Zendaya on Child Stardom, Career Growth, and Embracing Adulthood in "Challengers

Zendaya Reflects on Career and Child Stardom

Zendaya, the acclaimed actress currently nominated for a Golden Globe for her role in "Challengers," has opened up about her complex relationship with child stardom.

Having begun her career at a young age on Disney Channel shows like "Shake It Up" and "Frenemies," Zendaya acknowledges the potential downsides of early fame. "I have a complicated relationship with the idea of child acting because I've seen it be detrimental to people," she shared with The Hollywood Reporter.

Despite the challenges, Zendaya expresses gratitude for her career path. "I'm so grateful that this is how it turned out. I wouldn't change it, but there are things that I wish I lived out privately, you know? Because you're figuring out who you are in front of the world."

Now 28, Zendaya actively seeks to cultivate hobbies outside of acting, including pottery and baking. She also recognizes the importance of playing roles that reflect her age and experience. "For so long I was playing a teenager, way past when I was one," she admitted. "Being able to play Rue [on HBO's 'Euphoria'] has been one of the greatest gifts of my life. But there comes a time when you've got to start playing your age and beyond. And it was a scary thing."

"Challengers," directed by Luca Guadagnino and co-starring Josh O'Connor and Mike Faist, provided Zendaya with the opportunity to portray an adult character in Tashi Duncan. This shift marks a significant step in her career trajectory, allowing her to explore roles that resonate with her current stage of life.