Who Is Nesta Cooper? Biography, Age, Career & Net Worth 2026

Nesta Cooper is a talented Canadian actress best known for her captivating performances in film and television. Born on December 11, 1993, she has steadily built a strong reputation in the entertainment industry with her natural acting skills and on-screen charm. Nesta gained widespread recognition for her role as Carly Shannon in the Netflix sci-fi series Travelers.

Over the years, she has appeared in several popular TV shows and movies, showcasing her versatility and dedication. As of 2026, Nesta Cooper continues to grow her career, earning both critical praise and an impressive net worth through her successful acting journey.

Quick Facts About Nesta Cooper

Who is Nesta Cooper?

Nesta Cooper is a talented Canadian actress who has made a significant mark in both television and film industries. Born as Nesta Marlee Cooper on December 11, 1993, in Mississauga, Toronto, Ontario, this 32-year-old actress has become widely recognized for her powerful performances in popular productions like Apple TV+’s post-apocalyptic series “See,” Netflix’s science fiction drama “Travelers,” and the critically acclaimed coming-of-age film “The Edge of Seventeen.”

What sets Nesta Cooper apart from many actresses in Hollywood is her versatility and commitment to bringing depth to every character she portrays. From playing a sighted warrior in a world of blind people to portraying a single mother caught in time-traveling conspiracies, Cooper has proven her ability to tackle diverse and challenging roles with remarkable skill.

In 2026, Nesta Cooper continues to build her impressive career with recent projects including “Dope Thief” (2025), where she stars as Michelle Taylor, and the biographical drama “Kemba” (2024), showcasing her range as an actress and her dedication to meaningful storytelling.

Early Life and Childhood

Nesta Cooper was born in Mississauga, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, to parents of mixed African and Caucasian heritage. Growing up in a multicultural household, she embraced both sides of her ethnicity, which later influenced her perspective as an artist and performer.

At the age of seven, Nesta Cooper’s family made a significant move from Mississauga to Courtenay on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. This relocation to a predominantly white community presented unique challenges for young Nesta, but it also shaped her resilience and character. Despite being one of the few people of color in her community, Cooper developed a strong sense of self and pursued her creative passions with determination.

Family Background

Nesta Cooper comes from a close-knit family. Her mother, Elisha Evelyn, has been a constant source of support throughout her career. Cooper has shared several heartwarming photos with her mother on social media, showing the strong bond they share.

She has three siblings who grew up alongside her:

• Gordon Cooper – Her twin brother, with whom she shares a special bond
• Sarah Cooper – Her older sister
• Elisha Cooper – Her younger sister

Growing up with siblings in the beautiful landscapes of Vancouver Island, Nesta Cooper developed her love for the arts early on. She would choreograph dances, create plays, and produce music videos with friends, showing her creative spirit from a young age.

Education and Early Training

Nesta Cooper attended Mark R. Isfeld Secondary School in Courtenay, British Columbia, where she completed her high school education. During her time there, she actively participated in drama and arts programs, laying the foundation for her future career in acting.

Her passion for acting truly crystallized when she was around 12 or 13 years old. Inspired by the performances she watched on screen, Cooper knew she wanted to pursue acting professionally. After graduating from high school, she made a pivotal decision to move to Vancouver, a major hub for film and television production in Canada, to pursue more opportunities in the entertainment industry.

Cooper furthered her education by studying production, directing, and acting at the New York Academy. This comprehensive training equipped her with not just acting skills but also a deeper understanding of filmmaking from multiple perspectives, which has proven invaluable throughout her career.

In early 2015, before her acting career fully took off, Nesta Cooper worked as a production assistant on a short film showcasing Truvelle’s eight-piece 2015 bridal collection. This behind-the-scenes experience gave her valuable insights into the production process and the collaborative nature of filmmaking.

