The Absolute Best Hispanic Actresses of the Past 10 Years
The last decade has seen a remarkable surge in the visibility and influence of Hispanic actresses in the global entertainment industry. From breakout performances in streaming hits to Academy Award-winning roles, these women have redefined storytelling across genres. Their contributions span across international cinema and Hollywood blockbusters, highlighting a rich diversity of heritage and talent. This list celebrates the actresses who have made the most significant impact on screen through their performances and cultural influence.
Macarena García
This Spanish actress gained international recognition for her work in the musical film ‘Holy Camp!’ in 2017. She has since become a staple of Spanish television with a leading role in the mystery series ‘The Mess You Leave Behind’. Her ability to convey deep vulnerability has made her one of Spain’s most sought-after young talents. She continues to balance prestige film projects with popular streaming content.
Elena Anaya
While she was already established, the last decade saw her reach new heights in international cinema. She played a pivotal role as Doctor Poison in the 2017 blockbuster ‘Wonder Woman’, introducing her to a global superhero audience. Her performance in ‘The Skin I Live In’ continues to be cited as a career benchmark for psychological intensity. She remains a powerful force in both Spanish-language dramas and high-budget English productions.
Isabella Gómez
She rose to prominence for her portrayal of Elena Alvarez in the critically acclaimed sitcom ‘One Day at a Time’. Her performance was widely praised for its authentic and heartfelt depiction of a young woman coming out to her traditional family. Following the show’s success, she took on a leading role in the 2021 reboot of ‘Head of the Class’. She has become a significant voice for Hispanic representation in contemporary television comedy.
Mishel Prada
The actress made a major impact with her leading role in the Starz series ‘Vida’, which premiered in 2018. She played a high-powered attorney returning to her roots in East Los Angeles, earning praise for her nuanced performance. She also joined the cast of ‘Riverdale’ in a recurring role that expanded her reach to a younger demographic. Her work often explores complex themes of identity, family, and cultural heritage.
Sasha Calle
The American actress of Colombian descent made history as the first Latina to portray Supergirl on the big screen. Her performance in the 2023 film ‘The Flash’ was noted for its physical intensity and emotional gravitas. Before her superhero debut, she earned a Daytime Emmy nomination for her work on the soap opera ‘The Young and the Restless’. She is widely considered one of the most promising action stars of her generation.
Leslie Grace
She transitioned from a successful music career to acting with a breakout role in the 2021 film adaptation of ‘In the Heights’. Playing the character Nina Rosario, she showcased both her vocal range and her dramatic acting abilities. The film’s success cemented her status as a multitalented performer capable of leading major Hollywood productions. She continues to advocate for more diverse stories within the musical and film industries.
Victoria Justice
Known initially for her child stardom, she has transitioned into more mature roles over the last ten years. She starred in the 2015 thriller series ‘Eye Candy’ and later led the Netflix romantic comedy ‘A Perfect Pairing’ in 2022. Her consistent presence in film and television has maintained her status as a prominent figure of Puerto Rican descent in entertainment. She often balances her acting career with various philanthropic endeavors and music projects.
Lorenza Izzo
This Chilean actress and model gained significant attention for her role in the 2019 film ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’. Directed by Quentin Tarantino, the project allowed her to showcase her talent alongside an ensemble of A-list stars. She also played a leading role in the horror film ‘The Green Inferno’ and appeared in the series ‘Penny Dreadful: City of Angels’. Her international career continues to grow with projects that span multiple genres and languages.
Natalia Reyes
The Colombian actress gained worldwide fame as the lead in the 2019 blockbuster ‘Terminator: Dark Fate’. Handpicked by James Cameron, she portrayed a young woman who becomes a central figure in the fight for humanity’s future. Before her Hollywood debut, she was well-known for her powerful performance in the Oscar-shortlisted film ‘Birds of Passage’. She is recognized for bringing a grounded, authentic presence to large-scale cinematic productions.
