Actresses Who Should Receive Way More Praise
The landscape of modern cinema and television is enriched by performers who demonstrate incredible range and emotional depth. While some actors receive constant media attention, many others deliver consistently brilliant work that often flies under the radar. These women have mastered the art of character study and bring a unique presence to every project they inhabit. Recognizing their contributions highlights the diversity of talent currently working in the entertainment industry. Their dedication to the craft ensures that storytelling remains vibrant and compelling for audiences worldwide.
Toni Collette
Toni Collette has built a career on her ability to disappear into a wide variety of roles. She gained early recognition for the comedy ‘Muriel’s Wedding’ before earning an Academy Award nomination for ‘The Sixth Sense’. Her performance in the horror film ‘Hereditary’ is frequently cited by critics as a masterpiece of emotional intensity. She also showed her versatility in the series ‘United States of Tara’ by playing a character with multiple personalities. Collette remains one of the most reliable and transformative actors in the industry today.
Melanie Lynskey
Melanie Lynskey first captured attention in the psychological drama ‘Heavenly Creatures’. She has since become a staple of independent cinema and television with her grounded and empathetic performances. Her work in the series ‘Yellowjackets’ earned her significant critical acclaim and a new level of mainstream popularity. She is known for bringing a sense of realism and subtle humor to every character she portrays. Lynskey continues to be a favorite among directors who seek authentic and nuanced storytelling.
Carrie Coon
Carrie Coon is widely regarded as one of the most powerful performers of her generation. She delivered a haunting and complex performance in the drama series ‘The Leftovers’. Her film work includes a memorable role in ‘Gone Girl’ and a lead performance in the supernatural film ‘Ghostbusters Afterlife’. Critics often praise her ability to convey immense intelligence and repressed emotion through subtle facial expressions. She remains a dominant force in both prestige television and major motion pictures.
Rebecca Hall
Rebecca Hall consistently chooses challenging roles that showcase her intellectual approach to acting. She received high praise for her work in the psychological thriller ‘The Night House’ and the biographical drama ‘Christine’. Hall also made a successful transition to directing with the acclaimed film ‘Passing’. Her performances are often characterized by a quiet intensity that keeps audiences captivated. She continues to be a respected figure in the global film community for her dedication to complex narratives.
Andrea Riseborough
Andrea Riseborough is a chameleon who looks and sounds different in every single project. She garnered significant attention for her raw and unflinching performance in the independent drama ‘To Leslie’. Her credits span a wide range of genres including the psychedelic horror film ‘Mandy’ and the historical comedy ‘The Death of Stalin’. She is known for her willingness to take risks and her commitment to avant-garde storytelling. Many industry insiders consider her one of the most versatile actors working today.
Jessie Buckley
Jessie Buckley has rapidly ascended the ranks of elite performers with her soulful and energetic presence. She delivered a breakout performance in the musical drama ‘Wild Rose’ where she showcased her incredible singing voice. Her work in ‘I’m Thinking of Ending Things’ and ‘The Lost Daughter’ solidified her reputation as a formidable dramatic talent. She possesses a raw vulnerability that makes her characters feel deeply human and relatable. Buckley is a frequent collaborator with visionary directors who value her unique artistic perspective.
Mia Goth
Mia Goth has established herself as a leading figure in the modern horror genre. She delivered a stunning dual performance in the slasher film ‘X’ and followed it with the intense character study ‘Pearl’. Her commitment to physically and emotionally demanding roles has earned her a dedicated following. She often brings a haunting and ethereal quality to her work that distinguishes her from her peers. Goth is increasingly recognized as a creative force who contributes to the scripts and production of her films.
Gwendoline Christie
Gwendoline Christie became a household name through her portrayal of Brienne of Tarth in ‘Game of Thrones’. She brought a unique physical presence and a sense of nobility to a role that challenged traditional gender norms. Her work in ‘The Sandman’ and ‘Wednesday’ further demonstrates her ability to command the screen in fantastical settings. She is praised for her expressive eyes and her ability to convey strength and vulnerability simultaneously. Christie continues to break barriers and redefine the types of roles available to tall actresses.
Ruth Negga
Ruth Negga is known for her graceful and deeply felt performances in both film and theater. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Mildred Loving in the historical drama ‘Loving’. Her work in the genre-bending series ‘Preacher’ showed her capacity for action and dark comedy. She received further acclaim for her nuanced role in the period piece ‘Passing’. Negga has a magnetic screen presence that allows her to communicate volumes with very little dialogue.
