Introduction
Leah Sava Jeffries has quickly become one of Hollywood’s most exciting young talents, captivating audiences with her powerful portrayal of Annabeth Chase in Disney+’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians. Born in Detroit, Michigan, Leah began her career as a child model before transitioning into acting, where she has already made a significant impact.
Despite facing racist backlash for her casting as Annabeth—a character originally depicted as white in Rick Riordan’s books—Leah has risen above the criticism with grace and determination. Her performance has earned her two NAACP Image Awards and a Children’s and Family Emmy nomination, proving that talent transcends appearance.
This article dives deep into Leah’s life, career, and future projects, providing the latest updates as of 2025. From her early days on Empire to her upcoming roles, we explore what makes Leah Sava Jeffries a star to watch.
Who Is Leah Sava Jeffries?
Sava Jeffries (born September 25, 2009) is an American actress and model best known for her role as Annabeth Chase in Percy Jackson and the Olympians. She began her career at just five years old, appearing in Fox’s musical drama Empire as Lola Lyon.
Key Highlights of Her Career:
- Broke barriers as the first Black actress to play Annabeth Chase.
- Advocated for diversity in Hollywood, supported by Rick Riordan and co-stars.
- Won two NAACP Image Awards (2024, 2025) for her performance in Percy Jackson.
- Nominated for a Children’s & Family Emmy (2025) for Outstanding Younger Performer.
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Leah’s resilience in the face of online harassment has made her a role model for young girls, proving that representation matters.
Leah Sava Jeffries: Movies and TV Shows
| Project | Role | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Percy Jackson & the Olympians | Annabeth Chase | 2023–present |
| Beast | Norah Samuels | 2022 |
| Something from Tiffany’s | Daisy Greene | 2022 |
| Empire | Lola Lyon | 2015–2016 |
| Rel | Brandi | 2018–2019 |
Leah’s filmography showcases her versatility, from action-thrillers (Beast) to romantic comedies (Something from Tiffany’s). However, her breakout role remains Percy Jackson, where she stars alongside Walker Scobell and Aryan Simhadri .
Leah Sava Jeffries: Age and Height
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Age (as of 2025) | 15 years old |
| Height | 4’8” (1.41 m) |
Despite her young age, Leah carries herself with the confidence of a seasoned actress. Her height has been a topic of discussion among fans, as Annabeth in the books is tall, but Leah’s performance has silenced any doubts .
Leah Sava Jeffries’ Birthday
Leah celebrates her birthday every year on September 25, making her a Libra. In 2023, Percy Jackson fans worldwide trended #LeahIsOurAnnabeth to celebrate her special day .
Leah Sava Jeffries and Walker Scobell
Leah shares a close bond with her Percy Jackson co-star Walker Scobell (who plays Percy). Off-screen, their friendship mirrors their characters’ dynamic—playful yet supportive.
- Walker has called Leah the “mom of the group” due to her nurturing nature.
- Their Tunnel of Love scene in Season 1 was a fan-favorite moment.
- Both have expressed excitement for Season 3, set to film in July 2025.
Leah Sava Jeffries’ Parents
Leah was born to Leah Jeffries (mother) and Floyd S. Jeffries Jr. (father). Her older brother, Floyd Jeffries, is also an actor and model. The family has been a strong support system throughout her career .
Where Does Leah Sava Jeffries Live?
Originally from Detroit, Michigan, Leah now resides in Los Angeles due to her acting commitments. She previously attended school in the Novi Community School District .
Leah Sava Jeffries: Net Worth and Ethnicity
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated $2 million |
| Ethnicity | African American |
Her earnings come from Percy Jackson, endorsements, and modeling gigs (including Carol’s Daughter) .
Leah Sava Jeffries: Nationality and Religion
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Nationality | American |
| Religion | Christian |
Leah proudly represents Detroit’s talent and often speaks about her roots.
Sava Jeffries Movies
Beyond Percy Jackson, Leah has appeared in:
- Beast (2022) – A survival thriller with Idris Elba.
- Something from Tiffany’s (2022) – A holiday rom-com.
Her film choices highlight her range as an actress.
Leah Sava Jeffries in Inside Out 2
While not confirmed, rumors suggest Leah may voice a character in Inside Out 2. Fans eagerly await official news .
FAQs
Q: How old is Leah Sava Jeffries?
A: She is 15 (as of 2025).
Q: What is Leah’s height?
A: 4’8” (1.41 m).
Q: Did Leah face backlash for playing Annabeth?
A: Yes, but Rick Riordan defended her, calling her perfect for the role .
Q: Is Leah returning for Percy Jackson Season 3?
A: Yes, filming starts July 2025 .
Q: What awards has Leah won?
A: Two NAACP Image Awards (2024, 2025) .
Conclusion
Leah is more than just Annabeth Chase—she’s a trailblazer for young Black actresses in Hollywood. With award-winning talent and a bright future, she continues to inspire fans worldwide.
