Los Angeles — Australian actress Samara Weaving, 34, continues her ascent in Hollywood with a string of high-profile roles, including a highly anticipated horror sequel and an upcoming action-comedy thriller. Known for her fearless performances in genre films, Weaving has solidified her status as a modern scream queen while embracing personal milestones, including her first pregnancy announced in late 2025. As she promotes two major projects premiering in early 2026, here are 10 key things to know about the versatile performer.

Samara Weaving
Samara Weaving
  1. Born in Adelaide, Raised Globally Weaving was born Feb. 23, 1992, in Adelaide, South Australia. Her family moved frequently during her childhood, living in Singapore, Fiji, Indonesia and Australia due to her father's diplomatic career. This nomadic upbringing exposed her to diverse cultures early on, shaping her adaptability and global perspective — traits that serve her well in an international film industry.
  2. Early Breakthrough in Australian Television Weaving launched her career in Australia with roles in popular series. She gained recognition for her work on the long-running soap opera "Home and Away" (2009-2013), where she played Indi Walker. The part showcased her dramatic range and helped her transition from local TV to international projects, laying the foundation for her move to Hollywood.
  3. Breakout Horror Role in 'The Babysitter' Weaving's U.S. breakthrough came with the 2017 Netflix horror-comedy "The Babysitter," directed by McG. Her portrayal of the villainous Bee solidified her genre credentials. The film's success led to a sequel in 2020, establishing her as a go-to actress for dark, comedic horror roles that blend gore with sharp wit.
  4. Iconic Performance in 'Ready or Not' Weaving achieved widespread acclaim in 2019's "Ready or Not," playing Grace, a bride thrust into a deadly game of hide-and-seek with her in-laws. The film's blend of satire, suspense and blood-soaked action made it a cult favorite. Weaving's physical commitment and ability to convey both vulnerability and ferocity earned her praise as a standout scream queen.
  5. Reprising Grace in 'Ready or Not 2: Here I Come' In 2026, Weaving returns as Grace in "Ready or Not 2: Here I Come," directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett (Radio Silence). The sequel premiered at SXSW in March 2026, with Weaving reuniting with co-stars including Elijah Wood, Sarah Michelle Gellar and Kathryn Newton. Despite being heavily pregnant, she attended a Los Angeles screening on March 16, 2026, at AMC The Grove, baring her baby bump in a peekaboo dress and reuniting with Margot Robbie.
  6. Starring in SXSW Double-Feature Weaving headlined a gory double-feature at SXSW 2026 with "Ready or Not 2" and "Over Your Dead Body," an action-comedy thriller directed by Jorma Taccone. The latter, a remake of the Norwegian film "The Trip," co-stars Jason Segel and follows a couple's romantic getaway that turns murderous. Weaving joined the SXSW premiere via FaceTime and cutout due to her pregnancy, but her involvement underscores her commitment to bold, genre-blending projects.
  7. Upcoming Crime Romance 'Carolina Caroline' Weaving stars in "Carolina Caroline," a crime romance set to premiere June 5, 2026. The film pairs her with Kyle Gallner and Kyra Sedgwick, promising a shift toward more dramatic territory while maintaining her edge in intense storytelling.
  8. Personal Life: Married to Jimmy Warden Weaving married screenwriter and director Jimmy Warden in 2019. The couple met on the set of "The Babysitter: Killer Queen" and have collaborated professionally. Warden's creative influence appears in her career choices, blending her horror roots with varied genres.
  9. Expecting First Child In late 2025, Weaving announced she is expecting her first child with Warden. The pregnancy has been highly visible in 2026 promotions, including a March ELLE Australia cover featuring an intimate, at-home photoshoot in white lace. Weaving has shared glimpses of her relaxed energy during this time, balancing motherhood preparations with a busy filming schedule.
  10. Embracing Genre Versatility and Future Aspirations Despite her horror reputation, Weaving has expressed interest in branching out. In a March 2026 Deadline interview, she described herself as a "scaredy-cat" growing up but now thrives in intense roles. She harbors "quiet dreams" of improv comedy and lighter projects. Her executive producer credit on "Ready or Not 2" signals growing involvement behind the camera, hinting at expanded creative control in future endeavors.

Weaving's 2026 marks a pivotal year: major releases, personal joy and continued genre dominance. With her blend of physicality, charisma and range, she remains one of Hollywood's most compelling rising stars, poised for even greater impact as she navigates motherhood and an evolving career.

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