Chloé Zhao's Biography

Chloé Zhao is a visionary Chinese-American film director, screenwriter, and producer celebrated for her authentic storytelling and unique cinematic voice. Born on March 31, 1982, in Beijing, China, Zhao moved to the United States as a teenager, pursuing her education at Mount Holyoke College and later earning an MFA from NYU's Tisch School of the Arts. She first gained attention with her debut feature, 'Songs My Brothers Taught Me' (2015), which premiered at Sundance and showcased her signature style of blending fiction with non-professional actors and real-life stories. Zhao's breakthrough came with 'The Rider' (2017), further establishing her as a distinctive voice in American independent cinema. Her critically acclaimed film 'Nomadland' (2020) swept major awards, including the Academy Award for Best Director, making her the second woman and the first woman of color to receive this honor. Zhao's passion for storytelling is rooted in her love of the American West, real-life narratives, and ordinary people. Known for her humility and avoidance of social media, she continues to inspire filmmakers worldwide. Zhao's estimated net worth has grown significantly in recent years, especially after her foray into blockbuster cinema with Marvel's 'Eternals.' She remains a powerful force in the film industry, breaking barriers and redefining cinematic storytelling.