Nico Parker: 7 Must-Know Facts About The Next-Gen Star From 'The Last Of Us' To 'The Young People'

Nico Parker is rapidly establishing herself as one of Hollywood's most compelling young talents, transcending her status as the daughter of a cinematic icon to forge a powerful career path of her own. As of late 2025, the British actress has moved far beyond her memorable debut in Disney’s *Dumbo* and her heartbreaking turn in HBO’s *The Last of Us*, securing a string of high-profile roles that confirm her as a definitive "one to watch." Her latest projects, including a major live-action fantasy film and a highly anticipated horror thriller, place her at the forefront of the next generation of leading stars. Born into a family deeply rooted in the film industry, Parker’s ascent has been marked by a discerning choice of roles that showcase her emotional depth and versatility. Her recent inclusion in the TIME100 Next list for 2025 solidifies her influence and critical acclaim, proving that her impact on the screen extends far beyond her years. This article dives into the latest updates, her complete biography, and the exciting projects that are defining her future in cinema.

Nico Parker: Complete Biography and Profile

Nico Parker is a British actress who has captivated audiences and critics alike since her professional debut in 2019. Born in London, her heritage and upbringing provided a unique foundation for her artistic career. Here is a detailed look at her profile:

• Full Name: Nico Parker
• Date of Birth: December 9, 2004
• Age (as of December 2025): 21
• Place of Birth: London, England, United Kingdom
• Nationality: British
• Parents: Thandiwe Newton (Mother, Actress) and Ol Parker (Father, Filmmaker/Screenwriter)
• Siblings: Ripley Parker and Booker Jombe Parker
• Ethnicity: Mixed (Her mother, Thandiwe Newton, has Shona Zimbabwean, English, and Cornish ancestry)
• Occupation: Actress
• Debut Role: Milly Farrier in *Dumbo* (2019)
• Breakout TV Role: Sarah Miller in *The Last of Us* (2023)
• Notable Recognition: TIME100 Next (2025)

Parker’s family connections are a notable part of her story, but she has consistently demonstrated that her talent is the driving force behind her success. Her mother, the Emmy-winning actress Thandiwe Newton, and her father, director Ol Parker (known for *Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again*), have provided a supportive environment, yet Nico has carved out a distinct identity through her powerful on-screen performances.

The Critical Impact of 'The Last of Us' and the Rise of Sarah Miller

Nico Parker’s portrayal of Sarah Miller in the 2023 HBO series *The Last of Us* was short-lived but incredibly impactful, serving as a pivotal moment in her career. The character, Sarah, is the daughter of the protagonist, Joel Miller (played by Pedro Pascal), and her tragic fate sets the emotional tone for the entire series. Her performance in the premiere episode garnered widespread critical acclaim for its raw emotionality and ability to connect the audience instantly to the world's impending doom. Though her screen time was limited, the character's death remains one of the most memorable and devastating moments in modern television. Parker has spoken warmly about her experience on the set, particularly her close bond with co-star Pedro Pascal. Their father-daughter chemistry was essential to the episode's success, making the subsequent tragedy all the more resonant. This role cemented her reputation as an actress capable of delivering profound emotional depth with subtlety and grace. The success of *The Last of Us* immediately propelled Parker into a new echelon of stardom, leading to her being recognized by *Time Magazine* as one of the "World's Most Influential Rising Stars" in their TIME100 Next list for 2025. This recognition is a testament to her global impact and her promising future in the industry.

A Look at Nico Parker's Expanding and Diverse Filmography

Following her initial roles in the fantasy film *Dumbo* and the sci-fi thriller *Reminiscence* (where she starred opposite Hugh Jackman and her mother, Thandiwe Newton), Parker has actively sought out diverse projects that challenge her acting skills. Her filmography is a tapestry of different genres, from independent dramas to major studio blockbusters.

The Independent Drama Success: 'Suncoast' and 'Poetic License'

In 2024, Parker starred in the Hulu original film *Suncoast*, a semi-autobiographical coming-of-age story directed by Laura Chinn. This role allowed her to showcase a different side of her talent, focusing on the nuanced struggles of a teenager navigating family illness. More recently, Parker was part of the ensemble cast for the independent film *Poetic License*, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in 2025. Directed by Maude Apatow, the film also features Leslie Mann, Cooper Hoffman, and Andrew Barth Feldman. Her involvement in such critically focused projects demonstrates a commitment to artistic integrity alongside commercial appeal.

Upcoming Blockbusters and Genre Shifts: 'How to Train Your Dragon' and 'The Young People'

The most exciting updates regarding Nico Parker’s career involve two highly anticipated upcoming films. The first is the live-action adaptation of the beloved animated franchise, *How to Train Your Dragon*. Set for release in 2025, this project is a massive studio undertaking that will introduce her to a global family audience in a major fantasy role. The second is a significant genre shift: the horror-thriller *The Young People*. Directed by Osgood Perkins, known for his unique and unsettling horror style, the film co-stars Lola Tung and recently added Oscar winner Nicole Kidman to its cast. Filming for this "bad trip" horror began in late 2025, marking Parker’s entry into the genre and showing her willingness to explore darker, more complex roles. Finally, Parker is also slated to appear in the upcoming sequel *Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy*, a testament to her growing presence across varied cinematic landscapes. Her continuous selection for roles alongside industry veterans like Pedro Pascal, Nicole Kidman, and Leslie Mann confirms that Nico Parker is not just a rising star, but a formidable force shaping the future of film.