The bestPeyton Listmovies and TV shows showcase her evolution from a young Disney Channel star to a versatile performer. Born in Florida in 1998, Peyton List began her career as a child model before transitioning to acting with a minor role in 2008’s27 Dresses. Within a few years, however, she’d gained prominence as Holly Hills 2011’sDiary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rulesand became widely recognized for her role as Emma Ross on Disney Channel’sJessieand its spinoffBunk’d.
However, Peyton List has come a long way since her roles as a child star, and is now an established actor in her own right. List’s career further flourished with significant rolesin shows likeCobra KaiandSchool Spirits. Throughout her career, she has earned accolades such as the Young Artist Award and the Boston Film Festival Award - and the best Peyton List movies and TV shows make it easy to see why she’s had no trouble moving beyond her Disney Channel roots.
InThe Sorcerer’s Apprentice, Peyton List portrays the young version of Becky Barnes, the childhood friend and eventual love interest of the protagonist, Dave. This fantasy adventure film, produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and directed by Jon Turteltaub,stars Nicolas Cageand Jay Baruchel. While List’s role is brief, it marked one of her early appearances in a major motion picture, contributing to her growing experience in the industry.
The Sorcerer’s Apprenticeblends elements of magic and adventure as it follows Dave’s journey to becoming a sorcerer under the mentorship of Balthazar Blake (Cage).Peyton List’s participation in such a high-profile project at a young age provided her with valuable exposure and experience, setting the stage for more substantial roles in her subsequent career.
In Netflix’sHubie Halloween, Peyton List appears as Peggy, a minor but memorable characterin Adam Sandler’s horror-comedy. The movie follows Hubie Dubois (Sandler), a kind but eccentric man who takes it upon himself to protect his town of Salem from supernatural threats on Halloween night. With a cast featuring comedic veterans like Kevin James, Maya Rudolph, and Steve Buscemi,Hubie Halloweenblends slapstick humor with a lighthearted mystery, making it a fun seasonal watch.
Though Peyton List’s role is small, her involvement in a major Netflix production alongside a star-studded cast contributed to her growing presence beyond Disney Channel projects.Hubie Halloweenwas a hit for Netflix, ranking among the platform’s most-watched movies in 2020. While it received mixed reviews from critics, audiences embraced its goofy charm. For Peyton List, the movie marked another step in her transition into more mainstream, mature projects. Even with limited screen time, her inclusion in such a widely viewed film helps cementHubie Halloweenas one of the best Peyton List movies in terms of visibility and career progression.
In the 2016 dystopian thrillerThe Thinning, from director Michael J. Gallagher, Peyton List delivers a compelling performance as Laina Michaels, a high school student navigating a society where population control is enforced through a rigorous aptitude test. Set in a future where students who fail the test face execution, Laina uncovers a conspiracy that challenges the system’s integrity. Peyton List’s portrayal of Laina showcases her ability to embody resilience and intelligence, elevating the film’s tension and emotional depth.
What setsThe Thinningapart is its gripping social commentary, blending action, suspense, and a thought-provoking premise that resonates with audiences. List’s on-screen chemistry with co-star Logan Paul also stands out. With her commanding presence and emotional depth,Peyton List anchorsThe Thinning, proving she can take on serious, high-stakes roles with ease.
Peyton List stars as Ellie O’Brien in the Disney Channel Original MovieThe Swap. The 2016 film centers around Peyton List’s Ellie, a rhythmic gymnast, and Jack (Jacob Bertand), a hockey player, who magically swap bodies and must navigate each other’s lives. Peyton List’s performance captures the comedic challenges and heartfelt moments of understanding that come withthe funniest and best body-swap movies.
For the most part,The Swapwas well-received by its target audience, highlighting Peyton List’s versatility in handling both comedic and dramatic elements.Her ability to portray the nuances of a character experiencing life from a different perspective contributed to the film’s charm and relatability among viewers.
In the 2020 musical romantic comedyValley Girl, Peyton List takes on the role of Courtney, a popular high school student in the 1980s. The movie is a remake of the 1983 classic and features a vibrant portrayal of teenage life in the San Fernando Valley. Peyton List’s performance effortlessly taps into the nostalgic feel ofValley Girl, capturing the essence of the era.