Rhea Seehorn
Rhea Seehorn delivered one of the most celebrated performances in television history as Kim Wexler in ‘Better Call Saul’. Her ability to portray a character driven by both professional ambition and personal loyalty was widely lauded by critics. She often stole scenes with her precise delivery and masterful use of silence. Despite her lack of major award wins, she is considered a gold standard for modern television acting. Seehorn is currently expanding her career into new genres and directing opportunities.
Hong Chau
Hong Chau is a scene-stealing performer who brings immense heart to every role. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her supporting performance in the drama ‘The Whale’. Her work in the satire ‘The Menu’ and the series ‘Watchmen’ demonstrated her sharp comedic timing and dramatic range. She has a talent for making supporting characters feel like the most interesting people in the room. Chau is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after actors for high-profile collaborative projects.
Stephanie Hsu
Stephanie Hsu achieved a major career milestone with her multifaceted performance in ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’. She managed to portray both a struggling daughter and a multiversal villain with equal conviction. Her background in musical theater is evident in her expressive physicality and vocal range. She has also appeared in the series ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’ where she displayed impeccable comedic skills. Hsu is recognized as a rising star who can handle the demands of both blockbuster and indie cinema.
Dominique Fishback
Dominique Fishback is a talented performer who specializes in characters with rich inner lives. She received critical acclaim for her role in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ alongside a powerful performance in ‘The Hate U Give’. Her lead role in the series ‘Swarm’ showcased her ability to anchor a dark and unconventional narrative. She is often praised for the empathy she brings to marginalized characters. Fishback is also a writer and performer who continues to push the boundaries of television storytelling.
Thuso Mbedu
Thuso Mbedu made a massive impact on international audiences with her lead role in the series ‘The Underground Railroad’. She followed this success with a standout performance in the action epic ‘The Woman King’. Her ability to convey immense trauma and resilience has marked her as a generational talent. She is known for her intense preparation and her capacity for physical storytelling. Mbedu is one of the most promising South African actors to transition to major Hollywood productions.
Regina Hall
Regina Hall is a gifted comedic actor who has recently shown remarkable dramatic depth. While she is well known for the ‘Scary Movie’ franchise, she earned critical praise for her work in the indie film ‘Support the Girls’. Her performance in ‘Honk for Jesus. Save Your Soul.’ further highlighted her ability to balance satire with genuine pathos. She possesses a natural charisma that makes her a compelling lead in any genre. Hall is finally receiving the industry recognition that her long and varied career deserves.
Allison Tolman
Allison Tolman rose to prominence with her breakout role as Molly Solverson in the first season of ‘Fargo’. She brought a sense of decency and sharp intelligence to a character surrounded by chaos and violence. Her work in series like ‘Why Women Kill’ and ‘Emergence’ has shown her ability to lead a diverse range of shows. She is particularly skilled at playing everyman characters who find themselves in extraordinary circumstances. Tolman remains a favorite for critics who appreciate subtle and grounded television acting.
Merritt Wever
Merritt Wever is a two-time Emmy winner who is often described as an actor’s actor. She delivered memorable performances in ‘Nurse Jackie’ and the limited series ‘Godless’. Her work in the crime drama ‘Unbelievable’ was hailed as a masterclass in empathetic and focused performance. She has a unique ability to make scripted dialogue sound completely spontaneous and natural. Wever consistently chooses projects that prioritize character development over spectacle.
Ann Dowd
Ann Dowd is a veteran performer who has become a staple of prestige drama. She is best known for her chilling and complex portrayal of Aunt Lydia in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Her performance in the independent film ‘Compliance’ is often cited as one of the most unsettling roles in recent memory. She brings a formidable presence and a deep sense of conviction to every character she plays. Dowd has become one of the most respected character actors in the television industry.
Margo Martindale
Margo Martindale is often jokingly referred to as esteemed character actress Margo Martindale due to her high standing in the industry. She has won multiple awards for her work in series such as ‘Justified’ and ‘The Americans’. Her ability to play both terrifying villains and warm matriarchs makes her incredibly versatile. She brings a sense of authority and lived-in experience to all of her roles. Martindale is a performer whose presence alone often signals a high-quality production.
