Hunter Schafer was born in Trenton, New Jersey, to Katy and Mac Schafer. Her father is a Presbyterian minister. She grew up in Raleigh, North Carolina, and from a young age, exhibited a strong artistic inclination, developing skills in drawing and design. This creative foundation would later prove instrumental in her career.

Prior to acting, Schafer gained visibility as a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. She spoke out against North Carolina's Public Facilities Privacy & Security Act (HB2), also known as the 'bathroom bill,' which restricted transgender individuals' access to public restrooms. Her activism led to opportunities like being featured in 'Teen Vogue', where she discussed her experiences as a transgender woman and her passion for social justice.

Before transitioning to acting, Hunter Schafer established a successful career as a model. She worked with numerous high-profile fashion houses, including Dior, Miu Miu, Marc Jacobs, Versus Versace, Rick Owens, Helmut Lang, Ann Demeulemeester, and Comme des Garçons. Her unique look and striking presence made her a sought-after figure in the fashion world, providing a platform that would eventually propel her into acting.

Schafer's acting debut came in the HBO drama series 'Euphoria,' created by Sam Levinson. She landed the role of Jules Vaughn, a transgender teenage girl navigating love, identity, and addiction. Her nuanced and authentic portrayal of Jules garnered widespread critical acclaim and instantly catapulted her to stardom. Schafer also served as a consultant and co-writer for a special episode focused on Jules, further solidifying her creative involvement and influence on the show.

Hunter Schafer continued to expand her creative horizons by directing an episode of 'Euphoria', showcasing her versatility beyond acting. She also began taking on roles in other projects, demonstrating her commitment to diverse and challenging characters. This period marked her transition from a breakout star to a multifaceted artist capable of both acting and directing.

Schafer secured a prominent role in 'The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes', a prequel to the original Hunger Games series. This big-budget film further solidified her presence in mainstream cinema. Additionally, she starred in the horror film 'Cuckoo,' showcasing her willingness to explore diverse genres and roles.

As of 2024, Hunter Schafer continues to be involved in various acting projects and remains a visible advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and transgender representation. She is constantly evolving as an artist and using her platform to inspire and empower others. Her future endeavors are highly anticipated by both her fans and the industry, solidifying her status as a significant figure in contemporary culture.