The Most Beautiful Hollywood Actresses Of 70s

The 1970s marked a transformative period in cinema known as the New Hollywood era. Actresses during this decade broke traditional molds by combining immense talent with a natural aesthetic. This era prioritized authentic performances and diverse beauty standards that continue to influence the industry. The following women defined the visual and artistic landscape of the decade through their memorable film and television roles.

Raquel Welch

Raquel Welch continued her status as a major screen icon throughout the 1970s. She won a Golden Globe for her performance in ‘The Three Musketeers’ which showcased her comedic timing and physical presence. Welch was known for her roles in action films and westerns such as ‘Hannie Caulder’. She maintained a strong public profile through frequent television guest appearances and variety specials. Her career during this era balanced high profile commercial success with a maturing range of characters.

Jane Fonda

Jane Fonda emerged as one of the most respected dramatic actresses of the decade. She won two Academy Awards during this period for her performances in ‘Klute’ and ‘Coming Home’. Fonda transitioned from her earlier roles into complex and politically relevant characters that mirrored the changing social landscape. She also became a fitness pioneer toward the end of the decade which redefined her public image once again. Her work in the 1970s remains some of the most critically acclaimed of her long career.

Diane Keaton

Diane Keaton redefined the style and presence of the leading lady through her collaborations with Woody Allen. Her starring role in ‘Annie Hall’ created a fashion trend centered on oversized menswear and eclectic accessories. She proved her dramatic versatility in films like ‘The Godfather’ and ‘Looking for Mr. Goodbar’. Keaton possessed a unique charm and relatability that set her apart from more conventional Hollywood stars. She remains an influential figure in both the film and fashion industries.

Faye Dunaway

Faye Dunaway was a dominant force in 1970s cinema with a string of highly successful and critically praised projects. She delivered iconic performances in films like ‘Chinatown’ and ‘Network’ which earned her an Academy Award. Dunaway was known for portraying intense and sophisticated women with a sharp intellectual edge. Her look was characterized by high fashion elegance and a piercing screen presence. She became synonymous with the sophisticated style of the mid-decade film scene.

Pam Grier

Pam Grier became the face of the blaxploitation genre and a powerful symbol of feminine strength. She starred in landmark films such as ‘Coffy’ and ‘Foxy Brown’ where she performed her own stunts. Grier was the first African American woman to headline major action movies with such consistent commercial success. Her screen presence was defined by a combination of physical toughness and undeniable glamour. She remains a pioneer who paved the way for future women in the action genre.

Lauren Hutton

Lauren Hutton successfully transitioned from being a top fashion model to a recognizable film actress. She appeared in notable projects such as ‘The Gambler’ and ‘American Gigolo’ during the decade. Hutton was celebrated for her natural beauty and her signature gap-toothed smile which challenged traditional modeling standards. She brought a breezy and effortless sophistication to her screen roles that resonated with audiences. Her career represented the growing intersection between the worlds of high fashion and Hollywood cinema.

Cybill Shepherd

Cybill Shepherd rose to prominence in the early 1970s after a successful career as a teen model. She made a significant impact with her film debut in ‘The Last Picture Show’ followed by ‘The Heartbreak Kid’. Shepherd later appeared in the gritty classic ‘Taxi Driver’ where she portrayed a political campaign worker. Her classic blonde beauty and poise made her a frequent choice for directors seeking a specific American aesthetic. She eventually transitioned into television where she achieved even greater fame in subsequent decades.

Jaclyn Smith

Jaclyn Smith earned international fame as Kelly Garrett on the hit series ‘Charlie’s Angels’. She was the only original lead actress to remain with the show for its entire five-year run. Smith was frequently cited as one of the most beautiful women in the world during the height of the show’s popularity. Beyond her television work she starred in various films and became a successful entrepreneur in the fashion industry. Her elegant look and professional longevity made her a household name across the country.

Goldie Hawn

Goldie Hawn maintained her status as a beloved comedic lead throughout the entire 1970s. She starred in a variety of successful films including ‘Butterflies Are Free’ and ‘Shampoo’. Hawn was known for her infectious personality and large blue eyes which complimented her comedic timing. She often played characters that blended vulnerability with a sharp wit and independence. Her performance in ‘The Sugarland Express’ also proved her ability to handle more dramatic and grounded material.

