Who Is Isabela Merced? Movies, Music, Height & The Ultimate Bio
Content Mode Detected: Informational Biography & Career Guide. From Transformers to The Last of Us, we uncover everything about Hollywood’s rising Latina powerhouse.
The Evolution of a Hollywood Heavyweight
If you have watched any major blockbuster in the last five years, you have likely asked yourself: Who is Isabela Merced? She seems to be everywhere at once. One moment she is exploring the jungle as Dora the Explorer, the next she is fighting xenomorphs in Alien: Romulus, and soon she will be wielding a mace as Hawkgirl in the new DC Universe.
But Isabela Merced is more than just a rising action star. Born Isabela Moner, she is a triple threat: an actress, a Broadway-trained vocalist, and a songwriter. Her career trajectory mirrors that of Zendaya and Jenna Ortega—transitioning from child stardom on Nickelodeon to gritty, critically acclaimed roles that demand serious acting chops.
In this comprehensive guide, we will break down her filmography, analyze her musical career (yes, she sings!), and answer the most searched questions about her height, weight, and personal life. Whether you know her as the girl from Transformers or the new face of Dina in The Last of Us, here is everything you need to know.
Isabela Merced Height, Weight & Vitals
One of the most surprising things about Isabela is her stature. On screen, she often plays larger-than-life characters or tough survivalists, leading many to believe she is taller than she actually is.
| Full Name | Isabela Yolanda Moner (prof. Isabela Merced) |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 10, 2001 |
| Height | 5 feet 1 inch (1.55 m) |
| Weight (Approx.) | 106 lbs (48 kg) |
| Zodiac Sign | Cancer |
| Hometown | Cleveland, Ohio |
| Ethnicity | Peruvian-American |
Her height of 5’1″ places her in the “petite powerhouse” category of Hollywood, similar to Sabrina Carpenter. Despite her size, Merced undergoes intense physical training for roles like Sweet Girl and Superman (2025), often performing her own stunts.
From Moner to Merced: Why The Change?
You might find older music videos or movies credited to Isabela Moner. In 2019, she officially changed her stage name to Isabela Merced. This wasn’t a marketing gimmick; it was a tribute. “Merced” was her grandmother’s name. After her grandmother passed away, Isabela wanted to carry her legacy forward into the next chapter of her career, marking her transition from child star to adult artist.
Movies With Isabela Merced: A Genre-Bending Career
Isabela Merced’s filmography is incredibly diverse. She refuses to be typecast, moving effortlessly between family comedies, intense dramas, and sci-fi horror.
The Blockbuster Breakout
Transformers: The Last Knight (2017) put her on the map. Playing Izabella, a street-smart orphan, she held her own against giant robots and Mark Wahlberg. It was a physically demanding role that proved she could handle a green-screen environment.
The Critical Darling
Sicario: Day of the Soldado (2018) showed a darker side. Playing the daughter of a cartel boss, she delivered a performance filled with terror and resilience. This role signaled to critics that she was a serious dramatic actress.
Top 5 Essential Isabela Merced Movies
- 1. Dora and the Lost City of Gold (2019): While it sounds like a kids’ movie, critics praised her comedic timing and physical commitment. She made a cartoon character feel human.
- 2. Instant Family (2018): A heartwarming comedy where she played a foster child. Her chemistry with Mark Wahlberg and Rose Byrne was a highlight.
- 3. Sweet Girl (2021): A Netflix action thriller alongside Jason Momoa. Here, we saw her martial arts skills come to the forefront.
- 4. Alien: Romulus (2024): Joining the legendary horror franchise, Merced cemented her status as a scream queen for a new generation.
- 5. Superman (2025): Cast as Hawkgirl, she is set to enter the James Gunn DC Universe, a role that will likely define the next decade of her career.
With roles in massive franchises, she is following a path similar to Tom Holland, balancing superhero fame with character-driven work.
Watch Her Breakout Performance
See the movie that proved Isabela could carry a franchise. “Dora and the Lost City of Gold” is surprisingly funny, action-packed, and heartwarming.
