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Zoe Kazan

Early Life and Education

Zoe Kazan, born on September 9, 1983, in Los Angeles, California, is an American actress, playwright, and screenwriter. She comes from a prominent family in the film industry—both her parents, Nicholas Kazan and Robin Swicord, are accomplished screenwriters. Her grandfather, Elia Kazan, was a renowned film and theatre director.

Related Biography: Tina Majorino

Kazan attended several private schools in the Los Angeles area, including Wildwood School, Windward School, and Marlborough School. She later enrolled at Yale University, where she graduated in 2005 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in theatre. While at Yale, she was a member of the Manuscript Society, a senior society known for its ties to arts and literature.

Early Career in Acting

Zoe Kazan made her film debut in 2003 with a role as Samantha in the independent film Swordswallowers and Thin Men. She continued to build her acting résumé with stage and television appearances, including an off-Broadway production of The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie in 2006 and a guest role on the television series Medium, which starred Patricia Arquette.

Playwriting and Screenwriting

In addition to her acting career, Kazan began to establish herself as a playwright. In 2009, she wrote Absalom, a play that premiered at the Humana Festival of New American Plays. Her work in theatre demonstrated her strength in storytelling and her ability to navigate complex character development through dialogue.

Breakthrough with Ruby Sparks

Kazan gained broader recognition in 2012 when she wrote the screenplay for the romantic comedy Ruby Sparks, a film in which she also starred alongside Paul Dano. The movie was well-received for its originality and insightful commentary on relationships and authorship, showcasing Kazan’s multifaceted talent as both a writer and an actor.

Film Roles and Continued Success

In 2009, Kazan appeared in the romantic comedy It’s Complicated, playing the daughter of Meryl Streep’s character. This role marked one of her most high-profile performances at the time and introduced her to a larger audience. Since then, she has appeared in various film and television projects, earning praise for her thoughtful and nuanced portrayals.

Personal Life

Since 2007, Zoe Kazan has been in a relationship with actor Paul Dano. The couple welcomed their daughter, Alma, in August 2018. Kazan and Dano have occasionally collaborated professionally, including on Ruby Sparks, and continue to maintain a strong presence in the independent film scene.


Quick Facts
Birth Date: 9 Sep, 1983
Age: 36 yrs
Citizenship: United States of America
Birth Place: Los Angeles
Education: Yale University
Gender: Female
Description: American actress, writer
Net Worth 2020: 3 million
Net Worth 2021: 3 million
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Last Modified: Nov 10 2025
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