Modern Heartthrob Actresses of the 2000s

The 2000s were a vibrant time in Hollywood, a decade that introduced us to a fresh wave of talented actresses who would not only dominate the box office but also capture our hearts. These performers brought a unique blend of charisma, skill, and on-screen presence that defined a generation of cinema and television. From blockbuster hits to indie darlings, their roles showcased a dynamic range of characters, making them household names and fixtures on the red carpet. Their influence extended beyond their performances, as they became style icons and role models for many, leaving a lasting mark on pop culture that is still felt today.

As we look back at the turn of the millennium, it’s clear that these actresses played a pivotal role in shaping the entertainment landscape. They took on complex and memorable roles, challenging conventions and proving their versatility across various genres. Whether they were making us laugh in a romantic comedy, keeping us on the edge of our seats in a thriller, or moving us to tears in a drama, their ability to connect with audiences was undeniable. This new era of leading ladies brought a fresh energy to the screen, and their enduring appeal continues to resonate with fans, old and new, cementing their status as true modern heartthrobs of their time.

Aaliyah

Aaliyah was a gifted singer and actress whose star was rapidly ascending in the early 2000s. She successfully transitioned from music to film, earning praise for her role as a modern-day vampire in ‘Queen of the Damned’. Her natural screen presence was undeniable, and she brought a unique blend of strength and vulnerability to her characters. Before that, she made her acting debut in the action film ‘Romeo Must Die’, where she also contributed to the successful soundtrack.

Her potential was limitless, and she was poised for a major Hollywood career. She had been cast in ‘The Matrix’ sequels and was developing other projects at the time of her tragic passing. Her work in the early part of the decade left a lasting impression on audiences. Aaliyah’s talent and charisma cemented her status as an icon whose influence continues to be felt in both music and film.

Jessica Alba

Jessica Alba became a prominent figure in the 2000s, gaining widespread recognition for her leading role in the television series ‘Dark Angel’. Her portrayal of a genetically engineered super-soldier made her a household name and a pop culture icon. Following the show’s success, she transitioned to the big screen, starring in the dance film ‘Honey’. She further solidified her star power by playing Sue Storm, the Invisible Woman, in the ‘Fantastic Four’ films.

Throughout the decade, Alba appeared in a variety of genres, showcasing her versatility. She starred in the action-packed ‘Sin City’, the romantic comedy ‘Good Luck Chuck’, and the thriller ‘Into the Blue’. Her on-screen appeal and diverse roles made her one of the most visible and popular actresses of the era. She consistently appeared in major studio films that performed well at the box office.

Kate Beckinsale

Kate Beckinsale established herself as a major action star in the 2000s with her role as the vampire warrior Selene in the ‘Underworld’ film series. The franchise became a significant part of her career and showcased her ability to lead a major action-oriented production. Beyond the supernatural, she starred opposite Ben Affleck and Josh Hartnett in the historical epic ‘Pearl Harbor’. She also appeared in the monster-hunting adventure ‘Van Helsing’.

Her work during the decade was not limited to action films. Beckinsale also took on roles in romantic comedies like ‘Serendipity’ and dramas such as ‘The Aviator’, where she portrayed actress Ava Gardner. This range demonstrated her versatility as a performer, allowing her to move between blockbuster productions and more character-driven pieces. Her captivating presence made her a memorable star of the period.

Kristen Bell

Kristen Bell captured the hearts of audiences in the mid-2000s with her iconic role as the titular teen detective in the critically acclaimed television series ‘Veronica Mars’. Her witty and layered performance earned her widespread praise and a dedicated fanbase. The show became a defining project for her and highlighted her talent for both drama and comedy. Her voice work as the narrator in the popular teen drama ‘Gossip Girl’ also became a signature part of her career during this time.

Towards the end of the decade, she transitioned into film with memorable roles in comedies. She starred in the romantic comedy ‘Forgetting Sarah Marshall’, which showcased her comedic timing and charm. She also appeared in the comedies ‘Couples Retreat’ and ‘Fanboys’. Her ability to connect with audiences through both television and film made her a rising and beloved star.

