Key Takeaways
- Zendaya says working with director Ryan Coogler is a long-time dream.
- She has admired his work since Fruitvale Station.
- The actress feels a personal connection to Coogler’s storytelling and voice.
- Zendaya also hinted at taking a break amid a packed 2026 release schedule.
Zendaya is one of Hollywood’s most in-demand stars — but there’s still one collaboration at the top of her wishlist.
During an appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show, the actress revealed that working with acclaimed director Ryan Coogler remains a long-standing dream.
“I would love to work with Ryan Coogler,” Zendaya said, explaining that her admiration for the filmmaker goes back years.
A Longtime Admiration
Zendaya shared that she has been inspired by Coogler’s work since his 2013 debut film Fruitvale Station, which starred Michael B. Jordan and told the real-life story of Oscar Grant.
“For years I’ve felt this way,” she said. “Since Fruitvale Station, because I thought that was such a beautiful and powerful film.”
Beyond his filmmaking, Zendaya expressed a personal connection to Coogler’s voice and perspective.
“He means so much to the world, but he also means so much to us,” she said. “I always joke, I’m like, ‘I know I don’t know you, but I feel like you’re my cousin.’”
She added that his authenticity and storytelling — deeply rooted in Oakland culture — are what make his work stand out.
A Busy Year Ahead
While Zendaya is looking ahead to dream collaborations, she’s also preparing for one of the busiest years of her career.
With major projects like Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Dune: Part Three, The Odyssey, and The Drama all on the horizon, the actress is set to dominate screens throughout 2026.
But with that level of visibility comes a bit of concern.
“I just hope people don’t get sick of me,” she admitted in a recent interview with Fandango.
Planning a Break
Despite her momentum, Zendaya hinted that she plans to step back after her upcoming projects are released.
“I really appreciate everyone who supports my career,” she said. “But I’ll tell you what — I’m disappearing for a little bit.”
The actress, who is engaged to Tom Holland, suggested she may take time away from the spotlight to recharge after an intense run of releases.
What’s Next
As Zendaya continues to expand her career across blockbuster franchises and prestige projects, her interest in working with visionary directors like Ryan Coogler signals a continued focus on meaningful, impactful storytelling.
For now, fans can expect to see a lot of her — before she takes a well-earned break.
