Chloé Zhao

Chloé Zhao Bio

Chloé Zhao (born Zhao Ting on 31 March 1982) is a Chinese-born filmmaker known for her distinct storytelling approach in independent cinema. Her notable achievements include winning the Academy Award for Best Director for her film ‘Nomadland’ (2020). Zhao’s films explore themes of identity and belonging, often depicting the lives of marginalized communities with a humanistic lens. She has also directed ‘The Rider’ (2017) and ‘Songs My Brothers Taught Me’ (2015), solidifying her reputation as a prominent voice in contemporary cinema.

Early Life and Background

Chloé Zhao was born Zhao Ting on March 31, 1982, in Beijing, China. Her father, Zhao Yuji, was a successful executive at Shougang Group, one of the country’s largest state-owned steel companies. After amassing significant personal wealth, he moved on to real estate development and equity investment. Her stepmother, Song Dandan, is a well-known Chinese actress recognized for her roles in various sitcoms. Zhao was a curious child drawn to Western pop culture, particularly in film and music, and was uninterested in traditional schooling in Beijing, focusing instead on art and her own pursuits. In 1998, her parents sent her to England, where she attended Brighton College, a boarding school, before completing high school in Los Angeles. She later enrolled in Mount Holyoke College, where she studied politics with a minor in film studies, graduating in 2005.

Path to Hollywood

Zhao began her filmmaking journey with her debut feature film, ‘Songs My Brothers Taught Me,’ which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2015. The film, shot on location at the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota, depicts the relationship between a Lakota Sioux brother and his younger sister, showcasing the real lives and struggles of the surrounding community. Her unique storytelling style, characterized by a blend of documentary and narrative filmmaking, garnered critical acclaim and set the stage for her future successes. Following this, she directed ‘The Rider’ (2017), a contemporary western drama that follows a young cowboy’s journey to self-discovery after a near-fatal accident. This film further solidified her reputation as a filmmaker with a naturalistic perspective.

Chloé Zhao Career

Early Career (2008–2015)

Chloé Zhao’s first notable work is her 2009 short film ‘The Atlas Mountains,’ which tells the story of a woman developing a relationship with an immigrant worker. Her second short film, ‘Daughters,’ won several awards at film festivals and showcased her emerging talent. In 2015, she directed ‘Songs My Brothers Taught Me,’ which was praised for its intimate storytelling and portrayal of Lakota Sioux life. This film marked her entry into the broader film industry and highlighted her ability to connect with real-life subjects through her work.

Breakthrough (2017–2021)

Zhao’s breakthrough came with the release of ‘The Rider’ in 2017. The film received critical acclaim for its screenplay and cinematography, earning her nominations for Best Feature and Best Director at the Independent Spirit Awards. In 2018, she directed ‘Nomadland,’ which became a significant milestone in her career. The film, adapted from Jessica Bruder’s book, tells the story of a widow who loses everything during The Great Recession and embarks on a journey of self-discovery. ‘Nomadland’ premiered at the Venice Film Festival, winning the Golden Lion, and later won the People’s Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival. Zhao’s direction earned her numerous accolades, including the Academy Award for Best Director in 2021, making her the second woman to achieve this honor.

Notable Works and Milestones

Chloé Zhao’s signature work, ‘Nomadland,’ won multiple awards, including the Academy Award for Best Picture and Best Director. Her films often feature themes of identity, belonging, and the human experience, with a focus on marginalized communities. Her unique storytelling style has garnered her recognition as a leading voice in contemporary cinema.

Chloé Zhao Award Nominations

Throughout her career, Chloé Zhao has received numerous nominations for her work, particularly for ‘Nomadland,’ which earned her four Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director.

Chloé Zhao Awards Won

Chloé Zhao has won several prestigious awards, including the Academy Award for Best Director and Best Picture for ‘Nomadland.’ She also received the Golden Globe Award for Best Director and the BAFTA Award for Best Direction, further establishing her as a prominent figure in the film industry.

Chloé Zhao Family

Chloé Zhao’s father is Zhao Yuji, a successful businessman, and her stepmother is Song Dandan, a well-known Chinese actress. As of 2021, Zhao resides in Ojai, California.

Personal Life

Chloé Zhao has been in a relationship with cinematographer Joshua James Richards, whom she met while researching her first feature film. The couple has collaborated on several projects, including ‘Nomadland’ and ‘Eternals.’ As of 2025, Zhao and Richards have ended their relationship. Zhao describes her neurodivergence as a ‘superpower.’