Jessica Biel

Jessica Biel gained significant attention throughout the 2000s for her roles in a variety of films. She took on a prominent role in the horror remake ‘The Texas Chainsaw Massacre’, which was a commercial success. She continued to explore different genres, appearing in the action film ‘Blade Trinity’ and the supernatural thriller ‘The Covenant’. These roles helped establish her as a fixture in mainstream cinema.

Biel also showcased her acting range in films like ‘The Illusionist’, a period drama where she starred alongside Edward Norton. She explored romantic comedy with ‘I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry’ and led the cast of the military-themed drama ‘Home of the Brave’. Her consistent work in both commercial and dramatic projects made her one of the decade’s most recognizable actresses.

Rachel Bilson

Rachel Bilson became a household name and style icon in the 2000s thanks to her breakout role as Summer Roberts on the hit teen drama ‘The O.C.’. Her character was a fan favorite, known for her witty dialogue and fashion sense. The show’s immense popularity catapulted her to fame and made her a prominent figure in pop culture during that time. Her on-screen charm was a major draw for the series.

Following her success on television, Bilson began her film career. She appeared in the romantic comedy ‘The Last Kiss’ alongside Zach Braff. Later in the decade, she starred in the science-fiction action film ‘Jumper’ with Hayden Christensen. These roles allowed her to transition from the small screen to feature films, expanding her career.

Kate Bosworth

Kate Bosworth surfed into the spotlight with her starring role in the 2002 hit ‘Blue Crush’. Her portrayal of a determined surfer in Hawaii resonated with audiences and established her as a rising star. The film was a cultural touchstone for many and showcased her dedication to the physically demanding role. She continued to build her career with diverse projects throughout the decade.

She took on the iconic role of Lois Lane in the superhero film ‘Superman Returns’, a major blockbuster production. She also appeared in the romantic comedy ‘Win a Date with Tad Hamilton!’ and the biographical drama ‘Beyond the Sea’, where she played actress Sandra Dee. Her ability to navigate between different film genres made her a recognizable face of 2000s cinema.

Rose Byrne

Rose Byrne delivered a number of memorable performances throughout the 2000s, showcasing her incredible range. She gained international recognition for her role as Briseis in the historical epic ‘Troy’ alongside a star-studded cast. She also appeared in the science-fiction thriller ‘Knowing’ with Nicolas Cage and the zombie horror film ’28 Weeks Later’. Her work in these large-scale productions raised her profile significantly.

Byrne also made a major impact on television, starring as Ellen Parsons in the legal thriller series ‘Damages’ opposite Glenn Close. Her performance in the show earned her critical acclaim and award nominations, highlighting her dramatic abilities. She also had a role in ‘Star Wars Episode II Attack of the Clones’ as a handmaiden to Padmé Amidala.

Hayden Panettiere

Hayden Panettiere grew up on screen and became a prominent young actress in the 2000s. She had notable roles in family-friendly films like ‘Remember the Titans’ and ‘Raising Helen’. Her career reached a new level of fame when she was cast as Claire Bennet, the cheerleader with regenerative abilities, in the hit science-fiction television series ‘Heroes’. The show was a cultural phenomenon and made her a household name.

Her role in ‘Heroes’ was central to the series, and her character’s journey was a major focus of the storyline. The show’s popularity provided her with numerous opportunities, and she continued to work in film during this time. She starred in the teen comedy ‘I Love You, Beth Cooper’ and lent her voice to the animated film ‘Dino’. Her visibility on one of the decade’s biggest shows cemented her star status.

Elisha Cuthbert

Elisha Cuthbert became widely known for her role as Kim Bauer in the incredibly popular and intense television series ’24’. She played the daughter of federal agent Jack Bauer, and her character was frequently involved in the show’s high-stakes and suspenseful plotlines. Her presence on the hit show made her a familiar face to millions of viewers. The series was a defining part of the decade’s television landscape.

During her time on the show, Cuthbert also pursued a film career, often in comedies and thrillers. She starred as a former adult film star in the teen comedy ‘The Girl Next Door’, a role that gained her significant attention. She also had leading roles in the horror film ‘House of Wax’ and the thriller ‘Captivity’, solidifying her presence on the big screen throughout the 2000s.

