Gen Alpha’s Favorite Young Actresses

Generation Alpha, the demographic born between the early 2010s and the mid-2020s, has grown up in a landscape dominated by streaming services and social media. This generation gravitates toward young performers who anchor massive franchises, voice iconic animated characters, or lead relatable coming-of-age stories. From the high-stakes adventures of the Marvel Cinematic Universe to the musical stages of Disney+, these actresses have become the defining faces of modern youth entertainment. Their influence often spans across multiple platforms, blending traditional film and television success with significant digital engagement.

Millie Bobby Brown

Millie Bobby Brown gained global recognition for her role as Eleven in the Netflix series ‘Stranger Things’. Her performance as the psychokinetic teen earned her several award nominations and established her as a prominent figure in pop culture. Beyond the Hawkins lab, she starred as the clever younger sister of Sherlock Holmes in ‘Enola Holmes’ and its sequel. She also founded her own clean beauty brand, Florence by Mills, which is highly popular among her younger fans. Her career continues to expand with lead roles in fantasy films like ‘Damsel’.

Jenna Ortega

Jenna Ortega became a viral sensation following her performance in the titular role of the series ‘Wednesday’. The show’s massive success on Netflix led to a surge in her popularity, particularly for her character’s deadpan humor and iconic dance sequence. Before her breakout in the Addams Family spin-off, she was a staple on the Disney Channel in ‘Stuck in the Middle’. She has also earned the title of a modern “scream queen” for her roles in the ‘Scream’ franchise and ‘X’. Ortega also lent her voice to the character Brooklyn in the animated series ‘Jurassic World Camp Cretaceous’.

Mckenna Grace

Mckenna Grace is known for her prolific career as a child actress, often playing the younger versions of lead characters before taking on her own starring roles. She played Phoebe Spengler in ‘Ghostbusters: Afterlife’ and its sequel ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’, serving as the intellectual heart of the franchise. Her recurring role as Paige Swanson in ‘Young Sheldon’ showcased her ability to balance comedy with academic intensity. She also received an Emmy nomination for her guest role in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. In addition to acting, she has pursued a career in music, releasing several singles that resonate with her peer group.

Ariana Greenblatt

Ariana Greenblatt has appeared in several of the highest-grossing films of the last decade, including ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ as young Gamora. She gained further prominence for her role as Sasha in the ‘Barbie’ movie, representing the Gen Alpha and Gen Z perspective within the story. Greenblatt also starred in the science fiction thriller ’65’ alongside Adam Driver. Her background in dance and comedy was established early on during her time on the Disney Channel series ‘Stuck in the Middle’. She is set to appear in the film adaptation of the video game ‘Borderlands’ as Tiny Tina.

Xochitl Gomez

Xochitl Gomez joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as America Chavez in ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’. Her character introduced the concept of multiversal travel to the franchise, making her a key figure in the series’ future. Before her superhero debut, she was well-loved for her portrayal of Dawn Schafer in the first season of the Netflix series ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’. She further increased her visibility by competing in and winning season 32 of ‘Dancing with the Stars’. Her high energy and relatable social media presence have made her a favorite among younger viewers.

Iman Vellani

Iman Vellani rose to fame as Kamala Khan in the Disney+ series ‘Ms. Marvel’, where she played the first Muslim superhero to headline a Marvel project. Her character’s journey from a fan-fiction-writing teenager to a hero mirrored her own real-life status as a major Marvel fan. She reprised her role on the big screen in ‘The Marvels’ alongside Brie Larson and Teyonah Parris. Vellani has been praised for her infectious enthusiasm and her deep knowledge of the source material. She has also contributed to the Marvel comics by co-writing the ‘Ms. Marvel: New Mutant’ series.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey earned critical acclaim and a massive following for their portrayal of Ellie in the television adaptation of ‘The Last of Us’. The series, based on the popular video game, required a performance that balanced vulnerability with gritty survival instincts. Prior to this, Ramsey was known for playing the formidable Lyanna Mormont in ‘Game of Thrones’. They also voiced the lead character in the animated series ‘Hilda’, which is a favorite among younger audiences for its whimsical storytelling. Ramsey’s career is marked by a choice of bold, character-driven roles.

Storm Reid

Storm Reid had her major breakout as Meg Murry in the film adaptation of ‘A Wrinkle in Time’. Since then, she has transitioned into more mature roles while remaining a positive influence for younger fans. She plays Gia Bennett, the younger sister of Rue, in the drama series ‘Euphoria’. Reid also starred in the thriller ‘Missing’ and appeared as Riley in a pivotal episode of ‘The Last of Us’. Beyond acting, she is active in various philanthropic efforts and has launched her own production company called A Seed & Wings.