Meryl Streep

Meryl Streep began her legendary film career toward the end of the decade with high impact roles. She received her first Academy Award nomination for ‘The Deer Hunter’ and later won for ‘Kramer vs. Kramer’. Streep quickly became known for her technical precision and her ability to master complex accents. Her natural beauty and intense emotional range made her an immediate standout among her peers. She effectively bridged the gap between the theatrical world and major motion pictures.

Sissy Spacek

Sissy Spacek became a major star with her haunting performance in the horror classic ‘Carrie’. She received critical acclaim for her ability to portray youthful innocence and intense psychological depth. Spacek also starred in ‘Badlands’ which established her as a favorite for indie and auteur directors. Her unconventional look and freckled complexion offered a fresh alternative to the standard Hollywood glamour of the time. She closed out the decade by preparing for her Oscar-winning role in ‘Coal Miner’s Daughter’.

Jessica Lange

Jessica Lange made her film debut in the 1976 remake of ‘King Kong’. While the film received mixed reviews her performance and striking appearance garnered significant attention. Lange spent the later part of the decade honing her craft and moving toward more serious dramatic projects. She possessed a classic cinematic quality that reminded many critics of the Golden Age of Hollywood. Her career would eventually flourish into one of the most decorated in the history of the industry.

Shelley Duvall

Shelley Duvall was a frequent collaborator with director Robert Altman and appeared in several of his most famous 1970s films. She starred in ‘3 Women’ and ‘Nashville’ before taking on her most famous role in ‘The Shining’. Duvall was known for her unique features and her ability to portray eccentric or vulnerable characters. She did not conform to traditional beauty standards but possessed a captivating and expressive face. Her presence in 1970s cinema added a layer of quirkiness and authenticity to the era.

Talia Shire

Talia Shire achieved great success in the 1970s as a key member of two major film franchises. She played Connie Corleone in ‘The Godfather’ series and Adrian Pennino in ‘Rocky’. Her performances were often characterized by a quiet strength and emotional resilience. Shire received Academy Award nominations for both her work in the Corleone family saga and the boxing drama. She brought a grounded and realistic beauty to her roles that made her very relatable to audiences.

Margot Kidder

Margot Kidder became a household name when she was cast as Lois Lane in ‘Superman’. Her chemistry with Christopher Reeve and her modern take on the character won over fans globally. Kidder also appeared in several cult classic horror films such as ‘Black Christmas’ and ‘The Amityville Horror’. She was known for her sharp wit and her spirited approach to her characters. Her career in the 1970s established her as one of the most visible leading ladies of the superhero genre.

Sigourney Weaver

Sigourney Weaver became an instant icon after starring in the 1979 science fiction film ‘Alien’. Her portrayal of Ellen Ripley changed the landscape for female characters in action and horror cinema. Weaver brought a tall and commanding presence to the screen that was relatively rare for actresses at the time. She possessed an intellectual depth and physical capability that redefined feminine strength in film. This role served as the foundation for her long and successful career in major blockbuster productions.

Carrie Fisher

Carrie Fisher achieved legendary status after playing Princess Leia Organa in ‘Star Wars’. She portrayed a new kind of space royalty who was capable and outspoken rather than a traditional damsel in distress. Fisher became a cultural icon overnight and a major figure in the science fiction community. Her wit and intelligence were evident both in her performances and her later work as a writer. She remained one of the most recognizable faces of the decade due to the massive success of the franchise.

Olivia Newton-John

Olivia Newton-John transitioned from a successful singing career to film stardom in the late 1970s. Her role as Sandy in ‘Grease’ made her a global superstar and a fashion influence. The film showcased her musical talents and her ability to play both wholesome and rebellious characters. She followed this success with several hit albums and more film roles that capitalized on her popularity. Her blonde hair and bright smile made her one of the most beloved personalities of the era.

Beverly D’Angelo

Beverly D’Angelo gained recognition for her roles in films like ‘Hair’ and ‘Every Which Way But Loose’. She possessed a versatile talent that allowed her to excel in musicals as well as comedies and dramas. D’Angelo was known for her expressive eyes and her ability to bring a sense of realism to her characters. She spent much of the late 1970s building a solid reputation as a reliable and talented supporting actress. Her work during this time set the stage for her iconic roles in the following decade.