Zooey Deschanel

Zooey Deschanel charmed audiences throughout the 2000s with her unique style and captivating screen presence. She became a standout in the indie film scene with roles in movies like ‘All the Real Girls’ and ‘The Go-Getter’. Her performance as the quirky and romantic Summer Finn in the film ‘(500) Days of Summer’ toward the end of the decade became one of her most iconic roles, resonating with a wide audience.

Deschanel also appeared in more mainstream films, bringing her distinct personality to each part. She had a memorable supporting role in the comedy ‘Elf’ and co-starred in ‘Yes Man’ with Jim Carrey. She also showcased her dramatic and vocal talents in ‘Bridge to Terabithia’ and the television miniseries ‘Tin Man’. Her blend of comedic timing and genuine sincerity made her a beloved actress of the era.

Kirsten Dunst

Kirsten Dunst had a major presence in 2000s cinema, starring in one of the decade’s biggest franchises. She portrayed Mary Jane Watson in the ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy, a role that cemented her status as a leading lady in Hollywood. The films were massive commercial successes and made her an internationally recognized star. Her on-screen chemistry with Tobey Maguire was a key element of the trilogy’s appeal.

Beyond her blockbuster work, Dunst also took on a variety of acclaimed roles in other films. She starred in the teen cheerleading comedy ‘Bring It On’, which became a cult classic. She also worked with director Sofia Coppola on ‘Marie Antoinette’ and ‘The Virgin Suicides’. Her performances in films like ‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’ and ‘Wimbledon’ showcased her versatility and range as an actress.

Isla Fisher

Isla Fisher brought her vibrant comedic energy to several memorable films in the 2000s. Her breakout role came in the comedy ‘Wedding Crashers’, where she played a scene-stealing part alongside Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson. Her performance was widely praised and significantly raised her profile in Hollywood. The film was a huge box office success and became a comedy classic of the decade.

Following her success, Fisher took on leading roles in other comedies. She starred as the main character in ‘Confessions of a Shopaholic’, a film adaptation of the popular book series. She also appeared in ‘Hot Rod’ with Andy Samberg and ‘Definitely, Maybe’ with Ryan Reynolds. Her talent for physical comedy and her charming screen presence made her a go-to actress for romantic and ensemble comedies.

Megan Fox

Megan Fox exploded into global fame in the latter half of the 2000s with her role as Mikaela Banes in the blockbuster ‘Transformers’ film series. Her appearance in the high-octane action movies instantly made her a household name and a pop culture phenomenon. The success of the franchise established her as a leading lady in major Hollywood productions. She became one of the most talked-about actresses of the time.

After the first two ‘Transformers’ films, she sought to explore different genres. She starred in the horror-comedy ‘Jennifer’s Body’, written by Diablo Cody. Although the film was not a huge box office hit upon its release, it has since become a cult classic appreciated for its dark humor and unique premise. Her role in the film showcased her ability to take on edgier material.

Jennifer Garner

Jennifer Garner became an action icon of the 2000s with her starring role as Sydney Bristow in the hit television series ‘Alias’. The show featured her as a dynamic secret agent, and she performed many of her own stunts. Her performance earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase, making her one of the top stars on television. The role demonstrated her incredible range, blending action, drama, and vulnerability.

While starring in ‘Alias’, Garner also built a successful film career. She starred in the romantic comedy ’13 Going on 30′, which became a beloved classic of the genre. She also played the Marvel superhero Elektra in ‘Daredevil’ and its spin-off ‘Elektra’. In addition, she appeared in the critically acclaimed independent film ‘Juno’, showcasing her ability to move between big-budget blockbusters and smaller, character-driven stories.

Eva Green

Eva Green made a powerful international debut in the 2000s, quickly establishing herself as a captivating and intense actress. Her first English-language role was in the historical epic ‘Kingdom of Heaven’. However, it was her role as Vesper Lynd in the James Bond film ‘Casino Royale’ that brought her worldwide fame. Her portrayal of the complex and tragic character was highly praised and is considered one of the best in the franchise’s history.

