Hispanic Actresses Who Are in the GOAT Conversation (& Rightfully So)

The history of cinema and television has been profoundly shaped by the immense talent of Hispanic actresses who have broken barriers and set new standards for excellence. These women have delivered iconic performances that resonate across cultures and generations while navigating an industry that often overlooked their contributions. From the Golden Age of Hollywood to the modern streaming era they have earned prestigious awards and critical acclaim for their versatility and depth. Their influence extends beyond the screen as they pave the way for future artists to tell authentic stories. This list celebrates the legendary figures who are rightfully considered among the greatest of all time in the world of acting.

Rita Moreno

Rita Moreno is a rare EGOT winner who rose to international stardom through her legendary role in ‘West Side Story’. She made history as the first Latina to win an Academy Award for her performance as Anita. Her career has spanned over seven decades across film and television and Broadway. She has consistently used her platform to advocate for social justice and better representation in the arts. She remains a beloved icon who continues to work in major productions including the recent reimagining of ‘West Side Story’.

Penélope Cruz

Penélope Cruz became the first Spanish actress to win an Academy Award for her role in ‘Vicky Cristina Barcelona’. Her long collaboration with director Pedro Almodóvar has resulted in numerous critically acclaimed performances in films like ‘Volver’. She has successfully balanced major Hollywood blockbusters with European art house cinema throughout her career. Her versatility allows her to perform in multiple languages with equal emotional depth and precision. She is widely regarded as one of the most talented performers of her generation on a global scale.

Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez rose to prominence with her breakout performance in the biographical film ‘Selena’. She became the first Latina actress to earn over one million dollars for a single film role during the late nineties. Her career expanded into a massive global brand across music and film with acclaimed hits like ‘Hustlers’. She has consistently proven her ability to carry both massive romantic comedies and gritty crime dramas. Her work has solidified her status as a cultural icon who redefined the possibilities for Hispanic entertainers.

Dolores del Río

Dolores del Río was a trailblazing star who found success in both the silent film era and the Golden Age of Mexican cinema. She was one of the first major Latin American crossover stars in Hollywood history. Her beauty and talent were showcased in films such as ‘Bird of Paradise’ and ‘Maria Candelaria’. After returning to Mexico she became a pivotal figure in the national film industry and won multiple Ariel Awards. Her legacy remains a cornerstone of Hispanic cinematic history and international stardom.

Katy Jurado

Katy Jurado was a legendary actress who became the first Latina to win a Golden Globe Award for her performance in ‘High Noon’. She also made history as the first Latin American actress to receive an Academy Award nomination for ‘Broken Lance’. She often played strong and complex women who challenged the stereotypes of the era. Her career included notable roles in both Mexican and American cinema during the mid twentieth century. She is remembered for her commanding screen presence and her ability to hold her own alongside Hollywood legends.

Rosie Perez

Rosie Perez made a significant impact on cinema with her debut in ‘Do the Right Thing’ which showcased her unique energy and voice. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her moving performance in the drama ‘Fearless’. Her career spans across film and television and stage where she has consistently delivered memorable characters. She is also a noted activist who has worked tirelessly to represent the Puerto Rican community in New York and beyond. Her work in projects like ‘The Flight Attendant’ proves she remains a vital force in contemporary entertainment.

America Ferrera

America Ferrera gained widespread recognition for her starring role in the hit television series ‘Ugly Betty’. She won an Emmy Award for her performance and became a prominent voice for Latinas in the media. Her work in films like ‘Real Women Have Curves’ and ‘The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants’ resonated with audiences around the world. She has also made a major impact as a producer and activist focusing on political engagement and social equity. Her recent role in ‘Barbie’ further solidified her place as a powerful and influential actress in modern Hollywood.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldaña has achieved unprecedented commercial success by starring in several of the highest grossing films of all time. She is known for her roles in the ‘Avatar’ franchise and the ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ series and ‘Star Trek’. Her ability to bring humanity and depth to science fiction and action roles is highly regarded by critics. She has often spoken about the importance of her Dominican and Puerto Rican heritage in shaping her identity. Her career continues to flourish as she balances massive blockbusters with more intimate dramatic projects.

Ana de Armas

Ana de Armas quickly transitioned from Spanish television to become one of the most sought after actresses in Hollywood. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her transformative portrayal of Marilyn Monroe in ‘Blonde’. Her breakout role in ‘Knives Out’ demonstrated her range and ability to lead a star studded ensemble. She has also appeared in high profile action films like ‘No Time to Die’ and ‘The Gray Man’. Her rapid rise to the top of the industry reflects her undeniable talent and screen magnetism.