Ali MacGraw

Ali MacGraw became a major star following the massive success of the romantic drama ‘Love Story’. Her look in the film inspired a fashion trend that emphasized a preppy and natural aesthetic. She also appeared in the action film ‘The Getaway’ alongside Steve McQueen during the height of her fame. MacGraw was celebrated for her understated beauty and her ability to convey deep emotion with minimal dialogue. She remained one of the most popular cover subjects for fashion and film magazines throughout the early 1970s.

Candice Bergen

Candice Bergen was a successful model and actress who appeared in several notable films during the decade. She starred in ‘Carnal Knowledge’ and ‘The Wind and the Lion’ which showcased her range and beauty. Bergen was known for her high cheekbones and cool sophisticated demeanor on screen. She often played independent and strong-willed women who challenged the men around them. Her work in the 1970s provided a solid foundation for her later legendary career in television comedy.

Catherine Deneuve

Catherine Deneuve was an international superstar who made significant appearances in Hollywood and European co-productions. She appeared in films like ‘Hustle’ alongside Burt Reynolds during the mid-1970s. Deneuve was widely considered one of the most beautiful women in the world and represented French elegance. Her presence in English-language films brought a level of international prestige to the projects she chose. She remained a muse for various fashion designers and directors throughout the decade.

Helen Mirren

Helen Mirren began building her reputation as a formidable talent on both the stage and the screen during the 1970s. She appeared in films like ‘O Lucky Man!’ and the controversial ‘Caligula’. Mirren was known for her bold performances and her willingness to take on challenging and unconventional roles. Her natural beauty was often paired with a sharp intelligence and a commanding vocal presence. She established herself as a versatile actress capable of handling everything from classical drama to modern thrillers.

Cher

Cher transitioned from her musical duo success into a solo powerhouse and a television star during the 1970s. ‘The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour’ made her a fashion icon through her elaborate and revealing costumes designed by Bob Mackie. She also began to explore serious acting roles toward the end of the decade. Cher possessed a unique and striking look that helped her stand out in both the music and film industries. Her ability to constantly reinvent herself kept her at the forefront of popular culture for the entire decade.

Susan Sarandon

Susan Sarandon appeared in several cult classics and major hits during the 1970s including ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’. She became known for her expressive eyes and her ability to play characters with a mix of innocence and sensuality. Sarandon also starred in the critically acclaimed film ‘Pretty Baby’ which showcased her dramatic range. She avoided the typical starlet path by choosing roles that were often unconventional or provocative. Her career during this time established her as one of the most interesting and talented actresses of her generation.

Mia Farrow

Mia Farrow continued her successful career with roles in high-profile films like ‘The Great Gatsby’ and ‘Death on the Nile’. She was known for her delicate features and her ability to portray fragile or ethereal characters. Farrow was a major figure in the fashion world and her personal style was frequently documented by the press. She also worked with legendary directors like Robert Altman in the film ‘A Wedding’. Her presence in the 1970s was marked by a series of sophisticated and visually stunning projects.

Barbara Bach

Barbara Bach achieved worldwide fame as the Bond girl Anya Amasova in ‘The Spy Who Loved Me’. Her role as a Soviet secret agent made her one of the most famous faces of the late 1970s. Bach was known for her striking features and her poise in high-stakes action sequences. She appeared in several other international films before her high-profile marriage to Ringo Starr. Her career in the 1970s solidified her status as a global beauty icon.

Lynda Carter

Lynda Carter became a television sensation when she was cast as the lead in ‘Wonder Woman’. Her portrayal of the iconic superhero set the standard for the character for decades to come. Carter possessed a statuesque beauty and a warm screen presence that made her a favorite among viewers of all ages. Beyond the series she appeared in television movies and variety specials that showcased her singing talent. She remains one of the most enduring symbols of 1970s television glamour.

Bernadette Peters

Bernadette Peters was a major star of both the Broadway stage and the silver screen during the 1970s. She appeared in films like ‘Silent Movie’ and ‘The Jerk’ where she showcased her unique comedic timing and singing voice. Peters was known for her signature curly hair and her doll-like features. She often played characters that were quirky and endearing which made her a popular choice for romantic comedies. Her versatility allowed her to move seamlessly between musical theater and major film productions.