Paulina Gaitán
She has established herself as one of Mexico’s most versatile performers through her work in intense dramatic series. She is perhaps best known internationally for her role as Tata Escobar in the hit series ‘Narcos’. Her filmography also includes the critically acclaimed ‘Sin Nombre’ and the 2020 series ‘The President’. Her performances are often characterized by a quiet strength and deep emotional resonance.
Cecilia Suárez
The Mexican actress became a household name across the Spanish-speaking world for her role in the Netflix series ‘The House of Flowers’. Her unique delivery and comedic timing as Paulina de la Mora turned the character into a cultural phenomenon. She has won multiple Platino Awards, highlighting her status as a leading figure in Ibero-American cinema. Her career spans over two decades, but the last ten years have been her most commercially successful.
Maite Perroni
Originally famous for her work in musical groups and telenovelas, she successfully pivoted to prestige streaming dramas recently. She starred in the 2020 Netflix thriller ‘Dark Desire’, which became one of the platform’s most-watched non-English series. She followed this success with the lead role in ‘Triada’ in 2023, where she played three different characters. Her transition from soap opera star to serious dramatic actress has been a defining narrative of her recent career.
Karla Souza
The Mexican actress gained international fame for her role as Laurel Castillo in the legal drama ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. She was a series regular for several seasons, working closely with Academy Award winner Viola Davis. In Mexico, she has starred in massive box office hits like ‘The Noble Family’ and ‘Instructions Not Included’. Recently, she produced and starred in ‘La Caída’, a film that addresses abuse in the world of competitive sports.
Cierra Ramirez
She has been a consistent presence on television for over a decade, most notably starring in the drama ‘The Fosters’. She reprised her role as Mariana Adams Foster in the spin-off series ‘Good Trouble’, which she also executive produces. Her work has earned her several Imagen Awards and Teen Choice Award nominations. She is also a recording artist, frequently blending her musical talents with her acting career.
Dascha Polanco
The Dominican-American actress became a breakout star for her role as Dayanara Diaz in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Her performance throughout the show’s seven-season run was praised for its emotional depth and realism. She later appeared in the 2021 film ‘In the Heights’ and the biographical series ‘When They See Us’. She is a vocal advocate for body positivity and better representation for Afro-Latina women in Hollywood.
Diane Guerrero
She is widely recognized for her roles in the hit series ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and ‘Jane the Virgin’. Over the last few years, she has portrayed the complex character Crazy Jane in the DC series ‘Doom Patrol’. She also provided the voice for Isabela Madrigal in the 2021 Disney animated blockbuster ‘Encanto’. Beyond acting, she is an influential author and activist focusing on immigration reform and mental health.
Christian Serratos
After appearing in ‘The Walking Dead’ for several seasons, she took on the monumental task of portraying a music icon. She played the lead role in ‘Selena: The Series’ on Netflix, which explored the life and career of the legendary singer. Her transformation into the Tejano star was praised for its attention to detail and vocal performance. She continues to be a prominent figure in both mainstream television and specialized biographical projects.
Isabela Merced
This Peruvian-American actress transitioned from a child star to a leading lady with the 2019 film ‘Dora and the Lost City of Gold’. She has since starred in the Netflix action film ‘Sweet Girl’ and the 2022 version of ‘Father of the Bride’. She is set to join major franchises with roles in ‘Madame Web’ and the second season of ‘The Last of Us’. Her career is marked by a mix of high-energy action roles and grounded dramatic performances.
Daniela Vega
The Chilean actress made history as the star of the 2017 film ‘A Fantastic Woman’, which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Her performance was widely hailed as one of the best of the year, earning her numerous international accolades. She was the first transgender person in history to be a presenter at the Academy Awards ceremony. Her work has been instrumental in expanding the visibility of the LGBTQ+ community in Hispanic cinema.
Alba Flores
As a member of a legendary Spanish artistic family, she has carved out her own path with iconic television roles. She gained global fame for her portrayal of Nairobi in the massive Netflix hit ‘Money Heist’. Her performance in the prison drama ‘Locked Up’ also earned her critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. She is known for her intense screen presence and her ability to portray fiercely independent characters.
