Shailene Woodley is a well-known American actress and environmental activist whose career spans television and film. Best recognized for her breakthrough roles in The Fault in Our Stars and Big Little Lies, Woodley has made a significant impact in Hollywood. As of 2024, Shailene Woodley’s estimated net worth is around $12 million.
Early Life and Family Background
Shailene Diann Woodley was born on November 15, 1991, in San Bernardino County, California, making her 32 years old as of 2024. She was raised in Simi Valley, California, by her parents, Lori (a school counselor) and Lonnie Woodley (a school principal). From a young age, she displayed a passion for acting and began modeling at just four years old. By the time she was five, she had already enrolled in acting classes. However, her journey was not without obstacles—at age 15, she was diagnosed with scoliosis and had to wear a back brace during high school. Despite this challenge, she pursued her acting career with determination.
Early Acting Career and Breakthrough Success
Woodley made her first screen appearance in 1999 in the television movie Replacing Dad. Following this, she had minor roles in shows like The District and Crossing Jordan. Over the years, she secured guest roles in popular TV series such as CSI: NY, Everybody Loves Raymond, and The O.C.
Her big break came in 2008 when she was cast as Amy Juergens in The Secret Life of the American Teenager. The show, which aired for five seasons until 2013, gained a strong following on ABC Family. Woodley’s portrayal of a teenager dealing with an unexpected pregnancy was widely praised, and she earned multiple Teen Choice Award nominations.
Hollywood Success and Blockbuster Roles
Woodley’s transition into films was marked by her role in The Descendants (2011), where she starred alongside George Clooney. Her performance earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actress and an Independent Spirit Award.
Her next big moment came in 2013 with The Spectacular Now, a film where she starred opposite Miles Teller. That same year, she was cast in the Divergent series as Beatrice “Tris” Prior, which propelled her into mainstream Hollywood. The first installment, Divergent (2014), was a box office hit, followed by Insurgent (2015) and Allegiant (2016). The franchise collectively grossed over $765 million worldwide.
During this period, she delivered one of her most memorable performances as Hazel Grace Lancaster in The Fault in Our Stars (2014), a film adaptation of John Green’s best-selling novel. The movie was a massive box office success, grossing over $307 million worldwide, and earned Woodley significant critical acclaim, further solidifying her position in Hollywood.
Television Success and Recent Projects
After a brief hiatus from films, Woodley returned to television in 2017, starring in HBO’s Big Little Lies alongside Nicole Kidman and Reese Witherspoon. She played Jane Chapman, a young mother and sexual assault survivor. The series was a commercial and critical hit, earning her an Emmy and Golden Globe nomination.
In 2018, she starred in and produced Adrift, a survival drama where she portrayed real-life sailor Tami Oldham Ashcraft. Her performance was widely praised, earning her the Rising Star Award at the Deauville Film Festival.
Her more recent projects include The Mauritanian (2021), where she starred alongside Jodie Foster and Benedict Cumberbatch, and The Last Letter From Your Lover (2021). She has also been involved in films like Girl Named Sue, After Exile, Misanthrope, and No Baggage, which are either in post-production or development.
Net Worth and Financial Success
As of 2024, Shailene Woodley’s net worth is estimated to be around $12 million. A significant portion of her earnings comes from her successful acting career, film royalties, and endorsements. She has also invested in various sustainability initiatives and supports eco-friendly businesses.
Activism and Environmental Advocacy
Beyond acting, Woodley is deeply committed to environmental activism. She co-founded the All It Takes foundation with her mother in 2010, focusing on educating youth on sustainability and leadership.
She was actively involved in protests against the Dakota Access Pipeline in 2016, during which she was arrested for criminal trespassing. This incident only strengthened her resolve, leading her to join Bernie Sanders’ political organization Our Revolution and work as an Oceans Ambassador for Greenpeace in 2019. She has traveled to the Sargasso Sea to study the impact of plastic pollution on marine life.
Personal Life and Relationships
Woodley has always maintained a private personal life, but in 2018, she confirmed a relationship with Australian-Fijian rugby player Ben Volavola. The couple parted ways in 2020. She was later linked to NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers, and in 2021, the two announced their engagement. However, by early 2022, the engagement was called off.
Currently, she is focusing on her career, activism, and personal growth, often sharing insights about mental health, sustainability, and holistic wellness with her followers.
Future Projects and Career Outlook
Shailene Woodley continues to take on challenging and diverse roles in both film and television. With multiple upcoming projects, she is poised to remain a significant figure in Hollywood while continuing her activism efforts. Whether she’s starring in a major motion picture or advocating for the environment, Woodley’s influence continues to grow.
Her ability to balance blockbuster films, independent projects, and activism sets her apart as one of the most versatile and impactful actresses of her generation. Fans can expect to see her in more compelling roles in the years ahead.