In this article, we’ll explore Oona O’Brien age, background, career path, and rising popularity—and why she’s become one of the most promising young faces in the entertainment industry.
When it comes to young talent emerging in Hollywood, few names have sparked as much curiosity and admiration as Oona O’Brien. Whether you first saw her as the sharp and determined Devon Lee in Netflix’s Cobra Kai, or discovered her through her early modeling work, one thing is clear—she’s quickly becoming a standout figure among Gen Z performers. Her mix of charm, discipline, and screen presence has earned her not just a growing fanbase, but also the respect of her peers and industry veterans alike.
With an already impressive résumé at just 18 years old, Oona represents more than just early fame—she represents a new generation of actors who are multi-talented, media-savvy, and grounded in real-world values. In this article, we take a closer look at her journey so far—starting with her age, family, and background—and why she’s widely considered “one to watch” in the years ahead.
Quick Bio Table
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Oona O’Brien |
| Date of Birth | September 15, 2006 |
| Age | 18 (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Evanston, Illinois, USA |
| Height | 5′7″ (170 cm) |
| Weight | 125 lbs (57 kg) |
| Nationality | American |
| Heritage | Asian-American & English |
| Known For | Devon Lee in Cobra Kai |
| Net Worth | $200,000–$500,000 (est.) |
| Parents | Christopher O’Brien, Cheong Kim |
| Sibling | One older brother (Isoo) |
| Instagram Handle | @obrien.oona |
Who Oona O’Brien Is
Oona O’Brien is a rising American actress and model best known for her impressive performance as Devon Lee in the hit Netflix series Cobra Kai. She has quickly made a name for herself as a confident and talented young performer with a strong sense of professionalism. Born on September 15, 2006, in Evanston, Illinois, she is now 18 years old as of 2025. Coming from a mixed-race background—her mother is Asian-American and her father is of English descent—Oona brings a fresh face and new cultural presence to television. Her performances reflect not only acting skill but a grounded emotional maturity rarely seen at her age.
Oona O’Brien Age and Career Timing
At Oona O’Brien age, she is already achieving things most actors only dream of in their early 20s. From modeling to securing a major role in a global series, her success reflects not only her age but her preparedness. Her role in Cobra Kai—which she joined at just 15—allowed her to play a high school student with authenticity. Her youthful energy, combined with a sharp sense of timing, made her character stand out in a cast full of seasoned actors. As she matures, her career appears to be growing alongside her, opening up new doors for leading roles in both TV and film.
Early Life and Family Background
Raised in a creative and supportive family, Oona grew up in Evanston with her parents Christopher Liam O’Brien and Cheong Kim. Her household offered a balance of cultures—American and Asian—which shaped her worldview and sensitivity to diverse stories. She also has an older brother, Isoo, who reportedly shares her passion for creative expression. Her mother’s influence appears to have instilled a deep respect for discipline and tradition, while her father, involved in the arts, contributed to her creative spirit. Though there’s been confusion online about a relation to Radiohead’s Ed O’Brien, there’s no known connection between them.
Modeling Foundations
Oona’s entrance into the entertainment world began through modeling when she was around 11 years old. She appeared in campaigns for American Girl, Nike, Sears, and Nickelodeon, among others. These early experiences in front of the camera helped her grow comfortable in the spotlight and laid the foundation for her eventual shift into acting. More than just a visual presence, she showed early signs of emotional awareness and performance instinct, which became even more evident as she moved into scripted work. Modeling also taught her poise, confidence, and the importance of professionalism—all crucial traits that followed her into acting.
Balancing School and the Spotlight
Despite her busy acting schedule, Oona has remained committed to her education. She’s expected to attend Brown University with the Class of 2029, according to her Instagram bio, suggesting she plans to pursue higher education alongside her acting career. Balancing auditions, filming schedules, and schoolwork isn’t easy, but she seems to handle it with maturity. Teachers and mentors have described her as driven and well-rounded—a rare combination in the entertainment industry, especially among teens. Her ability to maintain a sense of normalcy while living a public life sets her apart from other young stars.
