Tom Holland, best known for his role as Spider-Man, has openly discussed how his diagnoses of ADHD and dyslexia affect his acting career. In a September 1 interview with IGN, he explained how these conditions sometimes create obstacles when developing a character, particularly when presented with open-ended creative opportunities.
Holland described the experience of facing a “blank canvas” as intimidating, saying it can create challenges in his craft, but he uses playfulness to overcome them. He emphasized engaging with creativity in ways that encourage thinking outside the box, which helps him prepare for various roles.
How Play Fuels Tom Holland‘s Creative Process
To navigate the difficulties posed by ADHD and dyslexia, Holland relies on playful techniques that reconnect him with his inner child. He believes that creativity and adaptability improve with practice, especially when faced with the need to think differently or make changes during character development.
“Any way that you can, as a young person or as an adult, interact with something that forces you to be creative and forces you to think outside the box and make changes,”
Holland said,
“I think that the more we do that sort of stuff, the better.”
—Tom Holland, Actor
Early Dyslexia Diagnosis and Parental Support
Although this is the first time Holland has publicly spoken about his ADHD, he has previously opened up about managing dyslexia, which was diagnosed when he was seven years old. His greatest difficulty has been with spelling rather than reading.
During a July 2023 appearance on Jay Shetty’s On Purpose podcast, he credited his parents, Dominic and Nikki Holland, for their consistent encouragement throughout his schooling, emphasizing effort over results.
“My dyslexia, it’s really just my spelling,”
Holland explained.
“My spelling was really the biggest hurdle. I worked really hard at school. I didn’t do particularly well but my parents said, ‘As long as you try your best.’”
—Tom Holland, Actor
Advice for Others Facing Similar Challenges
Despite the hardships, Holland has not only coped but thrived amid his learning differences. Sharing advice with fans who may experience similar issues, he stresses the importance of patience and time management. In a 2021 interview with Jazzys World TV, he encouraged giving oneself sufficient time to prepare properly, linking this to greater achievement and confidence.
“Giving yourself the appropriate amount of time to do the things you need to do. The better prepared you are for anything the more you’ll be able to do and accomplish things that are fantastic,”
Holland advised. —Tom Holland, Actor
The Role of Zendaya in Tom Holland’s Journey
Holland’s fiancée, Zendaya, plays a vital role in his personal and professional life, providing support as they both work on upcoming projects together, including Odyssey and Spider-Man: Brand New Day, scheduled for release in 2026. Their partnership extends beyond romance into their careers, which Holland describes as a saving grace.
“Best thing that’s ever happened to me,”
he said about working alongside Zendaya during a conversation on The Dish podcast last year.
Tom and Zendaya’s Public Moments and Career Highlights Together
Since their relationship became public, Tom Holland and Zendaya have been seen at numerous events and in various promotions, documenting their evolving bond in the public eye.
Early Appearances and Promotions
In July 2016 at San Diego Comic-Con International, the Spider-Man stars shared a joyous moment during the Marvel panel, ahead of the release of Spider-Man: Homecoming. They continued to make appearances across major events like the May 2017 MTV Movie & TV Awards in Los Angeles, promoting the same film with enthusiasm.
By June 2017, the duo traveled to Madrid, Spain, for a photo call promoting Spider-Man: Homecoming, reflecting the global reach of their work and relationship.
Public Celebrations and Red Carpet Events
In June 2019, Holland and Zendaya were photographed together at the after-party for the premiere of Spider-Man: Far From Home in Hollywood. Their partnership remained strong through numerous events, including multiple appearances in London and New York in late 2021 for the release of Spider-Man: No Way Home.
The December 2021 premiere in Los Angeles saw Zendaya in a custom Valentino gown and Holland in a Prada suit, captivating the spotlight as a couple and co-stars. That same month, Zendaya praised Holland after the film’s success, highlighting the depth of their connection as both partners and professionals.
Milestones in 2022 and 2023
February 2022 brought a romantic outing in New York City, where the couple enjoyed a late Valentine’s Day evening, dressed impeccably and appearing happy together. Zendaya marked Holland’s 27th birthday in June 2023 with a heartfelt photo of him enjoying time by the water, showcasing their continued closeness.
Holland himself shared a playful birthday post, calling it
“possibly the sexiest picture ever taken of me!”
, which Zendaya responded to with an affectionate emoji, reflecting their lighthearted dynamic.
Supporting Each Other Through Busy Schedules
In March 2024, while Zendaya prepared for the release of her movie Challengers, the couple was spotted at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California, enjoying a tennis outing with Zendaya‘s assistant, Darnell Appling. Their public appearances remained a testament to their genuine relationship.
By April 2024, the pair were photographed out in London, smiling and enjoying their time together, followed by a visit to Verona in May to support Holland’s debut in a stage production of Romeo and Juliet. Holland and Zendaya were seen hand in hand after the show, underscoring their bond in both personal and professional realms.
New Ventures and Low-Key Moments
October 2024 marked a new chapter as Holland launched his non-alcoholic beer company, Bero, with Zendaya by his side sporting a coordinated burgundy outfit. Their teamwork was on display once again in November 2024 during a low-key date in Newbury, Massachusetts, where Holland enjoyed his product for the first time publicly.
“I’m heading out to a bar to have my first Bero in the wild,”
Holland shared on Instagram, capturing Zendaya smiling in the background.
“I’ll let you know how it goes.”
—Tom Holland, Actor
The Significance of Tom Holland’s Openness and Future Prospects
Tom Holland’s candidness about his experiences with ADHD and dyslexia brings hope and encouragement to many facing similar challenges. His journey demonstrates that, with patience, creativity, and support, obstacles can be transformed into strengths. The unwavering support from his family and Zendaya has clearly fortified his resilience both on and off-screen.
As Holland continues to tackle demanding roles and embark on new entrepreneurial ventures, his story sheds light on the importance of embracing differences in the pursuit of personal and professional growth. Fans can anticipate seeing more of Holland and Zendaya’s collaborations and ventures in the coming years, building on their close partnership in both their careers and lives.
