Odeya Rush, born Odeya Rushinek on May 12, 1997, in Haifa, Israel, is an Israeli actress, model, and filmmaker who has steadily carved a niche for herself in Hollywood. Known for her captivating performances in films like The Giver (2014), Goosebumps (2015), and Lady Bird (2017), Rush has become a prominent figure among young actresses, blending her Israeli roots with a global appeal. Her journey from a Hebrew-speaking child in Haifa to a celebrated actress in the United States is a testament to her talent, determination, and versatility.
Early Life and Move to the United States
Odeya Rush was born into an Ashkenazi Jewish family, with her father, Shlomo Rushinek, of Polish-Jewish descent, and her mother, Maia Greenfeld, a Soviet Russian immigrant to Israel. Her name, “Odeya,” meaning “I will thank God” in Hebrew, reflects her cultural heritage. Growing up in Haifa, Rush displayed a creative streak early on, writing and performing plays by the age of eight. She has six brothers—two older paternal half-brothers living in Israel and four younger brothers, including two sets of twins, who reside with their parents in Los Angeles.
At nine, Rush’s family relocated to Birmingham, Alabama, for her father’s job as a security consultant. Unable to speak English upon arrival, she attended N.E. Miles Jewish Day School, where she began learning the language. The family later moved to Midland Park, New Jersey, where Rush attended public school. In 2013, they settled in Los Angeles to support her burgeoning acting career. This cross-cultural upbringing, blending Israeli traditions with American life, has shaped Rush’s unique perspective and on-screen presence.
Career Beginnings: From Modeling to Acting
Before stepping into acting, Rush was discovered as a model in the United States, appearing in campaigns for major brands like Polo Ralph Lauren, Gap, Tommy Hilfiger, and H&M. In 2018, she starred in a summer campaign for a collaboration between FILA and Urban Outfitters. Her modeling career provided an early platform, but it was acting that truly captured her passion.
Rush’s acting debut came in 2010 with a guest role as Hannah Milner in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’s episode “Branded.” That same year, she appeared as Emily in Curb Your Enthusiasm’s “Mister Softee,” playing a childhood friend of Larry David. Her first film role followed in 2012, portraying Joni Jerome, the best friend of the titular character in Disney’s The Odd Life of Timothy Green, directed by Peter Hedges. These early roles showcased her natural charisma and paved the way for more significant opportunities.
Breakthrough Roles and Hollywood Recognition
Rush’s breakthrough came in 2014 with her role as Fiona in The Giver, a science fiction film adapted from Lois Lowry’s novel, alongside Jeff Bridges, Meryl Streep, and Taylor Swift. Her performance earned her critical attention, and that same year, InStyle magazine named her one of Hollywood’s newest leading ladies alongside Gal Gadot, cementing her status as an emerging Israeli talent.
In 2015, Rush took on the female lead role of Hannah Fairchild in Goosebumps, based on R.L. Stine’s popular book series. Playing the daughter of an R.L. Stine-like author (Jack Black), she navigated a world where fictional monsters come to life. The film’s commercial success further elevated her profile.
At just 18, Rush showcased her multifaceted talent by writing, directing, and starring in her short film Thanks in 2016, demonstrating her ambition to work behind the camera. In 2017, she delivered a memorable performance as Jenna in Greta Gerwig’s Oscar-nominated Lady Bird, playing a popular girl in a coming-of-age story. That same year, she starred in The Bachelors alongside J.K. Simmons. Her role as Ellen in Dumplin’ (2018), opposite Jennifer Aniston, further highlighted her ability to shine in ensemble casts.
Rush continued to diversify her portfolio with roles in Let It Snow (2019), Dangerous Waters (2023), where she worked with the late Ray Liotta, and her first Hebrew-language Israeli drama series, Baalat HaChalomot (2021), where she played the titular role. In 2022, she appeared as Macy in Cha Cha Real Smooth and as River in the horror film Umma. She also lent her voice to Samara in the animated series Pantheon (2022).
Personal Life and Cultural Identity
Rush became a U.S. citizen in 2018 but remains deeply connected to her Israeli heritage. Her Instagram bio once featured the Hebrew phrase “Ma Nisha?” (“What’s up?”), reflecting her playful embrace of her roots. She has expressed admiration for Israeli cinema, citing Zero Motivation (2014) as one of her favorite films, and has voiced a desire to meet fellow Israeli actress Gal Gadot.
Despite her rising fame, Rush keeps her personal life private. Speculation about her dating life, including rumors of a relationship with Goosebumps co-star Ryan Lee, has surfaced, but she rarely addresses such matters publicly. She maintains a healthy lifestyle, enjoys activities such as hiking, biking, and swimming, and has spoken candidly about overcoming her struggles with acne through the use of positive affirmations.
Rush’s net worth is estimated at around $500,000, a reflection of her successful career in film, television, and brand endorsements. She balances her professional endeavors with a grounded approach, crediting her family’s support, particularly her father’s early involvement on set, for her success.
Awards and Accolades
Rush’s talent has earned her several nominations and honors. In 2012, she was nominated for a Young Artist Award for The Odd Life of Timothy Green. In 2013, The Midwest TV Guys named her one of Hollywood’s 20 up-and-coming young actresses under 20. She received a Teen Choice Award nomination in 2014 for The Giver and a CinEuphoria Award nomination in 2019 for Lady Bird. In 2017, she won an Awards Circuit Community Award for her ensemble work in Lady Bird.
Future Prospects
With a string of diverse roles and a growing interest in filmmaking, Odeya Rush is poised for even greater success. Her ability to navigate genres—from sci-fi and horror to comedy and drama—combined with her cultural authenticity and creative ambition, makes her a standout talent. As she continues to take on challenging projects and explore directing, Rush is not only representing Israeli talent on the global stage but also redefining what it means to be a young actress in Hollywood.
Whether she’s battling monsters in Goosebumps, navigating high school dynamics in Lady Bird, or starring in her native Hebrew in Baalat HaChalomot, Odeya Rush brings a spark that resonates with audiences worldwide. As she continues her ascent, fans eagerly await the next chapter in her remarkable career.
