The Most Promising Hollywood Actresses Set to Become Huge Stars

The landscape of Hollywood is undergoing a significant transformation as a new generation of actresses takes center stage in both blockbuster franchises and critically acclaimed independent films. These rising stars have demonstrated exceptional range and versatility, often transitioning from breakout television roles to leading parts in major cinematic productions. With several highly anticipated projects scheduled for release in 2025 and 2026, these performers are positioned to define the next era of global stardom. Their recent accolades and upcoming casting announcements suggest a permanent shift in the industry’s leading talent pool.

Mikey Madison

Mikey Madison earned widespread critical acclaim for her titular performance in the 2024 film ‘Anora’, which secured the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. She first gained recognition for her role as Max Fox in the FX series ‘Better Things’ before appearing as Sadie in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’. Madison also portrayed the character Amber Freeman in the 2022 entry of the ‘Scream’ franchise. Her recent success in the awards circuit has established her as one of the most significant dramatic talents of her generation.

Monica Barbaro

Monica Barbaro became a recognizable name after portraying the pilot Phoenix in the massive box-office hit ‘Top Gun: Maverick’. She followed this success by starring alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger in the action-comedy series ‘FUBAR’. In the 2024 musical biopic ‘A Complete Unknown’, Barbaro portrays the folk singer Joan Baez opposite Timothée Chalamet. Her ability to handle both physical action roles and complex biographical dramas has made her a highly sought-after lead in Hollywood.

Milly Alcock

Milly Alcock achieved international fame for her portrayal of the young Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen in the ‘House of the Dragon’ series. Following her breakout performance, she was cast as Kara Zor-El in the DC Universe film ‘Superman’, which premiered in July 2025. This high-profile role is expected to lead into her own standalone feature, ‘Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow’. Alcock has also appeared in the Australian series ‘Upright’, showcasing her comedic and dramatic range prior to her blockbuster transition.

Cailee Spaeny

Cailee Spaeny has quickly risen through the ranks of the industry with a string of versatile leading roles, including the title character in Sofia Coppola’s 2023 film ‘Priscilla’. She starred in the 2024 action-thriller ‘Civil War’ as a young combat photographer and led the cast of ‘Alien: Romulus’ as Rain Carradine. Spaeny is also known for her work in the miniseries ‘Mare of Easttown’ and the 2020 film ‘The Craft: Legacy’. Her consistent presence in high-concept genre films and prestigious dramas has cemented her status as a top-tier rising star.

Sophie Wilde

Sophie Wilde became a standout horror icon following her leading performance in the 2023 Australian film ‘Talk to Me’. She has continued to build a diverse portfolio with roles in the Netflix series ‘Everything Now’ and the 2024 erotic thriller ‘Babygirl’. Wilde is also set to appear in the black comedy ‘Judy’ alongside a cast that includes Tom Cruise and Sandra Hüller. Her rapid ascent from independent horror to major international productions has marked her as a key performer to watch.

Ella Purnell

Ella Purnell saw a massive surge in popularity after starring as Lucy MacLean in the 2024 live-action adaptation of the ‘Fallout’ television series. She is also well-known for her role as Jackie in the survival drama ‘Yellowjackets’ and for voicing Jinx in the animated series ‘Arcane’. Purnell’s film credits include ‘Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children’ and Zack Snyder’s ‘Army of the Dead’. Her ability to lead high-budget genre franchises has made her a household name among streaming audiences.

Anna Sawai

Anna Sawai made history in 2024 for her critically lauded performance as Toda Mariko in the epic historical drama ‘Shōgun’. She previously starred as Cate Randa in the Apple TV+ series ‘Monarch: Legacy of Monsters’, further establishing her presence in the science fiction and drama genres. Sawai also appeared in the action blockbuster ‘F9: The Fast Saga’ as the character Elle. Her background as a professional singer and dancer in Japan has contributed to the physicality and discipline she brings to her onscreen roles.

