Actresses Who Got the Last Laugh After Being Called Unattractive

The film and television industry often enforces narrow standards of physical beauty that can hinder the careers of exceptionally talented performers. Many world renowned actresses faced early rejection from casting directors and producers who claimed they did not possess the right look for leading roles. These women persevered by focusing on their craft and delivering performances that resonated with global audiences. Their enduring success proves that charisma and skill are far more valuable than conforming to fleeting aesthetic trends in Hollywood.

Meryl Streep

During an early audition for ‘King Kong’ the lead producer remarked in Italian that she was too ugly for the role. Meryl Streep understood the comment and replied in the same language to defend her appearance and her talent. She eventually became the most nominated actor in Academy Award history with iconic performances in ‘Sophie’s Choice’ and ‘The Iron Lady’ among many others. Her storied career serves as a definitive rebuttal to any critics who questioned her screen presence.

Viola Davis

Early in her career some critics and industry insiders labeled her as less classically beautiful than her peers. Viola Davis addressed these comments with grace and continued to pursue complex roles that showcased her incredible emotional range. She eventually made history by winning an Oscar for ‘Fences’ and an Emmy for ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ while becoming a global icon. Her success has paved the way for more diverse representations of beauty and talent on screen.

Sarah Jessica Parker

Throughout her career she faced public scrutiny regarding her facial features and was even ranked on lists of unsexy celebrities. Sarah Jessica Parker ignored the negativity and transformed into a fashion icon through her role in ‘Sex and the City’ as Carrie Bradshaw. Her influence on the industry expanded beyond acting into producing and a successful line of fragrances and shoes. She remains one of the most recognizable and influential figures in modern television history.

Winona Ryder

When she was a young teenager a casting director told her she was not pretty enough and should return to her home in Petaluma. Winona Ryder did not let the criticism stop her and landed her breakout role in ‘Beetlejuice’ shortly after that encounter. She became the face of a generation in the late eighties and nineties with starring roles in ‘Heathers’ and ‘Little Women’ across the globe. Her enduring popularity continues today with her leading role in the hit series ‘Stranger Things’ on television.

Jessica Chastain

For many years she struggled to find work because casting directors told her she was not pretty enough to be a leading lady. Jessica Chastain was frequently told that her red hair and unique features were a hindrance to her career goals. She eventually proved them wrong with a series of massive hits including ‘The Help’ and ‘Zero Dark Thirty’ that earned her critical acclaim. She is now an Academy Award winner and one of the most sought after actresses in the global film industry.

Mindy Kaling

She was once told by a network that she was not pretty or thin enough to play the lead version of herself in a sketch show. Mindy Kaling did not let the insult derail her ambitions and went on to create ‘The Mindy Project’ where she served as the lead and executive producer. She has since become a powerhouse in Hollywood as a writer and producer of several hit shows and movies. Her career demonstrates that creative vision is far more powerful than the opinions of industry gatekeepers.

Reese Witherspoon

Early in her journey she was told by many casting directors that she was not tall enough or pretty enough for the best roles. Reese Witherspoon chose to lean into her work ethic and intelligence to carve out a unique space in the industry. She transitioned from being a popular actress in ‘Legally Blonde’ to a major producer with her company Hello Sunshine. Her work has resulted in numerous awards and a significant shift in how women are represented in media.

Kate Winslet

A drama teacher told her when she was fourteen that she might do okay if she was happy to settle for the fat girl parts. Kate Winslet refused to accept this limitation and became a global superstar following her performance in ‘Titanic’ on the big screen. She has since won an Academy Award and several Emmys while consistently speaking out against unrealistic beauty standards. Her career is a testament to the power of self confidence and raw acting ability.

Jennifer Lawrence

In the early stages of her career she was often told to lose weight and was criticized for not having a typical Hollywood physique. Jennifer Lawrence famously refused to conform to these demands and focused on bringing authenticity to her performances. She won an Academy Award at a young age for ‘Silver Linings Playbook’ and led the massive ‘The Hunger Games’ franchise. Her success changed the conversation regarding body image and authenticity for young performers in the industry.

