Actresses Who Went From Hated to Loved

Some actresses start their careers facing harsh criticism, whether for their roles, public personas, or off-screen behavior. But many win over audiences with talent, growth, or a shift in perspective that turns hate into love.

This list explores actresses who flipped the script, earning admiration after early backlash. From controversial roles to personal redemption arcs, these women proved their staying power in Hollywood and beyond.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart faced intense criticism for her role as Bella Swan in ‘Twilight’. Fans and critics called her wooden and unexpressive, sparking widespread dislike.

Over time, her work in indie films like ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’ and ‘Personal Shopper’ showcased her depth. Her authentic personality and openness about her life also helped fans see her in a new light.

Anne Hathaway

Anne Hathaway was hit with a wave of hate in the early 2010s, dubbed #HathaHate. Many found her too perfect or overly eager, especially after her Oscar win for ‘Les Misérables’ (2012).

Her charm in later roles, like ‘The Intern’ and ‘Ocean’s 8’, softened public views. She also embraced her imperfections, showing humility that won back audiences.

Jennifer Lawrence

Jennifer Lawrence was loved for her ‘Hunger Games’ role, but her “cool girl” persona grew tiresome for some. By the mid-2010s, critics called her try-hard and overexposed.

Her break from the spotlight and return with grounded roles in ‘Causeway’ and ‘No Hard Feelings’ shifted opinions. Fans now admire her for her honesty and versatility.

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie was vilified in the early 2000s for her role in Brad Pitt’s split from Jennifer Aniston. Tabloids painted her as a homewrecker, fueling public scorn.

Her humanitarian work and strong performances in films like ‘Maleficent’ changed perceptions. Today, she’s respected for her talent and global impact.

Anna Gunn

Anna Gunn faced backlash for playing Skyler White in ‘Breaking Bad’ (2008-2013). Fans hated Skyler’s opposition to Walter White, blurring the line between character and actress.

Gunn’s powerful performance and her candid essay about the hate shifted views. Audiences now praise her for bringing depth to a complex role.

Jenna Ortega

Jenna Ortega shot to fame with ‘Wednesday’, but some fans criticized her for comments about rewriting scripts. They called her unprofessional and ungrateful.

Her undeniable talent and charm in interviews won over skeptics. Projects like ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ have solidified her as a rising star.

Gwyneth Paltrow

Gwyneth Paltrow was once named Hollywood’s most hated celebrity, thanks to her Goop brand and perceived elitism. Critics mocked her for promoting pricey, quirky products.

Her self-aware humor and strong roles in ‘The Politician’ and ‘Avengers: Endgame’ softened her image. Fans now see her as a savvy businesswoman.

Katherine Heigl

Katherine Heigl’s outspoken comments about ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and ‘Knocked Up’ led to her being labeled difficult. Her career took a hit as fans turned away.

Recent roles in ‘Firefly Lane’ and her openness about past mistakes have rebuilt her reputation. Audiences now appreciate her honesty and talent.

Lindsay Lohan

Lindsay Lohan was a tabloid target in the 2000s for her partying and legal troubles. Her fall from grace made her a punchline rather than a star.

Her comeback in ‘Falling for Christmas’ and a more private life have earned her respect. Fans now root for her redemption and return to acting.

Brie Larson

Brie Larson faced backlash before ‘Captain Marvel’ (2019) released, with trolls attacking her for her feminist views and perceived arrogance.

Her powerful performances and down-to-earth interviews have shifted opinions. Fans now celebrate her as a trailblazer in superhero films.

Megan Fox

Megan Fox was criticized for her hyper-sexualized roles in ‘Transformers’ and tabloid drama. Many dismissed her as a one-dimensional actress.

Her witty humor and roles in ‘Jennifer’s Body’ and ‘Till Death’ showed her range. Fans now admire her for owning her narrative.

Taylor Swift

Though primarily a singer, Taylor Swift’s acting in ‘Cats’ (2019) drew mockery, and her public feuds fueled hate. Some called her calculated or overly dramatic.

Her resilience, philanthropy, and success in projects like ‘Folklore’ changed minds. Fans now see her as a multifaceted artist.

Lea Michele

Lea Michele’s reputation suffered after ‘Glee’ co-stars called her rude and difficult. Her diva image led to widespread criticism.

Her Broadway comeback in ‘Funny Girl’ and public apologies have softened views. Audiences now respect her talent and growth.

