Gen Alpha’s Favorite Young Actors

The landscape of youth entertainment has shifted dramatically with the rise of streaming platforms like Netflix and Disney+. Generation Alpha, consisting of those born between 2010 and 2024, has grown up with a new roster of talent dominating their screens. From high-stakes fantasy epics to heartwarming sitcoms, these young actors have become the faces of a new era in television and film. This list highlights the most prominent male actors who have captured the attention of today’s youngest viewers.

Walker Scobell

Walker Scobell made his feature film debut in the Netflix production ‘The Adam Project’ alongside Ryan Reynolds. He quickly became a household name for younger audiences after being cast as Percy Jackson in the Disney+ series ‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’. His portrayal of the iconic literary character has earned him praise for capturing the character’s wit and bravery. Scobell has also appeared in the action-adventure movie ‘Secret Headquarters’. He is considered one of the leading faces of modern young-adult media.

Gordon Cormier

Gordon Cormier gained international recognition for his role as Aang in the live-action adaptation of ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ on Netflix. His performance required extensive martial arts training to accurately portray the legendary Master of the Four Elements. Before this breakout role, he appeared in the series ‘The Stand’ as Joe. Cormier’s charismatic presence and dedication to the source material have made him a favorite among fans of the franchise. He continues to lead the series into its confirmed future seasons.

Javon Walton

Javon Walton is a multifaceted talent known for his roles in high-profile television dramas and action series. He first gained significant attention for his role as Ashtray in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. Following this success, he joined the cast of ‘The Umbrella Academy’ as Stan and appeared in the film ‘Samaritan’ with Sylvester Stallone. Walton is also a highly skilled boxer and gymnast, often sharing his training progress with his large social media following. His transition from child star to versatile young actor has been closely followed by his peers.

Christian Convery

Christian Convery is best known for his leading role as Gus in the Netflix fantasy series ‘Sweet Tooth’. His performance as a human-deer hybrid navigating a post-apocalyptic world earned him critical acclaim and several award nominations. Convery has been active in the industry from a very young age, appearing in projects like ‘Beautiful Boy’ and ‘Playing with Fire’. He also lent his voice to the animated film ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’ on Disney+. His ability to convey deep emotion has made ‘Sweet Tooth’ a staple for young viewers.

Iain Armitage

Iain Armitage rose to fame playing the younger version of a beloved sitcom character in ‘Young Sheldon’. The series, which serves as a prequel to ‘The Big Bang Theory’, highlights his impeccable comedic timing and intellectual delivery. Armitage also gained recognition for his role as Ziggy Chapman in the hit series ‘Big Little Lies’. Beyond acting, he is known for his theater reviews and passion for Broadway. He has voiced characters in major animated films like ‘PAW Patrol: The Movie’ and ‘Scoob!’.

Noah Schnapp

Noah Schnapp became a global star through his portrayal of Will Byers in the Netflix phenomenon ‘Stranger Things’. His character’s journey through the Upside Down and his emotional growth have been central to the show’s massive success. Schnapp also voiced the iconic character Charlie Brown in ‘The Peanuts Movie’. He has ventured into the film industry with roles in ‘Waiting for Anya’ and ‘Bridge of Spies’. His active presence on social media platforms like TikTok has helped him maintain a strong connection with Gen Alpha.

Finn Wolfhard

Finn Wolfhard is a prominent figure in modern pop culture, largely due to his role as Mike Wheeler in ‘Stranger Things’. He successfully transitioned to the big screen with leading roles in ‘It’ and its sequel ‘It Chapter Two’. Wolfhard also starred in the supernatural comedy ‘Ghostbusters: Afterlife’ and its follow-up ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’. In addition to acting, he is a musician and has directed short films. His diverse career path has made him an influential figure for young audiences interested in both film and music.

