Darnell Appling certainly knows how to celebrate his birthday. He turned 38 on June 5, 2023, and he threw an epic Freaknik-themed birthday party that even A-list celebrities like Zendaya and Timothée Chalamet couldn’t resist attending. But this isn’t the first time Zendaya and Darnell have been spotted together. The pair have been together for as long as fans can remember.
So, how are they related? As this article continues, learn more about Darnell; specifically his partner and his net worth.
Is Darnell Appling related to Zendaya? Are they siblings?
Not biologically, but Zendaya considers Darnell Appling her brother.
Darnell and Zendaya first met as roommates. But when Zendaya became the center of attention, she asked Darnell to be her personal assistant. The two have been inseparable ever since—both personally and professionally.
In the PA industry, their relationship is known as “lightning in a bottle” because it is rare for PAs to become close with the celebrities they serve.
Darnell is not only Zendaya’s personal assistant, but also her “partner in crime” and “best friend.” He has traveled the world with her and was even her date to the 2021 Oscars. Additionally, in 2020, when Zendaya won an Emmy, he was the one who presented her with the award.
According to Darnell, many celebrities don’t treat their assistants well, but the Euphoria actor treats him “very well.”
“She’s just a really great person, a wonderful person,” he added.
But despite being a “great guy”, Darnell shared that the actor was “awkward”.
Back when Zendaya needed stitches after her first kitchen accident, Darnell posted on IG story, “There’s never a dull moment with @zendaya no pun intended. Dear God, please help me keep this little heffa safe because she’s incredibly clumsy.”
In addition to Zendaya, Darnell is also close with boyfriend Tom Holland. As a trio, they even attended a friend’s wedding in August 2021.
Now, talking about Zendaya’s siblings, they are Austin, Katianna, Annabella, Julien, and Kaylee Stoermer Coleman.
What is Darnell Appling’s net worth?
Darnell Appling achieved a net worth of over $500 thousand in 2023.
For those curious, he reportedly makes around $150,000 a year as a celebrity assistant.
In addition to working for Zendaya, Darnell has also acted in films and television shows such as Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021), Long Island South Shore (2016), KC Undercover (2016), and How to Rock (2012).
Partner Darnell Appling
Darnell Appling hasn’t revealed who his current partner is. But he has been open about his “first and only love” being Tiara. O.
Even though they are no longer together, Darnell still has feelings for her.
Posting a photo of them from the prom, he wrote on FB, “I just found this photo, and the feelings I had and still have for this girl are crazy. My first and only love!”
How old is Darnell Appling?
Darnell Appling is 38 years old in 2023.
He is 12 years older than Zendaya.
Darnell Appling’s Parents
Darnell Appling is the son of the late Darlene Joy Appling.
Darlene left this world on December 9, 2016, at the age of 66. Her funeral was held at Calhoun Funeral Home 13 days later.
“The level of anxiety I just experienced seeing my mom’s face and name in the obituary section of the newspaper is indescribable… I have to say goodbye to her one last time on Thursday?! It’s getting too real… But what about my mom?” Darnell wrote on IG after his mother passed away.
Also, three years after her death, he remembered her on his FB, “Thinking about all the memories of her driving me and my friends around in that big red Astro Van 😩 I learned so many dos and don’ts from her! A lot has happened in 3 years but one thing I still haven’t dealt with is losing my dear friend. I love you, Mom!”
Darnell seemed to be the stubborn kid in the family. However, his mother loved him unconditionally. He remembers how proud she was of him the day he won an award for building a sculpture of a man holding a sign that read “HOPE” from a coat hanger in fourth grade. “It was one of our good moments, so I’m okay with this being the only photo to look back on,” he added.
Talking about his siblings, Darnell has two older brothers named Dwayne Appling and Tehirah Appling. They were born in September 1970 and January 1974.
Of his parents, Darnell said all of his siblings look like his mother.
Additionally, Darnell is also very close to his niece (goddaughter) and nephew.
Interesting Facts: Darnell has an uncle named William Appling, who attended Lincoln West High School and East High School.
Darnell Appling Height
Darnell Appling stands over 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) tall.
His notable features include — green eyes, sharp jawline, and brown braided hair.
Fun Fact: Darnell once posted a post on FB where an app identified him as DeRay Davis. But they don’t look anything alike — except for the green eyes.
Related FAQs
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When is Darnell Appling’s birthday?
Darnell’s birthday is June 5 and he is a Gemini.
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Where is Darnell Appling from?
Darnell is from East Cleveland, Ohio.
But in 2023, he lives in Los Angeles, California.
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Is Darnell on Instagram and Facebook?
Find Darnell on Instagram @darnellappling and Facebook @darnell.appling.
Also, here is his Twitter @trouble.