In terms of its place among her best movies and TV shows,Valley Girlstands out for showcasing Peyton List’s ability to adapt to different genres, blending musical elements with comedic timing.Her portrayal as Courtney inValley Girldemonstrates her range as an actress and her willingness to take on diverse roles that challenge her versatility.
Peyton List delivers a compelling performance as Lacy in director Inon Shampanier’s 2020 dramaPaper Spiders.Paper Spidersaddresses mental health struggles, focusing on the relationship between a mother and her daughter as they navigate the challenges of delusional disorder.Peyton List’s portrayal of Lacy, the supportive friend of Melanie (the daughter, played by Stefania LaVie Owen) is the perfect example of her ability to handle sensitive subject matter.
Paper Spidersreceived critical acclaim for its honest depiction of mental health struggles and the strong performances of its cast. Peyton List’s involvement further showcased her commitment to roles that address important societal themes, further establishing her credibility as a serious actress after her earlier years on The Disney Channel.
One of the best Peyton List TV shows is, inarguably,the Disney Channel seriesBunk’d, a spinoff ofJessiethat saw List return to one of her most celebrated roles - Emmar Ross.Bunk’dfollows Emma and her siblings as they attend Camp Kikiwaka, encountering various adventures and challenges. Peyton List’s performance maintains the charm and leadership qualities of her character, and resonated with the show’s young audience even more than her time onJessie.
Bunk’dallowed List to further develop Emma’s character afterJessie, showcasing her growth and adaptability in new settings.The success of the Disney Channel series and its longevity highlight Peyton List’s ability to engage viewers, especially younger ones, solidifying her status as a beloved figure in children’s television.
InDiary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules, Peyton List portrays Holly Hills, the new girl at school and the object of protagonist Greg Heffley’s affection. The 2011 family comedy, based on the popular book series by Jeff Kinney, showcased many sides of Peyton List’s range that she’d go on to display in later projects, and there’s no doubt that her presence added an extra layer of charm toRodrick Rules.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Ruleswas well-received, particularly among fans of the book series, and Peyton List’s performance contributed to its appeal.Her role as Holly Hills marked a significant point in her early career, introducing her to a broader audience and establishing her presence in family-oriented cinema.
Peyton List takes on the lead role of Maddie Nears in the Paramount+ supernatural teen dramaSchool Spirits. The show follows List’s Maddie, a high school student who mysteriously dies and finds herself trapped in the afterlife, searching for answers about her own murder. As Maddie unravels the mystery with the help of other spirits, she discovers shocking secrets about her friends, family, and the school she left behind. List’s performance is gripping, portraying Maddie’s frustration, determination, and emotional depth as she navigates the eerie world of the afterlife.
School Spiritshas received praise for its compelling storytelling and Peyton List’s standout performance, marking a turning point in her career as she takes on a more mature and dramatic role. Her portrayal of Maddie earned her critical acclaim and showcased her ability to carry a series as the central character.School Spiritsis a testament to List’s growth as an actress, proving that she can handle complex narratives and emotionally charged performances. As the show continues to develop, it solidifies its place as one of the best Peyton List TV shows.
School Spirits Season 3: Confirmation & Everything We Know
Paramount+’s supernatural drama series School Spirits returned for its sophomore season in early 2025, and now the show has been renewed for season 3.
Peyton List joined theCobra Kaiuniverse in Season 2 as Tory Nichols, a fierce and aggressive fighter with a troubled past. TheKarate Kidsequel series, which began on YouTube Premium before moving to Netflix, continues the story of Daniel LaRusso and Johnny Lawrence decades after their iconic rivalry. Tory quickly became one of the show’s most complex characters - her fiery personality, martial arts skills, and emotional backstory made her a standout addition to the cast. Peyton List’s portrayal of Tory balances her toughness with vulnerability, especially as she struggles with family issues and her loyalty to Cobra Kai dojo.
Throughout her time onCobra Kai, Peyton List’s performance evolved, showcasing her ability to play an intense, morally ambiguous character.Tory’s arc, includingher rivalry with Samantha LaRussoand her internal conflict over the dojo’s aggressive methods, kept fans invested in her journey throughout all 6 seasons of the show.Cobra Kaihas been a major hit, earning Emmy nominations and a passionate fanbase.List’s role in the series helped her transition from Disney Channel star to a more mature, action-oriented actress, proving her range and solidifyingCobra Kaias the best Peyton List TV shows.