Lady Gaga

Before she became a household name she was told by music executives that she did not have the right look to be a pop star. Lady Gaga used this rejection to fuel her creativity and developed a unique visual identity that captivated the entire world. She successfully transitioned into acting with an acclaimed performance in ‘A Star Is Born’ and won an Oscar for her songwriting. Her journey proves that being unconventional is often the key to lasting cultural impact.

Lea Michele

She was told by several managers and agents that she needed to get a nose job if she wanted to find success in Hollywood. Lea Michele refused to change her appearance and focused on her powerful singing voice and acting skills. She eventually landed the lead role in ‘Glee’ which turned her into an international star and earned her multiple award nominations. She later achieved a long held dream by starring in ‘Funny Girl’ on Broadway to critical acclaim.

Barbra Streisand

Throughout the beginning of her career many people told her that her nose was too large and that she should have plastic surgery. Barbra Streisand ignored this advice and became one of the few performers to win an EGOT including an Oscar for ‘Funny Girl’ in cinema. She proved that her talent and unique presence were far more important than traditional beauty standards. She remains a legendary figure in both the music and film industries decades after her debut.

Nia Vardalos

She was told by her agents that she was not pretty enough to be a leading lady and not fat enough to be a character actress. Nia Vardalos took matters into her own hands by writing a play that eventually became the hit film ‘My Big Fat Greek Wedding’ on screen. The movie became one of the highest grossing romantic comedies of all time and earned her an Academy Award nomination. She created her own path to success when the traditional industry doors were closed to her.

Kat Dennings

Early in her career she was told by casting agents that she needed to fix her teeth and lose weight to get better roles. Kat Dennings decided to keep her natural look and focused on her unique comedic timing and dry delivery. She eventually found major success starring in the long running sitcom ‘2 Broke Girls’ and joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Her career shows that staying true to oneself can lead to long term success in a competitive field.

Lena Dunham

She faced immense public criticism regarding her body and her appearance after the launch of her hit series ‘Girls’ on television. Lena Dunham used her platform to challenge conventional ideas of what women should look like on screen. She became a prominent voice in the body positivity movement while winning Golden Globes for her writing and acting. Her willingness to be vulnerable and authentic paved the way for more diverse bodies in mainstream media.

Chrissy Metz

She was often told that her size would prevent her from ever finding a meaningful role in the entertainment industry. Chrissy Metz persevered through years of financial struggle before landing her breakout role in the hit drama ‘This Is Us’ on television. Her performance earned her critical acclaim and several award nominations while inspiring millions of viewers. She proved that there is a place for every body type in powerful storytelling.

Maggie Gyllenhaal

She revealed in an interview that she was once told she was too old and not attractive enough to play the love interest of a fifty year old man. Maggie Gyllenhaal was only thirty seven at the time and found the feedback to be both ridiculous and offensive. She continued to pursue challenging roles in films like ‘The Dark Knight’ and eventually moved into directing with ‘The Lost Daughter’ to high praise. Her career highlights the systemic ageism and beauty standards that many women face in film.

Sally Field

Early in her career she was often dismissed as a homely actress who was only suitable for television roles like ‘Gidget’ or ‘The Flying Nun’ on air. Sally Field worked incredibly hard to break out of that mold and prove her dramatic capabilities to the industry. She eventually won two Academy Awards for her work in ‘Norma Rae’ and ‘Places in the Heart’ through sheer determination. Her legacy is one of the most respected in Hollywood history due to her incredible longevity and range.

Glenn Close

Despite her immense talent she was often told that her features were too sharp or unconventional for traditional leading lady roles. Glenn Close ignored these critiques and delivered some of the most iconic performances in cinema history including ‘Fatal Attraction’ and ‘Dangerous Liaisons’ on screen. She has been nominated for numerous Academy Awards and has won multiple Tonys and Emmys throughout her career. She is widely considered one of the greatest actresses of her generation.