Career Journey: From Small Roles to Stardom

Early Career (2013-2015)

Nesta Cooper’s professional acting career began in 2013 when she landed her first television role in the supernatural thriller series “Cult,” where she appeared as Young Sakelik in two episodes. Though it was a minor role, it marked the beginning of what would become an impressive career trajectory.

Following her debut, Cooper appeared in several Canadian television series, gradually building her resume and honing her craft:

• The Haunting Hour: The Series (2013) – She played Lizzie in the “Dead Bodies” episode of this horror anthology series
• Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce (2014-2015) – Guest appearance
• Supernatural (2015) – Guest role in this long-running fantasy series
• Heroes Reborn: Dark Matters (2015) – Web series appearance
• The Returned (2015) – She appeared twice as Megan in this supernatural drama series

In 2015, Nesta Cooper made her feature film debut in “Diablo,” a dark fantasy thriller. This marked an important milestone as she transitioned from television guest spots to film work.

Breakthrough Roles (2016-2018)

The year 2016 proved to be a turning point in Nesta Cooper’s career. She landed several significant roles that would establish her as a rising talent in the industry.

The Edge of Seventeen (2016)

Cooper appeared in the critically acclaimed coming-of-age film “The Edge of Seventeen” alongside Hailee Steinfeld and Woody Harrelson. In the film, she played Shannon, contributing to a story that resonated with audiences and critics alike. The movie was a commercial success, earning $18.8 million at the box office against a production budget of $9 million, and receiving widespread critical praise for its authentic portrayal of teenage life.

Working with established actors like Hailee Steinfeld gave Cooper invaluable experience and exposure to high-quality filmmaking. The role, though supporting, showcased her ability to hold her own alongside seasoned performers.

Travelers (2016-2018)

Perhaps Cooper’s most significant breakthrough came with her main role as Carly Shannon (Traveler 3465) in the Netflix and Showcase science fiction series “Travelers.” This Canadian-American production ran for three seasons from 2016 to 2018 and became a cult favorite among sci-fi enthusiasts.

In “Travelers,” Cooper played a single mother whose body is taken over by a special operative from the future. These operatives, known as “travelers,” have their consciousnesses sent back in time to prevent the collapse of society. As Carly, the team’s tactician, Cooper had to portray the complexity of a woman living a double life – maintaining the appearance of a struggling single mother in an abusive relationship while secretly being a highly trained operative from the future.

The role was physically and emotionally demanding. In an interview with TV, EH?, Cooper revealed that she performed many of her own stunts in the series. She explained how the writing evolved with her growing capabilities: “We’ve had the same stunt team for both seasons. In Season 1, I was a twiggy and very weak. I’m still weak but I work out a lot more now. The stunt team has seen how I fight and carry myself and I’m lucky because the writing has taken this physically strong person and put her into the body of a weak, single mom. Carly is able to grow with me as I’ve learned to carry myself. This season I’m able to do a lot of my own stunts, like when I flip people and when I punch people.”

This dedication to physical preparation and stunt work demonstrated Cooper’s commitment to authenticity in her performances.

Reality High (2017)

In 2017, Cooper starred as Dani Barnes in the Netflix teen comedy “Reality High.” The film explored themes of social media influence, authenticity, and the pressures of maintaining a perfect online persona. Cooper’s portrayal of Dani showcased her versatility, as she moved from intense science fiction drama to light-hearted comedy with ease.

It was on the set of “Reality High” that Cooper met Peter Van Auker, an associate producer on the film. This professional connection would blossom into a lasting romantic relationship.

Other Notable Work (2017-2018)

During this period, Cooper also appeared in:

• Motive (2016) – She played Stacey Edmonds in the crime drama series
• The Magicians (2017) – Guest appearance
• Spy Kids: Mission Critical (2018) – Voice acting role as Scorpion, a key antagonist in the SWAMP organization, spanning two seasons and 20 episodes
• Supergirl (2018) – She appeared as Tanya in two episodes
• The Miracle Season (2018) – Sports drama film

Major Success with “See” (2019-2022)

In 2019, Nesta Cooper landed what would become her most prominent role to date – Haniwa in Apple TV+’s epic post-apocalyptic series “See.” The show, starring Jason Momoa, was set in a distant future where humanity has lost the ability to see, and society has rebuilt itself in new ways.

