Maya Ray Thurman-Hawke, born on July 8, 1998, in New York City, is a multi-talented American actress, singer-songwriter, and model. As the daughter of Hollywood icons Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman, Maya has carved out her own path in the entertainment industry with a blend of grace and talent that is uniquely her own. From her early days in modeling to her breakout roles in film and television, Hawke’s career trajectory is a testament to her versatility and dedication to her craft.
Early Life and Education
Growing up in a family deeply entrenched in the arts, Maya was exposed to the world of acting and modeling from a young age. Despite facing challenges with dyslexia, she found solace and expression in the arts, attending Saint Ann’s School in Brooklyn, a private school known for its emphasis on artistic creativity. Hawke’s passion for acting led her to pursue summer studies at prestigious institutions like the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and the Stella Adler Studio of Acting in New York. She briefly attended the Juilliard School, leaving after one year to accept her role in the BBC adaptation of Little Women.
Modeling Career
Following in the footsteps of her mother and grandmother, Maya began her career in modeling, gracing the pages of Vogue and becoming the face of British fashion retailer AllSaints’ 2016/2017 collection. Her unique look and presence also caught the attention of Calvin Klein, for whom she modeled in a video campaign directed by Sofia Coppola.
Acting Breakthrough
Maya made her acting debut as Jo March in the 2017 BBC adaptation of Little Women, a role that showcased her ability to bring depth and nuance to classic characters. Her breakthrough came with the role of Robin Buckley in the Netflix science fiction series Stranger Things (2019–present), where her performance earned widespread acclaim. Hawke has since appeared in notable films such as Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019), Fear Street Part One: 1994 (2021), Do Revenge (2022), and Asteroid City (2023). Her choice of diverse and challenging roles reflects her commitment to exploring different facets of human emotion and storytelling.
Music Career
In addition to acting, Maya has pursued a career in music, drawing inspiration from folk artists like Leonard Cohen, Patti Smith, and Joni Mitchell. Her debut singles, To Love a Boy and Stay Open, were released in August 2019, showcasing her poetic lyricism and melodic sensibilities. Hawke’s debut album, Blush, was released in 2020, followed by her second album, Moss, in 2022. Her music career is a reflection of her artistic versatility and deep emotional resonance.
Personal Life
Despite her young age, Maya Hawke has established herself as a formidable talent in Hollywood. Her work in film, television, and music speaks to a creative spirit that transcends mediums. As she continues to evolve as an artist, Maya Hawke’s career is a beacon for young actors and musicians, proving that with passion and perseverance, it’s possible to carve out a unique path in the entertainment industry. With a promising future ahead, Maya Hawke is undoubtedly a name to watch in the coming years.