Rachel Zegler

Rachel Zegler made a grand entrance into Hollywood by winning a Golden Globe for her debut role as María in Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’. She continued her trajectory with leading roles in ‘Shazam! Fury of the Gods’ and ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’. Zegler is set to portray the title character in the 2025 live-action adaptation of ‘Snow White’ and has made her Broadway debut in ‘Romeo and Juliet’. Her musical background and frequent casting in major studio tentpoles have made her one of the most prominent young stars today.

Isabela Merced

Isabela Merced has built an extensive filmography that includes leading roles in ‘Dora and the Lost City of Gold’ and the action film ‘Sweet Girl’. She recently appeared in ‘Alien: Romulus’ and the ‘Spider-Man’ spin-off ‘Madame Web’ as Anya Corazon. Merced’s career reached new heights with her casting as Hawkgirl in the 2025 film ‘Superman’ and her role as Dina in the second season of ‘The Last of Us’. Her transition from child stardom to major franchise lead has been a notable success story in recent years.

Katy O’Brian

Katy O’Brian garnered significant attention for her role in the 2024 romantic thriller ‘Love Lies Bleeding’, where she starred opposite Kristen Stewart. She is a recurring figure in major franchises, having appeared in ‘The Mandalorian’ as Elia Kane and in ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’ as Jentorra. O’Brian is also slated to appear in the eighth installment of the ‘Mission: Impossible’ film series. Her background as a martial artist and police officer provides a unique level of authenticity to her action-heavy roles.

Chase Infiniti

Chase Infiniti emerged as a major talent to watch after landing a lead role in the upcoming film ‘One Battle After Another’. She previously appeared as the daughter of prominent characters in various television projects, building a reputation for her intense screen presence. Infiniti has been cited by major trade publications as a member of the new generation of talent set to dominate the box office. Her focus on complex, character-driven narratives is expected to define her career moving forward.

Sydney Chandler

Sydney Chandler is poised for a breakout year as the star of the 2025 series ‘Alien: Earth’, a television expansion of the iconic horror-science fiction franchise. She first gained attention for her role in the 2022 film ‘Don’t Worry Darling’ and the miniseries ‘Pistol’, where she played Chrissie Hynde. Chandler is the daughter of actor Kyle Chandler, though she has established a distinct path through independent film and genre television. Her role in ‘Alien: Earth’ marks her first lead performance in a major international production.

Yerin Ha

Yerin Ha is set to become a major figure in the romance genre after being cast as Sophie Baek, the love interest of Benedict Bridgerton in the fourth season of ‘Bridgerton’. She also appears in the 2024 series ‘Dune: Prophecy’ as Young Kasha, expanding her reach into the science fiction genre. Ha previously gained recognition for her role as Kwan Ha in the television adaptation of ‘Halo’. Her diverse background in theater and international television has prepared her for these high-profile streaming leads.

Joy Sunday

Joy Sunday became a fan favorite for her portrayal of Bianca Barclay in the hit Netflix series ‘Wednesday’. Her performance as the rival-turned-ally to the titular character showcased her range and ability to handle both supernatural and high-school drama elements. Sunday has since transitioned to film projects, including the 2024 title ‘The Brave’ and the dark comedy ‘Dogman’. Her background in theater and media studies at USC has influenced her focused approach to character development.

Emma Myers

Emma Myers reached international fame as Enid Sinclair in the ‘Wednesday’ series, where she played the colorful roommate of Wednesday Addams. She further established herself as a leading talent in the 2024 mystery series ‘A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder’, based on the popular novel. Myers is also set to star in the 2025 ‘Minecraft’ film alongside Jason Momoa and Jack Black. Her ability to lead both young adult adaptations and massive video game movies highlights her broad demographic appeal.

