Actresses Who Influenced Audiences the Most

The history of cinema is defined by powerful women who shaped the cultural landscape through their performances. These actresses challenged societal norms and redefined the boundaries of storytelling across different eras. From the Golden Age of Hollywood to modern blockbusters they have inspired generations of viewers and aspiring performers. Their contributions extend beyond the screen into advocacy and industry reform. This list honors the women who have left a lasting mark on the world of entertainment through their talent and dedication.

Hattie McDaniel

Hattie McDaniel became the first African American to win an Academy Award for her performance in ‘Gone with the Wind’. Her victory was a landmark moment in cinema history that challenged the systemic segregation of the industry. She faced immense pressure while navigating limited roles for Black performers in early Hollywood. Her talent allowed her to bring depth to characters that were often written as mere stereotypes. She paved the way for future generations of diverse artists to find success on the big screen.

Greta Garbo

Greta Garbo was a legendary figure of the silent era who successfully transitioned into the age of talking films. Her work in ‘Camille’ and ‘Ninotchka’ showcased her incredible range and mysterious screen presence. She became known for her aloof public persona which only increased her allure to audiences worldwide. Her influence extended to fashion and the way actresses managed their public images during the studio era. Even after her early retirement she remained a global symbol of cinematic sophistication.

Marlene Dietrich

Marlene Dietrich became a symbol of glamor and defiance through her work in ‘The Blue Angel’ and ‘Morocco’. She was famous for her gender-bending fashion choices and her refusal to conform to traditional expectations of femininity. During World War II she showed great courage by performing for troops and speaking out against the Nazi regime. Her long career spanned decades and included success in both film and musical performances. She remains an icon of style and personal conviction for performers everywhere.

Katharine Hepburn

Katharine Hepburn holds the record for the most Academy Awards won by any performer in the history of film. She became a symbol of the modern independent woman during an era when Hollywood followed strict gender roles. Her work in films like ‘The Philadelphia Story’ and ‘The African Queen’ showcased her range from light comedy to heavy drama. She refused to conform to industry expectations regarding her personal appearance and lifestyle choices. Her enduring legacy continues to inspire actresses who seek creative control and longevity in their careers.

Bette Davis

Bette Davis was known for her intense acting style and her willingness to play unsympathetic characters. Her performance in ‘All About Eve’ remains one of the most celebrated portrayals in cinematic history. She famously fought against the studio system to gain better roles and more creative freedom for actors. Her distinctive eyes and sharp delivery became her trademarks and made her a favorite of audiences for over fifty years. She proved that a female lead could be powerful and flawed rather than just a romantic interest.

Vivien Leigh

Vivien Leigh captured the imagination of the world with her portrayal of Scarlett O’Hara in ‘Gone with the Wind’. She later won another Academy Award for her haunting performance in ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’. Her ability to convey complex emotions and psychological depth set a high standard for dramatic acting. She balanced a successful career on the stage with her iconic roles in major motion pictures. Her legacy is defined by her dedication to her craft and her ability to disappear into her characters.

Ingrid Bergman

Ingrid Bergman brought a natural and luminous quality to the screen that captivated international audiences. Her performance in ‘Casablanca’ is considered one of the most romantic and enduring roles in movie history. She won three Academy Awards throughout her career and worked with legendary directors like Alfred Hitchcock. Despite facing public scrutiny for her personal life she regained her status as a beloved star through her undeniable talent. She remains a symbol of grace and emotional honesty in the art of acting.

Joan Crawford

Joan Crawford was a master of reinvention who maintained a top-tier career for several decades. She won an Academy Award for her role in ‘Mildred Pierce’ which redefined her image as a serious dramatic actress. Her journey from silent film dancer to a powerful executive and star inspired many in the industry. She was known for her strong work ethic and her deep connection with her fan base. Her influence on the glamor of the studio era and the portrayal of resilient women is still felt today.

Judy Garland

Judy Garland became a global icon after her legendary performance as Dorothy in ‘The Wizard of Oz’. Her immense talent as a singer and actress made her one of the most versatile stars of her time. She delivered a raw and powerful performance in the original version of ‘A Star Is Born’ which earned her critical acclaim. Despite personal struggles she remained a symbol of hope and resilience for her many fans. Her influence on musical cinema and live performance is unmatched in the history of entertainment.