Cooper played Haniwa, one of two sighted children born in this blind world, and the biological daughter of Jerlmarel (also sighted). Her character was described as proud, determined, and strong – more rebellious than her twin brother Kofun and intensely curious about her true origins.

Over the course of 24 episodes spanning three seasons (2019-2022), Cooper brought depth and complexity to Haniwa, portraying her growth from a curious child to a fierce warrior fighting for her people. The role required intense physical training, emotional range, and the ability to convey both vulnerability and strength.

“See” gave Cooper the opportunity to work with A-list talent and be part of a major streaming platform production. The show explored themes of tribal conflict, the nature of power, and what it means to be different in a society that fears change. Cooper’s performance was central to these themes, as Haniwa represented hope, change, and the potential for a new future.

Recent and Current Projects (2023-2026)

Nesta Cooper has continued to choose diverse and challenging roles that showcase her range as an actress.

Cold Copy (2023)

In 2023, Cooper appeared in the thriller film “Cold Copy,” directed by Floria Sigismondi. She played a supporting role alongside Bel Powley and Tracee Ellis Ross. The film, which premiered at the Tribeca Festival, follows an ambitious journalism student who becomes entangled in a manipulative news anchor’s schemes. The thriller explored themes of media manipulation, ambition, and ethical boundaries in journalism.

Kemba (2024)

One of Cooper’s most important recent roles came in the biographical drama “Kemba,” directed by Kelley Kali and released in 2024. Cooper starred as Kemba Smith, a real-life criminal justice reform advocate. The film tells the powerful story of a college student who falls in love with a man, only to discover he’s a drug kingpin. Through abuse and manipulation, she’s drawn into the world of drugs and ultimately receives a harsh federal sentence as part of the government’s “war on drugs.”

Co-starring Siddiq Saunderson and Michelle Hurd, “Kemba” premiered on BET+ and tackled vital themes including institutional racism, racial inequality, and the urgent need for criminal justice and prison reform. This role allowed Cooper to bring an important true story to life and participate in meaningful conversations about social justice.

The film resonated deeply with audiences and critics, highlighting Cooper’s ability to take on serious, socially relevant material and deliver performances that educate and inspire.

Turn Me On (2024)

Also in 2024, Cooper appeared in the dystopian romantic comedy “Turn Me On,” a lighter ensemble project that showcased her comedic timing and ability to navigate different genres.

Dope Thief (2025)

In 2025, Cooper starred as Michelle Taylor in the Apple TV+ crime drama series “Dope Thief.” The show follows long-time friends who pose as DEA agents and inadvertently uncover a major narcotics corridor while attempting a robbery gone wrong. Cooper’s character, Michelle Taylor, is described as a lawyer drawn into a perilous drug heist, navigating complex moral dilemmas throughout the series.

“Dope Thief” has already generated significant buzz and received nominations, including a Primetime Emmy nod, based on its intriguing premise. Cooper’s portrayal of Michelle Taylor has been praised for its nuance and depth, once again demonstrating her talent for bringing complicated characters to life.

Fire Country (2025)

Cooper also appeared in four episodes of the CBS drama “Fire Country” Season 3 in 2025, playing Violet, a newly divorced lawyer who becomes Jake’s girlfriend. The role placed her in the middle of high-stakes firefighting narratives and allowed her to explore the emotional complexity of someone rebuilding their life after divorce while navigating a new relationship.

Upcoming Projects

Looking ahead, Cooper continues to expand her creative endeavors. In August 2024, it was announced that she made her screenwriting debut with “Mem,” an upcoming sci-fi thriller where she will both adapt the screenplay and star. This marks an exciting new chapter in her career, showing her evolution from actress to filmmaker.

