Zendaya Names Ryan Coogler as Her Dream Director

Actress Zendaya has expressed a long-held desire to collaborate with director Ryan Coogler, citing a professional admiration that began with his directorial debut. During an appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show, the performer identified Coogler as the filmmaker she most wants to work with next.

Zendaya stated that she has felt this way for years, specifically since viewing Fruitvale Station, which she described as a beautiful and powerful film.

Shared Roots in Oakland

The connection between the two artists is rooted in their shared origins in Oakland, California. Zendaya noted that this local tie makes Coogler’s work feel more personal, particularly regarding the subject matter of Fruitvale Station.

The 2013 film depicts the events leading up to the 2009 death of Oscar Grant, a 22-year-old Black man who was fatally shot by Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) police officers. Zendaya mentioned that she remembers when the event happened because she is from Oakland.

He means so much to the world, but he means so much to us, too. I always joke, ‘I know I don’t know you, but I feel like you’re my cousin.’

Zendaya via The Jennifer Hudson Show

Zendaya further elaborated on this kinship, stating that Coogler sounds like her family and possesses a strong Oakland accent. Her support for the director extends beyond verbal admiration. following the 2018 release of Black Panther, she hosted a free screening of the film in Oakland for more than 300 local children.

Current Professional Trajectories

While both are at the peak of their respective careers, their current schedules may delay a potential partnership. Ryan Coogler is coming off a successful run with his film Sinners, which became one of the highest-grossing original films in recent years. At the most recent Academy Awards, Coogler won his first Oscar for Best Original Screenplay, while the film also secured wins for Best Actor (Michael B. Jordan), Best Cinematography, and Best Original Score.

Coogler is currently managing several high-profile developments, including a reboot of The X-Files for Hulu and a sequel to Black Panther.

Zendaya is facing a similarly demanding 2026. Her current and upcoming projects include:

• The Drama (A24), which opened in theaters on April 3, 2026
• Euphoria Season 3, premiering April 12, 2026
• The Odyssey, directed by Christopher Nolan
• Spider-Man: Brand New Day
• Dune: Part Three, scheduled for release on December 18, 2026

Due to the volume of releases scheduled for 2026, Zendaya indicated in an interview with Fandango that she intends to take a break after this wave of projects. She mentioned that she will be disappearing for a little bit to avoid the public becoming fatigued by her frequent appearances on screen.

Although no official project pairing has been announced, Zendaya’s public expression of interest establishes a clear desire for a future collaboration between the two Oakland natives.