Lucille Ball

Lucille Ball revolutionized the television industry with her groundbreaking sitcom ‘I Love Lucy’. She was the first woman to head a major television studio and pioneered many filming techniques used today. Her physical comedy and timing made her one of the most beloved figures in American culture. She broke social barriers by featuring her real-life interracial marriage on screen during a conservative era. Her business acumen and comedic genius changed the landscape of entertainment forever.

Olivia de Havilland

Olivia de Havilland is remembered for her gentle but strong performances in films like ‘The Heiress’ and ‘The Adventures of Robin Hood’. She played a crucial role in Hollywood history by winning a legal battle that limited the power of long-term studio contracts. This victory gave actors more freedom to choose their own projects and manage their careers. She lived to be over one hundred years old and remained a respected figure in the film community. Her courage in the courtroom was just as impactful as her talent on the screen.

Rita Hayworth

Rita Hayworth became one of the greatest stars of the 1940s after her iconic turn in ‘Gilda’. She was a gifted dancer whose musical numbers remain highlights of the era. Her Latin heritage was often hidden by the studios but she later became a symbol of cultural pride for many fans. She was the first major star to publicly discuss her struggle with Alzheimer’s disease which raised vital awareness for the condition. Her combination of beauty and talent made her a permanent fixture in film history.

Grace Kelly

Grace Kelly embodied elegance and poise in her collaborations with Alfred Hitchcock in films like ‘Rear Window’. She became one of the most popular actresses in the world before retiring at the peak of her fame to become the Princess of Monaco. Her brief but impactful career earned her an Academy Award for ‘The Country Girl’. She influenced global fashion trends and remains a standard of classic beauty and sophisticated acting. Her transition from Hollywood star to royalty fascinated audiences and solidified her legendary status.

Audrey Hepburn

Audrey Hepburn redefined the concept of the Hollywood star with her gamine style and humanitarian heart. Her role in ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ created an image that remains one of the most recognizable in popular culture. She won an Academy Award for her very first major role in ‘Roman Holiday’. Later in life she dedicated herself to working as a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF to help children in need. Her legacy is defined by both her cinematic excellence and her profound kindness toward others.

Marilyn Monroe

Marilyn Monroe became the ultimate pop culture icon of the twentieth century through films like ‘Some Like It Hot’. She was far more than a glamorous figure and worked hard to study acting and improve her craft. She challenged the studio system by forming her own production company to seek better roles. Her vulnerability and comedic talent endeared her to millions of people around the globe. She remains one of the most analyzed and celebrated figures in the history of show business.

Elizabeth Taylor

Elizabeth Taylor began her career as a child star and grew into one of the most famous women in the world. She won two Academy Awards for her intense performances in ‘Butterfield 8’ and ‘Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?’. Her personal life often made headlines but her talent as a dramatic actress was never in doubt. She used her massive fame to become a pioneering activist for HIV and AIDS research and funding. Her impact on the film industry and global philanthropy is truly monumental.

Sophia Loren

Sophia Loren rose from humble beginnings in Italy to become an international superstar. She made history by winning the first Academy Award for a foreign language performance in ‘Two Women’. Her beauty and talent allowed her to succeed in both European art films and Hollywood blockbusters. She has enjoyed a career spanning over seven decades and remains active in the film community. She is a symbol of Italian culture and a testament to the power of perseverance in the arts.

Shirley MacLaine

Shirley MacLaine is known for her versatility across comedy and drama in films like ‘The Apartment’ and ‘Terms of Endearment’. She has received multiple Academy Award nominations and is celebrated for her unique and expressive acting style. Her interest in spirituality and the metaphysical has also made her a prominent figure in cultural discussions. She has authored several books and directed films while maintaining a successful acting career. Her longevity in the industry is a result of her constant evolution as an artist.

Julie Andrews

Julie Andrews became a beloved family icon with her starring roles in ‘Mary Poppins’ and ‘The Sound of Music’. Her incredible singing voice and charming screen presence made her a household name across the globe. She successfully transitioned to more mature roles in films like ‘Victor/Victoria’ and ‘The Princess Diaries’. She has also written numerous children’s books and remains a respected figure in theater and film. Her career is a testament to the enduring appeal of talent and grace.