Gaten Matarazzo

Gaten Matarazzo is widely celebrated for his role as Dustin Henderson in ‘Stranger Things’, where his comedic charm made him a fan favorite. He has used his platform to raise awareness for cleidocranial dysplasia, a condition he shares with his character. Matarazzo has a strong background in musical theater, having performed in Broadway productions of ‘Les Misérables’ and ‘Sweeney Todd’. He also hosted the Netflix prank show ‘Prank Encounters’. His infectious personality continues to resonate with viewers across different age groups.

Caleb McLaughlin

Caleb McLaughlin portrays Lucas Sinclair in the hit series ‘Stranger Things’, a role that has earned him multiple Screen Actors Guild Awards as part of the ensemble. Before his television success, he performed on Broadway as Young Simba in ‘The Lion King’. McLaughlin starred alongside Idris Elba in the Netflix film ‘Concrete Cowboy’, showcasing his range in dramatic roles. He is also a vocal advocate for self-positivity and social justice. His growth from a child actor to a mature performer has been a highlight of his career.

Xolo Mariduena

Xolo Maridueña is best known for his role as Miguel Diaz in the ‘Karate Kid’ sequel series ‘Cobra Kai’. The show’s popularity on Netflix has made him a recognizable face to a new generation of martial arts fans. In 2023, he made his cinematic debut as the lead character in the DC Studios film ‘Blue Beetle’. This role marked a significant milestone as he portrayed the first Latino superhero to lead a standalone film in the franchise. Maridueña also lends his voice to various animated projects and hosts a podcast.

Aryan Simhadri

Aryan Simhadri gained widespread popularity for his role as Grover Underwood in the Disney+ series ‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’. His portrayal of the loyal satyr was praised for its humor and heart. Prior to this, he starred in the Disney Channel original movie ‘Spin’ and the 2022 remake of ‘Cheaper by the Dozen’. Simhadri has been acting since childhood, appearing in various commercials and television guest spots. His chemistry with his co-stars has been a key factor in the success of the ‘Percy Jackson’ adaptation.

Charlie Bushnell

Charlie Bushnell is a rising star known for his role as Luke Castellan in ‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’. He initially made his mark on the Disney+ series ‘Diary of a Future President’, where he played Bobby Cañero-Reed. Bushnell’s transition into more action-oriented roles has been well-received by fans of the young-adult genre. He is often recognized for his athletic background and his engaging presence on social media. His role in the ‘Percy Jackson’ universe has solidified his status as a favorite among Gen Alpha.

Mason Thames

Mason Thames delivered a breakout performance as Finney Blake in the horror-thriller ‘The Black Phone’. His ability to carry a suspenseful narrative alongside Ethan Hawke earned him critical acclaim. Thames also appeared in the series ‘For All Mankind’ as Danny Stevens. He is set to star in the live-action adaptation of ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ as the lead character, Hiccup. His rapid rise in the industry is a testament to his talent in both genre films and blockbuster adaptations.

Jacob Tremblay

Jacob Tremblay is a critically acclaimed actor who first rose to fame for his role in the emotional drama ‘Room’. He has since become a prolific voice actor, providing the voice for the title character in Disney and Pixar’s ‘Luca’. Tremblay also starred in the hit film ‘Wonder’ as Auggie Pullman, a role that touched many young viewers. He voiced Flounder in the live-action ‘The Little Mermaid’ and appeared in the horror film ‘Doctor Sleep’. His versatility across drama, animation, and horror is highly regarded.

Jack Dylan Grazer

Jack Dylan Grazer is well known for his roles in major film franchises, including the ‘It’ series and ‘Shazam!’. In the ‘Shazam!’ films, he plays Freddy Freeman, the witty and superhero-obsessed best friend of the lead. Grazer also voiced the character Alberto Scorfano in the Pixar film ‘Luca’. He starred in the coming-of-age series ‘We Are Who We Are’ directed by Luca Guadagnino. His energetic acting style and comedic timing have made him a standout in the current landscape of teen cinema.