Dyan Cannon

Dyan Cannon was a prominent actress and filmmaker who appeared in several major hits during the decade. She received Academy Award nominations for her work in ‘Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice’ and ‘Heaven Can Wait’. Cannon was known for her energy and her distinctive laugh which made her a standout in ensemble casts. She also became the first woman to be nominated for an Oscar in both the acting and directing categories. Her blonde curls and vibrant personality were staples of the 1970s film scene.

Gena Rowlands

Gena Rowlands delivered some of the most powerful dramatic performances of the decade in films directed by her husband John Cassavetes. Her role in ‘A Woman Under the Influence’ is widely regarded as one of the best in cinematic history. Rowlands possessed a sophisticated beauty that she often stripped away to reveal the raw emotions of her characters. She became an icon of independent cinema and a hero to aspiring actors. Her work in the 1970s focused on character studies that were far ahead of their time.

Jill St. John

Jill St. John made a significant impact as the first American Bond girl in ‘Diamonds Are Forever’. She continued to work steadily in both film and television throughout the early 1970s. St. John was known for her red hair and her glamorous screen presence in adventure and comedy films. She often appeared on popular television shows and variety programs during the decade. Her career represented the classic Hollywood style that transitioned into the more modern era of the 70s.

Liza Minnelli

Liza Minnelli became an international superstar with her Oscar-winning performance in ‘Cabaret’. She brought a high level of theatricality and energy to all of her screen and stage roles. Minnelli was known for her large expressive eyes and her unique pixie haircut which became a popular trend. She continued to star in major musical films and dramatic projects like ‘New York, New York’. Her talent and charisma made her one of the most recognizable entertainers of the decade.

Natalie Wood

Natalie Wood continued her legendary career into the 1970s with several notable television and film roles. She starred in the television adaptation of ‘From Here to Eternity’ and the film ‘Meteor’. Wood remained one of the most famous and beautiful actresses in Hollywood despite the changing trends of the decade. She managed to transition from her child star beginnings into a mature and respected dramatic actress. Her presence provided a link between the Golden Age of Hollywood and the modern era.

Angie Dickinson

Angie Dickinson reached a new level of fame starring as Sergeant Leann Pepper Anderson in ‘Police Woman’. This role was groundbreaking as it was one of the first television dramas to feature a woman in the lead role of a police officer. Dickinson was already a well-established film actress known for her classic beauty and legs. She continued to appear in films like ‘Big Bad Mama’ while maintaining her television success. Her career in the 1970s proved that veteran actresses could lead successful action franchises.

Ann-Margret

Ann-Margret revitalized her career in the 1970s with a series of acclaimed dramatic performances. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘Carnal Knowledge’ which showcased her depth as an actress. She also starred in the musical film ‘Tommy’ and continued her successful stage shows in Las Vegas. Ann-Margret was known for her vibrant red hair and her triple-threat talent in acting, singing, and dancing. She remained one of the most popular and versatile performers of the entire decade.

Barbara Hershey

Barbara Hershey was a prominent figure in the 1970s film scene known for her natural beauty and bohemian style. She appeared in films such as ‘The Baby Maker’ and ‘Boxcar Bertha’ which was an early Martin Scorsese project. Hershey often took on roles that were unconventional and challenged the social norms of the time. She was part of a group of young actresses who prioritized artistic expression over traditional stardom. Her work during this decade established her as a versatile and dedicated dramatic performer.

Catherine Bach

Catherine Bach became an overnight sensation toward the end of the decade as Daisy Duke on ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’. Her look in the show which included denim shorts and plaid shirts became a massive cultural trend. Bach possessed a wholesome and athletic beauty that made her a favorite pin-up star of the era. Before her television success she appeared in films like ‘The Midnight Man’ and ‘Thunderbolt and Lightfoot’. She remains an enduring icon of late 1970s American pop culture.

Charlotte Rampling

Charlotte Rampling was known for her cool and mysterious screen presence in both English and European films. She appeared in ‘The Night Porter’ and ‘Farewell, My Lovely’ during the decade. Rampling possessed a unique and piercing look that directors often used to portray complex or dangerous women. She was a major figure in the world of art-house cinema and was celebrated for her bold choices. Her career in the 1970s solidified her reputation as an actress of great intellectual and physical depth.