Hilary Swank

She was once told that her look was too boyish and that she lacked the feminine appeal required for major movie stardom. Hilary Swank used her unique physicality to her advantage and won her first Oscar for playing a trans man in ‘Boys Don’t Cry’ on film. She went on to win a second Academy Award for ‘Million Dollar Baby’ where she played a determined boxer. Her career proves that unconventional looks can be an asset when paired with immense dedication and skill.

Rooney Mara

Before her breakout role she was often told that her look was too plain or unremarkable to stand out in a crowded industry. Rooney Mara transformed her appearance for ‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’ and earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance. She has since become known for her ethereal presence and her ability to disappear into complex characters in films like ‘Carol’ and ‘Women Talking’ recently. She is now recognized as one of the most talented and striking actresses in modern cinema.

Tilda Swinton

Throughout her life she has been told that her androgynous look was too strange for mainstream Hollywood success. Tilda Swinton embraced her unique appearance and used it to land roles that other actresses could never play. She won an Academy Award for ‘Michael Clayton’ and has worked with some of the most prestigious directors in the world. Her career is a masterclass in using one’s natural features to create a truly singular artistic identity.

Sandra Oh

An early agent told her that she should go home and get out of the business because she was not leading lady material. Sandra Oh ignored the advice and spent years honing her craft in theater and supporting roles before her breakout in ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ on television. She later made history as the lead in ‘Killing Eve’ and became the first woman of Asian descent to win multiple Golden Globes. Her success has been a major factor in improving representation for Asian actors in the West.

Gabourey Sidibe

After her debut in ‘Precious’ she faced a barrage of negative comments regarding her weight and her facial features from both the public and the industry. Gabourey Sidibe maintained her confidence and continued to work steadily in hit shows like ‘American Horror Story’ and ‘Empire’ over the years. She has also become a successful author and director while remaining an advocate for self love and body diversity. She continues to thrive in an industry that once doubted her potential.

Melissa McCarthy

She was once told by a critic that she was only successful because she was a female comedian who was willing to be unattractive for laughs. Melissa McCarthy responded by continuing to build a massive career as both a comedic powerhouse and a dramatic actress in ‘Can You Ever Forgive Me’ on screen. She has received multiple Oscar nominations and has become one of the highest grossing stars in the world. Her talent and charm have made her a beloved figure regardless of her size or appearance.

Bette Midler

In her early days she was told that her look was too loud and her features were not refined enough for the silver screen. Bette Midler used her vibrant personality and incredible voice to become the Divine Miss M and a legitimate movie star. She earned Academy Award nominations for ‘The Rose’ and ‘For the Boys’ while maintaining a legendary career on stage. She proved that a big personality and immense talent can overcome any traditional beauty standard.

Whoopi Goldberg

She was told early on that her unconventional look and lack of eyebrows would make it impossible for her to be a leading lady. Whoopi Goldberg defied those expectations by winning an Academy Award for ‘Ghost’ and becoming a global star in ‘Sister Act’ on film. She is one of the very few performers to achieve EGOT status by winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony. Her career is a testament to the power of individuality and brilliance in the performing arts.

Busy Philipps

She has spoken openly about being told that she was the ugly friend or the fat friend during the early years of her career. Busy Philipps used these experiences to fuel her performances in ‘Freaks and Geeks’ and ‘Cougar Town’ while building a massive social media following. She eventually wrote a best selling memoir and hosted her own talk show while becoming a respected voice in the industry. Her honesty about the industry’s beauty standards has made her a relatable icon for many.

Gwendoline Christie

Due to her height and unique features she was told by many that she would never find consistent work as an actress. Gwendoline Christie ignored the skeptics and landed the role of Brienne of Tarth in the global phenomenon ‘Game of Thrones’ on television. She has since appeared in the ‘Star Wars’ franchise and ‘Wednesday’ while also becoming a prominent figure in the fashion world. Her career has challenged traditional notions of femininity and strength on screen.

