Hollywood Actresses Who Tried to Come Back (and Succeeded)
The entertainment industry is known for its volatility where stars can fade from the spotlight for years before finding a second act. Many Hollywood actresses have navigated periods of relative obscurity or personal hiatus only to return stronger than ever. These comebacks often involve a transition into television or a breakthrough role in an independent film. This list explores the women who successfully reclaimed their status as major figures in the world of acting. Their journeys serve as a testament to the enduring talent and resilience required to thrive in Hollywood.
Winona Ryder
Winona Ryder found a massive career resurgence in the Netflix original series ‘Stranger Things’. She portrays Joyce Byers a determined mother searching for her missing son in a town plagued by supernatural events. This performance earned her widespread critical acclaim and reminded audiences of her range as a leading dramatic actress. Before this role she was best known for her iconic work in nineties hits like ‘Beetlejuice’ and ‘Edward Scissorhands’. Her successful transition to streaming television solidified her place in the modern entertainment landscape.
Renée Zellweger
Renée Zellweger took a significant hiatus from Hollywood before returning to win an Academy Award for her role in the film ‘Judy’. She played the legendary performer Judy Garland during the final months of her life in London. The actress underwent a physical transformation to capture the essence of the Hollywood icon. Her comeback continued with a leading role in the true crime limited series ‘The Thing About Pam’. This period of her career demonstrated her ability to reinvent herself for a new generation of viewers.
Jamie Lee Curtis
Jamie Lee Curtis returned to the ‘Halloween’ franchise in 2018 to reprise her role as Laurie Strode. The film was a box office success and led to a new trilogy that concluded her story arc with the character Michael Myers. She further cemented her comeback by winning an Academy Award for her performance in ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’. In that film she played an eccentric IRS auditor named Deirdre Beaubeirdre. These roles proved that the veteran actress remained a formidable force in both horror and independent cinema.
Jennifer Coolidge
Jennifer Coolidge experienced a late career explosion of popularity thanks to her role in ‘The White Lotus’. She portrayed the wealthy and eccentric Tanya McQuoid in both the first and second seasons of the hit series. Her performance earned her multiple Emmy Awards and made her a favorite among critics and fans alike. Before this resurgence she was primarily known for her comedic supporting roles in ‘Legally Blonde’ and ‘American Pie’. She has since become one of the most sought after actresses for both film and television projects.
Michelle Yeoh
Michelle Yeoh achieved a monumental career milestone with her lead role in the film ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’. She portrayed Evelyn Wang a laundromat owner who must navigate the multiverse to save existence. Her performance earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress making her the first Asian woman to win in that category. The actress had previously been known for her incredible work in ‘Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon’ and ‘Memoirs of a Geisha’. This late career triumph has opened many new doors for her in major Hollywood productions.
Natasha Lyonne
Natasha Lyonne successfully revitalized her career after a long period of personal and professional struggles. She first returned to prominence with a standout role in the series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She then co-created and starred in the mind bending Netflix series ‘Russian Doll’ where she plays Nadia Vulvokov. More recently she led the mystery series ‘Poker Face’ as Charlie Cale a woman with a natural ability to detect lies. Her unique screen presence and sharp wit have made her a staple of modern television.
Lindsay Lohan
Lindsay Lohan made a highly anticipated return to acting with the Netflix holiday film ‘Falling for Christmas’. After years away from the film industry she signed a multi-picture deal with the streaming giant to lead several romantic comedies. She followed her holiday success with the movie ‘Irish Wish’ which also performed well on the platform. These projects marked a significant step in her journey back to mainstream Hollywood prominence. Fans of her early work in ‘Mean Girls’ and ‘The Parent Trap’ have welcomed her return to the screen.
Jennifer Lopez
Jennifer Lopez reasserted her status as a major film star with her performance in the crime drama ‘Hustlers’. She played Ramona Vega the leader of a group of strippers who turn the tables on their wealthy clients. Her work in the film received significant critical praise and generated considerable awards buzz. She followed this success with the romantic comedy ‘Marry Me’ and the action thriller ‘The Mother’. These roles demonstrated her continued ability to lead successful films across multiple genres.
Angela Bassett
Angela Bassett has seen a massive resurgence in her career through her work in both the Marvel Cinematic Universe and television. She plays Queen Ramonda in ‘Black Panther’ and ‘Black Panther Wakanda Forever’ for which she received an Academy Award nomination. She also stars as Athena Grant in the popular procedural drama series ‘9-1-1’. Her powerful performances have reminded audiences of her status as one of Hollywood’s most talented and consistent actresses. She continues to be a dominant presence in both blockbusters and small screen hits.
