They Just Don’t Make Hollywood Stars Like They Used To
Back in cinema’s golden era, Hollywood stars were more than just performers; they were cultural icons. They graced magazine covers, fueled public fascination, and sparked the kind of buzz that now seems reserved for pop stars. Questions like “Who is she wearing?” and “Who is she dating?” were commonplace, as fans eagerly anticipated the next film release. This magnetic pull is increasingly rare in today’s entertainment landscape. Few can seamlessly blend the roles of “it girl” and “leading lady,” captivating audiences both on and off the screen. However, one name stands out in this modern era: Zendaya.
Zendaya: A Modern Icon
This weekend, Zendaya is nominated for Best Actress at the 2025 BET Awards, a testament to her captivating performances in films like Challengers, where she portrays the formidable tennis star Tashi Duncan, and the epic Dune, where she embodies the fierce desert-dweller Chani. Her role as Rue Bennett in HBO’s Euphoria has already earned her multiple Emmys and a Golden Globe, solidifying her status as a powerhouse in the industry.
While dazzling audiences with her acting, Zendaya has also evolved into a fashion icon, earning the CFDA Fashion Icon Award for her stunning looks at fashion shows, red carpets, and high-profile photo shoots. Her collection of accolades began with a Best Style win at the 2014 Radio Disney Awards, and she has since made history as the youngest two-time Emmy winner and the first Black woman to win the Emmy for lead actress in a drama series—twice. Yet, despite her fame, many actresses struggle to reach household name status. What sets Zendaya apart?
From Oakland to Stardom
Born Zendaya Maree Stoermer Coleman in Oakland, California, the now 28-year-old star began her acting and modeling career long before her breakout role on Disney Channel’s Shake It Up in 2010. Playing Rocky Blue, a quirky dancer, she balanced the challenges of childhood with the demands of a professional dance show. In 2015, she starred in KC Undercover, where she had more creative control over her character. While many child stars have faced difficulties transitioning to adult roles, Zendaya has not only defied this stereotype but also embraced her Disney roots.
In a candid conversation with fellow actress Carey Mulligan for Variety’s Actors on Actors, Zendaya reflected on her early career, acknowledging her Disney background while emphasizing her growth. “The thing is, I am [a Disney kid]. And to a degree, I am grateful for that,” she said. “It’s just kind of been this slow progression, and I am happy that it’s all been to prove it to myself and not to anybody else.”
The Art of Risk-Taking
How does an actress transition from Disney star to blockbuster royalty and indie darling? The answer lies in risk-taking. Zendaya’s magnetic presence was evident when she donned a Mugler cutout robot bodysuit on the red carpet for Dune: Part Two. This bold fashion choice mirrors her willingness to take on complex roles, such as the strung-out character in Euphoria, a stark departure from her earlier, more wholesome portrayals. Her confidence shines through in her latest role in Challengers, where she plays a complicated, fiery character embroiled in a love triangle.
A Bright Future Ahead
Looking ahead, Zendaya is set to star in another Spider-Man blockbuster in 2026 alongside her fiancé, Tom Holland. The couple’s engagement was marked by a stunning five-carat ring at the Golden Globes, epitomizing the quintessential Hollywood romance. Additionally, she has received the late Ronnie Spector’s blessing to portray her in a biopic and will take on the role of Athena in Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey.
Zendaya’s recognition as one of the industry’s Best Actress nominees at the BET Awards is just another milestone in a career defined by talent and versatility. As she continues to rise, it’s clear that we are witnessing the ascent of a true star. In an era dominated by internet celebrities and TikTok influencers, Zendaya stands out as a real, talented, and fashion-forward actress, reminding us of the Hollywood icons of yesteryear.
