Cynthia Daniel is best known for playing Elizabeth Wakefield in the hit 1990s television series Sweet Valley High. While many fans remember her as one-half of the famous Wakefield twins alongside her real-life twin sister Brittany Daniel, Cynthia eventually stepped away from Hollywood to build a successful career behind the camera as a professional photographer.
Today, she is recognized not only for her acting career but also for her work in photography and her long-lasting marriage to actor Cole Hauser. This guide explores Cynthia Daniel’s early life, acting journey, photography career, family, and where she is today.
Who Is Cynthia Daniel? A Short Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cynthia Lynn Daniel |
| Date of Birth | March 17, 1976 |
| Age | 50 (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Gainesville, Florida, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Photographer, Former Actress |
| Years Active | 1989–1997, 2002, 2022 |
| Education | Gainesville High School |
| Famous For | Playing Elizabeth Wakefield in Sweet Valley High |
| Height | 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m) |
| Father | Charlton B. Daniel Jr. |
| Mother | Carol Daniel |
| Siblings | Brittany Daniel (twin sister), Brad Daniel |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Cole Hauser |
| Children | Three |
| Estimated Net Worth | Approximately $10 million (combined with husband, according to Celebrity Net Worth) |
| Source of Income | Photography, Acting |
| Official Website | Five Arrows Photography |
Early Life and Childhood
Growing Up in Florida
Cynthia Daniel was born in Gainesville, Florida, alongside her identical twin sister, Brittany Daniel. The twins shared many interests growing up and quickly became known for their striking resemblance.
Their parents encouraged their creative pursuits, and by the age of eleven, the sisters had signed with the Ford Modeling Agency. Modeling opened doors to magazine shoots, commercials, and eventually television roles.
Becoming the “Doublemint Twins”
Long before Sweet Valley High, Cynthia and Brittany appeared in advertisements for Doublemint gum, earning recognition as the famous “Doublemint Twins.”
These commercials significantly boosted their visibility and helped launch careers in entertainment. The sisters also appeared in magazines such as YM and Sassy, becoming familiar faces throughout the early 1990s.
First Steps Into Acting
The twins made their television debut in The New Leave It to Beaver before landing guest appearances on other shows.
These early experiences prepared Cynthia for the role that would define her acting career.
Cynthia Daniel’s Acting Career
Breakthrough With Sweet Valley High
Cynthia’s biggest role came in 1994 when she portrayed Elizabeth “Liz” Wakefield in the television adaptation of Francine Pascal’s bestselling Sweet Valley High novels.
Her twin sister Brittany played Jessica Wakefield, making the casting feel remarkably authentic. The series became popular among teenagers and ran for four seasons, introducing the sisters to audiences worldwide.
Other Film and Television Roles
Although Sweet Valley High remains her signature project, Cynthia also appeared in several other productions.
Her credits include:
- The Basketball Diaries (1995)
- Burke’s Law
- That ’80s Show
- Cheaper by the Dozen (2022)
Her appearance in the 2022 remake of Cheaper by the Dozen marked her return to acting after many years away from the industry.
Why Cynthia Daniel Left Acting
After Sweet Valley High ended, Cynthia chose a different path from many child and teen actors.
Rather than pursuing more acting opportunities, she decided to become a professional photographer. In interviews, she has explained that photography became a greater passion than acting, allowing her to express creativity while enjoying a more private lifestyle.
A Successful Photography Career
Building Five Arrows Photography
Following her retirement from regular acting, Cynthia launched Five Arrows Photography.
Her photography focuses primarily on portraits, families, lifestyle sessions, and editorial work. Her artistic eye and experience in front of the camera have helped her build a respected reputation behind it.
Creative Style
Cynthia’s work emphasizes natural lighting, authentic emotions, and timeless imagery.
Many clients appreciate her relaxed shooting style, which reflects the warmth and storytelling qualities she developed throughout her entertainment career.
Balancing Career and Family
Photography has also allowed Cynthia greater flexibility.
Unlike television acting, her photography business lets her spend more time with her family while continuing to pursue creative work on her own schedule.
Cynthia Daniel’s Family Life
Marriage to Cole Hauser
Cynthia Daniel married actor Cole Hauser in December 2006 after dating for several years.
Hauser is widely recognized for roles in films such as Good Will Hunting and 2 Fast 2 Furious, as well as the television series Yellowstone.
The couple has maintained one of Hollywood’s more private marriages and frequently keeps family life away from the spotlight.
Their Three Children
Cynthia and Cole share three children.
Although both parents occasionally post family moments publicly, they generally prioritize privacy and avoid exposing their children to constant media attention.
Close Relationship With Brittany Daniel
Cynthia has remained extremely close to her twin sister Brittany throughout adulthood.
One widely reported example of their bond came when Cynthia donated one of her eggs to Brittany during her fertility journey, ultimately helping Brittany welcome her daughter. The sisters have openly discussed this experience in interviews.
Awards and Recognition
Young Artist Award
Cynthia and Brittany Daniel received the Young Artist Award in 1995 for their performances in Sweet Valley High.
The recognition highlighted their chemistry and contribution to one of the decade’s most recognizable teen television series.
Lasting Popularity
Although her acting résumé is relatively short, Cynthia continues to enjoy a loyal fan following.
Streaming platforms and nostalgic interest in 1990s television have introduced Sweet Valley High to new audiences, helping preserve her place in pop culture.
What Is Cynthia Daniel Doing Now?
Today, Cynthia Daniel primarily works as a professional photographer while occasionally appearing alongside her family at entertainment events.
Unlike many former television stars, she has intentionally chosen a quieter lifestyle centered around creativity, marriage, and raising her children. Her brief return for Cheaper by the Dozen demonstrated that she remains connected to acting, even though photography continues to be her primary profession.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is Cynthia Daniel?
A: Cynthia Daniel is an American photographer and former actress best known for playing Elizabeth Wakefield in the television series Sweet Valley High. She is also the identical twin sister of actress Brittany Daniel.
Q: Is Cynthia Daniel married?
A: Yes. Cynthia Daniel has been married to actor Cole Hauser since December 2006. Together they have three children and have largely kept their family life private.
Q: Why did Cynthia Daniel stop acting?
A: After Sweet Valley High, Cynthia decided to pursue photography because it became her true passion. She transitioned into professional photography while making only occasional acting appearances afterward.
Q: Are Cynthia Daniel and Brittany Daniel twins?
A: Yes. Cynthia and Brittany Daniel are identical twin sisters. They modeled together as children and starred together in Sweet Valley High, where they portrayed twin sisters Elizabeth and Jessica Wakefield.
Q: What is Cynthia Daniel’s estimated net worth?
A: Celebrity Net Worth estimates Cynthia Daniel’s combined net worth with her husband, Cole Hauser, at around $10 million. Estimates vary across sources and should be viewed as unofficial.
Conclusion
Cynthia Daniel may have stepped away from Hollywood years ago, but her influence continues through both her memorable television work and her successful photography career. Best known for bringing Elizabeth Wakefield to life in Sweet Valley High, she chose a different path than many former child stars by focusing on family, creativity, and entrepreneurship. Her enduring marriage to Cole Hauser, close relationship with twin sister Brittany Daniel, and respected work behind the camera have kept her in the public eye without relying on constant celebrity attention. Whether fans remember her from the 1990s or are just discovering her story, Cynthia Daniel remains an inspiring example of building a fulfilling career beyond the spotlight.
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