Reese Witherspoon
Reese Witherspoon transitioned from a movie star to a powerful producer and television lead with the success of ‘Big Little Lies’. She co-produced and starred in the series which won numerous awards and became a cultural phenomenon. This success led to more leading roles in high profile shows like ‘The Morning Show’ and ‘Little Fires Everywhere’. She also received critical acclaim for her performance in the film ‘Wild’ which she produced under her own company. Her career shift has made her one of the most influential women in the entertainment industry today.
Jane Fonda
Jane Fonda successfully returned to the screen after a long semi-retirement with the hit comedy series ‘Grace and Frankie’. She starred alongside Lily Tomlin as a woman rebuilding her life after her husband reveals he is gay. The show ran for seven seasons and became one of the longest running original series on Netflix. She also appeared in films like ‘Book Club’ and its sequel proving her continued appeal to audiences. Her comeback showed that veteran actresses can lead successful projects well into their eighties.
Salma Hayek Pinault
Salma Hayek Pinault has enjoyed a career high point recently with several major roles in high profile films. She joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Ajak in the superhero movie ‘Eternals’. The actress also received praise for her performance as Giuseppina Auriemma in the biographical drama ‘House of Gucci’. She continued her success by starring in the action comedy ‘Magic Mike’s Last Dance’. These projects have solidified her standing as a prominent and versatile star in global cinema.
Michelle Pfeiffer
Michelle Pfeiffer returned to major Hollywood roles after taking a break to focus on her family. She received critical acclaim for her performance in the psychological horror film ‘Mother!’ directed by Darren Aronofsky. She then entered the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Janet van Dyne in ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp’. The actress also starred as Queen Ingrith in ‘Maleficent Mistress of Evil’ and led the film ‘French Exit’. Her return has been marked by a series of diverse and challenging roles that showcase her enduring talent.
Demi Moore
Demi Moore found a major career resurgence with her leading role in the body horror film ‘The Substance’. She portrays a fading celebrity who uses a black market drug to create a younger version of herself. Her performance received standing ovations at film festivals and has been hailed as one of the best of her career. Before this role she had appeared in various television and independent projects but remained largely out of the mainstream spotlight. This successful return to the big screen has reestablished her as a significant dramatic force.
Mandy Moore
Mandy Moore successfully pivoted from a pop music career and teen movie roles to a leading dramatic actress on television. She starred as Rebecca Pearson in the hit series ‘This Is Us’ for six seasons. Her performance spanning several decades of a character’s life earned her multiple award nominations and widespread praise. This role redefined her public image and proved her depth as a serious actress. Since the show concluded she has continued to explore new opportunities in both acting and music.
Catherine Zeta-Jones
Catherine Zeta-Jones found a successful second act by taking on roles in popular streaming and television series. She portrayed the iconic Morticia Addams in the global Netflix hit ‘Wednesday’ which introduced her to a new generation. The actress also appeared in the series ‘National Treasure Edge of History’ as a stylish and cunning antagonist. These projects marked her return to the spotlight after a period of being more selective with her film work. She continues to bring her signature elegance and charisma to various modern projects.
Christina Ricci
Christina Ricci returned to the spotlight with major roles in two of the most popular television series of recent years. She starred as the unpredictable Misty Quigley in the survival drama ‘Yellowjackets’. She also played a significant role in the series ‘Wednesday’ appearing as a teacher at Nevermore Academy. These performances reminded audiences of the dark and quirky talent she first displayed as a child star. Her transition into complex television roles has been met with critical acclaim and fan enthusiasm.
Juliette Lewis
Juliette Lewis experienced a career resurgence alongside her peers in the hit series ‘Yellowjackets’. She plays the adult version of Natalie Scatorccio a survivor of a plane crash dealing with trauma and addiction. Her raw and intense performance has been highlighted as one of the strongest elements of the show. Before this role she had focused on her music career and smaller independent films for several years. Her return to mainstream television has reestablished her as a powerhouse of alternative and dramatic acting.
Sheryl Lee Ralph
Sheryl Lee Ralph reached new heights of fame with her role as Barbara Howard in the sitcom ‘Abbott Elementary’. She won an Emmy Award for her portrayal of the veteran kindergarten teacher in a Philadelphia public school. This success came after decades of consistent work in theater film and television. Her performance on the series has made her a beloved figure in contemporary television and a symbol of professional longevity. She continues to use her platform to inspire other actors who are working toward their big break.