Ester Expósito
She became an overnight international sensation after starring in the Spanish teen drama ‘Elite’. Her portrayal of Carla Rosón Caleruega made her the most-followed Spaniard on social media for several years. She has since moved into more mature roles, including the limited series ‘Someone Has to Die’ and the horror film ‘Venus’. She is frequently cited as a leading fashion icon and a major influence on Gen Z audiences worldwide.
Úrsula Corberó
The Spanish actress achieved worldwide stardom as the narrator and lead character Tokyo in ‘Money Heist’. The success of the series led to her Hollywood debut in the 2021 action film ‘Snake Eyes’. She has been recognized with several awards for her high-energy performances and unique style. Recently, she starred in the Netflix miniseries ‘Burning Body’, based on a true crime story that captivated Spanish audiences.
Lupita Nyong’o
Born in Mexico City to Kenyan parents, she frequently identifies with her dual heritage and holds Mexican citizenship. Since her Oscar-winning debut, she has led major films like the horror hit ‘Us’ and the ‘Black Panther’ franchise. Her performance in ‘Little Monsters’ showed her versatility in comedy, while her work in ‘Queen of Katwe’ highlighted her dramatic range. She remains one of the most respected and influential actresses working in the industry today.
Tessa Thompson
The actress, who has Panamanian heritage through her father, has become a cornerstone of modern blockbuster cinema. She is widely known for her role as Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, appearing in ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ and its sequels. She also received critical acclaim for her leading roles in ‘Creed’ and the independent drama ‘Passing’. Her work often challenges traditional casting and focuses on complex, multifaceted female characters.
Michaela Jaé Rodriguez
She made history as the lead in the FX series ‘Pose’, which explored the ballroom culture of New York City in the 1980s. In 2022, she became the first transgender actress to win a Golden Globe Award for her performance as Blanca Evangelista. She also starred in the comedy series ‘Loot’ alongside Maya Rudolph, showcasing her range beyond drama. Her career has been a series of groundbreaking moments for Hispanic and LGBTQ+ representation.
Selena Gomez
While she began her career as a child star, the last decade has seen her evolve into a serious dramatic and comedic actress. She received critical acclaim for her role in the Hulu series ‘Only Murders in the Building’, which earned her multiple award nominations. She also starred in the indie film ‘The Fundamentals of Caring’ and the psychological thriller ‘Spiral’. Her influence extends across music, acting, and mental health advocacy, making her a global icon.
Adria Arjona
The daughter of Guatemalan singer Ricardo Arjona, she has built a successful acting career with roles in major franchises. She appeared in the 2022 Marvel film ‘Morbius’ and played a lead role in the ‘Star Wars’ series ‘Andor’. Her performance in the 2022 reboot of ‘Father of the Bride’ showcased her ability to handle lighthearted romantic comedy. She continues to secure high-profile roles that highlight her charisma and screen presence.
Xochitl Gomez
The young actress of Mexican descent joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as America Chavez in ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’. Her performance was praised for its energy and for bringing a beloved comic book character to life for the first time. Before her film debut, she gained attention for her role in the Netflix series ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’. She is recognized as one of the most prominent young Hispanic stars in the current media landscape.
Stephanie Beatriz
The Argentine-Colombian-American actress is best known for her long-running role as Detective Rosa Diaz on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. She showcased her incredible vocal range by voicing the lead character Mirabel Madrigal in Disney’s ‘Encanto’. Her work in the film ‘In the Heights’ further demonstrated her ability to succeed in musical theater formats. She is a versatile performer who has moved seamlessly between deadpan comedy and high-energy animation.
Alexa Demie
She rose to international prominence for her portrayal of Maddy Perez in the HBO drama series ‘Euphoria’. Her performance and the character’s distinct aesthetic became a cultural phenomenon and a major influence on fashion trends. She has also appeared in the critically acclaimed film ‘Waves’ and the series ‘Ray Donovan’. Known for her selective and impactful role choices, she has established a mysterious and powerful public persona.