She has also been cast in the upcoming drama feature film “Kemba” from MPI Original Films and BET, further cementing her commitment to socially conscious storytelling.

Personal Life and Relationships

Relationship with Peter Van Auker

Nesta Cooper has been in a long-term relationship with Peter Van Auker, a professional associate producer and the brother of Adam Merrill Van Auker. The couple first met on the set of “Reality High” in 2016, where Peter worked as an associate producer while Nesta was part of the cast.

Their relationship became public when they began dating in November 2016, shortly after filming wrapped. What started as a professional connection blossomed into a deep romantic relationship built on mutual respect, shared interests, and support for each other’s careers.

In 2017, Nesta and Peter took an important step together by adopting a Husky puppy named Juneau on October 15, 2017. The couple often shares adorable photos of Juneau on social media, and the dog has become an important part of their family.

Cooper and Van Auker are known for being relatively private about their relationship, though they occasionally share glimpses of their life together on Instagram. Their relationship appears to be built on a strong foundation of friendship, shared values, and mutual support.

In 2020, the couple got engaged in a small, private gathering, and according to recent reports, they married in a private ceremony in 2023. Cooper prefers to keep her personal life separate from her public persona, maintaining a healthy boundary between her career and private relationships.

Friendship with Keith Power

Cooper is also known for her close friendship with actor Keith Power. The two are often seen in photos together on social media, and their genuine friendship has sparked occasional speculation about a romantic relationship. However, both have made it clear that they are simply best friends who support each other’s careers and enjoy spending time together.

Lifestyle and Interests

When she’s not working, Nesta Cooper enjoys:

• Listening to music – She has mentioned this as one of her favorite hobbies
• Spending time outdoors – Growing up on Vancouver Island gave her an appreciation for nature
• Fitness and training – Especially important for her physically demanding roles
• Time with family – She maintains close relationships with her mother and siblings
• Dog parenting – Taking care of Juneau with her partner

Cooper is also known for being thoughtful about the roles she chooses, preferring projects that have meaningful messages or explore important social issues. This is evident in her recent choices like “Kemba” and “Dope Thief,” which tackle serious themes.

Physical Appearance and Stats

Nesta Cooper is known for her striking presence both on screen and off. Here are her physical statistics:

• Height: 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters / 173 centimeters)
• Weight: Approximately 56 kg (123 pounds)
• Body Measurements: 34-25-35 inches
• Hair Color: Black (naturally curly)
• Eye Color: Black
• Dress Size: 4 (US)
• Shoe Size: 7.5-8 (US)
• Body Type: Athletic and slim
• Ethnicity: Mixed (African-Caucasian)

Cooper maintains her fitness through regular workouts, which became especially important when she took on action-heavy roles in “Travelers” and “See.” She has spoken about how her physical training evolved to meet the demands of performing her own stunts, showcasing her dedication to bringing authenticity to her performances.

Her natural beauty, combined with her talent and screen presence, has made her a favorite among casting directors for a wide range of roles. She’s equally convincing in period pieces, contemporary dramas, and futuristic science fiction settings.

Net Worth and Financial Success

As of 2026, Nesta Cooper’s estimated net worth is approximately $1.5 million. This wealth has been accumulated through her consistent work in television and film over the past 13 years.

Sources of Income

Cooper’s income comes from multiple sources:

1. Television Series – Her main roles in “Travelers” and “See” were likely her highest-earning positions, as both were major productions for Netflix and Apple TV+ respectively.
2. Film Roles – From “The Edge of Seventeen” to more recent projects like “Kemba” and “Turn Me On,” Cooper has appeared in numerous films that have contributed to her earnings.
3. Voice Acting – Her work on “Spy Kids: Mission Critical” provided steady income over two seasons.
4. Guest Appearances – Various guest spots on popular shows like “Supergirl” and “Fire Country” add to her overall income.
5. Streaming Residuals – With many of her projects available on streaming platforms, Cooper benefits from ongoing residuals.
6. Endorsements and Sponsorships – Though she keeps a relatively low profile, Cooper likely has endorsement deals and sponsorship opportunities.
7. Screenwriting – Her upcoming work as a screenwriter on “Mem” opens new revenue streams.

