Hugh Jackman is no stranger to spotting exceptional talent. With a career spanning over three decades, the Australian actor has worked alongside some of the industry's finest. But there is one moment, in particular, that stands out as a humbling experience and a testament to a young actress's undeniable star power. That actress is Zendaya, and the moment occurred on the set of The Greatest Showman.
During a recent conversation with Bilt founder Ankur Jain, Jackman recalled his very first impression of Zendaya. He did not hesitate to acknowledge her immense potential. “I remember on day one saying, ‘This young woman is going to be the biggest star of her generation,’” Jackman shared. Coming from a performer who has headlined blockbusters like X-Men and Les Misérables, that statement carries significant weight. It wasn't just a passing compliment; it was a prediction that has proven to be remarkably accurate.
At the time of filming The Greatest Showman, Zendaya was still transitioning from her Disney Channel persona. She had starred in shows like Shake It Up and K.C. Undercover, but the musical drama set in the world of P.T. Barnum represented a major leap into more mature, cinematic territory. For Jackman, seeing her navigate that transition with such ease was a clear sign of what was to come.
The Humbling Take
Jackman's recollection didn't stop at his initial prediction. He went on to describe a specific incident from the first day of filming that left him both impressed and humbled. Zendaya, who played the trapeze artist Anne Wheeler, delivered a first take that Jackman found flawless.
“I pulled him aside and said ‘What are you doing, her first take was amazing,’” Jackman recounted, referring to director Michael Gracey. The director's response was unexpected and, for Jackman, utterly humbling. Gracey replied, “I know but I didn’t want to embarrass you or Zac so I thought I’d make her do more than one take.”
That moment perfectly encapsulates the level of talent Zendaya brought to the set. It wasn't just about her ability to act; it was about her ability to nail a scene on the very first attempt, leaving veteran performers like Jackman and Zac Efron feeling slightly upstaged. Jackman, known for his gracious and down-to-earth personality, took the comment in stride. But it clearly left a lasting impression, as he was recounting it years later.
Zendaya's Journey from Disney to Stardom
To fully appreciate Jackman's praise, it's important to look at where Zendaya was in her career when they worked together. Born in Oakland, California, she began her career as a child model and backup dancer. She gained prominence as a Disney Channel star, but she was determined not to be typecast. Roles in films like Spider-Man: Homecoming and the HBO drama Euphoria showcased her range and critical acumen.
Since then, Zendaya has become one of the most sought-after actresses in Hollywood. She won two Primetime Emmy Awards for her role as Rue Bennett in Euphoria, becoming the youngest actress to win the award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. She also won a Golden Globe for the same role. Her film choices have been equally daring, from the sci-fi epic Dune to the tennis drama Challengers.
Her trajectory has been nothing short of meteoric. Yet, as Jackman's story reveals, the foundation for that success was visible early on. It wasn't just about talent; it was about professionalism and an innate understanding of the craft. Zendaya's ability to deliver a perfect first take is not just a technical skill; it reflects a deep preparation and a natural instinct for storytelling.
Behind the Scenes of The Greatest Showman
The Greatest Showman was a passion project for Jackman, who had been trying to bring the story of P.T. Barnum to the screen for years. The film, a musical celebrating the birth of show business, was a huge box office success despite mixed reviews from critics. It won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for “This Is Me” and became a cultural phenomenon.
For Zendaya, the role of Anne Wheeler represented a physical challenge. She had to undergo extensive trapeze training to perform the aerial stunts that are a highlight of the film. In interviews, she has spoken about how this experience allowed her to see what her body could do and pushed her beyond her comfort zone. Jackman played a crucial role in that process, offering encouragement and support.
“Seriously, just imagine having an actor of Jackman's caliber hyping you up on set,” the original article mused. That support system, combined with Zendaya's own drive, contributed to a performance that stands out in the film. Her duet with Efron, “Rewrite the Stars,” is considered one of the film's most memorable sequences.
Perfect Takes: A Recurring Theme
Zendaya's knack for nailing a first take is not an isolated incident. The same thing reportedly happened while she was filming Christopher Nolan's upcoming epic, The Odyssey. According to recent reports, Zendaya performed so well on her first take that her co-stars Tom Holland and Matt Damon were jokingly jealous of the praise she received from the director.
This pattern suggests that Zendaya possesses an extraordinary level of craft and focus. It's not merely about memorizing lines; it's about fully inhabiting a character and delivering a performance that feels authentic from the very first attempt. Director Christopher Nolan, who is known for his meticulous approach, was reportedly impressed by her efficiency and skill.
Tom Holland, who is also Zendaya's real-life partner, and Matt Damon took the situation with good humor, acknowledging her talent. The fact that such accomplished actors were, in a playful way, envious of her ability speaks volumes about Zendaya's unique gifts.
What's Next for Zendaya
As Zendaya enters her “30, Flirty, and Thriving” era, she shows no signs of slowing down. She has four releases on the 2026 movie schedule, and many more projects are reportedly in development. From her work in blockbuster franchises to her performances in auteur-driven films, she continues to make bold choices that challenge her and excite audiences.
Her production company, which she runs with her team, is also developing projects, allowing her to have more control over the stories she tells. While she has already achieved so much, many industry insiders believe her best work is still ahead of her. The sky, as they say, is the limit.
Hugh Jackman's early prediction is looking more and more prophetic every day. Seeing a young star take on the world with grace, talent, and professionalism is a rare thing. And for Jackman, having witnessed it firsthand, it's a memory that serves as both a proud moment and a humbling reminder of the next generation's power.
Source: MSN News