Noah Cameron Schnapp (born October 3, 2004) is an American actor who rose to international prominence for his portrayal of Will Byers in the Netflix science fiction horror series Stranger Things. His career launched in 2015 with dual breakthrough roles: voicing the iconic Charlie Brown in The Peanuts Movie and appearing in Steven Spielberg’s Oscar-nominated historical drama Bridge of Spies. Schnapp’s emotionally nuanced performance as Will Byers, a character deeply connected to the supernatural Upside Down dimension, has earned him critical acclaim and multiple awards, establishing him as one of the most talented young actors of his generation.
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Noah Cameron Schnapp |
| Date of Birth | October 3, 2004 |
| Place of Birth | Scarsdale, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Actor, Entrepreneur |
| Years Active | 2015–present |
| Known For | Will Byers in Stranger Things |
| Height | 5’8″ (173 cm) |
Early Life and Background
Born in Scarsdale, New York, to Canadian parents from Montreal, Schnapp grew up in Westchester County with his twin sister, Chloe. From an early age, he demonstrated a natural passion for performing arts, initially pursuing acting alongside his sister as a recreational activity. His exceptional talent was recognized early by his acting teacher, who recommended he transition to professional work at just eight years old.
Schnapp’s family provided strong support for his entertainment ambitions despite the challenges and uncertainties that accompany pursuing a career in acting at such a young age. His upbringing in the New York area positioned him well for access to auditions and industry opportunities, allowing him to develop his craft while maintaining connections to his Canadian heritage through his parents.
Career Beginnings
Early Professional Work (2014-2015)
Schnapp’s professional acting journey began with commercial work and smaller roles before his remarkable 2015 breakthrough year. At age 10, he secured two major projects that would simultaneously launch his career in both voice acting and live-action performance.
Major 2015 Projects:
- The Peanuts Movie – Voiced the lead character Charlie Brown in the animated feature film directed by Steve Martino, bringing the beloved comic strip character to life for a new generation
- Bridge of Spies – Played Roger Donovan, son of James B. Donovan (portrayed by Tom Hanks), in Steven Spielberg’s Cold War thriller that received six Academy Award nominations
These dual roles showcased Schnapp’s versatility as a young performer, demonstrating both voice acting capabilities and the ability to hold his own alongside established Hollywood talent like Tom Hanks in a prestigious Spielberg production.
Breakthrough with Stranger Things
Schnapp’s career-defining moment arrived in July 2016 when Stranger Things premiered on Netflix. Interestingly, he originally auditioned for the role of Mike Wheeler but was ultimately selected to portray Will Byers, a character who becomes the focal point of the series’ supernatural mystery in the first season.
Character Evolution
Will Byers presented unique acting challenges that evolved significantly across the show’s run:
- Season 1 (2016) – Appeared primarily in flashbacks and brief scenes as the missing boy whose disappearance drives the entire plot, requiring Schnapp to convey vulnerability and fear despite limited screen time
- Season 2 (2017) – Promoted to series regular, delivering a haunting performance as a boy traumatized and possessed by the Mind Flayer, showcasing his dramatic range
- Seasons 3-5 (2019-2025) – Continued to explore Will’s psychological connection to the Upside Down and his character’s journey as a gay teenager navigating identity alongside supernatural threats
In 2022, Schnapp publicly confirmed that his character Will Byers is gay, adding important LGBTQ+ representation to the series. His portrayal of Will’s nuanced emotional journey has been praised for its depth and authenticity, particularly in conveying the character’s struggles with identity, belonging, and trauma.
Critical Reception and Impact
Schnapp’s work on Stranger Things earned widespread critical praise for bringing emotional authenticity to a character described as “the boy who came back wrong.” The show’s ensemble cast, including Schnapp, has been recognized for creating one of television’s most compelling group dynamics. His character’s connection to the Upside Down became a central element of the show’s mythology, making Will Byers essential to the series’ narrative through its final fifth season in 2025.
Film Career Beyond Stranger Things
While Stranger Things remained his primary focus, Schnapp continued to pursue film roles that demonstrated his range as an actor.