Career Growth and Future Prospects

Cooper’s net worth has grown steadily as her career has progressed. Starting with minor television roles in 2013, she has worked her way up to main roles in major streaming series and critically acclaimed films. Industry experts predict that her net worth will continue to grow, especially as she takes on more prominent roles and expands into screenwriting and potentially producing.

Her choice of projects also suggests someone building a sustainable, long-term career rather than chasing quick paychecks. By selecting roles in both commercial productions and socially conscious films, Cooper is establishing herself as a versatile actress with both artistic integrity and commercial appeal.

Awards and Recognition

While Nesta Cooper has not yet won major industry awards, her work has been recognized in several ways:

• “Dope Thief” received a Primetime Emmy nomination, highlighting the quality of the series in which she stars
• Critical acclaim for her performance in “See,” with many reviewers praising her portrayal of Haniwa
• Tribeca Festival premiere for “Cold Copy,” placing her work in prestigious film festivals
• Positive reviews for her performance in “The Edge of Seventeen,” a critically acclaimed film
• Growing industry recognition as a reliable and talented actress capable of handling diverse roles

As Cooper continues to take on challenging and high-profile roles, it’s likely that award nominations and wins will follow in the coming years.

Social Media Presence

Nesta Cooper maintains an active but selective social media presence:

Instagram

• Username: @nmarlee
• Followers: Approximately 97,000+ (and growing)
• Content: Cooper shares behind-the-scenes photos from her projects, personal moments with family and friends, pictures with her dog Juneau, and occasional advocacy for causes she believes in
• Engagement: She maintains authentic engagement with fans while keeping personal boundaries

Twitter/X

• While there may be fan accounts, Cooper does not appear to have a verified Twitter/X account as of 2026

Facebook

• No verified public Facebook presence

Cooper’s approach to social media is relatively reserved compared to many celebrities. She uses Instagram primarily to share her professional work, celebrate her loved ones, and occasionally advocate for important causes. This measured approach has helped her maintain privacy while still connecting with fans who appreciate her work

What Makes Nesta Cooper Stand Out?

Several factors distinguish Nesta Cooper in the competitive entertainment industry:

1. Versatility

From science fiction to coming-of-age dramas, from comedies to serious biographical films, Cooper has demonstrated remarkable range. She can convincingly portray a time-traveling operative, a sighted warrior in a blind world, a teenager navigating high school, and a real-life criminal justice advocate with equal skill.

2. Physical Commitment

Cooper’s willingness to perform her own stunts and undergo intensive physical training for roles shows her dedication to authenticity. This commitment sets her apart from actors who rely solely on stunt doubles.

3. Thoughtful Role Selection

Rather than taking every opportunity that comes her way, Cooper appears to choose roles that resonate with her personally or address important social issues. This approach builds a cohesive career rather than a random collection of credits.

4. Multicultural Background

Growing up with African and Caucasian heritage has given Cooper unique perspectives that inform her performances. She represents diversity in Hollywood and has spoken about the importance of representation.

5. Expanding Skillset

By moving into screenwriting with “Mem,” Cooper is positioning herself for long-term success in the industry. Writer-actors have more control over their careers and can create opportunities for themselves and others.

6. Professionalism

Industry insiders and co-stars consistently praise Cooper’s professionalism, work ethic, and collaborative spirit on set. This reputation makes her a sought-after talent for both television and film projects.

