Madeline Zima Movies and TV Shows Life Madeline Zima is a versatile American actress known for her notable roles in both television and film. Throughout her career, she has portrayed a wide range of characters, captivating audiences with her talent and unique screen presence. From her early appearances in television sitcoms to her more mature roles in films, Zima’s career has been both diverse and impressive. Here’s a detailed look at Madeline Zima’s filmography, including her most significant movies and TV shows.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Madeline Zima was born on September 16, 1985, in New Haven, Connecticut. She began her career at a young age, making her first television appearance at the age of 10. Her early acting experience helped establish her as a child star, and her talent was quickly recognized in both the TV and film industries.
Madeline Zima Movies and TV Shows
| Movies | TV Shows |
|---|---|
| The Hand that Rocks the Cradle (1992) | The Nanny (1993–1999) |
| A Cinderella Story (2004) | Californication (2007–2014) |
| The Last Winter (2006) | Heroes (2006–2010) |
| Slums of Beverly Hills (1998) | Twin Peaks (2017) |
| The World’s End (2013) | The Mindy Project (2014–2017) |
| Criminal Minds: The Movie (2008) | Heroes Reborn (2015) |
| The Hot Chick (2002) | Chasing Life (2014–2015) |
| The Brothers Solomon (2007) | Weeds (2005–2009) |
Madeline Zima TV Shows
The Nanny (1993-1999)
Madeline Zima’s breakout role came when she was cast as Grace Sheffield, the youngest daughter of the Sheffield family, in the hit sitcom The Nanny. Zima was just eight years old when she landed the role, which made her a familiar face on TV. The series, which starred Fran Drescher as the titular nanny, became a cultural phenomenon, and Zima’s portrayal of the quirky, often sarcastic, Grace Sheffield was a major part of its success. She remained with the show throughout its entire run, earning recognition for her performance.
Step by Step (1991-1998)
In addition to her role on The Nanny, Madeline Zima also appeared in the popular family sitcom Step by Step. In this show, she portrayed a recurring character named Jennifer. This role allowed her to continue showcasing her comedic talent and gain even more popularity.
Heroes (2006-2007)
In 2006, Madeline Zima joined the cast of the popular NBC science fiction series Heroes. She played the character of Maya Herrera, a woman with the ability to cause deadly poisonous tears, and was featured in the second season of the show. Her portrayal added a complex and emotional element to the series, and her character’s storyline became an important part of the plot during that season.
Californication (2007-2014)
Madeline Zima’s career took a mature turn when she joined the cast of Californication, a dark comedy-drama that aired on Showtime. She played the character of Mia Lewis, a young woman who becomes romantically involved with the main character, Hank Moody (played by David Duchovny). Zima’s role in Californication earned her praise for her ability to play a provocative and complex character, showcasing her acting range.
Twin Peaks (2017)
Madeline Zima also appeared in the revival of Twin Peaks, the cult-classic series created by David Lynch. Zima’s character, who is involved in a mysterious storyline, added to the show’s surreal and enigmatic atmosphere. Although her role was brief, her appearance in Twin Peaks was a significant moment in her television career, aligning her with a show that is widely regarded as one of the most influential TV series of all time.
The Man in the High Castle (2015-2019)
In 2017, Zima was cast in the critically acclaimed Amazon Prime series The Man in the High Castle, a dystopian drama based on Philip K. Dick’s novel. She played Juliana Crain, a character involved in a complex, alternate history storyline. Her performance helped solidify her reputation as a skilled and versatile actress in dramatic roles.
Film Roles
Madeline Zima’s film career includes a variety of genres, ranging from drama to horror to comedy. Below are some of the notable movies in which she has appeared:
The Hand That Rocks the Cradle (1992)
One of Zima’s earliest film roles was in the psychological thriller The Hand That Rocks the Cradle. She played the role of Emma, the young daughter of a family that becomes the target of a manipulative and dangerous nanny (played by Rebecca De Mornay). This film was a commercial success and helped establish Zima as a promising young actress.
A Cinderella Story (2004)
In A Cinderella Story, Madeline Zima played the role of a popular high school girl named Shelby, who competes for the affections of the male protagonist. The film, which starred Hilary Duff and Chad Michael Murray, was a modern retelling of the classic Cinderella tale. Zima’s performance as a supporting character added a fun dynamic to the film.
The Big Time (2002)
Madeline Zima starred in this independent drama that explores the music industry and the pressures of fame. Her role in The Big Time helped showcase her ability to perform in more serious and dramatic roles.
Scream 2 (1997)
Zima also made an appearance in Scream 2, the sequel to the popular horror film Scream. In this film, she played a character named Rebecca, adding another genre to her range. Scream 2 became a huge hit, and Zima’s involvement in the film, albeit a small role, was part of her early career in feature films.
Fractured (2019)
In the psychological thriller Fractured, Zima played a supporting role alongside Sam Worthington and Lily Rabe. The film revolves around a man whose wife and daughter disappear in a hospital, and his quest to uncover the truth behind their disappearance. Zima’s role as a hospital worker adds to the eerie and suspenseful atmosphere of the film.
The Last Winter (2006)
Another notable film in Madeline Zima’s career is The Last Winter, a horror film that explores the devastating effects of global warming. Zima’s role added depth to the film, which delves into the psychological and environmental implications of climate change.
Conclusion
Madeline Zima’s career has been characterized by a diverse array of roles in both television and film. From her early days as a child star on The Nanny to her more mature and complex roles in shows like Californication and Heroes, Zima has proven to be a versatile actress who can handle a wide range of characters. With her ability to balance comedic, dramatic, and even thriller roles, she has built a career that spans multiple genres and continues to captivate audiences. As of 2025, Zima remains an active force in Hollywood, contributing to both television and film projects.