Green’s performances are known for their depth and daring nature. She first gained notice in the controversial film ‘The Dreamers’, where she gave a bold and fearless performance. Later in the decade, she played the witch queen Serafina Pekkala in the fantasy film ‘The Golden Compass’. Her magnetic screen presence and willingness to take on challenging roles made her a unique and unforgettable star of the era.

Anne Hathaway

Anne Hathaway’s career blossomed throughout the 2000s, starting with her breakout role in the Disney comedy ‘The Princess Diaries’. The film and its sequel made her a beloved star among young audiences. She soon transitioned to more mature roles, proving her versatility as an actress. She co-starred in the critically acclaimed drama ‘Brokeback Mountain’, demonstrating her dramatic capabilities.

Hathaway continued to build an impressive and diverse resume during the decade. She starred in the highly successful fashion-industry comedy ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ opposite Meryl Streep. She also earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in the drama ‘Rachel Getting Married’. Her work in films like ‘Get Smart’ and ‘Becoming Jane’ showed her ability to handle comedy, action, and romance with equal skill.

Katherine Heigl

Katherine Heigl became one of the biggest stars on television in the mid-2000s with her role as Dr. Izzie Stevens on the medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. Her performance on the incredibly popular show earned her an Emmy Award and made her a household name. The series was a ratings powerhouse, and her character’s storylines were central to its success during its early seasons.

Capitalizing on her television fame, Heigl launched a successful film career in romantic comedies. She starred in the box office hits ‘Knocked Up’ and ’27 Dresses’, which solidified her status as a leading lady in the genre. Her relatable and charming on-screen persona resonated with audiences. She continued her run of successful comedies with ‘The Ugly Truth’, becoming a major box office draw of the late 2000s.

Kate Hudson

Kate Hudson shone brightly in the 2000s, beginning the decade with an Academy Award-nominated performance in the film ‘Almost Famous’. Her role as the enigmatic Penny Lane earned her critical acclaim and established her as a serious acting talent. This early success set the stage for a decade in which she became a leading lady, particularly in the realm of romantic comedies.

She became a queen of the rom-com genre with a string of popular films. She starred opposite Matthew McConaughey in ‘How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days’, which became a classic of its kind. She also led films like ‘You, Me and Dupree’ and ‘Bride Wars’. In addition to comedies, she appeared in the supernatural thriller ‘The Skeleton Key’, showcasing her versatility.

Scarlett Johansson

Scarlett Johansson delivered a series of acclaimed performances in the 2000s, establishing herself as one of her generation’s most talented actresses. She gained widespread recognition for her role in ‘Lost in Translation’, which earned her significant critical praise. She also starred in ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’ in the same year, proving her ability to lead compelling dramas. These roles marked her transition from a child actress to a mature leading lady.

Throughout the decade, Johansson worked with renowned directors and explored a variety of genres. She collaborated with Woody Allen on three films, including ‘Match Point’ and ‘Vicky Cristina Barcelona’. She also joined the world of comic book movies with her debut as Black Widow in ‘Iron Man 2’. Her roles in films like ‘The Prestige’ further showcased her range and cemented her place as a major Hollywood star.

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie dominated the 2000s as one of the biggest and most recognizable movie stars in the world. She began the decade by winning an Academy Award for her performance in ‘Girl, Interrupted’. She then took on the iconic role of video game heroine Lara Croft in ‘Lara Croft Tomb Raider’ and its sequel, which cemented her status as a global action star. The films were huge commercial successes.

Jolie continued to mix blockbuster action with serious drama throughout the decade. She starred alongside Brad Pitt in the hit action-comedy ‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’ and led the action film ‘Wanted’. At the same time, she delivered powerful, acclaimed performances in dramas like ‘A Mighty Heart’ and ‘Changeling’, the latter of which earned her an Oscar nomination. Her star power and versatile talent were undeniable.