Freya Allan

Freya Allan is best known for her role as Princess Ciri in the Netflix fantasy series ‘The Witcher’, a character she has portrayed since 2019. In 2024, she made a successful transition to film as the human lead, Mae, in ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’. She also appeared in the horror film ‘Baghead’ and the miniseries ‘The Third Day’. Allan’s experience with large-scale production design and visual effects has made her a reliable choice for high-budget genre films.

Nico Parker

Nico Parker received the Sundance Special Jury Award for Breakthrough Performance for her lead role in the 2024 coming-of-age film ‘Suncoast’. She previously appeared as Sarah Miller in the first season of ‘The Last of Us’ and as Milly Farrier in the 2019 live-action ‘Dumbo’. Parker is set to star as Astrid in the upcoming live-action adaptation of ‘How to Train Your Dragon’. Her parentage, as the daughter of Thandiwe Newton and Ol Parker, has placed her in the spotlight, but her nuanced performances have defined her own career.

Reneé Rapp

Renée Rapp successfully transitioned from a celebrated Broadway career to television and film stardom, most notably as Regina George in the 2024 ‘Mean Girls’ musical movie. She previously played the same role on stage before starring as Leighton Murray in ‘The Sex Lives of College Girls’. Rapp is also a successful recording artist, often integrating her musical talents into her acting projects. Her bold public persona and comedic timing have made her a prominent figure in modern pop culture.

Myha’la

Myha’la Herrold leads the cast of the critically acclaimed HBO series ‘Industry’ as Harper Stern, a role that has earned her praise for portraying complex ambition. She also starred in the 2022 slasher-comedy ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’ and appeared in the 2023 psychological thriller ‘Leave the World Behind’. Herrold’s filmography is characterized by a focus on socially relevant and high-stakes narratives. Her recent work in both television and film has established her as a versatile dramatic actress.

Taylor Russell

Taylor Russell gained significant critical attention for her starring role in the 2022 film ‘Bones and All’, for which she received the Marcello Mastroianni Award at the Venice Film Festival. She previously starred in the ‘Escape Room’ franchise and the acclaimed 2019 drama ‘Waves’. Russell is set to appear in the upcoming film ‘Hope’ alongside Alicia Vikander, continuing her focus on prestige cinema. Her ability to convey deep vulnerability and internal conflict has made her a favorite among independent directors.

Talia Ryder

Talia Ryder made her film debut in the critically acclaimed 2020 drama ‘Never Rarely Sometimes Always’. She has since appeared in ‘West Side Story’, ‘Dumb Money’, and the 2024 ballet drama ‘Joika’, where she portrayed the real-life dancer Joy Womack. Ryder also starred in the Netflix film ‘Hello, Goodbye, and Everything in Between’. Her background as a professional dancer often informs the physical discipline of her acting roles.

Sophie Thatcher

Sophie Thatcher is a primary cast member of the survival drama ‘Yellowjackets’, where she portrays the younger version of Natalie. She has built a strong presence in the horror and science fiction genres with roles in ‘The Boogeyman’ and the ‘Star Wars’ series ‘The Book of Boba Fett’. In 2025, she stars in the thriller ‘Companion’, further solidifying her reputation as a leading figure in high-tension narratives. Thatcher is also an accomplished musician, often cited for her edgy and distinctive screen presence.

Kaia Gerber

Kaia Gerber successfully transitioned from high fashion modeling to acting with a recurring role in ‘American Horror Story: Double Feature’. She received praise for her performance in the 2023 comedy ‘Bottoms’ and the 2024 series ‘Palm Royale’, where she plays Mitzi. Gerber also appeared in the 2024 film ‘Saturday Night’, portraying the real-life figure Jacqueline Carlin. Her move into character acting has been marked by a focus on ensemble comedies and period dramas.

Ryan Destiny

Ryan Destiny is recognized for her lead roles in the musical drama series ‘Star’ and the sitcom ‘grown-ish’. She recently starred in the 2024 biographical sports drama ‘The Fire Inside’, where she portrays the Olympic boxer Claressa Shields. This role has been cited as a major turning point in her career, showcasing her physical dedication and dramatic depth. Destiny is frequently featured in industry lists of rising stars due to her multihyphenate talents in acting and music.