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While film is her current focus, television is where she started—and where she is returning for her biggest role yet.
100 Things to Do Before High School (2014–2016)
This Nickelodeon sitcom was her launchpad. Playing CJ Martin, she showcased her comedic chops and singing ability. It is a classic entry in the “child star” resume.
The Last of Us (Season 2)
The internet exploded when it was announced that Isabela Merced would play Dina in HBO’s adaptation of The Last of Us Part II. Dina is a fan-favorite character—the romantic interest of Ellie (Bella Ramsey). The role requires deep emotional vulnerability and chemistry. Given the show’s massive success, this role places her in the upper echelon of young Hollywood, similar to the trajectory of Mikey Madison and other indie darlings turning mainstream.
Is Isabela Merced a Singer?
Yes, absolutely. Before she was an action star, she was a Broadway performer, debuting in Evita at age 10 alongside Ricky Martin. Music is not just a hobby for her; it is a core part of her identity.
Isabela Moner Music Videos & Hits
Transitioning from her “Isabela Moner” era to “Isabela Merced,” her sound has evolved from pop to a more Latin-infused R&B style.
- “Papi”: Perhaps her most famous single, blending reggaeton beats with pop sensibilities. The music video showcases her dancing ability.
- “Don’t Go” (with Danna Paola): A collaboration that highlighted her standing in the Latin music community.
- “The Better Half of Me”: An EP that showcased her vocal range and songwriting skills.
Unlike some actors who release “vanity projects,” Merced has genuine vocal talent. She often writes her own music, drawing inspiration from her Peruvian heritage. Fans of Selena Gomez will find a similar bilingual appeal in Merced’s discography.
Experience the Audio
Listen to Isabela Merced’s “Papi” and “The Better Half of Me” EP with crystal clear quality. These Sony headphones capture every beat.
Check Price on AmazonThe New Generation of Hollywood
Isabela Merced belongs to a very specific cohort of Gen Z actors who are taking over the industry. But how does she stack up?
| Actor | Best Known For | Style |
|---|---|---|
| Isabela Merced | Sicario 2, Dora, The Last of Us | Action/Drama Chameleon, Singer |
| Jenna Ortega | Wednesday, Scream | Horror Icon, Deadpan Comedy |
| Rachel Zegler | West Side Story, Hunger Games | Musical Theater Powerhouse |
| Cailee Spaeny | Alien: Romulus, Priscilla | Indie Grit, Transformation |
While Rihanna focuses on business and established stars maintain their ground, this new wave is hungry. Merced stands out because of her ability to switch between high-octane action (like Sweet Girl) and tender romance (like Turtles All the Way Down).
Frequently Asked Questions
Isabela Merced is approximately 5 feet 1 inch (1.55 meters) tall. Her petite stature is often contrasted with the physically demanding action roles she takes on.
Yes, Isabela Merced has been cast as Hawkgirl in James Gunn’s upcoming film Superman (2025), part of the new DC Universe reset. This connects her to other rising superhero actors like Lewis Pullman (Sentry in Thunderbolts).
Yes, she is a trained singer who debuted on Broadway in Evita at age 10. She has released an EP called The Better Half of Me and several singles under her own name, blending pop and Latin influences.
She changed her stage name from Moner to Merced in 2019 to honor her late grandmother, whose last name was Merced. She stated it felt like a new chapter in her life and career.
Final Verdict: The Future is Merced
Isabela Merced has successfully navigated the treacherous waters of child stardom to emerge as a genuine Hollywood contender. With a diverse portfolio that includes movies with Isabela Merced ranging from Transformers to Alien, and a promising role in The Last of Us, she is entering her prime.
She is a singer, a dancer, an action hero, and a dramatic actress wrapped in a 5’1″ package. As we look toward 2025 and beyond, one thing is clear: Isabela Merced is not just part of the conversation; she is leading it.
Catch Her Latest Hit
Prepare for her debut as Dina by rewatching the masterpiece that is “The Last of Us” Season 1 in 4K Ultra HD.
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