Barbra Streisand

Barbra Streisand is a multi-talented artist who has achieved success as an actress and singer and director. She won an Academy Award for her debut film performance in ‘Funny Girl’. She was the first woman to write and produce and direct and star in a major studio film with ‘Yentl’. Her insistence on creative control broke new ground for women in the male-dominated film industry. She remains one of the few entertainers to have won an Emmy and Grammy and Oscar and Tony award.

Jane Fonda

Jane Fonda became a major star in the 1960s and 1970s with acclaimed performances in ‘Klute’ and ‘Coming Home’. She has always been a vocal activist and used her platform to speak out on social and political issues. Her fitness videos in the 1980s revolutionized the home video industry and inspired a global health craze. She continues to act in popular series and films while remaining a committed advocate for environmental causes. Her ability to balance a successful career with meaningful activism has influenced many other performers.

Diane Keaton

Diane Keaton became a style icon and a comedy legend through her collaboration with Woody Allen in ‘Annie Hall’. Her unique fashion sense influenced women’s clothing trends for years and emphasized individuality. She has enjoyed a diverse career with roles in ‘The Godfather’ trilogy and many successful romantic comedies. Her work often explores the complexities of modern relationships and the experiences of aging women. She remains a beloved figure known for her authenticity and creative spirit.

Cicely Tyson

Cicely Tyson was a trailblazer who refused to take roles that were demeaning to Black women. Her performance in ‘Sounder’ earned her an Academy Award nomination and critical praise for its dignity. she used her career to tell important stories about the African American experience in projects like ‘The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman’. Her commitment to excellence and social justice made her a mentor to many younger actors. She received a Presidential Medal of Freedom for her contributions to the arts and culture.

Meryl Streep

Meryl Streep is widely considered one of the greatest living actresses due to her extraordinary range and technical skill. She holds the record for the most Academy Award nominations of any actor in history. Her performances in films like ‘Sophie’s Choice’ and ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ demonstrate her ability to master various accents and characters. She is a vocal advocate for gender equality and has supported numerous charitable organizations throughout her career. Her influence on the craft of acting is studied by students and professionals alike.

Sigourney Weaver

Sigourney Weaver changed the landscape of action cinema with her portrayal of Ellen Ripley in the ‘Alien’ franchise. She proved that a woman could lead a major sci-fi blockbuster and become a legendary action hero. Her career includes a wide variety of roles in films such as ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘Avatar’. She has received multiple Academy Award nominations for both dramatic and comedic performances. Her presence on screen is often characterized by intelligence and strength and physical command.

Glenn Close

Glenn Close is recognized for her powerful and often complex portrayals of women in film and television and theater. Her role in ‘Fatal Attraction’ became a cultural touchstone and sparked widespread conversation. She has received numerous Academy Award nominations for her work in films like ‘Dangerous Liaisons’ and ‘Albert Nobbs’. She is also a passionate advocate for mental health awareness and founded an organization to fight the stigma of mental illness. Her dedication to her roles and her causes has made her a respected leader in the entertainment world.

Whoopi Goldberg

Whoopi Goldberg broke barriers as a comedian and actress with her breakout role in ‘The Color Purple’. She became the second Black woman to win an Academy Award for acting for her performance in ‘Ghost’. Her work in ‘Sister Act’ solidified her status as a major box office star and a versatile performer. She is one of the few artists to achieve the prestigious EGOT status by winning four major entertainment awards. Her long tenure as a talk show host has allowed her to influence public discourse on a daily basis.

Jessica Lange

Jessica Lange has enjoyed a distinguished career marked by intense and emotionally resonant performances. She won Academy Awards for her roles in ‘Tootsie’ and ‘Blue Sky’. In recent years she has found a new generation of fans through her work in the ‘American Horror Story’ series. Her ability to portray both vulnerability and strength has made her a favorite of critics and audiences. She is also an accomplished photographer and has published several books of her work.

Helen Mirren

Helen Mirren has achieved great success on the stage and in film and on television over several decades. She won an Academy Award for her masterful portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II in ‘The Queen’. Her career is notable for her willingness to take on diverse and challenging roles in various genres. She has often spoken out against ageism in Hollywood and continues to be a leading lady in major productions. Her talent and poise have made her one of the most respected actresses in the global film community.

Michelle Yeoh

Michelle Yeoh gained international fame for her incredible skills in martial arts films like ‘Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon’. She made history as the first Asian woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress for ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’. Her career has bridged the gap between Eastern and Western cinema with roles in the James Bond franchise and ‘Crazy Rich Asians’. She is celebrated for her physical grace and her ability to bring emotional depth to action-packed roles. Her success has opened new doors for Asian performers in the global entertainment industry.

