27 And Unstoppable: How Peyton List’s Age Defines Her Dark New Roles In 2025
Peyton List, the actress who captivated audiences as the fashion-forward Emma Ross on Disney Channel and later as the fiercely competitive Tory Nichols in the hit Netflix series Cobra Kai, is currently 27 years old. As of today, December 10, 2025, List is in a pivotal stage of her career, shedding the skin of her child star past to embrace more mature, complex, and often darker roles that showcase her remarkable evolution as a performer. Her journey from a child model to a leading lady in supernatural mysteries and martial arts dramas is a testament to her longevity in Hollywood.
The transition from a beloved Disney figure to a prominent actress in major streaming hits reflects a conscious effort to challenge herself, a move that has culminated in her recent, highly-praised work on the Paramount+ series School Spirits and a starring role in the 2024 horror film The Inheritance. This career pivot, happening in her mid-twenties, has cemented her status as one of her generation's most versatile and in-demand talents, constantly surprising fans with her range and dedication.
Peyton List: Full Biography and Profile
Peyton List, whose full name is Peyton Roi List, has maintained a consistent presence in the entertainment industry for over two decades. Her professional and personal life details provide a comprehensive look at the foundation of her success.
- Full Name: Peyton Roi List
- Date of Birth: April 6, 1998
- Current Age: 27 years old (as of December 10, 2025)
- Place of Birth: Florida, U.S.
- Siblings: Twin brother Spencer List (also an actor) and younger brother Phoenix List.
- Height: Approximately 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m)
- Occupation: Actress, Model
- Years Active: 2002–Present
- Breakthrough Role: Holly Hills in the Diary of a Wimpy Kid film series (2011–2012)
- Notable TV Roles: Emma Ross in Jessie (2011–2015) and Bunk'd (2015–2018), Tory Nichols in Cobra Kai (2019–2025), and Maddie Nears in School Spirits (2023–Present).
Born in Florida, Peyton List moved to New York City at a young age, starting her career as a child model. She appeared in numerous national advertisements and magazines, quickly gaining visibility before making the seamless transition to acting. Her Disney Channel years established her as a teen idol, but her later roles have proven her capability to handle complex character arcs and diverse genres, from comedy to martial arts and supernatural mystery.
The Age of Transition: From Disney to Cobra Kai and Beyond
Peyton List's career trajectory perfectly illustrates the challenging transition for a young star from the Disney machine to mainstream Hollywood. By the time she was 21, she had taken on the role that would redefine her public image: the troubled, fiercely loyal, and formidable martial artist Tory Nichols in the Netflix hit Cobra Kai.
The character of Tory Nichols allowed List to explore themes of class struggle, anger, and redemption, a stark contrast to the lighthearted nature of her time as Emma Ross on Jessie. The series, a continuation of the Karate Kid franchise, demanded a physical transformation, requiring her to master complex fight choreography and embrace the intense rivalry with Samantha LaRusso (Mary Mouser).
As the final season of Cobra Kai wrapped up its production in 2024, List, now 27, reflected on the emotional journey of the character. Tory's final arc, including her significant decision to step down for Sam LaRusso in the Sekai Taikai tournament, provided a satisfying emotional payoff to their seasons-long conflict, showcasing the growth of List's character and her performance.
2024–2025: Dominating the Supernatural and Horror Genres
The most compelling chapter in Peyton List’s career, beginning around her 26th and 27th birthdays, is her deep dive into the supernatural and horror genres, proving her versatility far beyond the dojo. Her commitment to these new, darker roles has been a major talking point in the industry.
The Success of School Spirits
List leads the Paramount+ original series School Spirits as Maddie Nears, a high schooler who wakes up to find she is a ghost trapped in the afterlife of her high school. The series, which blends mystery, drama, and the supernatural, has been a massive success, with its second season continuing to explore Maddie’s complicated predicament of investigating her own disappearance.
Her work on School Spirits is a complex balancing act, as Maddie is often an observer, spending significant screen time watching and listening to the living characters, including her best friend Simon Elroy (Kristian Ventura), as they try to solve the mystery. This role demands a nuanced, internal performance, showcasing a maturity in her acting craft that has been universally praised.
Recent Film Projects: Horror and Rom-Com
In 2024, List starred in the horror film The Inheritance, directed by Alejandro Brugués. This thriller, which also features Rachel Nichols and Bob Gunton, is a significant departure from her previous family-friendly work, firmly planting her in the adult genre landscape. The film's release through Vertical Entertainment further highlights her move into more mature, cinematic projects.
Furthermore, List added a spooky romantic comedy to her repertoire with the 2024 Netflix movie, Girl Haunts Boy. Co-starring Michael Cimino (of Love, Victor fame), the film is a cozy, pumpkin-spice flavored romance where List plays a 1920s ghost who falls in love with a modern-day teen. This project demonstrates her ability to seamlessly pivot between high-stakes drama, pure horror, and lighthearted supernatural romance, all within her 27th year.
Peyton List’s Legacy and Future
At 27, Peyton List’s filmography is already extensive, spanning major franchises like Diary of a Wimpy Kid, the Disney Channel universe (Jessie, Bunk'd), and the globally popular Cobra Kai. Her current success with School Spirits and her recent film roles in The Inheritance and Girl Haunts Boy solidify her as a powerhouse of the streaming era.
Her career trajectory is an inspiring example of a young actress successfully navigating the tricky waters of post-child stardom. By consistently choosing roles that challenge her—from the complexity of Tory Nichols’ trauma to the emotional limbo of Maddie Nears—Peyton List has proven that her age is merely a marker of her ever-deepening talent and commitment to her craft. Fans eagerly await her next moves, knowing that whatever project she chooses, it will likely be fresh, compelling, and utterly transformative.
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