Lupe Ontiveros

Lupe Ontiveros was a prolific actress who appeared in hundreds of films and television shows throughout her career. She is perhaps best known for her unforgettable role as Yolanda Saldívar in the movie ‘Selena’. Despite being frequently cast in domestic roles she infused every character with dignity and a distinct personality. She was a founding member of the Latino Theater Company and a fierce advocate for better roles for Hispanic performers. Her work in ‘Real Women Have Curves’ remains a testament to her incredible acting range.

Anya Taylor-Joy

Anya Taylor-Joy has become a household name with her mesmerizing performances in ‘The Queen’s Gambit’ and ‘The Witch’. Although born in Miami she spent much of her childhood in Argentina and proudly identifies with her Hispanic roots. Her career has moved rapidly through various genres including horror and period drama and action. She has received numerous accolades including a Golden Globe for her work on television. Her unique look and intense acting style have made her a favorite of both audiences and top tier directors.

Michelle Rodriguez

Michelle Rodriguez established herself as a premiere action star with her debut in the independent film ‘Girlfight’. She is a central figure in the massive ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise where she plays the tough and loyal Letty Ortiz. Her career includes significant roles in ‘Avatar’ and the ‘Resident Evil’ series. She has often been praised for portraying strong and independent women who break traditional gender norms. Her consistency and presence have made her one of the most recognizable Hispanic faces in global cinema.

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson has maintained a diverse and successful career since her debut in the controversial film ‘Kids’. She has appeared in a wide range of projects including ‘Rent’ and ‘Sin City’ and the ‘Star Wars’ universe as Ahsoka Tano. Her ability to move between independent films and major franchise television is a testament to her versatility. She is also deeply involved in political activism and has co founded organizations to encourage voting. Her longevity in the industry makes her a respected figure in the GOAT conversation.

Eva Mendes

Eva Mendes became a major star during the early two thousands with roles in ‘Training Day’ and ‘Hitch’. She has worked with acclaimed directors and starred in a variety of genres ranging from crime thrillers to romantic comedies. Her performances in films like ‘The Place Beyond the Pines’ showed her capacity for deep and emotional dramatic work. While she has stepped away from acting in recent years to focus on other ventures her impact on the industry remains significant. She is frequently cited as one of the most influential Latina actresses of her era.

Jessica Alba

Jessica Alba rose to fame as the lead in the television series ‘Dark Angel’ which earned her a Golden Globe nomination. She became a major film star with roles in ‘Sin City’ and the ‘Fantastic Four’ franchise. Her career demonstrated the massive box office appeal of Hispanic leading ladies in the action and superhero genres. She has also become a highly successful entrepreneur while maintaining her status as a cultural icon. Her early work paved the way for many young Latina actresses entering the industry today.

Gina Rodriguez

Gina Rodriguez became a breakout star for her titular role in the comedy drama series ‘Jane the Virgin’. She won a Golden Globe Award for her performance and was praised for her charm and comedic timing. She has since expanded her career into film with roles in ‘Annihilation’ and ‘Someone Great’. She is also a vocal advocate for Latino representation and has produced several projects through her own production company. Her work continues to highlight the importance of diverse storytelling in mainstream media.

Elizabeth Peña

Elizabeth Peña was a versatile actress known for her roles in ‘Jacob’s Ladder’ and ‘La Bamba’ and ‘Lone Star’. She had a long and successful career in both film and television where she often played complex and grounded characters. Her performance in the sitcom ‘I Married Dora’ was a highlight of early Hispanic representation on television. She also provided the voice for Mirage in the animated hit ‘The Incredibles’. Her passing was a great loss to the acting community where she was highly respected for her craft.

María Félix

María Félix was a titan of the Golden Age of Mexican cinema and one of the most famous Latin American actresses of all time. Known as La Doña she was famous for her strong willed characters and her legendary beauty. She starred in classic films such as ‘Enamorada’ and ‘Doña Bárbara’ which established her as a cultural symbol. Although she declined several offers from Hollywood her international fame remained immense. Her legacy continues to inspire actresses who seek to portray powerful and unapologetic women.