Brooklynn Prince

Brooklynn Prince first captured hearts with her breakout performance in the critically acclaimed film ‘The Florida Project’. Her portrayal of Moonee earned her several awards for best young performer and showcased her natural acting ability. She later moved into leading television roles, starring as Hilde Lisko in the mystery series ‘Home Before Dark’. She also voiced the character Zoe in ‘The Angry Birds Movie 2’ and appeared in the horror-comedy ‘Cocaine Bear’. Prince has also expressed interest in directing, having helmed a short film titled ‘Colours’.

Julia Butters

Julia Butters gained significant attention for her scene-stealing role as Trudi Fraser in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’. Her professional interaction with veteran actors earned her widespread praise from critics and audiences alike. She followed this success by starring as Anne-Marie in the action film ‘The Gray Man’ on Netflix. Butters also had a long-standing role as Anna-Kat Otto in the sitcom ‘American Housewife’. She is recognized for her maturity on screen and her ability to handle complex dialogue with ease.

Saniyya Sidney

Saniyya Sidney delivered a powerful performance as Venus Williams in the biographical drama ‘King Richard’. The role required significant physical training and emotional depth to portray the tennis legend’s early years. Before this, she appeared in the Academy Award-nominated films ‘Fences’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. She also starred in the television series ‘The First Lady’ as Sasha Obama. Sidney is often noted for her poise and her ability to bring historical figures to life for a new generation.

Demi Singleton

Demi Singleton starred alongside Saniyya Sidney in ‘King Richard’, where she portrayed the legendary Serena Williams. Her performance highlighted the dedication and family bond that drove the Williams sisters to success. Singleton’s background in musical theater includes playing Young Nala in the Broadway production of ‘The Lion King’. She also appeared in the series ‘Godfather of Harlem’ as Margaret Johnson. Her work in high-profile biographical projects has established her as a talented young star to watch.

Madeleine McGraw

Madeleine McGraw became a prominent figure in the horror genre after starring as Gwen in ‘The Black Phone’. Her performance provided both emotional weight and moments of levity in the supernatural thriller. She has also voiced characters in major animated projects, including Maddy McGear in ‘Cars 3’. McGraw appeared in the television series ‘Sulphur Springs’, a mystery drama popular with younger viewers. Her ability to navigate intense storylines has made her a standout among her peers.

Violet McGraw

Violet McGraw, the younger sister of Madeleine, is well-known for her role as Cady in the horror-hit ‘M3GAN’. The film became a viral sensation, particularly with younger audiences who embraced the titular doll’s dances and antics. She also played young Eleanor “Nell” Crain in the acclaimed Netflix series ‘The Haunting of Hill House’. Her filmography includes a role in ‘Black Widow’ as the young version of Yelena Belova. McGraw is frequently praised for her convincing performances in both supernatural and action-oriented projects.

Cailey Fleming

Cailey Fleming is best known for her role as Judith Grimes in the long-running series ‘The Walking Dead’. Joining the cast at a young age, she portrayed a survivor who was both tough and compassionate. She also appeared in the ‘Star Wars’ sequel trilogy as the young Rey during flashback sequences. Recently, she took on a lead role in the film ‘IF’, directed by John Krasinski, where she plays a girl who can see everyone’s imaginary friends. Her work in major franchises has made her a recognizable face to Gen Alpha.

Ever Anderson

Ever Anderson is the daughter of actress Milla Jovovich and director Paul W.S. Anderson, but she has established her own path in Hollywood. She portrayed a young Natasha Romanoff in the Marvel film ‘Black Widow’, showcasing her skills in action sequences. She later took on the iconic role of Wendy Darling in the Disney+ live-action adaptation ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’. Anderson is also a high-fashion model, frequently appearing in campaigns for luxury brands like Miu Miu. Her mix of franchise acting and fashion work has garnered her a diverse following.

Halle Bailey

Halle Bailey became a central figure in the Disney live-action universe when she was cast as Ariel in ‘The Little Mermaid’. Her vocal performance and portrayal of the beloved princess resonated deeply with a new generation of fans. Before her underwater debut, she was already famous as one half of the musical duo Chloe x Halle. She also starred in the television series ‘Grown-ish’ as Sky Forster. Her performance in the musical film ‘The Color Purple’ further demonstrated her range as both a singer and an actress.

Raegan Revord

Raegan Revord is widely recognized for her role as Missy Cooper in the hit sitcom ‘Young Sheldon’. As the twin sister of the titular character, her dry wit and relatable sibling rivalry made her a fan favorite. She has spent seven seasons developing the character, growing up on screen alongside her audience. Outside of the show, she is an avid reader and has launched her own book club to encourage literacy among her fans. She is also working on writing her own young adult novels.