Milla Jovovich

Milla Jovovich solidified her reputation as a formidable action hero in the 2000s, primarily through her leading role in the ‘Resident Evil’ film series. She first played the character of Alice in the original film, which was based on the popular video game. The movie’s success launched a long-running and successful franchise that became a defining part of her career. She became synonymous with the action-horror genre.

Beyond the ‘Resident Evil’ films, Jovovich appeared in other notable projects. She starred in the science-fiction thriller ‘The Fourth Kind’ and the action film ‘Ultraviolet’. She also had a comedic role in ‘Zoolander’. Her unique screen presence and dedication to performing her own stunts made her a standout star for action and science-fiction cinema throughout the decade.

Keira Knightley

Keira Knightley shot to international stardom in the 2000s, becoming one of the decade’s most prominent leading ladies. Her breakout year was huge, with roles in both ‘Bend It Like Beckham’ and the first ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ movie, ‘The Curse of the Black Pearl’. Playing Elizabeth Swann in the ‘Pirates’ trilogy made her a household name around the world and a star of one of the most successful franchises ever.

Knightley also earned significant critical acclaim for her work in period dramas. She received an Academy Award nomination for her performance in ‘Pride & Prejudice’. She also starred in the acclaimed dramas ‘Atonement’ and ‘The Duchess’. Her ability to lead massive blockbusters while also delivering nuanced, award-worthy performances in dramas made her one of the most successful and respected actresses of the era.

Diane Kruger

Diane Kruger had a significant international presence in the 2000s, starring in major productions in both Hollywood and Europe. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Helen in the historical epic ‘Troy’, where she appeared alongside a star-studded cast. She followed that with a leading role in the popular adventure film ‘National Treasure’ and its sequel, ‘National Treasure Book of Secrets’, opposite Nicolas Cage.

Her work was not limited to blockbusters. Kruger also starred in the acclaimed French film ‘Joyeux Noël’, which was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. She later had a key role in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Inglourious Basterds’ as the German actress and spy Bridget von Hammersmark. Her ability to work in multiple languages and genres showcased her versatility as a performer.

Mila Kunis

Mila Kunis was a familiar face on television throughout the 2000s as the voice of Meg Griffin on the animated series ‘Family Guy’ and for her role as Jackie Burkhart on ‘That ’70s Show’. The sitcom ran for most of the decade and was her breakout live-action role, making her a well-known television star. Her comedic timing and on-screen presence were evident from a young age.

Towards the end of the decade, Kunis successfully transitioned into film with a memorable role in the romantic comedy ‘Forgetting Sarah Marshall’. Her performance was praised and showed her potential as a leading lady in movies. She also appeared in the action film ‘Max Payne’ based on the video game. These roles set the stage for her to become a major film star in the following decade.

Evangeline Lilly

Evangeline Lilly became an instant star in the mid-2000s with her breakout role as Kate Austen in the landmark television series ‘Lost’. The show was a massive global phenomenon, and her character was one of the central figures in the ensemble cast. Her performance as the resourceful and mysterious fugitive earned her a Golden Globe nomination and made her a household name.

‘Lost’ consumed much of her time during the decade, but she did appear in the Academy Award-winning thriller ‘The Hurt Locker’. Her role was small but pivotal to the film’s story. Her immediate popularity from ‘Lost’ demonstrated the power of a hit television show to create a new star, and her character became one of the most recognizable of the era.

Blake Lively

Blake Lively rose to fame in the latter half of the 2000s, capturing the attention of audiences with two very different but equally iconic roles. She first starred in the coming-of-age film ‘The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants’ and its sequel, which became beloved films for a generation of young viewers. Her performance as the athletic and adventurous Bridget Vreeland was a key part of the ensemble’s charm.

Her career reached a new level of stardom with her leading role as Serena van der Woodsen in the hit teen drama ‘Gossip Girl’. The show became a cultural touchstone, known for its fashion and dramatic storylines. As one of the main characters, Lively became a style icon and a major television star. The show’s immense popularity cemented her status as one of the new, exciting talents of the late 2000s.

