Zendaya aims to explore her Scottish roots with a trip to Dundee

In a recent statement, actress Zendaya expressed her desire to visit Dundee, Scotland, where her great-grandfather Douglas Whitelaw was born. The 28-year-old star, known for her roles in films like Spider-Man and Dune, has yet to travel to Scotland as she has been exploring her family roots from afar. Her mother, Claire Stoermer, revealed in a prior interview that Zendaya takes pride in her Scottish ancestry after discovering the heroism of her great-grandfather, who served as a World War One soldier. Whitelaw left Dundee at a young age for Canada, where he was injured in battle and eventually built a life. As Zendaya continues her successful career in Hollywood, her wish to visit her ancestral city reflects her commitment to understanding her family history. Zendaya's enthusiasm for her heritage coincides with increasing awareness among public figures about their cultural identities. She mentioned in interviews that wearing tartan holds special significance for her and her family, given their connections to Scotland. Moreover, the actress noted her interest in possibly playing a Scottish character someday but emphasized the importance of authenticity in doing so. The expression of pride in one’s roots is common among descendants of immigrants, and Zendaya’s aspirations mirror this universal longing. While her professional commitments have kept her in California, her desire to visit Scotland is a personal journey that she hopes to undertake soon. The impact of such visits often transcends personal fulfillment, fostering connections with the past and shaping current cultural narratives. The cultural connections that come with Zendaya's intended visit could also lead to a discussion about representation in Hollywood. Actors who embrace their heritage often inspire others to honor their backgrounds, potentially paving the way for more diverse storytelling in film and television. As she navigates her artistic journey, Zendaya appears poised to integrate her heritage into her evolving narrative as a performer.