In the realm beyond the silver screen, Zendaya and her real-life partner, Tom Holland, are more aligned with a surprising pastime, fondly dubbed as “Spider-Nan” by the pair, as they spent their evenings knitting cozy jumpers for their loved ones this Christmas.
In an exclusive conversation, the 27-year-old Hollywood actress shared her penchant for knitting: “People know I love to knit. I know it isn’t typically associated with someone of my age, but it’s become quite trendy, and I find it incredibly soothing.”
Zendaya, renowned for her role as Tashi Duncan in “Challengers,” revealed how she introduced Tom, also 27, to the joys of knitting. Together, they crafted jumpers for their circle during the holiday season.
Their bond began on the set of “Spider-Man: Homecoming” in 2016. Off-camera, Tom unveiled Zendaya’s dedicated stitching while filming “Spider-Man: No Way Home” in 2021, where she spent her time fashioning scarves.
Speaking of Zendaya’s crafting pursuits, Tom reflected on her presence on set: “I’d be engrossed in intense fight scenes, and there she was, observing, while I’d be bloodied and battling The Goblin. She’d simply be knitting.”
During a joint appearance on the Graham Norton Show in 2021, Zendaya expressed her fondness for the hobby: “I find it meditative. I enjoy engaging in small, meticulous activities that keep my mind occupied. I created scarves for everyone, considering it consumed most of my day.”
The couple confirmed their relationship in July 2021, spotted sharing a kiss in Tom’s £90,000 Audi sports car in Los Angeles. Despite Tom’s illustrious career with a Bafta and three Spider-Man films, he embraced Zendaya’s passion for knitting to impress her.
A viral TikTok snapshot of Tom knitting on a flight became a sensation, capturing the actor’s unexpected pastime. However, despite their Hollywood status, Zendaya highlighted a non-extravagant approach to gifts, admitting Tom’s frankness about gift returns.
Their home in Richmond, South West London, serves as their sanctuary, although Zendaya debunked the idealized Christmas scene, revealing their assertive nature in the kitchen.
Zendaya emphasized the essence of enjoying each other’s company in their relationship, reflecting on shared laughter, dance, song, and even impromptu Beyoncé jam sessions.
Despite her rise to fame at 14 through Disney’s “Shake It Up,” followed by prominent roles in “The Greatest Showman” and “Euphoria,” her role as Chani in “Dune” and the forthcoming sequel, alongside Timothee Chalamet and Florence Pugh, keeps her in the limelight. Yet, the intrigue surrounding “Spider-Man 4” persists.
Discussing the potential for the Marvel franchise’s return to theaters, Zendaya hinted at the poignant yet bittersweet ending of the last film. She revealed a glimmer of hope for the characters’ futures, teasing the possibility of a sequel. Meanwhile, Tom expressed his protective sentiment toward the Spider-Man character, emphasizing the need for the next film to honor the beloved hero’s legacy.
