Maya Hawke: Key Facts About the ‘Stranger Things’ Star
Maya Hawke has captured the hearts of “Stranger Things” fans with her portrayal of Robin Buckley. Her character is known for her sharp wit and clever one-liners while working at Scoops Ahoy. As viewers become more intrigued by Hawke, many are eager to learn more about the actress beyond her on-screen persona.
Maya Hawke: A Legacy of Talent
Maya Hawke comes from a distinguished lineage in Hollywood. Her parents, acclaimed actors Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman, met during the filming of “Gattaca” in the 1990s. This artistic background shaped her early life, leading her to attend Saint Ann’s School in Brooklyn, known for its focus on arts and a non-traditional education approach.
Education and Early Career
Hawke’s journey in the performing arts took her to Juilliard, though she left before completing her training as acting opportunities began to arise. She also ventured into modeling, landing campaigns with renowned brands such as Vogue, AllSaints, and Calvin Klein. Notably, she worked with famed director Sofia Coppola for one of her ads.
In 2017, Hawke made her acting debut as Jo March in the BBC miniseries adaptation of “Little Women.” Her breakthrough role came in 2019 when she joined the cast of “Stranger Things” in season three. Her character, Robin, quickly became a fan favorite as she navigated friendships and challenges at the Starcourt Mall.
Trailblazer for LGBTQIA+ Representation
Robin Buckley’s character is significant as she is the first openly gay character in “Stranger Things.” Initially, the writers intended to create a romance between Robin and her coworker Steve Harrington. However, during filming, Hawke and the creative team decided to explore a different path, choosing to portray Robin as gay.
- Maya Hawke expressed pride in representing LGBTQIA+ identities on a mainstream platform.
- She noted the importance of authenticity in her character’s journey.
- Hawke emphasized how the decision to change Robin’s storyline felt like the “most obvious decision ever.”
Personal Life and Identity
Hawke identifies as queer but tends to keep the specific details of her personal life private. A 2023 profile highlighted her preference for maintaining ambiguity regarding her sexual orientation and relationships. Nevertheless, she has had public connections with men, including Gus Wenner, Tom Sturridge, and Spencer Barnett.
Since 2021, she has been in a relationship with musician Christian Lee Hutson, whom she met through their shared passion for music. He has been involved in her musical endeavors, further intertwining their artistic pursuits.
Maya Hawke continues to resonate with audiences through her work in “Stranger Things” and beyond. Her commitment to portraying complex characters and her advocacy for LGBTQIA+ representation highlights her impact on contemporary media.