Zendaya has quickly become one of the most talented and versatile performers of her generation, captivating audiences across TV screens and movie theaters alike. From her early Disney Channel days to earning Emmy Awards and starring in blockbuster films, her career is truly impressive.
Whether you are a longtime fan or just discovering her work, this list covers the must-watch titles that showcase her incredible range and star power. Get ready to add some seriously great content to your watchlist.
1. Euphoria (2019-)
Winning an Emmy at just 24 years old is no small feat, and that is exactly what Zendaya did with her role as Rue Bennett in Euphoria. She plays a teenager battling drug addiction, mental health struggles, and complicated relationships.
The show does not shy away from heavy topics, but Zendaya handles every scene with raw, believable emotion. If you watch only one title from this list, make it this one.
Her performance is truly unforgettable.
2. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
Before MJ became a fan favorite, nobody quite expected Zendaya to steal scenes in a Spider-Man movie. Her portrayal of Michelle “MJ” Jones brought sharp wit and refreshing sarcasm to the MCU, making her stand out instantly.
This was her big superhero debut, and she absolutely nailed it. The chemistry between her and Tom Holland felt natural and fun.
It is a great starting point for fans who want to follow her Marvel journey from the very beginning.
3. Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)
MJ got a serious upgrade in this sequel. Zendaya’s character moves from the background to a much more central role, and the story is better for it.
Her relationship with Peter Parker deepens in a way that feels genuine and sweet.
Set against a backdrop of European locations, the film balances action and romance really well. Fans who loved MJ’s sharp personality in Homecoming will enjoy watching her character grow and take on a bigger part of the adventure.
4. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)
No Way Home turned the entire MCU upside down, and MJ was right in the middle of it all. Zendaya delivers some of her most emotionally charged Marvel moments in this film, especially toward the emotional ending.
The multiverse storyline brings surprises that genuinely shocked audiences worldwide. Her chemistry with Tom Holland reaches its peak here, making their scenes together some of the most touching in the whole trilogy.
It is a thrilling, emotional ride from start to finish.
5. Dune (2021)
Even with limited screen time, Zendaya left a lasting impression as Chani, a fierce Fremen warrior from the desert planet Arrakis. Her mysterious presence throughout the film kept audiences curious and wanting more.
Director Denis Villeneuve crafted a visually stunning sci-fi epic, and Zendaya fit perfectly into its world. Her scenes feel mythic and powerful, hinting at a much bigger role to come.
For fans of epic science fiction, this film is absolutely worth watching before jumping into Part Two.
6. Dune: Part Two (2024)
Chani finally gets her moment to shine in Dune: Part Two, and Zendaya absolutely delivers. Her character steps up as a voice of reason amid chaos, challenging the narrative in bold and unexpected ways.
Her dynamic with Timothee Chalamet’s Paul Atreides adds real emotional weight to the grand story. Critics praised her expanded role, and many fans consider this her most complex big-screen performance yet.
The film is a spectacular, thought-provoking continuation that rewards viewers who watched the first installment.
7. The Greatest Showman (2017)
Zendaya soars, quite literally, in The Greatest Showman. As Anne Wheeler, a gifted trapeze artist, she performed her own acrobatic sequences and showed off her impressive singing voice, making every scene she appeared in sparkle.
Her romance with Zac Efron’s character adds a heartfelt layer to the already dazzling musical. The film’s soundtrack became a massive global hit.
For anyone who loves musicals packed with energy, emotion, and jaw-dropping performances, this movie belongs at the top of the list.
8. Malcolm and Marie (2021)
Shot entirely in black and white during the pandemic, Malcolm and Marie is an intense two-person drama that relies completely on performance. Zendaya plays Marie, a young woman whose emotions unravel over the course of one long, turbulent night.
There are no special effects or action sequences here, just raw acting. She matches John David Washington scene for scene in a film that demands total commitment.
Fans who want to see Zendaya at her most dramatically daring will find this film deeply rewarding.
9. Challengers (2024)
Challengers marks a major milestone: it is the first film where Zendaya is billed as the true lead. She plays Tashi Duncan, a former tennis prodigy who pivots into coaching her husband while navigating a complicated love triangle.
Director Luca Guadagnino brings his signature style to the story, and Zendaya keeps up brilliantly. Many critics called her performance career-best.
The film is sharp, sexy, and surprisingly suspenseful. Sports fans and drama lovers alike will find plenty to enjoy in this one.
10. Shake It Up (2010-2013)
Every superstar has a beginning, and for Zendaya, it was Shake It Up on Disney Channel. She played Rocky Blue, a passionate dancer who dreams of making it big alongside her best friend CeCe, played by Bella Thorne.
The show was fun, energetic, and full of catchy dance numbers that kids absolutely loved. Looking back, you can already spot the natural charisma and comedic timing that would carry Zendaya to much bigger stages.
It is a nostalgic, cheerful watch that started it all.
11. K.C. Undercover (2015-2018)
K.C. Undercover gave Zendaya a chance to flex her action-comedy muscles in a big way.
She played K.C. Cooper, a math genius recruited by her spy parents to join secret missions, all while trying to survive high school.
The show blended humor, family dynamics, and genuine excitement in a way that kept fans coming back for three seasons. Many consider it her best Disney Channel project because it let her carry the show entirely on her own star power.
It is a seriously fun ride.
12. Space Jam: A New Legacy (2021)
Not many people expected Zendaya to pop up in a Looney Tunes film, but her voice work as Lola Bunny in Space Jam: A New Legacy was a delightful surprise. She brought energy and personality to the iconic animated character.
Voice acting is a completely different skill from on-screen performance, and Zendaya handled it with ease. The film is a playful, family-friendly adventure that shows off her versatility beyond live-action roles.
It is a fun addition to her filmography that younger fans especially will enjoy watching.
13. Smallfoot (2018)
Long before Dune made her a sci-fi icon, Zendaya was lending her voice to Meechee, a curious young Yeti in the animated film Smallfoot. The movie flips the classic Bigfoot legend on its head by telling the story from the Yeti’s point of view.
Zendaya also contributed to the film’s soundtrack, which added another creative layer to her involvement. It is a warm, clever animated adventure that works for all ages.
A lighthearted but charming entry in her growing list of voice acting credits.
14. The OA – Season 2 (2019)
The OA is one of the most unique and imaginative sci-fi series ever made, and Zendaya made a memorable appearance in its second season as a character named Fola. The show blends mystery, spirituality, and dimension-hopping in ways that are genuinely unlike anything else on television.
Her role may be smaller compared to other entries on this list, but it shows her willingness to take creative risks. Fans of bold, unconventional storytelling will find The OA completely absorbing.
A truly one-of-a-kind viewing experience worth exploring.
15. The Drama (2026)
Zendaya shows no signs of slowing down, and The Drama is one of the most anticipated upcoming projects on her roster. Set for release in 2026, the film has already generated serious buzz among fans eager to see what she takes on next.
Details remain limited, but given her track record of choosing bold and interesting roles, expectations are understandably high. Keeping an eye on this project is a must for any dedicated fan.
Her career trajectory suggests this will be another standout moment worth watching closely.