Amber Heard

Amber Heard faced intense public dislike during her legal battles with Johnny Depp. Many saw her as manipulative, overshadowing her acting career.

Her roles in ‘Aquaman’ and advocacy for women’s rights have started to shift opinions. Some fans now view her with more empathy.

Kendall Jenner

Kendall Jenner faced hate for her modeling career and perceived privilege as a Kardashian. Critics called her talentless and out of touch.

Her vulnerability on ‘The Kardashians’ and focus on mental health advocacy have humanized her. Fans now appreciate her authenticity.

Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus was criticized for her provocative shift during the ‘Bangerz’ era. Many saw her as trying too hard to shed her Disney image.

Her growth in ‘Younger Now’ and powerful performances like ‘Flowers’ won back fans. She’s now praised for her bold evolution.

Winona Ryder

Winona Ryder’s shoplifting scandal in 2001 made her a tabloid target. Fans turned on her, and her career stalled for years.

Her comeback in ‘Stranger Things’ and timeless charm have restored her status. Audiences now adore her nostalgic appeal.

Amanda Bynes

Amanda Bynes faced public scorn for her erratic behavior and legal issues in the 2010s. Her fall from child stardom was widely mocked.

Her recovery and return to public life, including fashion school, have earned sympathy. Fans now cheer her resilience.

Shannen Doherty

Shannen Doherty was labeled a diva on ‘Charmed’ after behind-the-scenes drama. Fans and tabloids painted her as difficult.

Her openness about her cancer battle and strong roles in ‘BH90210’ softened views. She’s now admired for her strength.

Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez faced recent hate for her documentary ‘The Greatest Love Story Never Told’. Critics called her delusional for her Bronx persona.

Her consistent work ethic and charm in ‘Unstoppable’ have shifted opinions. Fans now respect her hustle and versatility.

Charlize Theron

Charlize Theron was called cold and catty for comments about co-stars like Tom Hardy. Some labeled her Hollywood’s mean girl.

Her powerful roles in ‘Bombshell’ and philanthropy have changed minds. Fans now see her as a fierce, talented star.

Ellen Pompeo

Ellen Pompeo faced criticism for complaining about her ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ workload despite her high salary. Fans called her ungrateful.

Her loyalty to the show and advocacy for equal pay have earned respect. Audiences now admire her leadership.

Tyra Banks

Tyra Banks was criticized as a harsh boss on ‘Dancing With the Stars’. Contestants and staff called her demanding and out of touch.

Her return to modeling and openness about her struggles have softened her image. Fans now appreciate her trailblazing career.

Christina Aguilera

Christina Aguilera was called a diva for her behavior on ‘The Voice’. Stories of lateness and demands fueled public dislike.

Her vocal talent and focus on empowerment in recent years have won fans back. She’s now celebrated for her artistry.

Kate Winslet

Kate Winslet faced criticism for snubbing fans and defending Woody Allen. Some called her cold and out of touch.

Her heartfelt performance in ‘Mare of Easttown’ and candid interviews have shifted views. Fans now love her authenticity.

Julia Roberts

Julia Roberts was called difficult after on-set clashes during ‘I Love Trouble’ (1994). Tabloids painted her as a temperamental star.

Her iconic roles in ‘Erin Brockovich’ and warm public persona have won fans over. She’s now a beloved Hollywood legend.

Rachel McAdams

Rachel McAdams faced rumors of diva behavior on ‘The Notebook’ (2004). Her reported clashes with Ryan Gosling fueled criticism.

Her versatile roles in ‘Spotlight’ and genuine off-screen charm have changed minds. Fans now adore her talent and humility.

Sandra Bullock

Sandra Bullock was once seen as bland or overrated in early rom-coms. Critics dismissed her as a lightweight actress.

Her Oscar-winning role in ‘The Blind Side’ and charm in ‘The Lost City’ proved her range. She’s now a fan favorite.

Keira Knightley

Keira Knightley was criticized for her pouty expressions in ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’. Some called her one-note and overhyped.

Her nuanced performances in ‘Atonement’ and ‘The Imitation Game’ shifted opinions. Fans now praise her elegance and skill.

Natalie Portman

Natalie Portman faced backlash for her role in ‘Star Wars: Episode I’ (1999). Critics called her stiff and blamed her for the film’s flaws.

Her Oscar win for ‘Black Swan’ and advocacy for women in film changed views. She’s now respected as a versatile star.

What’s your favorite redemption arc among these actresses? Share your thoughts in the comments!