Cynthia Daniel is an American former actress and professional photographer best known for her role as Elizabeth Wakefield in the popular 1990s teen television series Sweet Valley High. While many fans remember her from her on-screen performances, Cynthia later stepped away from Hollywood and built a successful career behind the camera as a photographer. She is also widely known as the identical twin sister of actress Brittany Daniel and the wife of actor Cole Hauser, famous for his role as Rip Wheeler in Yellowstone.
Born in the mid-1970s, Cynthia Daniel became a familiar face during the golden era of teen television. Even though her acting career was relatively short, her impact remains strong among fans of 90s pop culture.
Cynthia Daniel Birthday and Age
Cynthia Daniel was born on March 17, 1976, in Gainesville, Florida, United States.
- Age: 49 years old (as of 2025)
- Zodiac Sign: Pisces
Her birthday is often celebrated by fans who grew up watching Sweet Valley High, a show that defined teenage drama during the 1990s.
Cynthia Daniel Young: Early Life and Childhood
Cynthia Daniel grew up in Florida alongside her identical twin sister Brittany and their older brother. From an early age, Cynthia and Brittany showed interest in modeling and acting. Their identical looks made them stand out, and this became a major advantage when they entered the entertainment industry.
At just 11 years old, the Daniel twins signed with the Ford Modeling Agency, one of the most respected modeling agencies in the world. This early exposure helped them land print ads, magazine features, and commercials, setting the foundation for their future careers.
As a young girl, Cynthia balanced school with auditions and photo shoots, gaining discipline and confidence early in life.
Cynthia Daniel Twin: Relationship With Brittany Daniel
One of the most talked-about aspects of Cynthia Daniel’s life is her close bond with her identical twin sister, Brittany Daniel.
Cynthia Daniel and Brittany Daniel
The twins are genetically identical and famously appeared together in several early projects. They became widely recognized as the Doublemint Twins, appearing in Doublemint gum commercials that aired nationally.
While Cynthia portrayed Elizabeth Wakefield on Sweet Valley High, Brittany played Jessica Wakefield, Elizabeth’s mischievous twin. This casting choice was perfect and made the show even more memorable.
Their bond goes far beyond acting. In a deeply personal and emotional moment, Cynthia later donated an egg to Brittany after Brittany underwent cancer treatment, allowing her sister to have a child. This act highlighted their strong family values and unbreakable connection.
Cynthia Daniel Movies and TV Shows
Cynthia Daniel’s acting career primarily took place during the late 1980s and 1990s. Although she did not appear in a large number of projects, her roles were significant.
Major TV Shows
- Sweet Valley High (1994–1997)
Role: Elizabeth Wakefield
This was Cynthia’s most iconic role and the one that defined her career. The series was based on the bestselling book series by Francine Pascal and became a global hit among teens. - The New Leave It to Beaver (1989)
One of her earliest television appearances. - That ’80s Show (2002)
Guest appearance after she had mostly stepped away from acting.
Movies
- The Basketball Diaries (1995)
Cynthia appeared in this film starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Though her role was small, the movie later became a cult classic. - Cheaper by the Dozen (2022)
Cynthia reunited with her sister Brittany in this Disney+ remake, marking a rare return to acting.
After the late 1990s, Cynthia gradually retired from acting and chose a more private life.
Why Cynthia Daniel Left Acting
Unlike many child and teen stars, Cynthia Daniel made a conscious decision to step away from Hollywood. After Sweet Valley High ended, she chose not to pursue fame aggressively.
Instead, Cynthia followed her passion for creativity in a different form — photography. She later founded her own photography business, focusing on lifestyle, family, and portrait photography. This move allowed her to maintain a creative career while prioritizing family and personal happiness.
Cynthia Daniel and Cole Hauser
Who Is Cole Hauser?
Cole Hauser is an American actor known for his tough, charismatic roles in both film and television. He gained worldwide fame for portraying Rip Wheeler on the hit series Yellowstone. His other notable projects include Dazed and Confused, 2 Fast 2 Furious, and Good Will Hunting.
Cynthia Daniel Husband
Cynthia Daniel married Cole Hauser on December 22, 2006. The couple had been together for several years before tying the knot, making their relationship one of the more stable and private marriages in Hollywood.
Despite Cole’s rising fame, the couple has maintained a low-key lifestyle, avoiding unnecessary media attention.
Cynthia Daniel Family and Children
Cynthia Daniel and Cole Hauser are proud parents of three children:
- Ryland Hauser (son, born in 2004)
- Colt Daniel Hauser (son, born in 2008)
- Steely Rose Hauser (daughter, born in 2013)
Cynthia often shares glimpses of her family life on social media, emphasizing motherhood, family values, and creativity. Her family plays a central role in her life, and she has openly expressed gratitude for being able to balance career and home.
Cynthia Daniel Life as a Photographer
After leaving acting, Cynthia reinvented herself as a professional photographer. She founded Five Arrows Photography, a business that focuses on authentic, natural moments rather than staged images.
Her photography style reflects her personality — calm, warm, and family-oriented. Many fans admire how she successfully transitioned from a Hollywood actress to a respected creative professional.
Cynthia Daniel Net Worth
How Much Is Cynthia Daniel Worth?
Cynthia Daniel’s net worth is estimated to be between $8 million and $10 million, according to various celebrity finance sources. This figure often reflects combined household assets with her husband Cole Hauser.
Her wealth comes from:
- Earnings from Sweet Valley High
- Film and television appearances
- Modeling work
- Photography business
- Shared investments and assets with Cole Hauser
While she no longer works in mainstream Hollywood, her financial stability remains strong.
Cynthia Daniel Public Image and Legacy
Cynthia Daniel represents a unique kind of success story — someone who experienced fame early, stepped away on her own terms, and built a fulfilling life outside the spotlight.
She remains beloved by fans of 90s television and is often praised for:
- Choosing family over fame
- Supporting her sister during difficult times
- Reinventing herself creatively
Her legacy is not just about acting but about living a balanced and meaningful life.
Cynthia Daniel Today
Today, Cynthia Daniel focuses on:
- Photography
- Family life
- Supporting her husband’s career
- Personal creative projects
She occasionally makes public appearances but prefers a private, grounded lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
Cynthia Daniel’s journey shows that success does not always mean staying in the spotlight forever. From a beloved teen TV star to a dedicated mother and professional photographer, she has built a life defined by choice, creativity, and family values.
For readers who enjoy celebrity biographies that go beyond fame and focus on real life, Cynthia Daniel’s story is both relatable and inspiring.
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