Maya Hawke (born July 8, 1998) is an American actress, singer-songwriter, and model best known for her role as Robin Buckley in the Netflix science fiction series Stranger Things. The daughter of actors Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman, Maya has established herself as a multifaceted artist in her own right, building a career that spans acting, music, and modeling while actively working to step out of her famous parents’ shadow through authentic talent and artistic integrity.
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Maya Ray Thurman Hawke |
| Date of Birth | July 8, 1998 |
| Place of Birth | New York City, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Actress, Singer-Songwriter, Model |
| Years Active | 2017–present |
| Known For | Robin Buckley in Stranger Things, Do Revenge |
| Height | 5’8″ (173 cm) |
| Parents | Ethan Hawke (father), Uma Thurman (mother) |
| Education | Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), Juilliard School (briefly) |
Early Life and Background
Maya Ray Thurman Hawke was born on July 8, 1998, in New York City to two of Hollywood’s most acclaimed actors: Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman. Born into cinematic royalty, she grew up surrounded by the entertainment industry, film sets, and artistic excellence. However, her childhood was also marked by her parents’ highly publicized divorce in 2005 when she was seven years old.
Maya has one younger brother, Levon Roan Thurman-Hawke (born 2002), from her parents’ marriage. She also has two younger half-sisters from her father’s second marriage to Ryan Shawhughes: Clementine Jane (born 2008) and Indiana (born 2011). Additionally, she has a half-sister, Luna, from her mother’s previous relationship with financier Arpad Busson.
Family Background and Influence:
- Daughter of Ethan Hawke (actor, director, writer) and Uma Thurman (actress)
- Granddaughter of Buddhist scholar Robert Thurman
- Exposed to film, theater, and arts from birth
- Grew up between New York City and Los Angeles
- Surrounded by creative, intellectual influences
- Attended film sets and theatrical productions as a child
Despite the privileges of her background, Hawke has been candid about the challenges of growing up with famous parents, including intense public scrutiny, high expectations, and the pressure to forge her own identity. She has discussed struggling with dyslexia throughout her education, which affected her confidence and required significant effort to overcome.
Educational Journey:
- Attended Saint Ann’s School in Brooklyn, New York (progressive private school)
- Struggled with dyslexia, which impacted her academic experience
- Briefly attended Juilliard School (left after one semester)
- Studied at Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London
- Completed summer Shakespeare program at RADA
Hawke has spoken about feeling inadequate at Juilliard and deciding to leave, a decision that initially felt like failure but ultimately allowed her to pursue opportunities that were right for her. Her time at RADA provided classical training that would inform her approach to acting.
Early Career and Modeling
Before establishing herself as an actress, Hawke worked as a model, appearing in campaigns for major fashion houses.
Modeling Work:
| Year | Brand/Publication | Type |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | AllSaints | Campaign model |
| 2017 | Vogue | Editorial features |
| 2017-2018 | Various fashion brands | Runway and campaigns |
Modeling Career Characteristics:
- Worked with prestigious fashion brands
- Featured in major fashion publications
- Used platform to build name recognition independent of parents
- Transitioned focus to acting as opportunities arose
- Continues occasional fashion work
Her distinctive look—combining her mother’s elegance with her father’s unconventional features—made her attractive to fashion photographers and designers. However, Hawke has been clear that acting and music, not modeling, are her primary artistic passions.
Acting Career Beginnings
Hawke made her acting debut in the BBC miniseries Little Women (2017), playing the lead role of Jo March, one of literature’s most beloved characters.
Early Acting Work:
| Year | Project | Role | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Little Women | Jo March | TV Miniseries (BBC) |
| 2018 | Ladyworld | Olivia | Film |
Little Women (2017): Playing Jo March in this BBC/Masterpiece adaptation was a significant debut role, especially given the character’s iconic status. Following in the footsteps of actresses like Winona Ryder and Saoirse Ronan (who would play Jo in the 2019 film), Hawke brought intelligence and spirit to the role. The miniseries received positive reviews, and Hawke’s performance was generally well-received, though some critics noted she was still developing her craft.
The role was particularly meaningful as it represented a major opportunity to prove herself as an actress on her own merits, tackling a demanding literary character in a high-profile production.
Breakthrough with Stranger Things
In 2019, Hawke joined the cast of Stranger Things for its third season as Robin Buckley, Steve Harrington’s co-worker at the Scoops Ahoy ice cream parlor. The role would become her breakthrough and establish her as a star in her own right.