Laura Dern
Laura Dern enjoyed a massive career resurgence starting with her award winning role in ‘Big Little Lies’. She played the high strung Renata Klein and became one of the most discussed characters on the show. She followed this with an Academy Award win for her performance as a divorce lawyer in ‘Marriage Story’. The actress also appeared in the blockbuster ‘Jurassic World Dominion’ reprising her iconic role as Ellie Sattler. Her recent run of success has solidified her place as one of the most respected actresses of her generation.
Jessica Lange
Jessica Lange found a brand new audience and a major career comeback through her work in ‘American Horror Story’. She starred in the first four seasons of the anthology series playing various complex and formidable characters. Her performances earned her multiple Emmy Awards and made her a central figure in the show’s early success. She also received praise for her portrayal of Joan Crawford in the series ‘Feud Bette and Joan’. This late career transition to prestige television has been incredibly successful for the veteran actress.
Kathy Bates
Kathy Bates revitalized her career with a series of acclaimed roles in ‘American Horror Story’. She joined the cast in the third season and continued to play diverse and often villainous characters throughout the series. Her work on the show earned her an Emmy Award and introduced her to a younger demographic of fans. More recently she took on the lead role in the legal drama reboot of ‘Matlock’. Her ability to command the screen in both horror and drama remains as strong as ever.
Pam Grier
Pam Grier experienced one of the most famous career comebacks in Hollywood history with the film ‘Jackie Brown’. Director Quentin Tarantino wrote the lead role specifically for her as a tribute to her work in seventies blaxploitation cinema. Her performance as a flight attendant caught in a dangerous criminal plot earned her widespread critical acclaim and several award nominations. This role revitalized her career and led to a long running role in the series ‘The L Word’. She remains a legendary figure and an icon of female action cinema.
Vanessa Williams
Vanessa Williams successfully returned to the spotlight with her role as Wilhelmina Slater in the series ‘Ugly Betty’. She portrayed the ruthless and fashion forward magazine editor for four seasons and received multiple Emmy nominations. This role followed a period where she had focused more on her music career and theater work. She then joined the cast of ‘Desperate Housewives’ where she continued to showcase her talent for playing strong and sophisticated characters. Her transition into iconic television roles was a major success for her career.
Kathryn Hahn
Kathryn Hahn moved from being a reliable character actress to a major leading star with her role in ‘WandaVision’. She played the mysterious neighbor Agnes who was eventually revealed to be the powerful witch Agatha Harkness. The popularity of her performance led to her own spin off series titled ‘Agatha All Along’. Before this Marvel success she received praise for her work in the series ‘Transparent’ and the film ‘Bad Moms’. She is now recognized as one of the most versatile and talented actresses in the industry.
Jean Smart
Jean Smart experienced a late career surge that has made her one of the most decorated actresses on television. She received immense praise for her roles in ‘Watchmen’ and the crime drama ‘Mare of Easttown’. Her biggest success came with the lead role in the comedy series ‘Hacks’ where she plays legendary Las Vegas comedian Deborah Vance. For this role she has won multiple Emmy Awards and solidified her status as a comedic and dramatic powerhouse. Her recent run of success is considered one of the most impressive comebacks in television history.
Jennifer Lawrence
Jennifer Lawrence returned to the screen after a brief hiatus with the film ‘Causeway’ and the comedy ‘No Hard Feelings’. After becoming one of the biggest stars in the world she stepped away from the spotlight to focus on her personal life. Her return showed her range by moving from a quiet independent drama to a raunchy R rated comedy. Both films were well received and proved that her star power and talent remain intact. She continues to be a major force in Hollywood as both an actress and a producer.
Patricia Arquette
Patricia Arquette found a successful career resurgence by taking on transformative roles in prestige television and film. She won an Academy Award for her performance in ‘Boyhood’ which was filmed over twelve years. She then received critical acclaim and an Emmy for her role as Dee Dee Blanchard in ‘The Act’. The actress also starred in the psychological thriller series ‘Severance’ as a high level corporate executive. Her recent choices have demonstrated her willingness to take on unconventional and challenging characters.
Julia Roberts
Julia Roberts returned to leading roles in television and film after a period of being more selective with her work. She starred in the first season of the Amazon series ‘Homecoming’ which marked her first major television role. She then reunited with George Clooney for the romantic comedy ‘Ticket to Paradise’ which was a significant box office success. She also led the Netflix thriller ‘Leave the World Behind’ which became one of the platform’s most watched films. These projects proved that she remains one of the world’s most enduring and bankable movie stars.