Cherry Jones
Cherry Jones is a titan of the American stage who has also delivered exceptional work in film and television. She is known for her role as President Allison Taylor in the action series ’24’. Her more recent work in ‘Succession’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ has introduced her talent to a new generation of viewers. She possesses a commanding voice and a regal bearing that makes her perfect for positions of power. Jones is a master of her craft who brings a high level of prestige to every project.
Holland Taylor
Holland Taylor has enjoyed a long and successful career in both comedy and drama. She is widely recognized for her role as the sharp-tongued Evelyn Harper in ‘Two and a Half Men’. Her dramatic work in ‘The Practice’ earned her an Emmy and showed her range as a serious performer. More recently, her role in ‘The Morning Show’ has reminded audiences of her impeccable timing and screen presence. Taylor remains an active and vital part of the entertainment industry well into her later years.
Shohreh Aghdashloo
Shohreh Aghdashloo is a pioneer for Middle Eastern actors in Hollywood with her distinctive voice and powerful presence. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her supporting role in ‘House of Sand and Fog’. Her performance as Chrisjen Avasarala in the science fiction series ‘The Expanse’ became a fan favorite for its political grit and authority. She has also lent her unique voice to various high-profile video games and animated projects. Aghdashloo continues to be a respected advocate for diversity and quality in storytelling.
Lesley Manville
Lesley Manville is a frequent collaborator with director Mike Leigh and is known for her incredible naturalism. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role in the fashion drama ‘Phantom Thread’. Her work in the historical series ‘The Crown’ and the drama ‘Mum’ further showcases her versatility. She has a rare ability to portray both high-society elegance and working-class struggle with total authenticity. Manville is regarded as one of the finest actors currently working in the United Kingdom.
Vicky Krieps
Vicky Krieps became an international sensation after her breakout role in ‘Phantom Thread’. She followed this with a stunning performance in the period drama ‘Corsage’ where she played Empress Elisabeth of Austria. Her acting style is often described as ethereal and unpredictable which keeps audiences on edge. She works across multiple languages and has become a favorite in the European arthouse circuit. Krieps continues to choose unconventional roles that challenge her as an artist.
Sandra Hüller
Sandra Hüller is a German actress who has earned worldwide acclaim for her fearless performances. She gained international fame for her role in the father-daughter comedy ‘Toni Erdmann’. Recently, she starred in the legal drama ‘Anatomy of a Fall’ and the historical film ‘The Zone of Interest’ simultaneously. Her ability to navigate complex moral gray areas and intense emotional states is unparalleled. Hüller is widely considered one of the most talented actors in global cinema today.
Noomi Rapace
Noomi Rapace rose to international stardom as Lisbeth Salander in the original ‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’ trilogy. She has since starred in various Hollywood blockbusters like ‘Prometheus’ and ‘Sherlock Holmes A Game of Shadows’. She is known for her intense physical preparation and her willingness to transform for a role. Her work in the independent film ‘Lamb’ showed her capacity for quiet and atmospheric storytelling. Rapace remains a dedicated performer who often seeks out dark and challenging material.
Tang Wei
Tang Wei is a highly respected Chinese actress known for her collaborations with major directors. She delivered a breakthrough performance in Ang Lee’s ‘Lust Caution’ which earned her international awards. Her recent role in the neo-noir thriller ‘Decision to Leave’ was hailed as one of the best performances of the year. She possesses a mysterious and magnetic screen presence that draws viewers into her characters. Tang continues to be a leading figure in both Asian and international cinema.
Kim Tae-ri
Kim Tae-ri became an overnight sensation with her debut in the erotic thriller ‘The Handmaiden’. She followed this with successful roles in the historical drama ‘Mr. Sunshine’ and the space epic ‘Space Sweepers’. Her ability to play characters with hidden depths and strong convictions has made her a top star in South Korea. She is known for her expressive acting and her ability to anchor large-scale productions. Kim is considered one of the most promising and talented actors of her generation.
Golshifteh Farahani
Golshifteh Farahani is an Iranian actress who has become a prominent figure in international cinema. She has starred in various films including ‘Paterson’ and the action-packed ‘Extraction’ franchise. Her career began in Iran where she was a major star before transitioning to global projects. She brings a sense of soulfulness and resilience to all of her performances. Farahani continues to work with prestigious directors while advocating for artistic freedom around the world.