Emma Thompson

Emma Thompson is a highly respected actress and screenwriter who has won Academy Awards in both categories. Her performance in ‘Howards End’ and her adaptation of ‘Sense and Sensibility’ showcased her immense creative talents. She is known for her wit and her ability to portray intelligent and relatable female characters. She frequently uses her public platform to advocate for environmental protection and human rights. Her contributions to the arts and her activism have made her a significant figure in modern culture.

Frances McDormand

Frances McDormand is known for her authentic and unglamorous portrayals of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances. She has won three Academy Awards for Best Actress for her work in ‘Fargo’ and ‘Three Billboards Outside Ebbing Missouri’ and ‘Nomadland’. Her choice of roles often highlights stories that are overlooked by mainstream Hollywood. She is a strong supporter of the inclusion rider which encourages diversity in film production crews and casts. Her commitment to her artistic vision has made her one of the most decorated actresses of her time.

Gong Li

Gong Li is one of the most prominent figures in Chinese cinema and achieved global recognition for her work with director Zhang Yimou. Her performances in ‘Farewell My Concubine’ and ‘Raise the Red Lantern’ helped bring Chinese films to a wider international audience. She has served on juries at major international film festivals and has received numerous awards for her acting. Her elegance and dramatic power have made her a muse for filmmakers around the world. She remains a vital link between Asian cinema and the global film market.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett is celebrated for her powerful portrayals of real-life women such as Tina Turner in ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’. Her commanding screen presence and physical dedication to her roles have earned her critical acclaim. She has played a wide range of characters from historical figures to superheroes in the ‘Black Panther’ films. She is also a director and producer who works to increase representation in the industry. Her career is a testament to the impact of strength and dignity in performance.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis is the first Black woman to achieve the Triple Crown of Acting by winning an Oscar and an Emmy and a Tony. Her performance in ‘Fences’ is widely regarded as one of the most powerful displays of emotion in recent film history. She founded a production company with her husband to create more opportunities for underrepresented voices in Hollywood. Her speeches and advocacy work have inspired many people to pursue their passions regardless of their background. She continues to be a leading force for change and excellence in the entertainment industry.

Cate Blanchett

Cate Blanchett is known for her incredible ability to transform herself for every role she takes on. She has won two Academy Awards for her work in ‘The Aviator’ and ‘Blue Jasmine’. Her career includes everything from indie dramas to major franchises like ‘The Lord of the Rings’. She is a dedicated supporter of the arts and served as the artistic director of the Sydney Theatre Company. Her versatility and commitment to her craft have made her one of the most acclaimed actresses of the modern era.

Julia Roberts

Julia Roberts became a global superstar and the definitive romantic comedy lead after her role in ‘Pretty Woman’. Her charisma and famous smile made her one of the highest-paid actresses in the history of Hollywood. She proved her dramatic range by winning an Academy Award for her performance in ‘Erin Brockovich’. Her box office success helped pave the way for other female stars to command higher salaries and more power. She remains a beloved figure and a symbol of the modern Hollywood leading lady.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster successfully transitioned from a child actress to a respected director and Academy Award-winning star. Her performances in ‘The Accused’ and ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ are considered masterclasses in dramatic acting. She has always been private about her personal life while maintaining a high level of professional success. Her work behind the camera as a director and producer has also been met with critical praise. She is a role model for performers who want to maintain their integrity and longevity in a competitive industry.

Nicole Kidman

Nicole Kidman is known for her willingness to take risks in both independent films and major studio productions. She won an Academy Award for her portrayal of Virginia Woolf in ‘The Hours’. Her career includes diverse roles in projects like ‘Moulin Rouge!’ and the television series ‘Big Little Lies’. She is a Goodwill Ambassador for UN Women and works to end violence against women worldwide. Her constant evolution as an actress and her dedication to humanitarian causes have made her a global icon.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry made history as the first African American woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in ‘Monster’s Ball’. She has starred in major franchises such as ‘X-Men’ and ‘John Wick’ while continuing to do dramatic work. Her success broke a significant barrier in the film industry and inspired countless other women of color. She has also worked as a producer to bring more diverse stories to the screen. Her career remains a landmark in the ongoing push for inclusion in Hollywood.