Asher Angel

Asher Angel gained fame as Billy Batson in the DC Extended Universe film ‘Shazam!’ and its sequel. Before his superhero success, he was a lead on the Disney Channel series ‘Andi Mack’, where he played Jonah Beck. Angel is also a talented singer and has released several singles that have trended among his younger fan base. He has made guest appearances on various television shows and continues to be a prominent figure in youth-oriented media. His dual career in acting and music has broadened his appeal.

Malachi Barton

Malachi Barton is a staple of Disney Channel programming, most recently starring in ‘The Villains of Valley View’. He portrays Flash, a character with super speed, in the popular sitcom about a family of supervillains in hiding. Barton also starred in the Disney Channel original movies ‘Under Wraps’ and ‘Under Wraps 2’. He began his career with a recurring role on ‘Stuck in the Middle’. His consistent presence on Disney platforms has made him a familiar and favorite face for Gen Alpha viewers.

Dallas Liu

Dallas Liu portrays Prince Zuko in the Netflix live-action adaptation of ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’. His background in competitive martial arts allowed him to perform many of his own stunts in the physically demanding role. Liu previously appeared in the Marvel Cinematic Universe film ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’ as Ruihua. He also had a recurring role in the Hulu comedy series ‘Pen15’. His portrayal of the complex and conflicted Zuko has been a highlight of the new ‘Avatar’ series.

Ian Ousley

Ian Ousley rose to prominence as Sokka in the live-action ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ on Netflix. He brought the character’s signature humor and leadership to life, gaining a large following among fans of the original animation. Before this major role, Ousley appeared in series such as ’13 Reasons Why’ and ‘Physical’. He is a competitive martial artist in real life, holding multiple world titles in karate. His charismatic performance has established him as a key talent in the fantasy genre.

Zackary Arthur

Zackary Arthur is the lead actor in the television series ‘Chucky’, where he plays Jake Wheeler. The show serves as a continuation of the ‘Child’s Play’ film franchise and has found a significant audience on SYFY and USA Network. Arthur previously appeared in the film ‘The 5th Wave’ and the series ‘Transparent’. His role in ‘Chucky’ requires him to navigate themes of horror and teen drama, showcasing his maturity as a performer. He is frequently praised for his ability to hold his own against the iconic animatronic doll.

Jackson Robert Scott

Jackson Robert Scott is best known for his role as Georgie Denbrough in the ‘It’ films, particularly the memorable opening scene. He followed this success with a leading role in the Netflix series ‘Locke & Key’, where he played Bode Locke. Scott also starred in the horror film ‘The Prodigy’. Despite his young age, he has already built a resume filled with high-profile horror and supernatural projects. His performance in ‘Locke & Key’ made him a central figure in one of Netflix’s popular family-friendly fantasy series.

Lonnie Chavis

Lonnie Chavis is widely recognized for playing young Randall Pearson on the critically acclaimed drama ‘This Is Us’. His emotional performances in the series earned him several accolades and made him a breakout star. Chavis also starred in the horror-thriller film ‘The Water Man’, directed by David Oyelowo. He has been an active voice against bullying, using his social media presence to promote kindness. His work in both television and film has established him as a highly respected young actor.

JD McCrary

JD McCrary is a talented actor and singer who voiced Young Simba in the 2019 photorealistic remake of ‘The Lion King’. His rendition of the classic songs introduced his voice to a new generation of Disney fans. McCrary also starred in the Netflix series ‘The Paynes’ and appeared in the film ’13: The Musical’. He is an accomplished recording artist, having performed alongside Donald Glover (Childish Gambino) at the Grammy Awards. His multifaceted career continues to grow within the entertainment industry.

Roman Griffin Davis

Roman Griffin Davis made a spectacular debut as the lead in the film ‘Jojo Rabbit’, directed by Taika Waititi. His performance as a young boy in Nazi Germany earned him a Golden Globe nomination and several other prestigious awards. Following this breakout, he starred in the dark comedy ‘Silent Night’. Davis is known for his expressive acting and ability to handle complex, mature themes with nuance. While he has been selective with his roles, he remains a highly sought-after talent in Hollywood.

