Zendaya did not portray Aaliyah in the biographical film because she decided to withdraw from the project. While the specific reasons behind her withdrawal were not explicitly stated, here are some possible factors that could have influenced her decision:
1. Creative differences: Zendaya may have had creative disagreements with the filmmakers or the production team regarding the direction of the movie, the script, or other critical aspects. These differences could have led her to step away from the project.
2. Personal or scheduling conflicts: Zendaya might have had prior commitments or conflicting projects that made it challenging for her to dedicate the necessary time and effort to the Aaliyah movie. Conflicting filming schedules or other professional obligations could have influenced her decision.
3. Concerns over backlash or criticism: Portraying a real-life figure like Aaliyah can be a sensitive undertaking, as the portrayal may be subject to scrutiny and criticism. Zendaya may have had concerns about the potential backlash she could face for taking on such a significant role.
4. Creative exploration: As an artist, Zendaya could have preferred to pursue other creative opportunities and expand her acting range outside of portraying another person's life. This desire for artistic growth or a change of pace might have influenced her decision to opt-out of the Aaliyah movie.
Ultimately, without an official statement from Zendaya or her representatives, it remains speculative as to precisely why she did not do the Aaliyah movie. However, considering these possible factors can provide some insights into her decision-making process.