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie became one of the most famous women in the world through her roles in ‘Girl Interrupted’ and ‘Lara Croft: Tomb Raider’. She has used her massive public platform to focus on global humanitarian issues and refugee rights. Her transition into directing and producing has allowed her to tell stories with deep social and political significance. She is also known for her advocacy for women’s health and empowerment. Her impact on both the film industry and international philanthropy is profound and far-reaching.

Charlize Theron

Charlize Theron is celebrated for her transformative performance in ‘Monster’ which earned her an Academy Award. She has since become a major action star with roles in ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ and ‘Atomic Blonde’. Through her production company she has championed films that feature strong and complex female leads. She is also an activist who works to fight HIV and AIDS in her home country of South Africa. Her ability to balance gritty dramatic roles with high-octane action has made her a unique force in cinema.

Maggie Smith

Maggie Smith has enjoyed a career that spans over six decades in film and television and on the stage. She is known for her sharp wit and incredible comedic timing in films like ‘The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie’. In recent years she gained a new generation of fans through her roles in the ‘Harry Potter’ series and ‘Downton Abbey’. She has won two Academy Awards and numerous other honors for her contributions to the arts. Her longevity and consistent excellence have made her a true legend of the acting world.

Kate Winslet

Kate Winslet became an international star after her role in ‘Titanic’ and has since focused on challenging dramatic work. She won an Academy Award for her performance in ‘The Reader’ and has received several other nominations. She is known for her commitment to portraying real women and her refusal to conform to Hollywood beauty standards. Her work in both independent films and major productions has been consistently praised by critics. She remains one of the most talented and respected actresses of her generation.

Penélope Cruz

Penélope Cruz is the first Spanish actress to win an Academy Award for her role in ‘Vicky Cristina Barcelona’. She has had a successful career in both Spanish cinema and Hollywood and often works with director Pedro Almodóvar. Her performances are known for their passion and emotional depth and cultural resonance. She is a prominent figure in the fashion world and a dedicated supporter of various charitable organizations. Her success has helped bring more attention to the richness of Spanish-language film on the global stage.

Sandra Bullock

Sandra Bullock is one of the most successful and relatable actresses in Hollywood with a career spanning several decades. She won an Academy Award for ‘The Blind Side’ and received praise for her work in the sci-fi thriller ‘Gravity’. Her production company has been behind many of her biggest hits and has allowed her to control her career path. She is known for her philanthropy and has donated millions of dollars to disaster relief efforts. Her combination of commercial appeal and dramatic talent has made her a mainstay of American cinema.

Reese Witherspoon

Reese Witherspoon rose to fame in ‘Legally Blonde’ and won an Academy Award for her portrayal of June Carter Cash in ‘Walk the Line’. She founded a production company to create more leading roles for women and has adapted several best-selling books into successful series. Her work with Hello Sunshine has significantly influenced the types of female-driven stories being told in media. She is a vocal advocate for the Time’s Up movement and gender pay equity in the industry. Her business success and acting talent have made her a powerful leader in modern Hollywood.

Jennifer Lawrence

Jennifer Lawrence became one of the biggest stars in the world through ‘The Hunger Games’ and ‘Silver Linings Playbook’. She won an Academy Award at a young age and became known for her down-to-earth personality and transparency. She has used her platform to speak out about the gender pay gap and the importance of voting. Her performances often blend vulnerability with a fierce sense of strength. She remains a prominent figure in the industry who continues to choose diverse and challenging projects.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o won an Academy Award for her very first film role in ’12 Years a Slave’. She has since used her platform to advocate for dark-skinned women and challenge narrow beauty standards in the media. Her work in ‘Black Panther’ and ‘Us’ has showcased her range as a leading actress in major blockbusters. She is also a best-selling author of a children’s book that promotes self-love and confidence. Her impact on representation and the global conversation about identity is immense.

Margot Robbie

Margot Robbie became a breakout star in ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ and has since become a major producer. Through her company LuckyChap Entertainment she produced and starred in the cultural phenomenon ‘Barbie’. She is committed to telling female-focused stories and supporting women directors and writers. Her performances in ‘I Tonya’ and ‘Bombshell’ have earned her critical acclaim and multiple award nominations. She is currently one of the most influential figures in Hollywood who is shaping the future of the industry.

Share which of these influential actresses has had the greatest impact on your love for cinema in the comments.