Sandra Bullock
Sandra Bullock found a massive second act with her lead role in the Netflix thriller ‘Bird Box’. The film became a global cultural phenomenon and one of the most watched original movies on the platform. She followed this success with another leading role in the drama ‘The Unforgivable’ which also performed exceptionally well. She then returned to the big screen with the action comedy ‘The Lost City’ which was a hit at the box office. Her ability to draw massive audiences to both streaming and theatrical releases remains undisputed.
Drew Barrymore
Drew Barrymore successfully reinvented herself as a leading lady in television and a daytime talk show host. She starred as Sheila Hammond in the Netflix horror comedy ‘Santa Clarita Diet’ for three seasons. During this time she also launched ‘The Drew Barrymore Show’ which has become a staple of daytime television. These ventures allowed her to transition from her earlier career as a child star and romantic comedy lead. Her current success shows her ability to connect with audiences across different media formats.
Nicole Kidman
Nicole Kidman revitalized her career by becoming a prolific producer and star of limited series. Her work in ‘Big Little Lies’ earned her multiple awards and marked the beginning of a highly successful run in television. She followed this with roles in ‘The Undoing’ and ‘Nine Perfect Strangers’ both of which were major hits. On the film side she received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Lucille Ball in ‘Being the Ricardos’. Her strategic move into television production has kept her at the top of the industry.
Charlize Theron
Charlize Theron redefined her career as an action star with her role as Furiosa in ‘Mad Max Fury Road’. This performance was widely praised and led to more leading roles in action films like ‘Atomic Blonde’ and ‘The Old Guard’. She also continued to pursue challenging dramatic roles such as her portrayal of Megyn Kelly in ‘Bombshell’. Her career has been marked by a successful balance between high octane blockbusters and serious award winning dramas. She remains one of the most versatile and influential actresses in Hollywood today.
Brenda Song
Brenda Song successfully transitioned from her childhood roles on Disney Channel to more mature television projects. She received critical praise for her supporting role in the film ‘The Social Network’ which showed her range as a dramatic actress. She then led the comedy series ‘Dollface’ for two seasons playing a character navigating life after a breakup. More recently she has found success in voice acting and various guest roles in popular series. Her journey from child stardom to a steady adult career has been well received by fans and critics.
Julianne Moore
Julianne Moore maintained her status as a leading actress by taking on diverse roles in both film and television. She won an Academy Award for her powerful performance in ‘Still Alice’ where she played a woman with early onset Alzheimer’s disease. She also joined the ‘Hunger Games’ franchise as President Alma Coin introducing her to a massive global audience. Recently she starred in the limited series ‘Lisey’s Story’ and the period drama ‘Mary and George’. Her consistent work in high quality projects has ensured her longevity in the industry.
Bette Midler
Bette Midler made a triumphant return to one of her most famous roles in the sequel ‘Hocus Pocus 2’. The film was released on Disney Plus and became a record breaking success for the platform. This project followed her highly successful return to Broadway in ‘Hello Dolly’ for which she won a Tony Award. She also appeared in the comedy ‘The Politician’ showcasing her enduring comedic timing. Her recent successes have reminded audiences of her status as a legendary multi talented performer.
Linda Hamilton
Linda Hamilton made a significant return to the big screen in ‘Terminator Dark Fate’. She reprised her iconic role as Sarah Connor for the first time in nearly thirty years. Her return was highly anticipated by fans and she was praised for her tough and grounded performance. Before this she had worked primarily in television and smaller film projects. Her comeback to the franchise that made her a star was a major moment for action cinema fans.
Penélope Cruz
Penélope Cruz returned to global prominence with a series of acclaimed international and American projects. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role in the film ‘Parallel Mothers’ directed by Pedro Almodóvar. This collaboration highlighted her deep emotional range and connection to her Spanish roots. She also starred in the racing drama ‘Ferrari’ as Laura Ferrari the wife of the legendary Enzo Ferrari. Her career remains vibrant as she balances prestigious work in multiple languages and genres.
Marion Cotillard
Marion Cotillard has continued to be a major force in both French and American cinema. She received critical acclaim for her role in the musical film ‘Annette’ which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. The actress also appeared in the television series ‘Extrapolations’ showcasing her talent on the small screen. She has remained a consistent presence in award winning films after her earlier Academy Award win for ‘La Vie en Rose’. Her ability to move seamlessly between different film industries has solidified her global status.