Chase Sui Wonders

Chase Sui Wonders gained prominence for her lead role in the HBO Max series ‘Genera+ion’ and the 2022 film ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’. She also starred in the Apple TV+ series ‘City on Fire’ and appeared in the 2024 project ‘Lurker’. Wonders is known for her work behind the camera as well, having written and directed several short films. Her ability to navigate both the indie film scene and mainstream television has made her a versatile modern performer.

Havana Rose Liu

Havana Rose Liu leads a new wave of talent with her breakout performance in the 2022 thriller ‘No Exit’. She followed this with a scene-stealing role in the 2023 comedy ‘Bottoms’ and a lead part in the 2024 film ‘Hal & Harper’. Liu’s background as a model and dancer has contributed to her expressive and physical acting style. She is frequently cited by trades like ‘The Hollywood Reporter’ as a key member of the industry’s next generation.

Esther-Rose McGregor

Esther McGregor has emerged as a rising star following her role in the 2024 erotic thriller ‘Babygirl’, where she appeared alongside Nicole Kidman. She previously gained notice for her work in the series ‘High School’ and has been active in the independent film circuit. McGregor is the daughter of Ewan McGregor, but she has pursued a distinct path through edgy, character-driven roles. Her recent casting in high-profile A24 productions indicates a promising trajectory in prestige cinema.

Erin Kellyman

Erin Kellyman is known for her significant roles in major franchises, including ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’ and ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’. She starred in the 2022 fantasy series ‘Willow’ as Jade and appears in the 2025 film ‘Eleanor the Great’, directed by Scarlett Johansson. Kellyman’s ability to handle action-intensive roles while maintaining emotional depth has made her a staple of modern genre storytelling. Her work often highlights themes of rebellion and complex morality.

Isabel May

Isabel May became a breakout star for her lead performance as Elsa Dutton in the ‘Yellowstone’ prequel series ‘1883’. She also narrates the follow-up series ‘1923’ and starred in the independent film ‘Run Hide Fight’. May has been frequently discussed as a top contender for major superhero roles due to her commanding screen presence. Her transition from sitcom work in ‘Alexa & Katie’ to heavy dramatic roles has demonstrated significant professional growth.

Mia Threapleton

Mia Threapleton received critical acclaim for her performance in the 2022 drama ‘I Am Ruth’, where she starred alongside her mother, Kate Winslet. She has since landed a lead role in the period drama series ‘The Buccaneers’ and appears in the 2024 film ‘Firebrand’. Threapleton’s focus on grounded, emotionally demanding characters has established her as a serious dramatic talent. Her career is characterized by a deliberate selection of roles that prioritize narrative depth over commercial visibility.

Sarah Pidgeon

Sarah Pidgeon gained initial recognition for her role as Leah Rilke in the survival series ‘The Wilds’. She followed this with a praised performance in the 2023 limited series ‘Tiny Beautiful Things’ and a lead role in the 2024 film ‘Winner’. Pidgeon’s ability to portray complex psychological states has made her a favorite for character-centric dramas. Her upcoming projects include several high-profile collaborations with independent filmmakers.

Geraldine Viswanathan

Geraldine Viswanathan became a breakout comedy star with her role in the 2018 film ‘Blockers’. She has since expanded into diverse genres with leading roles in ‘The Broken Hearts Gallery’, ‘Drive-Away Dolls’, and the series ‘Miracle Workers’. In 2024, she starred in ‘The Beanie Bubble’ and joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in ‘Thunderbolts*’. Viswanathan is often praised for her naturalistic acting style and sharp comedic timing.

