From Sweet Valley High To Hollywood Comeback: Cynthia Daniel's Complete Movies And TV Shows List (Updated 2025)

Cynthia Daniel, the beloved actress who defined a generation as Elizabeth Wakefield on the iconic '90s teen drama Sweet Valley High, has had one of the most intriguing career trajectories in Hollywood. While she famously stepped away from the spotlight to pursue a private life and a new professional passion, her recent return to acting confirms that her story is far from over.

As of late December 2025, fans are continually searching for updates on her filmography, which includes a surprising 2022 movie appearance alongside her twin sister, Brittany Daniel. This deep dive explores Cynthia Daniel's full list of movies and TV shows, detailing the roles that made her a star and the new creative path she has forged as a professional photographer.

Cynthia Daniel: Full Biography and Profile

Cynthia Daniel, born on March 15, 1976, first captured public attention with her identical twin sister, Brittany Daniel, as child models. Their striking looks and natural on-screen chemistry quickly paved the way for an acting career that would peak in the mid-1990s. After retiring from full-time acting, Cynthia transitioned into a highly successful career behind the lens.

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• Full Name: Cynthia Lynn Daniel
• Date of Birth: March 15, 1976
• Place of Birth: Gainesville, Florida, U.S.
• Twin Sister: Brittany Daniel (Actress, known for *Sweet Valley High* and *White Chicks*)
• Spouse: Cole Hauser (Actor, known for *Yellowstone*)
• Children: Three (Two sons and one daughter)
• Known For: Playing Elizabeth Wakefield in the TV series *Sweet Valley High* (1994–1997)
• Current Profession: Professional Photographer
• Photography Business: Five Arrows Photography (also operates under Cynthia Daniel Wolf Photography)

The Definitive Cynthia Daniel Movies and TV Shows Filmography

Cynthia Daniel’s acting career, though relatively short compared to some of her peers, is memorable for featuring one of the most iconic roles of the 1990s. Her filmography includes a mix of television guest spots, a major teen drama lead, a critically acclaimed film, and a recent, highly-publicized cameo.

1. Sweet Valley High (TV Series, 1994–1997)

This is, without a doubt, the role that cemented Cynthia Daniel as a pop culture icon. Based on the book series by Francine Pascal, Cynthia played the responsible, level-headed twin, Elizabeth Wakefield.

Her twin sister, Brittany Daniel, played the fun-loving, impulsive twin, Jessica Wakefield. The show, which ran for four seasons, chronicled the lives, loves, and drama of the identical twin sisters in the fictional town of Sweet Valley, California. Cynthia’s portrayal of Elizabeth, the aspiring journalist, resonated deeply with millions of young viewers.

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2. The Basketball Diaries (Movie, 1995)

In a significant shift from the sunny world of Sweet Valley, Cynthia took on a minor role in the gritty drama film *The Basketball Diaries*.

The movie, which starred Leonardo DiCaprio and Mark Wahlberg, was based on the autobiographical novel by Jim Carroll. Cynthia played the character named Winkie, marking her most notable feature film appearance during her primary acting career.

3. Cheaper by the Dozen (Movie, 2022)

After a two-decade hiatus from significant acting roles, Cynthia made a delightful, uncredited cameo in the 2022 Disney+ remake of *Cheaper by the Dozen*.

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She and her sister, Brittany Daniel, appeared together as "The Daniels" in a scene, a clear nod to their twin status and a treat for long-time fans of the Wakefield sisters. This brief appearance reignited public interest in her career and marked her return to the screen, even if only for a moment.

4. Early and Guest Television Roles

Before and during her *Sweet Valley High* run, Cynthia made a few other television appearances, primarily in guest roles. These credits showcase the beginning of her professional journey in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

• The New Leave It to Beaver (1989): Cynthia had a small role as Zorigna #2 in the revival of the classic sitcom.
• Burke's Law (1994): She appeared in a single episode of this detective series, playing a character named Jenny.
• That '80s Show (2002): Years after retiring from acting, Cynthia made a one-off appearance in an episode of this short-lived sitcom, which was a spin-off of *That '70s Show*.

The Surprising Career Pivot: From Actress to Professional Photographer

Cynthia Daniel’s story is unique because she consciously chose to step away from the demands of Hollywood at the height of her fame. Following the end of *Sweet Valley High*, she largely retired from acting to focus on her personal life and family.

However, her creative passion didn't fade; it simply shifted mediums. Today, Cynthia Daniel is a highly respected professional photographer, specializing in family portraits, dogs, and landscapes.

Five Arrows Photography and Creative Focus

Cynthia operates her own business, Five Arrows Photography, a name that reflects her family life with her husband, actor Cole Hauser, and their three children.

Her work often features the stunning natural landscapes of the American West, a reflection of the life she shares with her husband, who is famous for his role as Rip Wheeler on the hit TV show *Yellowstone*.

This career pivot demonstrates a strong commitment to a more grounded, creative lifestyle outside of the traditional Hollywood machine, though she remains connected to the industry through her family.

The Legacy of Elizabeth Wakefield and Future Projects

Despite her successful transition to photography, the character of Elizabeth Wakefield remains Cynthia Daniel’s most enduring legacy. The nostalgia surrounding *Sweet Valley High* is immense, and any mention of a reboot or reunion always brings her name back into the news cycle.

The Twin Sister Dynamic

The bond between Cynthia and her sister, Brittany Daniel, is a constant topic of public fascination. Their joint roles as Elizabeth and Jessica Wakefield, the "good" and "bad" twin, set a standard for on-screen sisterhood in '90s teen drama.

Their joint appearance in the 2022 *Cheaper by the Dozen* movie was a deliberate and fun throwback to their shared history, proving that their chemistry is as strong as ever.

Will Cynthia Daniel Act Again?

Since her 2022 cameo, there have been no official announcements regarding a new full-time acting role for Cynthia Daniel as of late 2025. Her primary focus remains her photography business and family life.

However, her willingness to participate in the *Cheaper by the Dozen* project suggests that she is open to select, special appearances that align with her interests and schedule. For fans hoping for a *Sweet Valley High* reunion or reboot, any future project would likely be contingent on a compelling script and the opportunity to work alongside her sister, Brittany. Until then, Cynthia Daniel continues to build a beautiful portfolio behind the camera, a testament to her versatility and enduring creative spirit.