Character Profile:
- Robin Buckley: Sharp-witted, sarcastic, intelligent band geek working summer job
- Character traits: Quick-thinking, loyal, witty, brave, openly lesbian
- Key relationships: Best friendship with Steve Harrington, connection to Nancy Wheeler
- Evolution: From comic relief to crucial team member across three seasons
- Signature elements: Linguistic skills, sarcasm, band uniform, coming out scene
Character Development Across Seasons:
- Season 3: Introduction working at Scoops Ahoy, developing friendship with Steve, coming out as lesbian
- Season 4: Working at video store with Steve, helping investigate Vecna, deepening friendships
- Season 5: Anticipated conclusion (2025)
Cultural Significance of Robin: Robin’s coming out scene in Season 3, where she reveals to Steve that she’s a lesbian, became one of the most celebrated moments in the series. The scene was praised for its tenderness, humor, and emotional authenticity. Robin quickly became an LGBTQ+ icon and fan-favorite character.
Hawke’s Contribution to the Character:
- Improvised dialogue and added personal touches
- Worked with Duffer Brothers to develop Robin’s backstory
- Suggested elements of Robin’s personality and quirks
- Brought natural chemistry with Joe Keery (Steve)
- Helped shape coming out scene
Recognition from Stranger Things:
- Screen Actors Guild Award nomination for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble
- Saturn Award nominations
- MTV Movie & TV Awards nominations
- Critical acclaim for comic timing and dramatic moments
- Massive fan following and LGBTQ+ icon status
The role transformed Hawke from an emerging actress with famous parents into a beloved star with her own devoted fanbase.
Film Career
Following her Stranger Things success, Hawke has built an impressive film career mixing mainstream and independent projects.
Major Film Projects
| Year | Film | Role | Genre | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Ladyworld | Olivia | Thriller | Independent |
| 2019 | Once Upon a Time in Hollywood | Flower Child | Period Drama | Quentin Tarantino film |
| 2019 | Human Capital | Shannon Manning | Drama | Based on novel |
| 2020 | Mainstream | Frankie | Drama/Satire | Gia Coppola film |
| 2021 | Fear Street trilogy | Heather Watkins | Horror | Netflix trilogy |
| 2022 | Do Revenge | Eleanor | Dark Comedy | Netflix, lead role |
| 2023 | Asteroid City | June | Comedy-Drama | Wes Anderson film |
| 2024 | Wildcat | Flannery O’Connor | Biographical Drama | Directed by father Ethan Hawke |
Notable Film Roles:
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019): In Quentin Tarantino’s love letter to 1960s Hollywood, Hawke played “Flower Child,” one of the Manson Family members. Though her role was small, working with Tarantino and appearing in such a high-profile film raised her visibility significantly. The film won multiple awards and was a commercial success.
Mainstream (2020): In Gia Coppola’s social media satire, Hawke played Frankie, a young woman who becomes involved with a charismatic but unstable internet personality. The film explored themes of online fame, authenticity, and the dark side of viral culture—topics relevant to Hawke’s generation.
Do Revenge (2022): Hawke starred as Eleanor, a privileged student seeking revenge, opposite Camila Mendes in this dark comedy twist on Strangers on a Train. The Netflix film showcased her comedic abilities and leading lady potential. Her performance was praised for its sharp wit and vulnerability, and the film became a streaming success.
Asteroid City (2023): Working with auteur director Wes Anderson in his distinctive ensemble piece, Hawke joined an all-star cast in this quirky comedy-drama. Anderson’s meticulous style and unique storytelling provided a different creative challenge.
Wildcat (2024): Hawke took on the challenging role of writer Flannery O’Connor in this biographical drama directed by her father, Ethan Hawke. The film explored O’Connor’s life, work, and struggle with lupus. Working with her father in a serious artistic collaboration represented a significant personal and professional milestone.
Film Career Philosophy:
- Balance between commercial and artistic projects
- Interest in working with auteur directors
- Preference for complex, intelligent female characters
- Willingness to take creative risks
- Support for independent cinema
Music Career
In addition to acting, Hawke has pursued music seriously as a singer-songwriter, releasing albums and performing live.
Musical Releases:
| Year | Album/EP | Label | Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Blush (Singles) | Mom + Pop Music | Folk, Indie |
| 2020 | Blush (Album) | Mom + Pop Music | Folk, Indie Rock |
| 2022 | Moss | Mom + Pop Music | Folk, Singer-Songwriter |
| 2023 | Chaos Angel | Mom + Pop Music | Indie Rock, Folk |
Musical Style and Influences:
- Folk and indie rock sound
- Introspective, literary lyrics
- Influences include Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, Laura Marling
- DIY aesthetic and authentic expression
- Guitar-based arrangements with varied instrumentation
Musical Achievements:
- Critical acclaim for songwriting and lyricism
- Touring musician with live performances
- Music videos and visual presentations
- Collaboration with established musicians
- Featured in music publications and reviews
Hawke’s music has been praised for its literary quality, emotional honesty, and musical sophistication. Critics have noted that her songs feel personal and authentic rather than celebrity vanity projects. She writes or co-writes all her material and is actively involved in the creative process.
