Zendaya's Early Dive into the Surreal: A Reflection on 'The OA' and Beyond
If you’ve been following Zendaya’s meteoric rise, you’re probably familiar with her blockbuster roles in Dune and Spider-Man. But what many people don’t realize is that long before she became a household name, she dipped her toes into the surreal waters of The OA, a cult Netflix series that was canceled far too soon. Personally, I think this show is a fascinating footnote in her career—not just because it’s a wild ride through sci-fi and theology, but because it showcases a side of Zendaya that’s often overshadowed by her later, more mainstream work.
The OA: A Show That Defied Expectations
Created by Brit Marling and Zal Batmanglij, The OA is the kind of series that makes you question reality. It’s trippy, it’s mysterious, and it’s deeply philosophical. The story centers on Prairie Johnson, a woman who returns home after seven years of disappearance, now able to see after a lifetime of blindness. What makes this particularly fascinating is how the show blends elements of the divine with sci-fi tropes. Prairie, who insists on being called the OA (short for 'The Original Angel'), claims she was held captive in another dimension and needs to open a portal to rescue others. It’s a premise that’s equal parts baffling and brilliant.
One thing that immediately stands out is the show’s willingness to tackle big, existential questions. It’s not just about portals and angels—it’s about faith, identity, and the human desire to connect with something greater. From my perspective, this is what drew a small but passionate fanbase, including, oddly enough, members of the clergy. The show’s oblique storytelling might have been its downfall in terms of mainstream appeal, but it’s also what makes it so memorable.
Zendaya’s Role: A Puzzle Piece in a Larger Mystery
Zendaya appears in the second season as Fola Uzaki, a puzzle-solver who gets entangled in the show’s labyrinthine plot. Her role is brief—just three episodes—but it’s a pivotal one. What’s especially interesting is that this was one of her first dramatic roles, a far cry from her Disney days. If you take a step back and think about it, The OA was a bold choice for her at that stage in her career. It’s not the kind of show that guarantees stardom, but it does showcase her range as an actress.
What this really suggests is that Zendaya has always been drawn to complex, unconventional projects. Even as she’s become a box office juggernaut, she’s never shied away from taking risks. Her role in Euphoria, which came around the same time, further cemented her ability to tackle dark, emotionally demanding material. In my opinion, The OA was a stepping stone that allowed her to explore her dramatic chops before fully embracing roles like Rue Bennett.
The Show’s Untimely Cancellation: A Missed Opportunity?
The OA was canceled after just two seasons, leaving fans with more questions than answers. Personally, I think this was a missed opportunity. The show’s second season ends on a cliffhanger, with Prairie and her allies preparing to rescue captive angels in another dimension. There’s also an alternate timeline where Joe Biden became president in 2016, sentient psychic trees, and an online puzzle game tied to a haunted house. Yeah, it’s a lot to unpack.
What many people don’t realize is that The OA wasn’t just a sci-fi show—it was a cultural experiment. It challenged viewers to think beyond the confines of traditional storytelling. Its cancellation feels like a loss not just for fans, but for the medium itself. If you take a step back and think about it, shows like The OA are rare. They don’t play it safe, and they don’t cater to the lowest common denominator. They demand your attention, and in a world of binge-worthy but forgettable content, that’s a refreshing change.
Zendaya’s Evolution: From The OA to *Dune*
Zendaya’s journey from The OA to Dune is a testament to her versatility. What makes this particularly fascinating is how she’s managed to transition from niche, experimental projects to massive blockbusters without losing her edge. Her role in Dune as Chani is a far cry from Fola Uzaki, but both characters share a sense of mystery and depth.
From my perspective, Zendaya’s ability to inhabit such diverse roles is what sets her apart. She’s not just a star—she’s a chameleon. Whether she’s solving puzzles in a surreal sci-fi series or navigating the politics of Arrakis, she brings a level of authenticity that’s hard to ignore. One thing that immediately stands out is her commitment to her craft. She doesn’t just take roles; she transforms into the characters she plays.
The Broader Implications: Why The OA Still Matters
The OA might be gone, but its impact lingers. It’s a reminder that television can be more than just entertainment—it can be art. Personally, I think the show’s cancellation is a cautionary tale about the risks of innovation in an industry that often prioritizes profitability over creativity.
What this really suggests is that we need more shows like The OA. Not because they’re perfect, but because they challenge us. They push the boundaries of what storytelling can be. If you take a step back and think about it, the best art often comes from taking risks. The OA took those risks, and while it might not have paid off in terms of longevity, it left an indelible mark on those who watched it.
Final Thoughts: A Show Ahead of Its Time
As I reflect on The OA and Zendaya’s role in it, I’m struck by how ahead of its time the show was. It’s the kind of series that feels like it was made for a future audience—one that’s more willing to embrace ambiguity and complexity. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it connects to larger trends in entertainment. As audiences become more sophisticated, there’s a growing appetite for stories that don’t tie everything up in a neat bow.
From my perspective, The OA is a time capsule of sorts—a snapshot of a moment when television was still figuring out what it could be. And Zendaya’s involvement is a reminder that even the biggest stars have to start somewhere. Her journey from The OA to Dune is a masterclass in how to navigate the industry without losing your artistic integrity.
If you’ve never seen The OA, I highly recommend giving it a chance. It’s not for everyone, but for those who connect with it, it’s unforgettable. And if you’re a Zendaya fan, it’s a fascinating glimpse into her early career—a reminder that even the brightest stars have to start in the shadows.
