Paris Berelc's Inspiring Rise: From Elite Gymnast to Netflix Heartthrob and 2025's Breakout Star -

Paris Berelc has always been a force of nature. With her infectious energy, undeniable talent, and a story that feels straight out of a feel-good movie, she’s captured hearts from Disney screens to Netflix binge sessions. Now, as we dive into late 2025, Paris is stepping into even bolder roles, both on-screen and behind the camera. Her journey from a flip-loving kid in Wisconsin to a Hollywood staple is one of grit, grace, and glowing confidence. Let’s trace the path of this Filipino-American star who’s proving that dreams, paired with hard work, really do come true.

Table of Contents

From Gymnastics Mats to Magazine Covers: Paris Berelc’s Wisconsin Roots

Born on December 29, 1998, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Paris MaryJo Berelc grew up in a loving, multicultural family. Her mother has Filipino roots, hailing from the Philippines, while her father brings European heritage, including French-Canadian influences. This blend gave Paris a rich cultural foundation, one she proudly embraces today with posts celebrating her Filipino side.

From age four, Paris was all about movement. She started dancing, but gymnastics quickly became her world. By nine, she was competing at an elite level 10, one of the top young gymnasts in the country. Those years on the mat built her discipline, strength, and that signature poise we see in her roles.

But destiny had a twist. At nine, a scout from Ford Models spotted her, launching a modeling career. She graced ads for Kohl’s, Boston Store, and even landed the cover of American Girl magazine. Yet, gymnastics demanded everything, leaving little room for more. Paris made a tough choice: step away from the sport she loved to explore new horizons.

The Pivotal Move: Discovering Acting and Heading to Hollywood

At 12, Paris dipped her toes into acting classes in Chicago. The spark ignited. Her parents saw the passion and, in a leap of faith, moved the family to Los Angeles when she was 14. Imagine uprooting your life for a teenager’s dream that kind of support speaks volumes about the Berelc family bond. Paris has three younger sisters, including Bless, who’s also chasing acting dreams.

Those early LA days weren’t glamorous. Auditions, rejections, the grind of building a resume. But Paris’s gymnastics background gave her an edge: athleticism that shone in action roles, plus a work ethic forged in competition.

Disney Breakthrough: Becoming Skylar Storm and Capturing Young Hearts

Paris’s big break came in 2013 with Disney XD’s Mighty Med. Cast as Skylar Storm, a superhero alien with powers and sass, she stole scenes alongside co-stars like Bradley Steven Perry and Jake Short (who she’d briefly date in real life). The role showcased her physical prowess—those flips and fights felt authentic because they were.

When Mighty Med ended, Paris reprised Skylar in the spin-off Lab Rats: Elite Force (2016), teaming up with more superheroes. These shows turned her into a Disney darling, earning her a dedicated young fanbase and nominations like the Young Entertainer Award.

Netflix Stardom: The Emotional Power of Alexa & Katie

Transitioning from Disney to Netflix marked Paris’s glow-up. In 2018, she landed the lead as Alexa Mendoza in Alexa & Katie, opposite Isabel May. The multi-season sitcom followed two best friends navigating high school one battling cancer. Paris’s portrayal was heartfelt, blending humor with raw emotion. The show’s sensitive handling of tough topics resonated deeply, earning praise for representation and earning Paris a massive, loyal following.

It wasn’t just acting; Paris drew from her own resilience, making Alexa’s strength feel real. Fans still rave about the friendship dynamic and those tear-jerking moments.

Branching Out: Big-Screen Roles and Embracing Her Filipino Heritage

Post-Netflix, Paris hit the movies. She played Liz in Tall Girl (2019), bringing charm to the teen rom-com. Then came Hubie Halloween (2020) with Adam Sandler, 1Up (2022) as a gamer breaking barriers, and Do Revenge (2022) alongside Camila Mendes.

Paris has leaned into her heritage, representing Filipino-American voices in Hollywood—a space still growing. Her social media shines with pride, from family traditions to travel posts that highlight her roots.

2025 and Beyond: Thrillers, Rom-Coms, and Executive Producing Dreams

2025 has been exciting for Paris. She starred in the rom-com Miss Valentine with Luke Benward, a heartfelt story of second chances. She’s also executive producing and co-starring in Tubi’s Kissing Is the Easy Part opposite Asher Angel, adapting a popular Wattpad story. Add in thriller vibes with projects like Ascent, and Paris is diversifying her portfolio like never before.

Stepping behind the camera as an executive producer shows her ambition—she’s not just acting; she’s shaping stories.

A Private Heart: Relationships, Family Ties, and Life Off-Screen

Paris keeps her personal life low-key, but she’s been in a steady relationship with fitness trainer Rhys Athayde since October 2020. The couple, who went Instagram official that year, share glimpses of travel, workouts, and sweet moments. Rhys has supported her at premieres, and Paris has called this her healthiest relationship yet.

Past romances include Jack Griffo (2017-2020), Peyton Meyer, and Jake Short—common in young Hollywood circles. No kids or marriage yet; at 26, she’s focused on career and self-growth. Family remains her anchor, with sisters often popping up in her posts.

Net Worth Revealed: Building a Luxe Life Through Talent and Hustle

Through acting, modeling residuals, brand partnerships, and social media (millions on Instagram and TikTok), Paris has built an estimated net worth of $3 million. She lives comfortably in LA—think stylish outfits, wellness routines, and globetrotting adventures—but stays grounded, often sharing fitness tips inspired by her gymnastics days.

Biography Table
Full Name	Paris MaryJo Berelc
Date of Birth	December 29, 1998
Age (as of December 2025)	26 years old
Height	5’4″ (1.63 m)
Ethnicity	Filipino-American (Filipino mother, European/French-Canadian father)
Profession	Actress, Former Gymnast, Model, Executive Producer
Breakout Role	Skylar Storm in Mighty Med / Lab Rats: Elite Force
Notable Works	Alexa & Katie, Tall Girl, Do Revenge, 1Up
Relationship Status	Dating Rhys Athayde (since 2020)
Children	None
Net Worth (2025 estimate)	$3 million

Final Thoughts: Why Paris Berelc Continues to Inspire a New Generation

Paris Berelc’s story isn’t just about fame—it’s about reinvention. From trading gymnastics glory for spotlights, to tackling emotional roles that touch lives, she’s shown vulnerability and strength in equal measure. In a world quick to label, Paris represents diversity, resilience, and joy. As she produces her own projects and takes on thrilling new roles, one thing’s clear: this is just the beginning. Paris isn’t chasing fame; she’s building a legacy, one heartfelt performance at a time. Here’s to watching her soar even higher.

Paris Berelc’s Inspiring Rise: From Elite Gymnast to Netflix Heartthrob and 2025’s Breakout Star