Major Film Projects
| Year | Film | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | The Peanuts Movie | Charlie Brown (voice) | Lead role in animated feature |
| 2015 | Bridge of Spies | Roger Donovan | Spielberg-directed, Oscar-nominated film |
| 2016 | The Circle | Otis Copeland | Supporting role |
| 2017 | We Only Know So Much | Lucas | Independent film |
| 2019 | Waiting for Anya | Jo Lalande | World War II drama |
| 2019 | Abe | Abe | Lead role in culinary coming-of-age story |
| 2020 | Hubie Halloween | Tommy | Adam Sandler Netflix comedy |
| 2023 | The Tutor | Jackson | Psychological thriller |
These projects allowed Schnapp to explore different genres from historical drama to comedy, demonstrating his commitment to building a diverse filmography beyond his signature television role.
Business Ventures and Entrepreneurship
Beyond acting, Schnapp has demonstrated entrepreneurial ambitions through various business initiatives.
TBH (To Be Honest)
In 2021, Schnapp co-founded TBH (To Be Honest), a sustainable snack company focusing on eco-friendly hazelnut spread and peanut butter products marketed toward Gen Z consumers. The brand emphasizes clean ingredients, environmental consciousness, and transparent business practices, reflecting Schnapp’s personal values and connection to his generation’s priorities.
Business Highlights:
- Launched with sustainable packaging and ethically sourced ingredients
- Gained significant social media traction through Schnapp’s promotional efforts
- Expanded distribution to major retailers
- Positioned as a healthier alternative to traditional spreads
Social Media and Brand Partnerships
Schnapp has leveraged his substantial social media following—over 30 million followers on Instagram and significant presence on TikTok—to build brand partnerships and promote his business ventures. His authentic engagement style and relatable content have made him an influential figure among Gen Z audiences.
Awards and Recognition
Schnapp’s performances have earned him numerous accolades and industry recognition.
Major Awards and Nominations
Screen Actors Guild Awards:
- 2017: Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series (Stranger Things) – Won
- 2018: Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series (Stranger Things) – Nominated
- 2020: Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series (Stranger Things) – Nominated
Teen Choice Awards:
- 2019: Choice Summer TV Actor – Won
- Multiple additional nominations across various years
People’s Choice Awards:
- 2022: Male TV Star of 2022 – Won
Other Recognition:
- 2017: Young Artist Awards – Best Performance in a Digital TV Series (Nominated)
- 2018: Gold Derby TV Awards – Best Drama Supporting Actor (Nominated)
- 2023: Queerty Awards – Closet Door Bustdown – Won
Industry Honors
Schnapp has been featured on various “rising star” and “young influencer” lists throughout his career, recognizing both his acting talent and his impact on youth culture. His work in Stranger Things contributed to the show’s nominations for Golden Globe Awards and Emmy Awards, cementing the series as a cultural phenomenon.
Advocacy and Public Platform
Schnapp has used his visibility to support causes important to him and his generation.
LGBTQ+ Advocacy
After publicly coming out as gay in January 2023, Schnapp became an important voice for LGBTQ+ youth representation in entertainment. His openness about his identity, combined with his character Will Byers also being gay, created meaningful visibility for young queer audiences. He has spoken about the importance of authentic representation and the impact of playing a gay character on his own journey of self-acceptance.
Mental Health Awareness
Schnapp has discussed the challenges of growing up in the public eye and the importance of mental health support for young people in the entertainment industry. He has advocated for normalizing conversations about anxiety, stress, and the pressures of fame, particularly for child actors navigating the transition to adulthood.
Environmental Causes
Through his TBH brand, Schnapp has promoted environmental sustainability and conscious consumerism, encouraging his followers to make eco-friendly choices in their purchasing decisions.
Public Image and Influence
Social Media Presence
Schnapp has cultivated an authentic and engaging social media presence that resonates with Gen Z audiences:
- Instagram: 30+ million followers
- TikTok: Significant following with viral content
- Content style: Relatable humor, behind-the-scenes glimpses, business promotion, and advocacy
His social media strategy balances personal authenticity with professional promotion, creating content that feels genuine rather than manufactured. His TikTok videos, in particular, have gained millions of views through trending challenges and humorous content that showcases his personality beyond his acting roles.