Louisa Jacobson

Louisa Jacobson is best known for her leading role as Marian Brook in the HBO period drama ‘The Gilded Age’. Her performance in the series has been highlighted for its poise and emotional resonance within a large ensemble cast. Jacobson comes from a prominent acting family as the daughter of Meryl Streep, but she has established her own identity through stage work and prestige television. Her work in ‘The Gilded Age’ has solidified her place in the landscape of high-end dramatic television.

Sarah Catherine Hook

Sarah Catherine Hook rose to prominence as the lead in the Netflix supernatural series ‘First Kill’. She has also appeared in ‘The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It’ and the series ‘American Crime Story’. Hook’s ability to lead genre-bending projects has earned her a dedicated following among younger audiences. She is set to appear in several upcoming thriller and horror projects scheduled for 2025 and 2026.

Iman Vellani

Iman Vellani made a massive cultural impact as Kamala Khan in the Marvel Cinematic Universe series ‘Ms. Marvel’ and the 2023 film ‘The Marvels’. Her performance has been widely praised for its energy, charm, and authenticity to the source material. Vellani is also known for her deep knowledge of comic book lore, which she has used to consult on Marvel projects. Her role is expected to expand as she leads the ‘Young Avengers’ initiative in future installments.

Xochitl Gomez

Xochitl Gomez joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as America Chavez in ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’. She previously starred in the first season of ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’ and won the 2023 season of ‘Dancing with the Stars’. Gomez has used her platform to advocate for diverse representation in the superhero genre. Her upcoming roles include several independent films that showcase her range beyond big-budget action.

Phoebe Dynevor

Phoebe Dynevor became a global star as Daphne Bridgerton in the first season of the Netflix hit ‘Bridgerton’. She moved into psychological drama with a leading role in the 2023 film ‘Fair Play’, which received critical acclaim at the Sundance Film Festival. Dynevor has since been cast in several high-profile projects, including the 2024 film ‘Inheritance’. Her career trajectory shows a clear shift toward complex, adult-oriented dramatic roles.

Lily-Rose Depp

Lily-Rose Depp took on a provocative leading role in the 2023 HBO series ‘The Idol’, which generated significant industry conversation. She has a strong presence in international cinema, having appeared in the French film ‘The King’ and the thriller ‘Wolf’. Depp is set to star in the 2024 gothic horror film ‘Nosferatu’, directed by Robert Eggers. Her work often leans toward atmospheric and experimental projects that emphasize her unique screen persona.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer became a household name for her role as Jules Vaughn in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. She made her film debut in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ and led the 2024 horror film ‘Cuckoo’. Schafer is also set to appear in the upcoming project ‘Mother Mary’ alongside Anne Hathaway. Her background as a fashion model and activist has complemented her rise as a distinct voice in contemporary cinema.

Madelyn Cline

Madelyn Cline achieved stardom through her role as Sarah Cameron in the popular Netflix series ‘Outer Banks’. she transitioned to major film roles with her appearance as Whiskey in ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’. Cline is frequently cited as a rising style icon and has secured multiple high-profile brand partnerships. Her ability to maintain a strong presence in both streaming television and blockbuster film franchises has defined her current career path.

Adria Arjona

Adria Arjona earned critical praise for her leading role in the 2023 film ‘Hit Man’ alongside Glen Powell. She has a significant presence in the ‘Star Wars’ universe as Bix Caleen in the series ‘Andor’. Arjona’s filmography also includes roles in ‘Morbius’, ‘Father of the Bride’, and ‘Pacific Rim: Uprising’. Her versatility in handling romantic comedy, science fiction, and action has made her a versatile asset for major studios.

Ambika Mod

Ambika Mod reached international prominence for her performance as Emma Morley in the 2024 series ‘One Day’. She previously starred in the critically acclaimed medical drama ‘This Is Going to Hurt’, for which she received several award nominations. Mod’s background as a comedian and writer informs the timing and depth of her dramatic performances. She is set to lead several upcoming British and international productions in 2025.