Brady Noon

Brady Noon is a versatile actor who starred in the Disney+ series ‘The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers’. He gained initial fame for his role in the R-rated comedy ‘Good Boys’ and later voiced Greg Heffley in the animated ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’ films. Noon also appeared in the Netflix film ‘Family Switch’ alongside Jennifer Garner and Ed Helms. His career spans voice acting, television comedy, and feature films. He is recognized for his relatability and comedic timing in family-oriented content.

Benjamin Evan Ainsworth

Benjamin Evan Ainsworth is a British actor known for his title role in the Disney live-action remake of ‘Pinocchio’. He also gained significant attention for his performance as Miles in the Netflix horror series ‘The Haunting of Bly Manor’. Ainsworth appeared in the Disney+ film ‘Flora & Ulysses’ as William Spiro. His range across horror, fantasy, and family films has made him a prominent young talent on streaming platforms. He continues to take on diverse roles in both the UK and the US.

Mace Coronel

Mace Coronel is a lead actor in the Netflix series ‘That ’90s Show’, where he plays Jay Kelso. Before this role, he was a series regular on the Nickelodeon hit ‘Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn’. Coronel’s transition from a child star on Nickelodeon to a lead in a popular streaming sitcom has been seamless. He is often praised for his charm and his ability to channel the energy of the original ‘That ’70s Show’ characters. His work has made him a familiar face to audiences spanning multiple generations.

Aidan Gallagher

Aidan Gallagher is best known for his portrayal of Number Five in the Netflix series ‘The Umbrella Academy’. His performance as an older man trapped in a teenager’s body earned him widespread critical acclaim. Before his Netflix success, he starred in the Nickelodeon series ‘Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn’. Gallagher is also a dedicated environmental activist and serves as a UN Environment Goodwill Ambassador. He is a musician who frequently releases his own songs and interacts with his global fan base online.

Kit Connor

Kit Connor became a household name for his role as Nick Nelson in the Netflix series ‘Heartstopper’. The show’s massive success propelled him to international stardom and made him a representative for modern teen romance. Prior to this, he appeared in films like ‘Rocketman’, playing a young Elton John, and ‘Little Joe’. Connor has been acting since he was a child, with early roles in ‘Get Santa’ and ‘His Dark Materials’. His performance in ‘Heartstopper’ has earned him numerous awards and a dedicated following.

Joe Locke

Joe Locke made his professional acting debut as Charlie Spring in the Netflix series ‘Heartstopper’. He was selected from thousands of applicants in an open casting call, making his rise to fame particularly notable. Locke’s portrayal of a gentle and resilient teenager has resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. He has since joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe with a role in the series ‘Agatha All Along’. His quick ascent in the industry has made him one of the most prominent young actors of his generation.

Percy Hynes White

Percy Hynes White gained significant popularity for his role as Xavier Thorpe in the Netflix series ‘Wednesday’. His character’s mysterious nature and artistic background made him a central figure in the show’s first season. White previously appeared in the series ‘The Gifted’ and the film ‘A Christmas Horror Story’. He comes from a family of actors and writers, which influenced his early entry into the industry. His role in the ‘Wednesday’ universe has solidified his status as a fan favorite on social media.

Hunter Doohan

Hunter Doohan is widely recognized for his role as Tyler Galpin in the Netflix hit ‘Wednesday’. His performance in the supernatural mystery series made him a breakout star alongside Jenna Ortega. Before ‘Wednesday’, he appeared in the legal drama ‘Your Honor’ as Adam Desiato and in the series ‘Truth Be Told’. Doohan is also a writer and director of short films, showcasing his interest in multiple aspects of filmmaking. His involvement in high-profile streaming projects has made him very popular with Gen Alpha.

