeler, a trapeze artist, Zendaya showcased her physical and emotional range, especially in her duet “Rewrite the Stars.” The film’s success was enhanced by her dynamic interaction with the cast, particularly Zac Efron.
5. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)
Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Director: Jon Watts
Starring: Zendaya, Tom Holland, Benedict Cumberbatch, Jacob Batalon, Marisa Tomei
In her third Spider-Man film, Zendaya’s MJ becomes more integral to the plot, dealing with the fallout of Peter Parker’s identity revelation. Her performance balances the film’s action with deeper personal drama.
4. Dune: Part One (2021)
Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama
Director: Denis Villeneuve
Starring: Zendaya, Timothée Chalamet, Oscar Isaac, Rebecca Ferguson, Jason Momoa
In Dune: Part One, Zendaya’s character Chani begins to unfold her importance to the epic’s narrative, setting the stage for her more significant role in the sequel. Her performance was both haunting and compelling.
3. Euphoria (2019-)
Genre: Drama
Director: Various
Starring: Zendaya, Hunter Schafer, Jacob Elordi, Alexa Demie, Sydney Sweeney
Zendaya stars as Rue Bennett, a teen grappling with addiction and emotional turmoil. Her Emmy-winning portrayal anchors the show’s exploration of contemporary teenage life and its challenges.
2. Challengers (2024)
Genre: Drama, Romance, Sports
Director: Luca Guadagnino
Starring: Zendaya, Mike Faist, Josh O’Connor, Maria Bakalova, Lil Rel Howery
In Challengers, Zendaya plays a tennis player who navigates the complexities of her professional and personal life. Her deep, emotional performance and interactions with a talented ensemble cast enrich the film.
1. Dune: Part Two (2024)
Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama
Director: Denis Villeneuve
Starring: Zendaya, Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Stellan Skarsgård, Dave Bautista
Dune: Part Two sees Zendaya’s Chani taking a more central role, deeply involved in Arrakis’s unfolding drama and politics. Her expanded presence in this sequel cements her status as a key figure in this visually stunning and narratively rich franchise.