Fashion and Style
Schnapp has developed a recognizable personal style that blends casual comfort with contemporary trends. He has appeared at major red carpet events for Stranger Things premieres and award shows, gradually evolving his fashion choices as he matured from child actor to young adult performer.
Noah Schnapp has built substantial wealth through his successful acting career, entrepreneurial ventures, and brand partnerships. His net worth has grown significantly as his career evolved from child actor to established young star.
| Year | Estimated Net Worth | Primary Income Sources |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | $1 million | Early Stranger Things seasons, film roles |
| 2020 | $2-3 million | Increased salary, TBH launch, endorsements |
| 2023 | $3-4 million | Season 4 salary, business ventures |
| 2025 | $4 million | Season 5 salary, TBH expansion, investments |
Income Breakdown
Acting Salary – Stranger Things:
- Season 1 (2016): $10,000-$20,000 per episode
- Season 2 (2017): $30,000 per episode, plus $60,000 success bonus
- Season 3 (2019): $250,000 per episode ($2-2.5 million for the season)
- Season 4 (2022): $250,000 per episode
- Season 5 (2025): $875,000 per episode (approximately $7 million for the final season)
Film Roles: Multi-project earnings totaling over $250 million in collective box office, with roles in Bridge of Spies, The Peanuts Movie, Hubie Halloween, and other productions contributing to his income stream
TBH (To Be Honest) Company:
- Generated $550,000 in revenue in first 10 months of operation (2021-2022)
- Raised over $300,000 in first 48 hours of crowdfunding campaign
- Expanded to 100+ stores on US West Coast by 2025
- Capital raise capped at $1.235 million through Republic platform
- In negotiations with major retailers including Whole Foods
YouTube Channel: Launched lifestyle channel in 2019, currently with 4.57 million subscribers generating additional revenue through ad partnerships and brand collaborations
Endorsements and Brand Partnerships: Major fashion and lifestyle brand collaborations contributing to overall earnings
TenderFix Partnership: Launched in collaboration with IHOP, expanding his business portfolio beyond TBH
Financial Strategy
Schnapp has demonstrated financial savvy by diversifying his income streams beyond acting. His TBH company represents one of the most innovative approaches by a young actor to build long-term wealth, focusing on sustainable products aligned with Gen Z values. By offering investment opportunities with a $50 minimum through Republic platform—believed to be the lowest minimum ever on the platform—Schnapp has created an inclusive investment model that allows his young fanbase to become stakeholders in his business ventures.
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.
Personal Life
Family and Relationships
Family:
- Twin sister: Chloe Schnapp (fraternal twin)
- Parents: Both Canadian, originally from Montreal
- Close family relationships maintained despite career demands
Schnapp has emphasized the importance of his family’s support throughout his career, crediting them with keeping him grounded despite early fame. His relationship with his twin sister has been particularly significant, with both siblings navigating childhood in the public eye together.
Education
Schnapp balanced his acting career with education through a combination of traditional schooling and accommodations for his filming schedule. He has expressed interest in higher education and continuing to develop skills beyond acting.
Friendships and Personal Interests
Schnapp maintains close friendships with his Stranger Things castmates, including Finn Wolfhard, Gaten Matarazzo, Caleb McLaughlin, and Millie Bobby Brown. These relationships formed during years of working together have become genuine friendships that extend beyond the show.
Personal Interests:
- Cooking and culinary exploration
- Sports and fitness
- Travel and experiencing different cultures
- Video games and pop culture
Legacy and Impact
At 21 years old as of 2026, Schnapp’s career trajectory demonstrates the successful navigation from child actor to mature performer—a transition many young actors struggle to achieve. His willingness to embrace his authentic identity while maintaining professional success has made him a role model for LGBTQ+ youth in entertainment.
Cultural Impact
- Representation: Provided meaningful LGBTQ+ representation both through his character and personal openness
- Gen Z voice: Emerged as an influential Gen Z figure bridging entertainment and entrepreneurship
- Streaming era success: Part of the generation that achieved stardom through streaming platforms rather than traditional media
- Child actor evolution: Successfully transitioned from child roles to more mature work while maintaining audience support
Schnapp’s decade-long journey with Stranger Things, from age 11 to 21, represents a unique coming-of-age experience documented on screen. His character’s evolution paralleled his own growth, creating a rare authenticity in his performance that resonated with audiences who grew up watching the show.