Louis Partridge

Louis Partridge rose to fame playing Lord Tewkesbury in the Netflix film ‘Enola Holmes’ and its sequel. His onscreen chemistry with Millie Bobby Brown made him an instant favorite among young viewers. Partridge also portrayed Sid Vicious in the miniseries ‘Pistol’, demonstrating his range beyond period dramas. He has a strong background in modeling and is frequently seen at major fashion events. His role in the ‘Enola Holmes’ franchise has established him as a leading man for the next generation.

William Gao

William Gao is known for his role as Tao Xu in the Netflix series ‘Heartstopper’. As a member of the core friendship group in the show, he has become a beloved figure for his protective and artistic personality. Gao is also a classically trained musician and a member of the band Wasia Project. He made his professional stage debut in the production of ‘The Good Person of Szechwan’. His combination of acting and musical talent has garnered him a diverse and supportive fan base.

Jaeden Martell

Jaeden Martell is highly regarded for his leading role as Bill Denbrough in the ‘It’ film franchise. He has maintained a steady career with roles in ‘Knives Out’, where he played Jacob Thrombey, and the series ‘Defending Jacob’. Martell also starred in the Netflix film ‘Metal Lords’, which appealed to fans of music and coming-of-age stories. He is known for his understated and thoughtful acting style. His ability to lead both horror films and prestige dramas has made him a respected figure in Hollywood.

Chosen Jacobs

Chosen Jacobs gained fame for playing Mike Hanlon in the ‘It’ movies. He continued his success with a lead role in the Disney+ original film ‘Sneakerella’, which combined music and modern storytelling. Jacobs also appeared in the series ‘Castle Rock’ and the film ‘Purple Hearts’. He is a talented singer-songwriter who often contributes music to the projects he stars in. His diverse range of talents in acting and music has helped him build a strong following among younger demographics.

Jeremy Ray Taylor

Jeremy Ray Taylor is best known for his role as Ben Hanscom in the ‘It’ series. His portrayal of the sweet and intelligent member of the Losers’ Club won over audiences worldwide. Following this success, he starred in ‘Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween’ and the revival of ‘Are You Afraid of the Dark?’. Taylor has a natural comedic ability that has made him a staple in youth-oriented horror and adventure films. He continues to be active in the industry with various television and film projects.

Wyatt Oleff

Wyatt Oleff is a prominent young actor known for his roles in the ‘It’ films and ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’. In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, he played the young Peter Quill in both the first and second films. Oleff also starred in the Netflix series ‘I Am Not Okay with This’ as Stanley Barber. He is praised for his quirky and relatable performances in coming-of-age stories. His involvement in major franchises has ensured his popularity remains high with young moviegoers.

Casey Simpson

Casey Simpson is a long-time favorite for Gen Alpha due to his role as Ricky Harper in the Nickelodeon series ‘Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn’. The show’s frequent reruns and presence on streaming platforms have kept him in the spotlight. Simpson has also appeared in several Nickelodeon specials and the film ‘Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library’. He is very active on social media, where he shares glimpses of his life and career with fans. His transition into older roles is highly anticipated by his long-term followers.

Dylan Kingwell

Dylan Kingwell is a Canadian actor known for his roles in several popular television series. He played Duncan and Quigley Quagmire in the Netflix adaptation of ‘A Series of Unfortunate Events’. Kingwell also appeared as young Shaun Murphy in ‘The Good Doctor’ and as Sam Thomas in ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’. His ability to portray complex and often tragic characters has earned him a reputation as a talented dramatic actor. He has been a consistent presence in high-quality youth programming for several years.

Maxwell Jenkins

Maxwell Jenkins is best known for his leading role as Will Robinson in the Netflix sci-fi series ‘Lost in Space’. His performance as a young explorer navigating alien worlds was a central focus of the show’s three-season run. Jenkins also appeared in the series ‘Reacher’ and the film ‘A Family Man’. He is an accomplished circus performer, a skill he has practiced since a very young age. His background in physical performance has aided him in his action-heavy television roles.

