Over a decade has passed since Zendaya dazzled on the ballroom floor during Dancing With the Stars Season 16, but the loss still lingers for the Emmy-winning actress and singer.
In an interview with W Magazine, the star opened up about her bittersweet experience on the reality competition, where she placed second to country music star Kellie Pickler.
“Listen, I’m still harboring a little animosity about that,” Zendaya confessed. “I felt that loss. I was only 16 years old, and it was highly stressful. Being on live television every week? It’s so scary. I took it very seriously, which, in retrospect, I wish I didn’t. I wish I’d enjoyed it a little bit more and just was like, ‘Eh, whatever.’ But I was stressing myself out. I really went through it on that.”
A Virgo Through and Through
The star also shared insights into her personality, rooted in her Virgo astrological sign. Known for their perfectionism and self-reliance, Virgos like Zendaya often take control of situations to ensure success. She admitted this trait showed up even during her school days.
“I actually got in trouble in class when I was a kid because it would be group projects and I would do all the work,” she recalled. “‘You guys are going to mess it up, so don’t worry, I’ll do everything.’”
Zendaya, however, finds solace and a release from her perfectionist tendencies through acting:
“It allows me the space to be less self-critical and try things,” she explained. “When I’m [Euphoria’s] Rue or when I’m [Challengers’] Tashi, for example, I can just be messy, let the instincts come, and not judge myself because I’m not judging them.”
Fashion as a Creative Outlet
Zendaya also discussed her approach to red carpet appearances, viewing them as opportunities to step into character.
“It’s an odd thing to get up in front of people and pose in a crazy outfit,” she said. “For me, if I create a character, it makes it feel less strange.”
From her groundbreaking roles in hit series like Euphoria to her red carpet dominance, Zendaya continues to channel her Virgo determination into every facet of her career—proof that even setbacks, like a Dancing With the Stars loss, can fuel growth and creativity.