Hiam Abbass
Hiam Abbass is a Palestinian actress and director who has appeared in numerous acclaimed international films. She is known to Western audiences for her role as Marcia Roy in the hit series ‘Succession’. Her filmography includes standout performances in ‘The Visitor’ and ‘Blade Runner 2049’. She possesses a commanding and dignified screen presence that often anchors the narratives she is part of. Abbass is a vital voice in cinema who bridges the gap between different cultures and industries.
Renate Reinsve
Renate Reinsve achieved international fame after winning the Best Actress award at Cannes for ‘The Worst Person in the World’. Her performance captured the anxieties and complexities of modern adulthood with great humor and heart. Before this breakout role, she was a respected stage and screen actor in Norway. She has since begun taking on high-profile roles in English-language productions. Reinsve is praised for her natural charisma and her ability to make every moment feel authentic.
Zar Amir Ebrahimi
Zar Amir Ebrahimi delivered a harrowing and courageous performance in the crime thriller ‘Holy Spider’. She won the Best Actress award at Cannes for her portrayal of a journalist investigating a serial killer. Her personal life and career have been marked by resilience which adds a layer of depth to her work. She has recently expanded her career into directing and producing her own projects. Ebrahimi is a powerful talent who uses her platform to tell important and challenging stories.
Dale Dickey
Dale Dickey is a prolific character actor who is often cast in gritty and realistic roles. She gave a career-defining performance in the independent drama ‘Winter’s Bone’ alongside Jennifer Lawrence. Her more recent lead role in the film ‘A Love Song’ earned her some of the best reviews of her career. She is known for her unique look and her ability to portray characters with a tough exterior and a soft heart. Dickey is a mainstay of the independent film world and a respected veteran in the industry.
Martha Plimpton
Martha Plimpton has been a consistent presence in the entertainment industry since her childhood roles in films like ‘The Goonies’. She has earned multiple award nominations for her work in the comedy series ‘Raising Hope’. Her stage career is equally impressive with numerous Tony Award nominations to her name. She is known for her sharp wit and her ability to play characters with a strong sense of independence. Plimpton remains a versatile and highly regarded performer in both comedy and drama.
CCH Pounder
CCH Pounder is a powerhouse performer with a career spanning several decades in film and television. She is widely recognized for her roles in ‘The Shield’ and ‘NCIS New Orleans’. Her voice work in the ‘Avatar’ films and various animated series has also earned her a loyal following. She brings a sense of gravity and authority to every role she takes on. Pounder is a beloved figure in the industry known for her consistency and professional excellence.
Alfre Woodard
Alfre Woodard is one of the most honored actors in the history of television with multiple Emmy wins. She has also delivered incredible performances in films like ‘Clemency’ and ’12 Years a Slave’. Her ability to convey deep pain and quiet dignity makes her one of the most effective dramatic actors working today. She is a versatile performer who can handle everything from political drama to superhero blockbusters. Woodard continues to be a standard-bearer for excellence in the acting profession.
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor has long been a respected actor who recently gained wider fame for her role in ‘King Richard’. She received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Oracene Price in that film. Her work in ‘Lovecraft Country’ and ‘When They See Us’ showcased her ability to handle intense and socially relevant material. She is known for her thoughtful approach to character development and her strong screen presence. Ellis-Taylor is currently at the peak of her career and continues to choose impactful roles.
Danielle Deadwyler
Danielle Deadwyler delivered a breakout performance in the historical drama ‘Till’ that many felt was overlooked by major award bodies. She also showed her range in the western ‘The Harder They Fall’ and the series ‘Station Eleven’. Her acting is characterized by a high level of physical and emotional commitment. She has a background in performance art which informs her unique and captivating screen presence. Deadwyler is quickly becoming a major name in the industry due to her undeniable talent.
Taylor Russell
Taylor Russell is a rising star who gained critical acclaim for her lead role in the drama ‘Waves’. She followed this with a haunting performance in the horror-romance ‘Bones and All’. Her ability to play characters who are both fragile and resilient has marked her as a talent to watch. She also starred in the popular ‘Escape Room’ franchise which showed her capability in genre cinema. Russell continues to choose interesting and artistic projects that showcase her evolving skills.