Complete Filmography
Television
- Stranger Things (2016–2025) – Will Byers / Jane Hopper (Recurring Season 1; Main Role Seasons 2-5)
- Liza on Demand (2018) – Evan / Trevor (2 episodes)
- Stranger Sharks (2021) – Himself (Shark Week special)
- Lip Sync Battle (2017) – Himself (Episode: “The Cast of Stranger Things”)
Film
- The Tutor (2023) – Jackson
- Hubie Halloween (2020) – Tommy
- Waiting for Anya (2019) – Jo Lalande
- Abe (2019) – Abe
- We Only Know So Much (2017) – Lucas
- The Circle (2016) – Otis Copeland
- Bridge of Spies (2015) – Roger Donovan
- The Peanuts Movie (2015) – Charlie Brown (voice)
Video Games
- The Peanuts Movie: Snoopy’s Grand Adventure (2015) – Charlie Brown (voice)
50 Fascinating Facts About Noah Schnapp
- Noah was born on October 3, 2004, making him a Libra in the zodiac
- He has a fraternal twin sister named Chloe who also pursued acting initially
- Both of Noah’s parents are originally from Montreal, Canada
- He grew up in Scarsdale, New York, in Westchester County
- Noah began acting at age eight after his teacher recommended he go professional
- His first major role was voicing Charlie Brown at just 10 years old
- Noah worked with Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks in his first major film role
- He originally auditioned for the role of Mike Wheeler in Stranger Things, not Will Byers
- Noah was only 11 years old when Stranger Things first premiered in 2016
- He had minimal screen time in Season 1 despite being central to the plot
- Noah was promoted from recurring to series regular for Season 2
- He performed many emotionally intense possession scenes in Season 2
- Noah learned Canadian French from his parents but grew up speaking English
- He is close friends with his entire Stranger Things cast, calling them family
- Noah publicly came out as gay in January 2023 via TikTok video
- His character Will Byers is also gay, creating meaningful parallel representation
- He co-founded the sustainable snack company TBH (To Be Honest)
- Noah has over 30 million followers on Instagram
- He has a highly successful TikTok account with millions of followers
- Noah is passionate about cooking and culinary experimentation
- He appeared in an Adam Sandler Netflix comedy, Hubie Halloween
- Noah has won two Screen Actors Guild Awards with the Stranger Things ensemble
- He was part of the show that helped establish Netflix as a content powerhouse
- Noah attended various schools while balancing his filming schedule
- He has expressed interest in attending university in the future
- Noah is an advocate for LGBTQ+ youth and representation in media
- He promotes environmental sustainability through his business ventures
- Noah has traveled extensively for filming and promotional tours
- He maintains a relatively private personal life despite public fame
- Noah grew up watching and being influenced by classic coming-of-age films
- He has spoken about the challenges of growing up in the public eye
- Noah’s TBH company focuses on hazelnut spread and peanut butter products
- He uses his platform to promote mental health awareness for young people
- Noah has appeared on multiple magazine covers and fashion features
- He worked on Stranger Things for nearly a decade, from ages 11 to 20
- Noah’s character became increasingly central to the plot as the series progressed
- He has done voice acting work beyond Charlie Brown
- Noah is active in supporting independent films and smaller productions
- He has discussed the emotional difficulty of saying goodbye to Stranger Things
- Noah’s social media content often features humorous, relatable Gen Z humor
- He has collaborated with various brands and promotional partnerships
- Noah attended major award shows including the SAG Awards and Emmy ceremonies
- He has been featured on “most influential teens” lists multiple times
- Noah’s entrepreneurial ventures reflect his generation’s values around sustainability
- He has participated in various charitable initiatives and fundraising efforts
- Noah documented much of his Stranger Things experience on social media
- He maintains close relationships with cast members Finn Wolfhard and Gaten Matarazzo
- Noah has expressed interest in exploring directing and producing in the future
- He balanced normal teenage experiences with international fame and recognition
- Noah’s journey on Stranger Things concluded with the show’s fifth and final season in 2025
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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