Maika Monroe

Maika Monroe is an American actress and professional kiteboarder who has established herself as one of the premier scream queens of modern horror cinema. Born Dillon Monroe Buckley on May 29, 1993, in Santa Barbara, California, she grew up with a passion for both the arts and extreme sports. She became a competitive kiteboarder in her teens and was even considered for the Dominican Republic’s national kiteboarding team before ultimately choosing to focus on her acting career.

Monroe’s breakthrough came with back-to-back horror hits in 2014. She starred in The Guest, a stylish action-thriller directed by Adam Wingard, and then delivered a mesmerizing performance in It Follows, David Robert Mitchell’s critically acclaimed horror film that became one of the most celebrated genre movies of the decade. Her portrayal of Jay Height in It Follows earned her widespread recognition and established her as a leading figure in modern horror. The film’s innovative concept and Monroe’s grounded performance resonated with audiences and critics worldwide.

Following her horror breakout, Monroe has continued to work across genres while maintaining her association with the horror genre. She appeared in films such as Independence Day: Resurgence (2016), The Fifth Wave (2016), and Tau (2018). She has also taken on roles in dramatic and thriller projects, demonstrating versatility beyond the genre that made her famous. Her continued involvement in horror projects has kept her relevant as one of the genre’s most bankable stars.

As of 2026, Maika Monroe’s net worth is estimated at $3 million. Her wealth comes primarily from her acting career across film and television, with a filmography that spans horror, science fiction, drama, and action. Her unique combination of acting talent and athletic background has made her a distinctive presence in Hollywood, and she continues to build her career with both independent and studio projects.