Aimee Lou Wood

Aimee Lou Wood became a breakout star for her role as Aimee Gibbs in the hit series ‘Sex Education’, winning a BAFTA for her performance. She has since appeared in the 2022 film ‘Living’ and leads the cast of ‘The White Lotus’ in its third season. Wood is also a celebrated stage actress, having starred in West End productions such as ‘Uncle Vanya’ and ‘Cabaret’. Her ability to blend vulnerability with eccentric comedy has made her a unique presence in the industry.

Britt Lower

Britt Lower gained widespread recognition for her leading role as Helly R. in the Apple TV+ series ‘Severance’. Her performance in the high-concept psychological thriller has been central to the show’s critical success. Lower has also appeared in the series ‘Man Seeking Woman’ and the film ‘Darkest Night’. Her work is often characterized by an intellectual and meticulous approach to character, making her a standout in prestige television.

Mae Martin

Mae Martin created and starred in the semi-autobiographical series ‘Feel Good’, which earned them significant critical acclaim. They have since expanded into dramatic acting with roles in ‘The Flight Attendant’ and the upcoming 2025 series ‘Wayward’. Martin is also an accomplished stand-up comedian and writer, often incorporating personal themes into their scripted work. Their rise into mainstream acting has been marked by a focus on unique, genre-blurring narratives.

Ella Anderson

Ella Anderson first gained fame as Piper Hart in the long-running Nickelodeon series ‘Henry Danger’. She has successfully transitioned to adult roles with a lead performance in the 2025 film ‘Song Sung Blue’, starring alongside Hugh Jackman. Anderson also appeared in the 2017 film ‘The Glass Castle’ and the 2016 comedy ‘The Boss’. Her move into high-profile dramatic and musical features marks a significant evolution in her professional career.

Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas

Inga Ibsdotter Lilleås is a rising international star who gained notice for her performance in the 2025 film ‘Sentimental Value’, directed by Joachim Trier. She previously appeared in the Norwegian historical drama ‘The Last King’ and several acclaimed European television series. Lilleås has been named by ‘Variety’ as one of the actors to watch for her ability to navigate complex emotional landscapes. Her entry into the American film market is expected to follow her recent festival success.

Karla Sofía Gascón

Karla Sofía Gascón made a historic impact with her lead role in the 2024 musical crime drama ‘Emilia Pérez’. She shared the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival with her co-stars, marking a major milestone in her career. Gascón has a long history in Spanish-language television and film, but her recent breakout has introduced her to global audiences. Her performance is widely considered a frontrunner in the 2025 awards season.

Kathryn Newton

Kathryn Newton has built a diverse career with roles in ‘Big Little Lies’, ‘The Society’, and ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’. In 2024, she starred in the horror films ‘Abigail’ and ‘Lisa Frankenstein’, solidifying her status as a modern “scream queen.” Newton is also an accomplished golfer, a skill that has occasionally intersected with her public persona. Her ability to lead both big-budget superhero films and cult horror favorites has made her a versatile industry staple.

Chloe East

Chloe East received praise for her supporting role in Steven Spielberg’s semi-autobiographical film ‘The Fabelmans’. She took on a lead role in the 2024 horror-thriller ‘Heretic’ alongside Hugh Grant, showcasing her ability to carry intense dramatic tension. East also starred in the HBO series ‘Generation’ and the film ‘The Wolf of Snow Hollow’. Her career is increasingly defined by roles in high-concept projects from visionary directors.

Emily Alyn Lind

Emily Alyn Lind starred as Audrey Hope in the ‘Gossip Girl’ revival, bringing her to a new generation of viewers. She followed this with a role in the 2024 blockbuster ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’ as the character Melody. Lind has been active in the industry since childhood, appearing in ‘Revenge’ and ‘The Babysitter’ film series. Her transition into major franchise roles and mature dramas has established her as a consistent presence in Hollywood.

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