Sunny Suljic

Sunny Suljic gained critical acclaim for his lead role in the film ‘Mid90s’, directed by Jonah Hill. He is also widely known to Gen Alpha as the voice and motion-capture actor for Atreus in the ‘God of War’ video game series. His performance in ‘God of War’ and its sequel ‘God of War Ragnarök’ has won him multiple industry awards. Suljic is also an avid skateboarder, a skill that was prominently featured in his film work. His crossover success between cinema and gaming has made him a unique figure in entertainment.

Archie Yates

Archie Yates made a memorable debut as Yorki in the award-winning film ‘Jojo Rabbit’. His comedic timing and charming personality led to him being cast as the lead in ‘Home Sweet Home Alone’ on Disney+. Yates also lent his voice to the animated series ‘Wolfboy and the Everything Factory’. He is known for his expressive face and ability to deliver humorous lines with ease. His roles in high-profile family films have made him a recognizable face for the youngest viewers.

Azhy Robertson

Azhy Robertson is a talented young actor known for his emotional role as Henry Barber in the film ‘Marriage Story’. He also starred in the series ‘The Plot Against America’ and the horror film ‘Come Play’. Robertson has a gift for portraying sensitive and observant children in high-stakes dramatic situations. He has worked alongside major Hollywood stars like Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver. His consistent work in prestige films and television has established him as a serious young talent.

Alan Kim

Alan Kim became a breakout star for his role as David in the critically acclaimed film ‘Minari’. His performance earned him a BAFTA nomination and a Critics’ Choice Movie Award. Kim’s infectious personality made him a favorite during the film’s award season circuit. He has since appeared in the film ‘IF’ and the series ‘Theater Camp’. His transition into more commercial and comedic roles continues to delight audiences who first discovered him in his debut film.

Woody Norman

Woody Norman is a British actor who received widespread praise for his role in the film ‘C’mon C’mon’ alongside Joaquin Phoenix. His naturalistic performance was cited as one of the best child acting turns of recent years. Norman also appeared in the horror film ‘The Last Voyage of the Demeter’ and the series ‘The White Princess’. He is known for his ability to handle improvisation and deep emotional scenes. His work in independent cinema has marked him as a young actor to watch.

Banks Repeta

Banks Repeta delivered a strong performance as the lead in the film ‘Armageddon Time’, directed by James Gray. He starred alongside industry veterans Anthony Hopkins and Anne Hathaway, holding his own in the semi-autobiographical drama. Repeta has also appeared in projects like ‘The Black Phone’ and ‘Uncle Frank’. He is known for his curly hair and his ability to portray thoughtful, creative characters. His rising profile in the film industry suggests a promising future in dramatic acting.

Jaylin Webb

Jaylin Webb is a rising talent known for his role as Johnny in the film ‘Armageddon Time’. His performance in the period drama was praised for its sincerity and emotional impact. Webb also appeared in the series ‘The First Lady’ as a young version of a historical figure. He is often recognized for his strong onscreen presence and his ability to tackle difficult social themes. His early career choices show a commitment to impactful and high-quality storytelling.

Bodhi Sabongui

Bodhi Sabongui gained international attention for his role as Amon Tomaz in the DC film ‘Black Adam’. His character served as a relatable human connection for the audience within the high-octane superhero movie. Sabongui also appeared in the series ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’ and ‘A Million Little Things’. He is known for his athletic ability and his charismatic presence on screen. His role in a major superhero franchise has significantly boosted his visibility among Gen Alpha.

Julian Hilliard

Julian Hilliard is a young actor who has appeared in several major franchises, including the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He played Billy Maximoff in the series ‘WandaVision’ and the film ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’. Hilliard also appeared in the horror series ‘The Haunting of Hill House’ and ‘Penny Dreadful: City of Angels’. He is known for his ability to play characters with supernatural abilities or those caught in eerie situations. His work in both Marvel and high-end horror has made him very popular.

Please share which of these young stars you believe will be the next big Hollywood icon in the comments.