Paz Vega

Paz Vega gained international acclaim for her role in the Spanish film ‘Lucía y el sexo’. she successfully transitioned to Hollywood with a major role in the film ‘Spanglish’ opposite Adam Sandler. Her career includes a wide variety of roles in European and American productions. She has received numerous awards in Spain including a Goya Award for Best New Actress. Her ability to convey intense emotion and sophisticated grace has made her a standout performer on the world stage.

Yalitza Aparicio

Yalitza Aparicio made a historic debut in the film ‘Roma’ directed by Alfonso Cuarón. She became the first Indigenous American woman to receive an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. Her performance was widely praised for its quiet strength and profound emotional resonance. Since her breakout she has used her platform to advocate for the rights of domestic workers and Indigenous communities. She continues to be an important figure in the conversation about diversity and inclusion in global cinema.

Daniela Vega

Daniela Vega made history as the star of the Chilean film ‘A Fantastic Woman’ which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. She became the first openly transgender person to be a presenter at the Academy Awards ceremony. Her performance in the film was hailed as a masterpiece of emotional depth and resilience. She is also an accomplished opera singer and a prominent activist for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. Her work has opened new doors for representation and has been recognized with multiple international awards.

Cecilia Suárez

Cecilia Suárez is a highly respected Mexican actress known for her extensive work in film and television. She gained international fame for her unique and hilarious performance as Paulina de la Mora in ‘The House of Flowers’. She was the first actress to be nominated for an International Emmy Award for Best Actress for her role in ‘Capadocia’. Her career includes collaborations with some of the most important directors in the Spanish speaking world. She is celebrated for her impeccable comedic timing and her ability to handle complex dramatic material.

Adriana Barraza

Adriana Barraza is an Academy Award nominated actress known for her deeply moving performances in ‘Babel’ and ‘Amores Perros’. She is also a renowned acting coach who has trained many successful performers in the industry. Her work often explores the lives of ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances with great empathy. She has appeared in numerous Hollywood films including ‘Thor’ and ‘Drag Me to Hell’. Her dedication to the craft of acting has earned her a reputation as one of the most respected figures in cinema.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza has developed a dedicated following for her unique comedic style and deadpan delivery. She rose to fame on the sitcom ‘Parks and Recreation’ and has since moved into critically acclaimed film roles. Her performance in ‘Emily the Criminal’ and ‘The White Lotus’ showcased her impressive range as a dramatic actress. She often discusses her Puerto Rican heritage and how it influences her perspective as an artist. Her recent work has solidified her status as one of the most interesting and versatile actresses working today.

Jenna Ortega

Jenna Ortega has rapidly ascended to stardom with her lead role in the record breaking series ‘Wednesday’. She began her career as a child actress in ‘Jane the Virgin’ and ‘Stuck in the Middle’. Her work in horror films like ‘Scream’ and ‘X’ has earned her the title of a modern scream queen. She is vocal about her Mexican and Puerto Rican roots and the importance of authentic representation for the younger generation. Her talent and massive popularity ensure she will be a major force in the industry for years to come.

Melissa Barrera

Melissa Barrera gained international attention for her starring role in the musical film ‘In the Heights’. She has also become a prominent figure in the horror genre through her lead roles in the ‘Scream’ franchise. Her career started in Mexican telenovelas before she transitioned to successful English language television in ‘Vida’. She is known for her powerful singing voice and her ability to bring emotional honesty to her characters. Her rise in Hollywood represents the growing influence of talented Mexican actresses in mainstream cinema.

Eiza González

Eiza González transitioned from a successful career in Mexican television to become a prominent figure in Hollywood action films. She has appeared in major productions such as ‘Baby Driver’ and ‘Hobbs & Shaw’ and ‘Godzilla vs. Kong’. Her ability to command the screen in high stakes environments has made her a favorite for blockbuster directors. She continues to expand her range with more dramatic roles in projects like ‘I Care a Lot’. Her presence in the industry highlights the continued success of Hispanic actresses in the global market.

Adria Arjona

Adria Arjona has built an impressive resume with roles in ‘Good Omens’ and ‘Andor’ and ‘Hit Man’. She is the daughter of the famous Guatemalan singer Ricardo Arjona and has lived throughout Latin America. Her performances are often noted for their intelligence and physical presence in both sci fi and dramatic genres. She has worked steadily in high profile television and film projects since her debut. Her recent successes suggest she is on the path to becoming one of the most significant actresses of her generation.

