Maria Zhang's portrayal of
Suki
in Netflix's live-action adaptation of
Avatar: The Last Airbender
has taken the internet by storm. As the fearless leader of the Kyoshi Warriors, an elite all-woman fighting group, Zhang brings a depth and intensity to the character that fans of the original Nickelodeon series have embraced. More importantly, the role is a significant milestone in Zhang's budding career, establishing her as a rising star.
The 24-year-old actress was born on August 8, 1999 in Poland and was raised in Beijing before moving to Southern California for college, speaks at least four languages. Her diverse background has contributed to her dynamic approach to acting, a skill she had an opportunity to explore through theatre productions in Poland. Her passion for the craft was ignited early, with roles in plays such as Alice in Wonderland sparking her love for performance theater.
The live-action adaptation has reignited interest in the beloved animated series, with Zhang's Suki playing a pivotal role in connecting new and old fans alike. Her character's brief romance with Sokka, portrayed with a balance of strength and vulnerability, has become a focal point for viewers, highlighting the importance of Suki's role within the narrative.