Notable Songs:
- “To Love a Boy”
- “Stay Open”
- “Coverage”
- “Thérèse”
- “Sweet Tooth”
Her music explores themes of love, identity, family, growing up in the public eye, and the complexities of young adulthood. The songs are often confessional and poetic, demonstrating literary sensibility inherited from her father’s writing background.
Relationship with Famous Parents
Hawke has been thoughtful and articulate about navigating life as the child of two famous actors.
Approach to Family Legacy:
- Acknowledges privilege while working to prove herself
- Open about pressure and expectations
- Grateful for opportunities but seeking independence
- Uses platform to discuss nepotism and privilege honestly
- Values artistic collaboration with parents
Professional Collaborations:
- Appeared in Wildcat directed by father Ethan Hawke
- Has discussed her mother’s influence on her approach to acting
- Values advice from both parents about navigating industry
- Maintains professional boundaries while appreciating family support
Hawke has addressed “nepotism baby” discourse directly, acknowledging her advantages while also defending her work ethic and talent. She has stated that while her name opened doors, she still had to prove herself once through them.
Advocacy and Social Engagement
Hawke uses her platform to advocate for various causes and engage with social issues.
Advocacy Areas:
- LGBTQ+ rights and representation
- Mental health awareness
- Climate change and environmental issues
- Women’s rights and reproductive freedom
- Dyslexia awareness and learning differences
- Arts education and accessibility
Public Engagement:
- Vocal support for LGBTQ+ community (given Robin character)
- Participation in climate activism
- Use of social media for awareness
- Support for various charitable organizations
- Engagement with political and social issues
Personal Life and Interests
Relationships:
- Generally private about romantic life
- Has been linked to various individuals
- Maintains boundaries around personal relationships
- Focuses public presence on work
Interests and Hobbies:
- Reading and literature (voracious reader)
- Writing poetry and lyrics
- Guitar and musical instruments
- Fashion and personal style
- Art and museums
- Spending time with family and friends
- Social activism
Hawke is known for being thoughtful, articulate, and intellectually curious in interviews. She frequently references literature, philosophy, and art, demonstrating the intellectual environment in which she was raised.
Fashion and Style
Beyond modeling work, Hawke has developed a distinct personal style that blends bohemian and classic elements.
Fashion Profile:
- Known for vintage-inspired, eclectic style
- Mix of high fashion and thrifted pieces
- Bohemian aesthetic with literary influences
- Red carpet risk-taker with unique choices
- Featured in fashion publications regularly
- Brand ambassador work with select companies
Her style reflects both her parents’ 1990s alternative aesthetic and her own contemporary sensibility.
Acting Style and Approach
Hawke’s approach to acting draws on her classical training and natural instincts.
Acting Strengths:
- Natural comic timing
- Ability to balance humor and pathos
- Intelligent character interpretation
- Strong presence and charisma
- Versatility across genres
- Authenticity and relatability
Preparation and Process:
- Character research and development
- Collaboration with directors and writers
- Drawing on literary and artistic references
- Physical and vocal preparation
- Improvisation and spontaneity
Awards and Recognition
Major Nominations and Awards:
- Screen Actors Guild Award nominations (ensemble)
- Saturn Award nominations
- MTV Movie & TV Awards nominations
- Recognition from film festivals for various projects
Critical Acclaim:
- Praised for Robin Buckley characterization
- Recognized for musical talent
- Acknowledged for intelligent role choices
- Featured in “rising star” and “ones to watch” lists
Net Worth
| Year | Estimated Net Worth | Primary Income Sources |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $1 million | Early acting work, modeling, Stranger Things S3 |
| 2021 | $3 million | Increased TV salary, films, music |
| 2023 | $5 million | Later seasons, Do Revenge, music tours |
| 2025 | $6-8 million (est.) | Final season, diverse projects |
Income Breakdown:
- Television Salary: Reported $200,000-300,000 per episode of Stranger Things (later seasons)
- Film Compensation: Lead and supporting roles
- Music Revenue: Album sales, streaming, touring, merchandise
- Modeling Work: Campaign fees and runway work
- Endorsements: Brand partnerships
- Family Trust: Potential inherited wealth (undisclosed)
Disclaimer: Net worth figures are estimates based on publicly available information, industry reports, and media sources. Actual net worth may vary significantly. These figures do not represent confirmed financial disclosures and should be considered approximate valuations. Net worth calculations include estimated assets, earnings, and investments but may not account for private expenses, taxes, investments, or undisclosed financial information.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Despite her relatively young career, Hawke has made significant cultural contributions.