Florence Pugh

Early in her career she was told by producers that she needed to lose weight and change the shape of her face to be successful. Florence Pugh refused to comply with these demands and walked away from a potential deal to maintain her integrity. She eventually became a major star through her roles in ‘Midsommar’ and ‘Little Women’ without changing her appearance. She is now one of the most respected young actresses in the world and a prominent voice for body autonomy.

Anya Taylor-Joy

She was bullied as a child for the shape of her eyes and was told she looked like a fish by her peers. Anya Taylor-Joy used her unique and striking features to her advantage when she transitioned into professional acting. She became an international sensation following her lead role in ‘The Queen’s Gambit’ and ‘The Witch’ on the big screen. Her distinct look is now considered one of her greatest assets and has made her a favorite of high fashion brands.

Zendaya

In her early days as a child star she faced criticism from people who claimed she was too thin or did not have a classic look. Zendaya worked hard to transition from Disney star to a serious dramatic actress in the hit series ‘Euphoria’ on television. She has since won multiple Emmy Awards and has become one of the most influential style icons in the world. Her career demonstrates that talent and a strong sense of self are the ultimate keys to longevity.

Elizabeth Banks

She was once told she was too old to play the love interest in ‘Spider-Man’ despite being only twenty eight at the time. Elizabeth Banks did not let the industry’s double standards stop her from building a diverse and successful career. She transitioned into directing and producing with the ‘Pitch Perfect’ franchise and ‘Charlie’s Angels’ recently. She remains a prominent figure in front of and behind the camera while advocating for better roles for women.

Keira Knightley

Throughout her career she has been criticized for her thin frame and has faced accusations that she was not attractive enough for certain period roles. Keira Knightley focused on her craft and earned multiple Academy Award nominations for ‘Pride and Prejudice’ and ‘The Imitation Game’ on film. She has consistently challenged the media’s obsession with her body and has remained a top leading lady for decades. Her success proves that a performer’s work should always speak louder than their physical appearance.

Uma Thurman

She was bullied as a teenager for her height and the size of her feet and was told she was awkward looking. Uma Thurman turned those unique physical traits into a powerful screen presence in films like ‘Pulp Fiction’ and ‘Kill Bill’ in cinema. She became a muse for several top directors and an international style icon known for her statuesque beauty. Her career shows that what others perceive as flaws can actually be the traits that make a star iconic.

Michelle Dockery

She was once told by a casting director that she had a plain face that would never be memorable to audiences. Michelle Dockery proved them wrong by landing the role of Lady Mary Crawley in the global hit ‘Downton Abbey’ on television. Her performance made her a household name and earned her several award nominations for her poise and talent. She has since moved into a variety of roles that showcase her versatility and screen presence.

Julia Roberts

In the very beginning of her career some agents thought her mouth was too large and her features were too pronounced for a leading lady. Julia Roberts went on to become the biggest movie star in the world during the nineties with hits like ‘Pretty Woman’ and ‘Erin Brockovich’ on screen. She won an Academy Award and became famous for the very smile that critics once questioned. Her career is a prime example of how unique features can become a person’s most beloved trademark.

Jennifer Hudson

After her time on ‘American Idol’ she was told she was too big and did not have the right look for a mainstream career. Jennifer Hudson went on to win an Academy Award for her very first film role in ‘Dreamgirls’ and proved her detractors wrong. she eventually achieved EGOT status and hosted her own successful daytime talk show. Her journey is an inspiration to anyone who has been told they do not fit the standard mold of a star.

Christina Hendricks

She was told early in her career that her curvy figure was a disadvantage and that she should try to lose weight to get more work. Christina Hendricks ignored the advice and eventually landed the role of Joan Holloway in ‘Mad Men’ which changed her life. Her performance turned her into a sex symbol and a respected dramatic actress while sparking a conversation about body diversity. She proved that there is no single definition of beauty in the entertainment industry.

Emma Stone

When she first arrived in Hollywood she was told that her husky voice and unique look might limit her to specific character roles. Emma Stone worked tirelessly to prove her range in both comedies like ‘Easy A’ and dramas like ‘La La Land’ on the big screen. She has since won two Academy Awards and has become one of the most respected actresses of her generation. her career shows that embracing one’s natural qualities is the best way to stand out in a crowded field.