Physical Appearance and On-Camera Presence
Oona stands about 5′7″ (170 cm) tall and weighs around 125 pounds (57 kg). With her brown hair and warm dark brown eyes, she has a natural screen presence that feels relatable yet captivating. She is athletic in build, likely due to her active lifestyle and martial arts training. Her physical appearance aligns well with the characters she portrays: strong, intelligent, and self-assured young women. Yet she avoids being typecast, partly thanks to her expressive face and subtle, nuanced performances. Whether in a close-up shot or action scene, she commands attention without ever trying too hard.
Breakthrough Role in Cobra Kai
Oona made her acting debut in the short film Sky High in 2020, but it was her portrayal of Devon Lee in Cobra Kai that turned heads. She first appeared in Season 4 as a debate-team standout turned Eagle Fang karate student. The show’s fan base—already global and passionate—quickly embraced her character. What stood out was her ability to hold her own among established cast members, delivering lines with confidence and executing martial arts scenes convincingly. She returned for Season 5, further cementing her status as a new fan favorite and proving she could take on even more screen time.
Martial Arts, Dance, and Athleticism
Oona’s role in Cobra Kai wasn’t just about acting; it demanded real physical preparation. She trains in Shotokan karate and has experience in stage combat, ballet, and contemporary dance. In addition to martial arts, she’s also active in soccer, swimming, snowboarding, and rock climbing. This dynamic skill set makes her highly versatile—not just a performer but a physical artist. Her athleticism translates into her roles, allowing directors to cast her in action-heavy scenes without relying entirely on stunt doubles. Off-screen, these activities keep her centered and energized.
Other Projects and Future Aspirations
Aside from Cobra Kai, Oona has appeared in indie projects such as Ouroboros and Downward Spiral. She has also performed in musical theater productions like Annie and School of Rock, showcasing her vocal and stage presence. Her background in improv with the Second City Youth Ensemble reveals her comedic timing and adaptability—key assets in today’s film and television landscape. Based on her social media and interviews, she appears interested in taking on more diverse roles—perhaps dramatic, historical, or voice acting in animation.
Online Presence and Fan Engagement
On Instagram, where she goes by @obrien.oona, Oona has built a following of over 685K followers. She shares behind-the-scenes content from sets, personal travel, moments with family, and updates about her acting journey. Her tone is friendly, grounded, and age-appropriate—striking a balance between personal and professional. She rarely engages in drama or clickbait, which adds to her appeal among younger and more discerning audiences. In an age where online presence often drives casting decisions, Oona’s polished and thoughtful social media adds to her professional brand.
Net Worth and Financial Growth
As of 2025, Oona’s net worth is estimated between $200,000 and $500,000, primarily from acting contracts, commercial work, and endorsements. With Cobra Kai being a major Netflix title and her likely expansion into future roles, that figure is expected to rise. Her low-key lifestyle suggests she’s financially grounded. Rather than flaunt luxury, she appears to invest in learning, skills development, and experiences. If she continues on this trajectory, she could soon be part of high-profile film productions or even headline a show of her own.
Lifestyle and Values
Oona lives a relatively quiet life, focused on growth and creativity. She balances her time between acting, academics, physical training, and spending time with family. She values discipline, kindness, and learning, and this is reflected in how she speaks during interviews. Unlike some young celebrities, she doesn’t seek out constant attention. Instead, she lets her work and values speak for her. This thoughtful approach is refreshing—and one reason why she’s not just talented but admired.
Why She’s Truly One to Watch
So what makes Oona O’Brien stand out in a crowded industry? First, it’s her natural blend of talent and humility. Second, it’s her range—able to perform, fight, and connect emotionally in a scene. And third, it’s her mindset. She treats acting as a craft, not a shortcut to fame. At just 18, she’s not only building a résumé but also building character. As casting directors, producers, and fans look for the next breakout star who can deliver both on screen and off, Oona checks every box—and then some.
FAQs:
1.What is Oona O’Brien age now?
Oona was born on September 15, 2006, So Oona O’Brien age is 18 years old as of 2025. She’s already achieved more than most actors her age.
2. What role made Oona O’Brien famous?
Her breakout role came in Cobra Kai as Devon Lee, a smart, competitive teenager who joins the Eagle Fang karate dojo.
3. Is Oona O’Brien a trained martial artist?
Yes—she trains in Shotokan karate and stage combat, which helped her land and excel in her action-heavy role in Cobra Kai.
4. What is Oona O’Brien’s background?
She was born and raised in Evanston, Illinois, and comes from a mixed heritage—Asian-American and English descent—with strong family support.
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