Cailee Spaeny
Cailee Spaeny achieved significant recognition for her title role in the biographical film ‘Priscilla’. She also delivered a standout performance in the dystopian thriller ‘Civil War’. Her career began with roles in ‘Pacific Rim Uprising’ and the limited series ‘Mare of Easttown’. She is known for her youthful energy and her ability to handle heavy dramatic weight. Spaeny is establishing herself as a leading lady who can carry complex and high-profile films.
Thomasin McKenzie
Thomasin McKenzie is a New Zealand actress who broke through with her performance in ‘Leave No Trace’. She has since appeared in major films like ‘Jojo Rabbit’ and ‘Last Night in Soho’. Her acting style is often described as naturalistic and deeply empathetic. She has a talent for portraying the inner lives of young women facing extraordinary circumstances. McKenzie is one of the most exciting young actors working in international cinema today.
Kaitlyn Dever
Kaitlyn Dever has successfully transitioned from a child actor to a leading dramatic and comedic talent. She earned high praise for her role in the comedy ‘Booksmart’ and the limited series ‘Dopesick’. Her performance in ‘Unbelievable’ showed her capacity for intense and heartbreaking drama. She is known for her versatility and her ability to make every character feel distinct. Dever is a frequent nominee for major awards and is widely considered one of the best of her generation.
Margaret Qualley
Margaret Qualley first gained major attention for her role in the series ‘The Leftovers’. She delivered a memorable performance as Pussycat in ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’. Her lead role in the limited series ‘Maid’ earned her widespread critical acclaim and several award nominations. She has a background in dance which gives her a unique physicality on screen. Qualley continues to work with top-tier directors and is known for her bold and fearless choices.
Mia Wasikowska
Mia Wasikowska became an international star after playing the lead in Tim Burton’s ‘Alice in Wonderland’. She has since focused on independent and arthouse films like ‘Stoker’ and ‘Crimson Peak’. Her performances are often characterized by a quiet and observant intensity. She is a versatile actor who can handle period dramas and contemporary thrillers with equal ease. Wasikowska remains a respected figure in the film industry for her dedication to artistic integrity.
Riley Keough
Riley Keough has built a diverse filmography by choosing unconventional and challenging roles. She received critical praise for her work in ‘The Girlfriend Experience’ and ‘American Honey’. Her lead role in the series ‘Daisy Jones and the Six’ showcased her musical talent and star power. She is known for her gritty and authentic approach to acting. Keough has also ventured into directing and is becoming a significant creative force in Hollywood.
Jurnee Smollett
Jurnee Smollett has been acting since childhood and has consistently delivered powerful performances. She gained significant acclaim for her role as Leti Lewis in the series ‘Lovecraft Country’. Her work as Black Canary in ‘Birds of Prey’ showed her ability to lead a major superhero film. She is known for her charisma and her ability to bring depth to action-oriented roles. Smollett continues to be a prominent advocate for social justice while maintaining a successful acting career.
Zazie Beetz
Zazie Beetz became a breakout star through her role as Van in the comedy-drama series ‘Atlanta’. She followed this with successful appearances in ‘Deadpool 2’ and ‘Joker’. Her acting style is naturalistic and often includes a dry sense of humor. She has a magnetic screen presence that makes her a standout in both independent films and blockbusters. Beetz is one of the most versatile and consistently interesting actors working in the industry today.
Letitia Wright
Letitia Wright gained worldwide fame for her role as Shuri in the ‘Black Panther’ films. She delivered a deeply emotional performance in ‘Black Panther Wakanda Forever’ as she stepped into a leading role. Her work in the series ‘Small Axe’ also earned her significant critical praise. She is known for her intelligence and her ability to convey complex technological and emotional concepts. Wright remains a central figure in one of the world’s largest film franchises while pursuing independent projects.
Lashana Lynch
Lashana Lynch has made a name for herself by playing strong and impactful characters in major franchises. She starred as Maria Rambeau in ‘Captain Marvel’ and as Nomi in the James Bond film ‘No Time to Die’. Her performance in ‘The Woman King’ showcased her physical prowess and dramatic range. She is known for her commanding presence and her ability to bring nuance to high-stakes action roles. Lynch is a rising star who is quickly becoming a staple of modern blockbuster cinema.
Tell us which talented actresses you believe deserve more recognition in the comments.
