Zendaya has praised husband and co-star Tom Holland for his dedication, professionalism and work ethic, saying his approach to every project has helped her become a better actor.
The pair attended the world premiere of Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey in London, where they were joined by a star-studded cast including Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Charlize Theron and Lupita Nyong’o.
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The upcoming epic fantasy action film is an adaptation of Homer’s ancient Greek poem The Odyssey, following the legendary journey of Odysseus, the King of Ithaca, as he attempts to return home after the Trojan War and reunite with his wife Penelope.
In the film, Matt Damon takes on the role of Odysseus, while Hathaway plays Penelope.
Tom Holland stars as Telemachus, the son of Odysseus, while Zendaya portrays the goddess Athena.
Robert Pattinson plays Antinous, Charlize Theron takes on the role of Calypso, and Lupita Nyong’o appears as both Helen of Troy and Clytemnestra.
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The project marks the first time Zendaya and Holland have worked together outside the Marvel Cinematic Universe, having previously starred together in the Spider-Man trilogy.
The pair first met while filming Spider-Man: Homecoming in 2017, where Holland played Peter Parker/Spider-Man and Zendaya portrayed Michelle “MJ” Jones. They returned for Spider-Man: Far From Home in 2019 and Spider-Man: No Way Home in 2021, with their characters' relationship becoming a major part of the franchise.
They will also reunite on screen later this year for Spider-Man: Brand New Day, the fourth instalment in the franchise, which will continue Peter Parker’s story following the events of No Way Home.
Last month, Tom Holland confirmed he is married to Zendaya in an interview with Esquire magazine, after months of speculation.
Speaking to Entertainment Tonight about working with Holland across multiple projects, Zendaya was asked what she had learned from him that helped her grow as an actor.
She replied: "I've learned so much from him but to me, it's just his work ethic. No matter what, he always gives so much to whatever it is, even if it's promoting to cast the crew."
"He makes sure he remembers everyone's name, shakes everybody's hand in the morning. That hard work, that dedication to your crew is so important."
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Holland’s commitment to his work has also extended into his personal life, with the actor maintaining his sobriety since January 2022.
The actor previously revealed that what began as an attempt to complete Dry January made him realise his relationship with alcohol had become unhealthy. Holland said his drinking habits were not the stereotypical Hollywood lifestyle, explaining that he would often drink alone in hotel rooms rather than socialising.
After initially challenging himself to prove he did not have a problem with alcohol, Holland decided to continue his sobriety permanently. He has since spoken about the positive impact it has had on his mental clarity, career and personal life, describing the period after reaching one year sober as one of the happiest times of his life.
Tom Holland. D Free Shutterstock
Holland’s decision has been widely viewed as another example of the discipline and commitment Zendaya highlighted when discussing his approach to his career and the people around him.
When Tom Holland was asked the exact same question by Entertainement Tonight, he gave an equally loving answer: "To be confident and be bold. She makes big choices when she plays characters."
"She's not afraid to create the characters and she does it on a way where they feel like real people. She makes big, bold choices. I think there are a few actors who can do it as well as she can, and I love watching her do it."
Tom Holland and Zendaya attend the Spider-Man Brand New Day photocall. Oscar Gonzalez Fuentes, Shutterstock
Directed by Christopher Nolan, The Odyssey is one of the most ambitious films of the year and marks the filmmaker’s take on one of the most famous stories in ancient literature. Nolan previously said he first encountered the story as a child and wanted to create an adaptation that allowed audiences to experience the epic tale in a fresh way.
The Odyssey is due to arrive in cinemas in July 2026.