Christian Serratos

Christian Serratos is well known for her long running role as Rosita Espinosa on ‘The Walking Dead’. She received critical praise for her portrayal of the legendary singer in ‘Selena: The Series’ on Netflix. Her career began as a child actress in projects like ‘Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide’ and the ‘Twilight’ saga. She has shown a great capacity for both physical action and deeply emotional biographical storytelling. Her dedication to her roles has made her a standout performer in contemporary television.

Justina Machado

Justina Machado is a highly versatile actress best known for her lead role in the acclaimed reboot of ‘One Day at a Time’. Her performance as Penelope Alvarez was praised for its humor and its honest depiction of veterans and motherhood. She has had significant roles in other major series such as ‘Six Feet Under’ and ‘Queen of the South’. Her work often highlights the everyday experiences of Hispanic families with warmth and authenticity. She remains a powerful advocate for more diverse and inclusive stories on television.

Judy Reyes

Judy Reyes is beloved for her long running role as Carla Espinosa on the hit comedy series ‘Scrubs’. She has also delivered compelling performances in dramatic series like ‘Devious Maids’ and ‘Claws’. Her career spans decades and includes a wide variety of roles in both film and television. She is known for her ability to balance sharp comedic timing with grounded and relatable drama. Her consistent presence in the industry has made her a respected and recognizable figure for audiences worldwide.

Cote de Pablo

Cote de Pablo became an international star through her role as Ziva David on the long running series ‘NCIS’. Her portrayal of the tough and complex special agent earned her several awards and a massive fan following. She was born in Chile and moved to the United States where she pursued a career in performing arts. Her work on ‘NCIS’ is often cited as a significant example of a strong Hispanic woman on mainstream television. She continues to be a highly sought after actress for both television and film projects.

Chita Rivera

Chita Rivera was a legendary actress and dancer who became one of the most nominated performers in Tony Award history. She originated iconic roles on Broadway in ‘West Side Story’ and ‘Chicago’ and ‘Kiss of the Spider Woman’. She was the first Hispanic woman to receive a Kennedy Center Honor for her contributions to American culture. Her career on the stage set a high bar for excellence in musical theater and performance. Her legacy as a trailblazer for Latina artists in the performing arts is unparalleled.

Raquel Welch

Raquel Welch was a major film star who became a global icon during the nineteen sixties and seventies. While she was often marketed as a sex symbol she delivered strong performances in films like ‘The Three Musketeers’ for which she won a Golden Globe. She was of Bolivian descent and broke barriers for Hispanic actresses during a time of limited representation. Her career included work in film and television and on the Broadway stage. She remains a significant figure in Hollywood history for her enduring stardom and talent.

Lynda Carter

Lynda Carter became a cultural phenomenon for her portrayal of the title character in the ‘Wonder Woman’ television series. Her mother was of Mexican descent and she has often spoken proudly of her heritage. Beyond her iconic superhero role she has had a successful career as a singer and stage performer. She has appeared in various television shows and films throughout the decades and remains a beloved figure in pop culture. Her portrayal of Wonder Woman is still considered a definitive version of the character.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz gained widespread fame for her role as Detective Rosa Diaz on the comedy series ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. She showcased her incredible singing voice as the lead in the Disney animated hit ‘Encanto’. Her performance in the film ‘In the Heights’ further demonstrated her range as a musical performer. She is also a prominent advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and for better representation in Hollywood. Her ability to transition between tough comedic roles and heartfelt animated characters has made her a standout talent.

Martha Higareda

Martha Higareda is a major star in Mexico who has successfully transitioned to American television and film. She is known for her roles in the sci fi series ‘Altered Carbon’ and the film ‘Street Kings’. In Mexico she has starred in and produced numerous hit comedies such as ‘No Manches Frida’. Her versatility as an actress and producer has made her a powerful figure in the entertainment industry across two countries. She continues to be a leading voice for Hispanic talent in the modern era.

Miriam Colon

Miriam Colon was a pioneering Puerto Rican actress who founded the Puerto Rican Traveling Theater in New York. She is well known for her role as Mama Montana in the cult classic film ‘Scarface’. Her career included appearances in numerous television shows such as ‘Gunsmoke’ and ‘Better Call Saul’. She was a dedicated mentor to many young Hispanic actors and a fierce advocate for the arts. Her contributions to theater and cinema earned her the National Medal of Arts from the United States government.

Tell us which of these legendary performers you believe is the absolute greatest of all time in the comments.