Daryl Hannah

Daryl Hannah began her career in the late 1970s with a role in the horror film ‘The Fury’. She possessed a statuesque and ethereal beauty that would later make her a major star in the 1980s. Hannah was one of the many young actresses who brought a fresh and natural look to the screen as the decade came to a close. Her early work showed a glimpse of the versatility she would eventually display in a wide range of genres. She represented the next generation of Hollywood leading ladies.

Debbie Harry

Debbie Harry was primarily known as the lead singer of Blondie but she also made several film appearances in the late 1970s. She appeared in projects like ‘The Foreigner’ and began filming ‘Union City’ as the decade ended. Harry was a massive fashion and beauty icon whose bleached blonde hair and punk aesthetic influenced millions. Her transition into acting was a natural extension of her theatrical stage presence. She brought a gritty New York sensibility to her film roles that reflected the era.

Elizabeth Taylor

Elizabeth Taylor continued to work in a variety of international film projects throughout the 1970s. She appeared in films like ‘A Little Night Music’ and ‘The Blue Bird’ which was a historic US and Soviet co-production. While she was no longer at the absolute peak of her box office power she remained a global icon of beauty and glamour. Taylor used her fame during this decade to support various charitable causes and social issues. Her presence on any screen remained a major event for the media and the public.

Jamie Lee Curtis

Jamie Lee Curtis became the ultimate scream queen after starring in the 1978 horror masterpiece ‘Halloween’. As the daughter of Janet Leigh and Tony Curtis she had Hollywood royalty in her blood. Her performance as Laurie Strode was praised for its realism and vulnerability. Curtis possessed a modern and athletic look that differed from the hyper-feminine stars of previous generations. This role launched a career that would span several decades and multiple genres.

Julie Christie

Julie Christie remained a symbol of the 1960s who successfully navigated the changing landscape of 1970s cinema. She starred in landmark films like ‘McCabe & Mrs. Miller’ and ‘Don’t Look Now’ during this period. Christie was known for her striking blue eyes and her ability to portray deeply thoughtful and independent women. She often chose to work away from the traditional Hollywood system in favor of more artistic projects. Her beauty and talent made her one of the most respected actresses of the era.

Loni Anderson

Loni Anderson rose to fame in the late 1970s for her role as Jennifer Marlowe on the sitcom ‘WKRP in Cincinnati’. She portrayed a character who was both highly intelligent and exceptionally glamorous which challenged blonde stereotypes. Anderson became a major television icon and a frequent subject of posters and magazine covers. Her classic bombshell look was a throwback to the stars of the 1950s but updated for a modern audience. She remained one of the most popular faces on television as the decade concluded.

Michelle Pfeiffer

Michelle Pfeiffer made her screen debut in the late 1970s with small roles in television series and films. She appeared in ‘Delta House’ and ‘The Solitary Man’ before achieving major stardom in the following decade. Even in her early roles her striking beauty and natural screen presence were evident to critics and casting directors. Pfeiffer represented the end of the 1970s transition into a new era of Hollywood glamour. She would soon become one of the most celebrated actresses of her generation.

Sally Field

Sally Field successfully transitioned from her early television persona into a serious dramatic actress during the 1970s. She won an Emmy for the television movie ‘Sybil’ where she portrayed a woman with multiple personalities. She ended the decade with an Academy Award win for her powerful performance in ‘Norma Rae’. Field was celebrated for her relatability and her ability to portray working-class women with dignity and strength. Her career trajectory during this time is considered one of the most impressive in industry history.

Suzanne Somers

Suzanne Somers became a household name as Chrissy Snow on the hit sitcom ‘Three’s Company’. Her comedic timing and bubbly personality made her one of the most popular stars on television. Somers was a major beauty icon of the late 1970s and her likeness was used for a wide range of merchandise. She also appeared in films like ‘American Graffiti’ earlier in the decade before her television breakthrough. Her success helped define the lighthearted and vibrant side of late 1970s popular culture.

Shelley Hack

Shelley Hack was a high-profile Revlon model who joined the cast of ‘Charlie’s Angels’ in 1979. She brought a sophisticated and professional vibe to the show as the character Tiffany Welles. Hack was already famous as the face of the Charlie perfume commercials which were a staple of 1970s television. Her transition into acting was highly publicized and she became a significant fashion influence. She represented the sleek and independent woman of the late 1970s.

Tell us which of these iconic stars from the 1970s you remember most fondly in the comments.