Olivia Colman

She spent many years as a character actress in British television where she was often told she lacked the glamour for leading roles. Olivia Colman continued to work hard and eventually gained international fame for her role in ‘The Favourite’ which earned her an Oscar. She has since become a global star with major roles in ‘The Crown’ and several acclaimed films. Her success later in life proves that talent will eventually be recognized regardless of age or conventional beauty.

Frances McDormand

She has long been vocal about her refusal to conform to Hollywood beauty standards and her decision to never have plastic surgery. Frances McDormand has often been told she is not a traditional leading lady but she has won three Academy Awards for acting. Her performances in ‘Fargo’ and ‘Nomadland’ are considered some of the best in cinematic history. She remains a powerful advocate for authenticity and the beauty of an aging face in the film industry.

Sarah Paulson

Early in her career she was told she was not conventionally pretty enough to lead a show and should stick to supporting roles. Sarah Paulson persevered and became the primary muse for Ryan Murphy in the ‘American Horror Story’ franchise. She won an Emmy for her portrayal of Marcia Clark and has become one of the most respected actresses working today. Her career demonstrates that intense talent and versatility can overcome any initial industry skepticism.

Toni Collette

She was once told she needed to change her look and lose weight if she wanted to be a successful actress in America. Toni Collette ignored the pressure and delivered a breakout performance in ‘Muriel’s Wedding’ that launched her international career. She has since been nominated for an Academy Award and has won an Emmy and a Golden Globe for her work. She is widely regarded as one of the most talented and fearless performers in the world.

Anjelica Huston

She faced criticism for her sharp features and was often told she did not have a classic Hollywood face early on. Anjelica Huston used her unique look to create iconic characters in films like ‘The Addams Family’ and ‘The Grifters’ on screen. She eventually won an Academy Award and became a legendary figure in the industry known for her sophistication and talent. Her career proves that a distinct appearance can lead to a truly memorable and lasting legacy.

Kathy Bates

She was told for years that she did not have the look of a movie star and would always be confined to the stage. Kathy Bates proved the critics wrong when she won an Academy Award for her terrifying performance in ‘Misery’ at the age of forty two. She has remained a constant presence in film and television ever since with multiple award wins and nominations. Her success shows that power and presence are not dependent on conforming to beauty norms.

Jamie Lee Curtis

Despite being the daughter of Hollywood royalty she was often told she was not feminine enough and was labeled an ogre by some early critics. Jamie Lee Curtis embraced her physicality and became the ultimate scream queen in the ‘Halloween’ franchise. She eventually won an Academy Award for ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’ and has had a thriving career for over four decades. She remains a prominent figure who speaks openly about the pressures of aging and beauty in the spotlight.

Helen Mirren

In her youth she was often dismissed as a sex symbol and later told she was too old for meaningful leading roles. Helen Mirren ignored these labels and continued to deliver powerhouse performances in ‘The Queen’ and several other acclaimed projects. She has won an Academy Award, several Emmys, and a Tony throughout her illustrious career. She is now a global icon who continues to challenge ageism and beauty standards with every new role she takes.

Jennifer Aniston

Before landing her iconic role she was told by her agent that she needed to lose significant weight because her face looked too round. Jennifer Aniston complied at the time but later spoke about the intense pressure she felt to look a certain way. She became a global superstar on ‘Friends’ and a major movie lead while influencing hair and beauty trends for millions. She has remained a top star for thirty years and has proven her critics wrong through her immense popularity.

Awkwafina

She was told early in her career that her voice was too raspy and her look was too unconventional for mainstream success. Awkwafina ignored the negativity and used her unique personality to find success in ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ and ‘The Farewell’ on screen. She became the first woman of Asian descent to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy. Her career is a modern example of how staying true to one’s unique self can lead to historic achievements.

Share your thoughts on which of these talented women inspired you the most in the comments.