Nesta Cooper’s Impact on Representation

As a woman of mixed African-Caucasian heritage, Nesta Cooper represents important diversity in an industry that has historically lacked representation. Growing up in a predominantly white community on Vancouver Island, Cooper has firsthand experience with being different, which informs her understanding of characters who don’t fit neatly into societal expectations.

Her role in “See” was particularly significant, as she played a character who was literally different from everyone around her – sighted in a world of blind people. This metaphor for being an outsider resonated with many viewers who have felt different or marginalized.

By choosing projects like “Kemba,” which directly addresses racial injustice in the criminal justice system, Cooper uses her platform to bring important stories to wider audiences. Her work contributes to ongoing conversations about representation, equity, and justice in society.

Lesser-Known Facts About Nesta Cooper

1. Early Creative Expression: Before focusing on acting, Cooper would choreograph dances and create music videos with friends, showing her creative instincts from a young age.
2. Behind-the-Scenes Experience: Her work as a production assistant in 2015 gave her valuable insights into filmmaking from multiple perspectives.
3. Stunt Training: Cooper significantly improved her fitness and stunt capabilities between seasons of “Travelers,” demonstrating her commitment to growth.
4. Private Person: Despite her rising fame, Cooper maintains strong boundaries between her public and private life, rarely discussing personal details in interviews.
5. Animal Lover: Her adoption of Juneau the Husky shows her love for animals and commitment to rescue/adoption.
6. Cross-Cultural Upbringing: Moving from multicultural Mississauga to predominantly white Courtenay shaped her understanding of identity and belonging.
7. Screenwriting Debut: “Mem” marks her first project as a screenwriter, showing her evolution as a creative professional.
8. Long-Term Relationship: Her relationship with Peter Van Auker has lasted over 10 years (since 2016), showing stability in her personal life.
9. Voice Acting: Her work on “Spy Kids: Mission Critical” demonstrates her versatility extends to voice performance.
10. Film Festival Recognition: “Cold Copy” premiered at the prestigious Tribeca Festival, placing her work among acclaimed independent films.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nesta Cooper

How old is Nesta Cooper in 2026?

Nesta Cooper is 32 years old in 2026, having been born on December 11, 1993.

What is Nesta Cooper height?

Nesta Cooper stands 5 feet 8 inches tall (1.73 meters or 173 centimeters).

Is Nesta Cooper married?

Yes, according to recent reports, Nesta Cooper married her long-time partner Peter Van Auker in a private ceremony in 2023. They had been engaged since 2020 and dating since 2016.

What is Nesta Cooper net worth in 2026?

Nesta Cooper’s estimated net worth in 2026 is approximately $1.5 million, earned through her work in television, film, and voice acting.

What shows is Nesta Cooper best known for?

Nesta Cooper is best known for playing Haniwa in Apple TV+’s “See” (2019-2022), Carly Shannon in Netflix’s “Travelers” (2016-2018), and her roles in “The Edge of Seventeen” (2016) and “Reality High” (2017).

What is Nesta Cooper’s ethnicity?

Nesta Cooper is of mixed ethnicity, with African and Caucasian heritage. She identifies as African-Caucasian or mixed-race.

Where is Nesta Cooper from?

Nesta Cooper was born in Mississauga, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. She moved to Courtenay on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, at age seven and later relocated to Vancouver to pursue her acting career.

Conclusion

At just 32 years old in 2026, Nesta Cooper has already built an impressive career spanning 13 years in the entertainment industry. From her humble beginnings with small television roles in 2013 to starring in major Apple TV+ and Netflix productions, Cooper’s trajectory shows steady growth, thoughtful choices, and increasing recognition.

What makes Cooper’s career particularly noteworthy is not just her commercial success but her commitment to meaningful storytelling. Whether portraying a sighted warrior fighting for her people’s future, a time-traveling operative trying to save humanity, or a real-life advocate for criminal justice reform, Cooper brings depth, authenticity, and emotional truth to every role.