It’s hard to imagine a world where the immensely talented Zendaya wasn’t a Hollywood household name. Yet, just before wowing audiences as MJ in *Spider-Man: Homecoming*, Zendaya faced a setback with Disney Channel’s hit musical franchise, *The Descendants*. Her tireless effort to land a role in the popular TV movie earned her multiple auditions, but ultimately, the role went to other actresses, such as Dove Cameron and Sofia Carson.
Cornelia Frame, the former VP of casting and talent relations at Disney, shared on the *Magical Rewind* podcast that Zendaya gave it her all. Frame reflected, “Zendaya did audition many times for *Descendants*. She really wanted it, and it just ended up not going her way. Now that I think about it, I’m like, ‘Would *Spider-Man* have happened right at that same time?’ It really is true. Things happen for a reason.”
Despite the rejection, Zendaya’s persistence and dedication paved the way for her breakthrough in Marvel’s iconic film. Her relative anonymity at the time was acknowledged by Marvel and Sony executives, including Kevin Feige and Amy Pascal, who were initially unfamiliar with her Disney background. Pascal mentioned in an interview with *Vogue*, “To be honest with you, neither Kevin Feige nor I knew who she was. She was wearing no makeup and dressed like a regular girl, and we were like, ‘Oh my God, she’s amazing. She has to be in the movie.’”
With *Spider-Man: Homecoming* premiering in 2017, Zendaya’s career soared to new heights. She soon starred alongside Hugh Jackman and Zac Efron in *The Greatest Showman*, showcasing her versatility and tenacity. Reflecting on her journey, she has expressed gratitude for her Disney roots, which provided her with foundational experiences and paved the way for her successful leap to the big screen.
What do you think of Zendaya’s journey from Disney Channel star to Hollywood icon? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let’s celebrate her incredible achievements together!
Source: Sarah El-Mahmoud
