Zelda Williams Emerges as Rising Director After Childhood in Spotlight

The daughter of the late comedian Robin Williams has carved her own path in entertainment, transitioning from acting to directing.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Zelda Williams, the daughter of the late comedian Robin Williams, has established herself as an accomplished actress, writer, and now rising director in the entertainment industry. Despite growing up in the public eye, Zelda has demonstrated her own talent and creativity, navigating a career that began in childhood and has evolved into a burgeoning directorial presence.

Why it matters

Zelda Williams' story highlights the challenges and opportunities of growing up as the child of a famous parent, as well as the resilience and determination required to forge one's own path in a competitive industry. Her transition from acting to directing also reflects a growing trend of women taking on more leadership roles behind the camera in Hollywood.

The details

Zelda Williams made her screen debut at age 5, appearing in projects like "In Search of Dr. Seuss" and "Nine Months" alongside her father. While her parents initially discouraged her from pursuing acting professionally until after high school, Zelda later landed a role in the 2004 film "House of D" directed by David Duchovny. She went on to act in television shows like "Teen Wolf" and lend her voice to animated series and video games. After the death of her father in 2014, Zelda found solace in writing and began transitioning to directing, helming music videos, short films, and eventually making her feature directorial debut with the 2024 horror-comedy "Lisa Frankenstein."

  • Zelda Williams made her screen debut at age 5 in 1994.
  • She appeared in her father's 1995 film "Nine Months."
  • Zelda landed a role in the 2004 film "House of D."
  • She began voicing characters in animated series and video games starting in 2014.
  • Zelda's father, Robin Williams, passed away in August 2014.

The players

Zelda Williams

The daughter of the late comedian Robin Williams, Zelda has carved out a notable career in the entertainment industry as an actress, writer, and director.

Robin Williams

Zelda's father, the late comedian known for his roles in films like "Mrs. Doubtfire" and "Good Will Hunting."

Marsha Garces

Zelda's mother, who was previously a nanny to Robin Williams' son before marrying the comedian.

David Duchovny

The director of the 2004 film "House of D," in which Zelda Williams had a role.

Diablo Cody

The screenwriter of the 2024 film "Lisa Frankenstein," which marked Zelda Williams' feature directorial debut.

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What they’re saying

“I didn't really grow up in the spotlight — we lived in San Francisco.”

— Zelda Williams (Variety)

“He wasn't around much when I was a kid.”

— Zelda Williams (People)

“I was fascinated by it early.”

— Zelda Williams (Entertainment Tonight)

“They wouldn't let me do acting or audition or even come to LA and take part in it until I was about 17.”

— Zelda Williams (Smashing Interviews)

“I started transitioning toward wanting to direct and wanting to leave behind acting around when Dad died.”

— Zelda Williams (Rolling Stone)

What’s next

Zelda Williams' feature directorial debut with "Lisa Frankenstein" is set to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2025, where it is expected to generate significant buzz and potentially lead to more high-profile directing opportunities.

The takeaway

Zelda Williams' journey from growing up in the shadow of her famous father to establishing herself as a rising director in her own right is a testament to her talent, resilience, and determination to forge her own path in the entertainment industry. Her story serves as an inspiration for others seeking to break free from the expectations and pressures of famous family ties.