Rachel McAdams

Rachel McAdams had a phenomenal breakout year in the mid-2000s, starring in two iconic films that showcased her incredible range. She played the unforgettable queen bee Regina George in the teen comedy ‘Mean Girls’, a role that became a pop culture touchstone. In the same year, she starred as the lead in the romantic drama ‘The Notebook’, which became one of the most beloved romance films of all time.

Following this massive success, McAdams continued to choose diverse and interesting roles. She starred in the hit comedy ‘Wedding Crashers’, the thriller ‘Red Eye’, and the family drama ‘The Family Stone’. Her ability to effortlessly move between comedy, romance, and suspense made her one of the most sought-after and popular actresses of the decade.

Sienna Miller

Sienna Miller became a prominent actress and style icon in the 2000s. She gained significant attention for her roles in the crime film ‘Layer Cake’ and the romantic comedy ‘Alfie’. Her on-screen charisma and off-screen fashion sense made her a fixture in popular culture and the media throughout the decade. She was known for her bohemian chic style that influenced fashion trends.

Miller also took on more dramatic roles that showcased her acting talent. She portrayed Edie Sedgwick, a muse to Andy Warhol, in the biographical film ‘Factory Girl’. She also appeared in the fantasy-adventure ‘Stardust’ and the action movie ‘G.I. Joe The Rise of Cobra’. Her work across these different genres demonstrated her versatility as a performer.

Mandy Moore

Mandy Moore successfully transitioned from a teen pop singer to a respected actress in the 2000s. Her breakout acting role came in the romantic drama ‘A Walk to Remember’, which became a beloved classic for many viewers. Her heartfelt performance resonated with audiences and established her as a talented leading lady. The film was a significant success and a turning point in her career.

Throughout the decade, Moore starred in a variety of films, often in the romantic comedy genre. She appeared in movies like ‘How to Deal’, ‘Chasing Liberty’, and ‘Because I Said So’. She also showcased her comedic talents in the satirical film ‘Saved!’. Her ability to connect with audiences in sincere and charming roles made her a popular and relatable star.

Eva Mendes

Eva Mendes was a prominent and captivating presence in films throughout the 2000s. She had memorable roles in a number of successful movies, showcasing her talent in both dramatic and action-oriented parts. She appeared in the acclaimed crime thriller ‘Training Day’ opposite Denzel Washington. She also had a key role in the action film ‘2 Fast 2 Furious’, which helped solidify her place in mainstream Hollywood.

Mendes demonstrated her versatility by starring in a variety of genres. She co-starred with Will Smith in the hit romantic comedy ‘Hitch’ and played a journalist in the comic book adaptation ‘Ghost Rider’. She also took on more dramatic work in films like ‘We Own the Night’. Her combination of stunning beauty and strong acting ability made her a sought-after star during the decade.

Brittany Murphy

Brittany Murphy was a vibrant and talented actress whose work in the 2000s showcased her incredible range. She had a memorable role in the drama ‘Girl, Interrupted’ at the very beginning of the decade. She demonstrated her comedic timing and charm in the romantic comedies ‘Just Married’ and ‘Little Black Book’. Her energetic performances and distinctive voice made her a unique presence on screen.

She also took on more serious and dramatic roles, earning praise for her performance opposite Eminem in the film ‘8 Mile’. She appeared in the stylish thriller ‘Sin City’ and voiced the character Gloria in the animated hit ‘Happy Feet’. Tragically, her life and promising career were cut short, but her work throughout the decade left a lasting impression on audiences.

Freida Pinto

Freida Pinto made a stunning international debut in the final years of the 2000s with her role in the film ‘Slumdog Millionaire’. The movie was a global phenomenon, winning the Academy Award for Best Picture and launching her career on a massive scale. Her portrayal of Latika was central to the film’s epic love story, and she instantly became a recognizable face around the world.

The incredible success of ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ provided her with a platform for an international career. She was praised for her grace and screen presence in the film. The movie’s unexpected journey from a small independent project to a worldwide success story was one of the most talked-about events in cinema that year, and she was at the center of it.

