Zendaya’s K.C. Undercover Costars ‘Always Knew’ She Was ‘Special’: ‘Destined to Do This’ (Exclusive)

Zendaya’s rise to stardom was no surprise to those who knew her a decade ago!

The Disney Channel series K.C. Undercover, which aired from 2015 to 2018, introduced audiences to Zendaya as K.C. Cooper, a teenager recruited as a secret agent by her parents Craig (Kadeem Hardison) and Kira (Tammy Townsend). The show also starred Kamil McFadden and Trinitee Stokes as K.C.’s siblings, Ernie and Judy, with Veronica Dunne playing her best friend Marisa.

In celebration of K.C. Undercover‘s 10th anniversary on Jan. 18, 2025, Townsend, McFadden, and Stokes reminisced about their experience on the action-packed comedy and praised Zendaya’s exceptional talent.

Stokes shared that the cast “always believed” Zendaya would achieve success, crediting her “determination” and “vision.”

“Her drive and fresh perspective on the entertainment industry were evident from the start,” says Stokes. “We’re thrilled to see her shine.”

Townsend emphasized Zendaya’s versatility, highlighting her ability to tackle comedy, drama, and even singing and dancing.

In addition to starring in the series—her second Disney Channel project after Shake It Up—Zendaya took on a co-producer role. Executive producer Rob Lotterstein and Zendaya reworked the original concept, initially envisioned for a different family dynamic, says Townsend.

McFadden noted that Zendaya’s leadership and commitment to representation helped shape the show’s portrayal of a modern Black family.

“She balanced things well, making sure both sides were represented respectfully,” he says.

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