Gina Rodriguez
She became a major star after winning a Golden Globe for her leading role in the CW series ‘Jane the Virgin’. The show’s success allowed her to move into film, with roles in ‘Annihilation’ and the action-thriller ‘Miss Bala’. She also voiced the title character in the animated series ‘Carmen Sandiego’ for Netflix. Recently, she returned to television as the lead and executive producer of the comedy ‘Not Dead Yet’.
Rosario Dawson
With a career spanning decades, the actress of Puerto Rican and Cuban descent has remained highly relevant in the last ten years. she took on the iconic role of Ahsoka Tano in the ‘Star Wars’ universe, appearing in ‘The Mandalorian’ and her own self-titled series. She also played Claire Temple across several Marvel series on Netflix, including ‘Daredevil’ and ‘Luke Cage’. Her consistent work in major franchises has solidified her status as a legendary figure in pop culture.
America Ferrera
The actress of Honduran descent has had a massive impact through her acting and her work as a producer. She starred in and executive produced the sitcom ‘Superstore’, which ran for six successful seasons. In 2023, she received an Academy Award nomination for her role in the blockbuster ‘Barbie’, where she delivered a viral monologue about womanhood. She is also a co-founder of organizations that focus on increasing voter turnout and Latino representation.
Sofía Vergara
Following her long-running success on ‘Modern Family’, she has continued to be a dominant force in the entertainment industry. She transitioned into a serious dramatic role in 2024 with the Netflix miniseries ‘Griselda’, portraying a notorious Colombian drug lord. Her performance was noted for its intensity and physical transformation, surprising audiences accustomed to her comedic work. She also remains a prominent television personality as a judge on ‘America’s Got Talent’.
Eiza González
This Mexican actress has successfully transitioned from Spanish-language television to major Hollywood action films. She gained significant attention for her role in the 2017 hit ‘Baby Driver’ and later appeared in ‘Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw’. She also starred in the 2021 blockbuster ‘Godzilla vs. Kong’ and the thriller ‘I Care a Lot’. Her ability to hold her own in high-budget action sequences has made her a favorite for blockbuster casting.
Melissa Barrera
The Mexican actress became a rising star in Hollywood after leading the 2021 musical ‘In the Heights’. She further expanded her reach by starring as Sam Carpenter in the revitalized ‘Scream’ horror franchise. Her work in the survival drama ‘Keep Breathing’ showcased her ability to carry a series as a solo lead. She is widely respected for her vocal talent and her dedication to complex, emotionally demanding roles.
Rachel Zegler
She achieved instant stardom after being selected from thousands of applicants to play Maria in Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’. Her debut performance earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy. She followed this success with a leading role in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ in 2023. She is set to play the title character in the upcoming live-action adaptation of ‘Snow White’.
Yalitza Aparicio
The Mexican actress made a historic debut in Alfonso Cuarón’s 2018 masterpiece ‘Roma’. Despite having no prior acting experience, her performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. She was the first Indigenous American woman to receive such a nomination, sparking global conversations about representation and class. Since her breakout, she has used her platform to advocate for Indigenous rights and has appeared in various short films and series.
Ariana DeBose
The Afro-Latina actress reached the pinnacle of critical success with her role as Anita in the 2021 remake of ‘West Side Story’. She won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, making her the first queer woman of color to win an acting Oscar. Her background in Broadway has translated into a successful film career, including roles in ‘The Prom’ and ‘Argylle’. She also voiced the lead character in the 2023 Disney animated film ‘Wish’.
Michelle Rodriguez
The actress of Dominican and Puerto Rican descent has remained one of the most consistent female action stars in cinema history. Over the last decade, she has continued to lead the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise as Letty Ortiz. She also received praise for her role in the 2023 fantasy epic ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’. Her career is defined by her portrayal of tough, independent women who challenge traditional gender roles in film.
Kate del Castillo
This Mexican icon has maintained a massive following through her work in both Spanish and English productions. She is best known for her legendary role as Teresa Mendoza in the series ‘La Reina del Sur’, which has run for multiple successful seasons. She also appeared in the 2020 film ‘Bad Boys for Life’ and the series ‘Mr. Mayor’. Her influence in the Hispanic market is unparalleled, and she continues to produce content through her own production company.