Catherine O’Hara
Catherine O’Hara experienced a massive career resurgence with her role as Moira Rose in the comedy series ‘Schitt’s Creek’. Her unique performance and eccentric character became a cultural sensation and earned her an Emmy Award. This success introduced her to a new generation of viewers who were unfamiliar with her earlier work in ‘SCTV’ and ‘Beetlejuice’. She has since returned to the world of Tim Burton by reprising her role in the sequel ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’. Her comedic genius continues to be celebrated by audiences and peers alike.
Molly Ringwald
The eighties teen icon Molly Ringwald successfully transitioned into mature roles in high profile television dramas. She appeared as a regular cast member in the series ‘Riverdale’ playing the mother of the lead character Archie Andrews. Ringwald also took on a challenging role in the anthology series ‘Feud Capote vs. The Swans’ as Joanne Carson. These projects allowed her to move beyond her child star image and demonstrate her longevity as a performer. She continues to find success by choosing diverse and engaging characters in modern storytelling.
Brooke Shields
Brooke Shields found a new career path in holiday films and television documentaries. She starred in several popular Netflix holiday movies including ‘A Castle for Christmas’ and ‘Mother of the Bride’. She also received praise for the documentary ‘Pretty Baby Brooke Shields’ which explored her life and early career. These projects have allowed her to reengage with audiences in a more personal and relatable way. Her return to leading roles in romantic comedies has been a successful move for her career.
Elizabeth Hurley
Elizabeth Hurley returned to the screen with a prominent role in the series ‘The Royals’. She played the fictional Queen Helena and showcased her talent for portraying glamorous and powerful characters. This role was her first major television lead in several years and was well received by audiences. Since then she has appeared in several holiday films and made guest appearances on various shows. Her comeback proved that she remains a popular and recognizable figure in the entertainment world.
Helen Hunt
Helen Hunt successfully returned to television with a leading role in the series ‘Blindspotting’. She also reprised her famous role as Jamie Buchman in the revival of the sitcom ‘Mad About You’. These projects marked her return to the spotlight after focusing more on directing and independent films. Her work in the ‘Blindspotting’ series was particularly praised for its dramatic depth. Her comeback has been characterized by a blend of nostalgia and contemporary storytelling.
Geena Davis
Geena Davis made a successful return to television with a recurring role in the medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. She also starred in the series ‘The Exorcist’ playing a character with a hidden connection to the original film. The actress has also been a prominent advocate for gender equality in media through her own institute. Her recent acting work has reminded audiences of her presence and talent in both drama and genre fiction. She continues to be a respected and influential figure in the industry.
Mira Sorvino
Mira Sorvino experienced a career resurgence with roles in several high profile television series. She appeared in the limited series ‘Hollywood’ and had a recurring role in ‘American Crime Story Impeachment’. She also joined the cast of the comedy series ‘Shining Vale’ alongside Courteney Cox. These performances marked a significant return for the Academy Award winner who had faced career challenges for several years. Her recent work has been met with positive reviews and a warm reception from fans.
Minnie Driver
Minnie Driver found success in a variety of television and voice acting roles in recent years. She starred in the sitcom ‘Speechless’ for three seasons playing a fiercely dedicated mother. She also appeared in the series ‘Modern Love’ and the action film ‘The Beekeeper’. Her distinctive voice has led to many roles in animated projects as well. Her ability to balance comedy and drama has kept her career active and successful across different platforms.
Heather Graham
Heather Graham returned to prominent roles in television and independent films recently. She starred in the series ‘The Stand’ and led the psychological thriller ‘On a Wing and a Prayer’. She also directed and starred in the film ‘Chosen Family’ showcasing her skills behind the camera. Her recent work has allowed her to explore more mature and diverse characters than her earlier famous roles. She remains a consistent and talented presence in the entertainment industry.
Alicia Silverstone
Alicia Silverstone found a successful second act with several notable film and television roles. She starred in the Netflix series ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’ as Elizabeth Thomas-Brewer and received positive reviews. The actress also appeared in the dark comedy film ‘The Killing of a Sacred Deer’ and the horror movie ‘Perpetrator’. These roles allowed her to showcase her talent in projects that differ significantly from her breakout role in ‘Clueless’. Her continued work in both comedy and drama proves her longevity in the competitive industry.
Gong Li
The internationally renowned actress Gong Li returned to global cinema with her role in the live action adaptation of ‘Mulan’. She portrayed the powerful witch Xianniang who serves as a complex antagonist in the story. This role introduced her to a new generation of younger film fans across the world. She also received critical praise for her performance in the Chinese biographical drama ‘Leap’. Her presence in Hollywood and Asian cinema continues to influence the global film market.
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