Natalie Portman

Natalie Portman had a remarkable decade in the 2000s, starring in a massive blockbuster franchise while also pursuing challenging, critically acclaimed roles. She played Padmé Amidala in the ‘Star Wars’ prequel trilogy, a role that made her a global star. These films were among the biggest box office hits of the decade. The role spanned all three films released during this period.

At the same time, she built an impressive resume in independent and dramatic films. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in the drama ‘Closer’. She also starred in the beloved indie film ‘Garden State’ and the dystopian thriller ‘V for Vendetta’. Her dedication to her craft and her intelligent role choices established her as one of the most respected and talented actresses of her generation.

Maggie Gyllenhaal

Maggie Gyllenhaal established herself as a versatile and acclaimed actress in the 2000s, known for her bold and intelligent film choices. She earned widespread recognition and a Golden Globe nomination for her breakout role in the unconventional romantic comedy ‘Secretary’. She continued to appear in celebrated independent films like ‘Sherrybaby’, for which she received another Golden Globe nomination, and ‘Donnie Darko’.

Gyllenhaal also had roles in major studio films, showcasing her ability to move between the indie and mainstream worlds. She appeared in the romantic comedy ‘Mona Lisa Smile’ and the drama ‘World Trade Center’. One of her most high-profile roles came when she replaced Katie Holmes as Rachel Dawes in the critically and commercially successful Batman film ‘The Dark Knight’.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldana’s career gained significant momentum throughout the 2000s, culminating in her starring in two of the biggest blockbusters of all time. She began the decade with roles in the dance drama ‘Center Stage’ and the comedy-drama ‘Crossroads’. She also had a memorable part in the first ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ movie as the resourceful pirate Anamaria.

The end of the decade saw her career skyrocket into the stratosphere. She was cast as Nyota Uhura in the reboot of the ‘Star Trek’ film franchise, a role she would continue to play in subsequent films. In the same year, she starred as the Na’vi princess Neytiri in James Cameron’s ‘Avatar’. The film became the highest-grossing movie of all time, making her a star of two massive and successful franchises.

Amanda Seyfried

Amanda Seyfried first gained attention as one of the key supporting characters in the hit teen comedy ‘Mean Girls’. Her portrayal of the kind-hearted but dim-witted Karen Smith was memorable and hilarious. On television, she had a recurring role on the popular series ‘Veronica Mars’. These early roles established her as a talented young actress with great comedic potential.

Her career reached a new level when she starred as Sophie in the musical phenomenon ‘Mamma Mia!’. The film was a massive international success and showcased her singing ability and leading lady charm. She also starred in the television drama ‘Big Love’ as one of the main characters. Towards the end of the decade, she appeared in the horror-comedy ‘Jennifer’s Body’, further demonstrating her versatility.

Emma Stone

Emma Stone emerged in the latter half of the 2000s as a vibrant new comedic talent. She made her feature film debut in the teen comedy ‘Superbad’, where her charming performance made a strong impression. She followed this with roles in the comedies ‘The Rocker’ and ‘The House Bunny’, quickly establishing herself as a go-to actress for funny and relatable characters.

Her breakout leading role came at the end of the decade in the horror-comedy ‘Zombieland’. The film was a critical and commercial success and showcased her wit and on-screen charisma. She also had a role in ‘Ghosts of Girlfriends Past’. These early successes laid the foundation for her to become one of the biggest stars of the following decade.

Charlize Theron

Charlize Theron delivered a transformative, Academy Award-winning performance in the 2000s that solidified her status as a top-tier dramatic actress. She won the Oscar for Best Actress for her portrayal of serial killer Aileen Wuornos in the film ‘Monster’. The role required a significant physical and emotional transformation and was hailed by critics as a monumental achievement.

Beyond her Oscar win, Theron had a very busy and successful decade. She earned another Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘North Country’. She also starred in the action-packed films ‘The Italian Job’ and ‘Æon Flux’, and the superhero comedy ‘Hancock’. Her ability to move between intense dramas and blockbuster entertainment made her one of the most versatile and respected stars in Hollywood.

