Early Life and Family Background

Sadie Sink was born on April 16, 2002, in Brenham, Texas. Her father is a football coach and her mother is a math teacher. Raised in a large family, she has three older brothers and a younger sister. During her childhood, Sadie was captivated by Disney films and series, particularly High School Musical. Often reenacting scenes from the movie with her brother Mitchell, her enthusiasm for performance quickly became evident.

Recognizing her interest in acting, Sadie’s mother enrolled her in a community theater near Houston when she was seven years old. These early classes were crucial in honing her acting abilities and led to her first roles on stage.

Broadway Debut and Theatrical Training

Unlike many aspiring actors, Sadie made a rare early debut on Broadway. In 2012, she was cast in the revival of the classic musical Annie. To prepare for the production, she underwent vocal and dance training, which helped lay the foundation for her future in performing arts. Her stage experience in renowned theater productions provided her with a solid platform to transition into film and television.

Breakthrough Role in Stranger Things

Sadie’s major breakthrough came in 2017 when she joined the cast of Netflix’s critically acclaimed series Stranger Things. Cast as Max Mayfield, a tomboyish and strong-willed teenager, she first appeared in the show's second season. Although initially a guest role, her character quickly became a fan favorite, and she was promoted to a series regular by the third season.

The success of Stranger Things significantly amplified her visibility and earnings, with her per-episode compensation ranking among the top for young actors in television. Season 3, released on Netflix in July 2019, further cemented her widespread popularity and showcased her growing prominence in the entertainment industry.

Film Work and Influences

In addition to her work on television, Sadie Sink appeared in the 2017 drama film The Glass Castle, based on the memoir by Jeannette Walls. It was during this project that she developed a close bond with co-star Woody Harrelson and his family. Harrelson, a well-known advocate for sustainability, played a significant role in influencing Sadie’s decision to adopt a vegan lifestyle—an aspect of her personal values she remains passionate about today.