Entertainment Industry Impact:
- Robin Buckley as groundbreaking LGBTQ+ representation
- Demonstration of “nepotism baby” succeeding through talent
- Multi-hyphenate artist model (acting, music, modeling)
- Support for independent and auteur cinema
- Authentic artistic voice across mediums
Influence on Youth:
- LGBTQ+ icon and role model
- Example of addressing privilege honestly
- Demonstration of overcoming learning disabilities
- Encouragement to pursue multiple artistic passions
- Authenticity over manufactured image
Future Projects and Aspirations
Career Goals:
- Continuing to balance acting and music
- Working with acclaimed directors
- Potential writing and directing
- More leading roles in film
- Expanding musical repertoire and touring
Upcoming Work:
- Stranger Things Season 5 (final season, 2025)
- Various film projects in development
- Continued music releases and performances
Complete Filmography and Credits
Television:
- Stranger Things (2019–2025) – Robin Buckley (Main Role, Seasons 3-5)
- Little Women (2017) – Jo March (Miniseries, 3 episodes)
Film:
- Wildcat (2024) – Flannery O’Connor
- Asteroid City (2023) – June
- Do Revenge (2022) – Eleanor
- Fear Street Part One: 1994 (2021) – Heather Watkins
- Mainstream (2020) – Frankie
- Human Capital (2019) – Shannon Manning
- Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019) – Flower Child
- Ladyworld (2018) – Olivia
Music Discography:
- Chaos Angel (2023)
- Moss (2022)
- Blush (2020)
- Various singles (2019-present)
50 Fascinating Facts About Maya Hawke
- Maya was born on July 8, 1998, making her a Cancer
- She was born in New York City to actors Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman
- Her middle name “Ray” comes from director Elia Kazan (born Elias Kazantzoglou, nicknamed “Gadge” and “Ray”)
- Maya’s parents divorced when she was seven years old
- She has one full brother, Levon, and several half-siblings
- Her grandfather is Buddhist scholar Robert Thurman
- Maya struggled with dyslexia throughout her education
- She attended Saint Ann’s School, a progressive Brooklyn private school
- Maya briefly attended Juilliard but left after one semester
- She studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London
- Maya worked as a model before focusing on acting
- She modeled for AllSaints and appeared in Vogue
- Her acting debut was as Jo March in BBC’s Little Women (2017)
- Maya joined Stranger Things in Season 3 as Robin Buckley
- Robin was originally supposed to be a love interest for Steve
- Maya and the Duffer Brothers decided to make Robin gay instead
- Robin’s coming out scene became one of the series’ most beloved moments
- She improvised some of Robin’s dialogue and mannerisms
- Maya appeared in Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
- She played a Manson Family member in the Tarantino film
- Maya has released three studio albums as a singer-songwriter
- Her debut album was Blush (2020)
- She writes or co-writes all her own songs
- Maya’s music has been compared to Joni Mitchell and Laura Marling
- She plays guitar and other instruments
- Maya has toured as a musician, performing live shows
- She starred opposite Camila Mendes in Netflix’s Do Revenge
- Maya worked with Wes Anderson on Asteroid City
- Her father Ethan Hawke directed her in Wildcat
- She played writer Flannery O’Connor in Wildcat
- Maya has been open about being a “nepotism baby”
- She acknowledges her privilege while defending her work ethic
- Maya is close with both her parents despite their divorce
- She has discussed learning from her mother’s approach to acting
- Maya is an avid reader and literature enthusiast
- She has cited literary influences on her songwriting
- Maya is vocal about LGBTQ+ rights and representation
- Robin Buckley became an LGBTQ+ icon
- Maya is close friends with her Stranger Things castmates
- She particularly bonded with Joe Keery (Steve Harrington)
- Maya has discussed overcoming dyslexia and learning differences
- She advocates for students with learning disabilities
- Maya has a distinctive, bohemian fashion sense
- Her style blends vintage and contemporary elements
- Maya is interested in climate activism and environmental causes
- She uses her platform for social and political advocacy
- Maya has expressed interest in directing someday
- She values working with auteur directors and independent filmmakers
- Maya hopes to continue balancing acting and music throughout her career
- She wants to be known for her own work, not just her famous parents
Disclaimer: This biography is based on publicly available information as of January 2026. Personal details, net worth estimates, and career information have been compiled from credible sources but may not reflect the most current developments or complete private information. All facts presented represent publicly known information and should be considered general knowledge rather than comprehensive personal disclosure.
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