Liv Tyler

Liv Tyler entered the 2000s as a well-known actress and soared to new heights of international fame with her role as the elf princess Arwen in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy. The films were among the most successful and acclaimed productions of all time, and her ethereal presence was a key part of their epic romance and fantasy. The role made her a beloved figure to millions of fans worldwide.

During the decade, she also appeared in a variety of other films. She starred in the quirky comedy ‘One Night at McCool’s’ and the drama ‘Reign Over Me’ with Adam Sandler. She also took a role in the horror film ‘The Strangers’, which was a surprise box office success. Later, she joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe by playing Betty Ross in ‘The Incredible Hulk’.

Naomi Watts

Naomi Watts rose from a struggling actress to an acclaimed leading lady in the early 2000s. Her breakout performance came in David Lynch’s complex psychological thriller ‘Mulholland Drive’. The dual role earned her widespread critical praise and put her on the map in Hollywood. She followed this with a starring role in the hugely successful horror film ‘The Ring’, which cemented her star status.

Throughout the decade, Watts consistently delivered powerful dramatic performances. She received an Academy Award nomination for her work in the film ’21 Grams’. She also starred in Peter Jackson’s epic remake of ‘King Kong’ and the crime thriller ‘Eastern Promises’. Her willingness to take on challenging and emotionally demanding roles made her one of the most respected actresses of her generation.

Reese Witherspoon

Reese Witherspoon became one of Hollywood’s most powerful and popular actresses in the 2000s. She began the decade by starring as Elle Woods in the comedy ‘Legally Blonde’, a role that became iconic and spawned a successful sequel. The film was a huge hit and established her as a major box office draw. She also starred in the beloved romantic comedy ‘Sweet Home Alabama’.

The pinnacle of her decade came when she won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of June Carter Cash in the Johnny Cash biopic ‘Walk the Line’. Her performance was universally acclaimed and showcased her incredible dramatic and musical talents. Her ability to deliver both commercially successful comedies and award-winning dramatic performances made her one of the definitive stars of the 2000s.

Michelle Williams

Michelle Williams successfully transitioned from a teen television star to a highly respected and acclaimed film actress during the 2000s. After rising to fame on the show ‘Dawson’s Creek’, she began to focus on independent films. She appeared in movies like ‘The Station Agent’ and ‘Me Without You’, building a reputation for her nuanced and compelling performances.

Her career reached a new level with her role in the groundbreaking drama ‘Brokeback Mountain’. Her performance earned her an Academy Award nomination and solidified her status as a serious dramatic actress. She continued to choose challenging projects, starring in films like ‘Wendy and Lucy’ and ‘Synecdoche, New York’. Her thoughtful and emotionally resonant work made her one of the most celebrated actresses of her generation.

Olivia Wilde

Olivia Wilde gained significant recognition in the mid-2000s through her work on television. She had a memorable recurring role on the popular teen drama ‘The O.C.’ as the rebellious Alex Kelly. Her career took a major step forward when she was cast as Dr. Remy ‘Thirteen’ Hadley on the hit medical drama ‘House’. Her character was a key part of the ensemble, and her performance was praised.

While starring on ‘House’, Wilde also began to appear in films. She had roles in the comedy ‘The Girl Next Door’ and the thriller ‘Turistas’. Towards the end of the decade, she had a small role in the comedy ‘Year One’. Her television success laid the groundwork for a more prominent film career in the years that followed.

Renée Zellweger

Renée Zellweger was one of the most successful and acclaimed actresses of the 2000s. She received Academy Award nominations for two years in a row at the beginning of the decade. First, for her iconic role in ‘Bridget Jones’s Diary’, and second for her performance in the musical ‘Chicago’. ‘Bridget Jones’s Diary’ and its sequel were huge international hits, and the character became beloved by audiences everywhere.

She went on to win the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the Civil War epic ‘Cold Mountain’. Her work during this period was incredibly diverse, ranging from romantic comedies to musicals to intense dramas. She also starred in the biopic ‘Miss Potter’, where she portrayed children’s author Beatrix Potter. Her critical and commercial success was nearly unrivaled during this time.

Let us know which of your favorite actresses from the 2000s you would add to this list in the comments below.