Early Life and Education

Maya Ray Thurman Hawke was born on July 8, 1998, in New York City. Her parents, Uma Thurman and Ethan Hawke, met during the filming of the 1997 science fiction movie Gattaca. They married in 1998 and later divorced in 2005, after seven years of marriage.

During her early education, Maya was diagnosed with dyslexia, which led her to attend several different schools. Eventually, she enrolled at Saint Ann’s School in Brooklyn, New York—an institution known for its emphasis on creative expression and lack of traditional grading. The school helped foster her artistic inclinations, playing a crucial role in her development as a performer.

Acting Career and Net Worth

Maya Hawke began her professional acting career with a notable role as Jo March in the 2017 BBC adaptation of Little Women, appearing alongside Annes Elwy, Kathryn Newton, and Willa Fitzgerald. The performance received positive attention and marked her emergence as a promising young actress.

Hawke was also briefly considered for the lead role in a live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid. She was reportedly director Sofia Coppola’s choice for the film, but the producers preferred Chloë Grace Moretz. Creative disagreements led to Coppola's departure from the project, and Moretz later exited as well. The film was eventually re-envisioned without their involvement.

In 2019, Maya gained widespread popularity through her role as Robin Buckley in the third season of Netflix’s hit series Stranger Things. Her portrayal of a witty and resourceful teen who comes out as lesbian resonated with both audiences and critics, earning her praise for adding depth and nuance to the show’s cast of characters.

That same year, she appeared in Quentin Tarantino’s film Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, portraying a character known as Flower Child. While the film drew comparisons to other major releases of the summer, including The Lion King, it was praised independently for its direction, acting ensemble, and nostalgic take on 1960s Hollywood.

Personal Life and Public Image

Maya Hawke’s character in Stranger Things has made a significant impact, particularly among LGBTQ+ viewers who have appreciated the series’ inclusive storytelling. Her portrayal sparked public curiosity about her own identity, though Hawke has not publicly commented on her orientation, preferring to keep her personal life private.

While she generally maintains a low profile, Maya has shared glimpses of a close relationship with Gus Wenner, the son of Rolling Stone magazine co-founder Jan Wenner. The two have appeared in several social media posts together, often accompanied by subtle captions, such as emoji hearts, prompting speculation about their relationship. However, neither has confirmed the nature of their connection publicly.