Eva Longoria
While she rose to fame on ‘Desperate Housewives’, the last ten years have seen her expand into directing and producing high-profile projects. She starred in the 2018 film ‘Dog Days’ and the 2020 drama ‘Sylvie’s Love’, while maintaining a busy television schedule. In 2023, she made her feature directorial debut with ‘Flamin’ Hot’, which received positive reviews for its storytelling. She remains a powerful advocate for Hispanic talent in both the corporate and creative sides of Hollywood.
Camila Morrone
The Argentine-American actress gained significant critical acclaim for her breakout role in the 2019 independent film ‘Mickey and the Bear’. She followed this success with a starring role in the 2023 Amazon Prime series ‘Daisy Jones & The Six’. Her performance as Camila Dunne earned her an Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series. She has quickly established herself as a serious dramatic talent capable of nuanced, quiet performances.
Melissa Fumero
The actress of Cuban descent became a beloved figure for her role as Amy Santiago on the long-running comedy ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. Her performance was central to the show’s success, blending physical comedy with sincere emotional moments. Following the series finale, she starred in the Netflix comedy ‘Blockbuster’ and has taken on various voice acting roles. She is frequently praised for her comedic timing and her relatable portrayal of ambitious professional women.
Salma Hayek Pinault
One of the most famous Hispanic actresses in history, she has remained at the top of her game over the last decade. She joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in 2021 as Ajak in ‘Eternals’ and starred in the acclaimed ‘House of Gucci’ the same year. Her performance in ‘Beatriz at Dinner’ earned her some of the best reviews of her career for its subtlety and social commentary. She continues to be a powerhouse producer and a global representative for Mexican talent in cinema.
Penélope Cruz
The Spanish Oscar winner has continued to deliver world-class performances in both her native language and English. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role in Pedro Almodóvar’s 2021 film ‘Parallel Mothers’. She also starred in the 2023 biopic ‘Ferrari’ and the international hit ‘Everybody Knows’. Her enduring partnership with Almodóvar has produced some of the most critically acclaimed Hispanic cinema of the last decade.
Jenna Ortega
She has quickly become the definitive “scream queen” of her generation with leading roles in the ‘Scream’ and ‘X’ film franchises. Her portrayal of Wednesday Addams in the Netflix series ‘Wednesday’ became a global cultural phenomenon and broke streaming records. She is recognized for her ability to play dark, eccentric characters with a unique sense of humor. Her rapid rise to fame has made her one of the most influential Hispanic figures for younger audiences today.
Zoe Saldaña
The actress of Dominican and Puerto Rican heritage is currently the only performer to appear in four of the highest-grossing films of all time. She has been a mainstay of the last decade through her roles as Neytiri in ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ and Gamora in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Beyond blockbusters, she starred in the emotional Netflix limited series ‘From Scratch’ in 2022. Her career is a testament to her versatility in both high-concept sci-fi and intimate human drama.
Anya Taylor-Joy
Born in Miami and raised in Argentina, she identifies strongly with her Hispanic heritage and spoke only Spanish for the first six years of her life. She became a global star following her performance in the 2020 Netflix limited series ‘The Queen’s Gambit’, for which she won a Golden Globe. Her film career includes acclaimed roles in ‘The Witch’, ‘The Menu’, and ‘Northman’. She is currently one of the most sought-after actresses in Hollywood, known for her striking screen presence and range.
Ana de Armas
The Cuban actress has had an meteoric rise in Hollywood over the last decade, transitioning from Spanish television to A-list movie stardom. She received widespread acclaim for her breakout role in the 2019 mystery ‘Knives Out’. In 2022, she made history as the first Cuban woman to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Marilyn Monroe in ‘Blonde’. Her diverse filmography also includes a standout role in the Bond film ‘No Time to Die’ and the action thriller ‘The Gray Man’.
Share your favorite performance from these incredible actresses in the comments.