Sadie Sink

Sadie Sink joined the cast of ‘Stranger Things’ in its second season as Max Mayfield and quickly became an integral part of the ensemble. Her character’s storyline in the fourth season, particularly the “Running Up That Hill” sequence, became a massive cultural moment. Beyond the sci-fi series, she received critical acclaim for her role in the film ‘The Whale’ and the ‘Fear Street’ trilogy. She also starred in Taylor Swift’s ‘All Too Well: The Short Film’, which expanded her reach into the music fan community. Sink is celebrated for her intense emotional range and screen presence.

Priah Ferguson

Priah Ferguson began as a guest star on ‘Stranger Things’ but was promoted to a series regular due to her immense popularity as Erica Sinclair. Her character is known for her sharp tongue, intelligence, and the iconic catchphrase “You can’t spell America without Erica.” She has also starred in the Halloween-themed film ‘The Curse of Bridge Hollow’ on Netflix. Ferguson has lent her voice to animated projects like ‘My Dad the Bounty Hunter’. Her comedic timing and confident persona have made her a standout star for younger viewers.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin rose to fame as Diane Johnson on the sitcom ‘Black-ish’, where she displayed incredible comedic maturity. At the age of 14, she became the youngest person to ever produce a studio film with the movie ‘Little’, in which she also starred. This achievement earned her a spot in the Guinness World Records and established her as a powerful young mogul. She continues to produce and star in content through her company, Genius Productions. Martin is also a frequent voice actress, appearing in projects like ‘PAW Patrol: The Movie’.

Lexi Rabe

Lexi Rabe became an instant favorite among Marvel fans for her role as Morgan Stark in ‘Avengers: Endgame’. Her delivery of the line “I love you 3000” became one of the most famous quotes in the history of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Following her superhero debut, she appeared in ‘Godzilla: King of the Monsters’ as a young Madison Russell. She is active on social media, where she shares updates on her life and upcoming projects with her young followers. Rabe’s connection to the Iron Man legacy ensures her lasting popularity with Gen Alpha.

Mykal-Michelle Harris

Mykal-Michelle Harris is a young actress who gained fame through her viral “softball” video before transitioning into professional acting. She starred as Santamonica Johnson in the ‘Black-ish’ spin-off series ‘Mixed-ish’. Her high energy and comedic talent led to her hosting her own Disney Channel segments and starring in ‘Raven’s Home’. She also voiced the lead character in the Disney Junior series ‘Alice’s Wonderland Bakery’. Harris is known for her charismatic personality and frequent appearances in Disney-related content.

Txunamy Ortiz

Txunamy Ortiz is a prominent social media influencer who successfully transitioned into acting on digital platforms. She is best known for her role as Brittany Diamond in the popular Brat TV series ‘Chicken Girls’ and ‘Mani’. Her large following on platforms like Instagram and YouTube has made her a household name among Gen Alpha. She often collaborates with her family, the Familia Diamond, creating content that reaches millions of young viewers. Her fashion sense and lifestyle content have made her a trendsetter for her demographic.

Anna Cathcart

Anna Cathcart is widely recognized for her role as Kitty Covey in the ‘To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before’ film trilogy. Her character was so popular that she received her own spin-off series on Netflix titled ‘XO, Kitty’. She also played Dizzy Tremaine in the hit Disney Channel ‘Descendants’ franchise, which has a massive following among Gen Alpha. Cathcart is known for her relatable charm and her ability to anchor a romantic comedy. Her career spans both major streaming platforms and traditional cable networks.

Peyton Elizabeth Lee

Peyton Elizabeth Lee became a Disney Channel icon as the lead character in ‘Andi Mack’, a show praised for its ground-breaking storytelling. She later transitioned to Disney+ where she took on the title role in ‘Doogie Kamealoha, M.D.’, a modern reimagining of ‘Doogie Howser, M.D.’. She also starred in the Disney+ original movie ‘Secret Society of Second-Born Royals’. Her long history with Disney-branded content has made her a very familiar face to young audiences. She continues to voice characters in animated series like ‘The Lion Guard’.

Malia Baker

Malia Baker gained a loyal following for her role as Mary Anne Spier in the Netflix adaptation of ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’. Her performance was noted for its warmth and sensitivity, accurately capturing the beloved literary character. She also starred in the mystery series ‘Are You Afraid of the Dark?: Curse of the Shadows’. Baker is an outspoken advocate for social justice and environmental issues, using her platform to inspire her peers. She recently appeared in the film ‘Harvest Moon’ and continues to take on diverse roles.

Momona Tamada

Momona Tamada is best known for her role as the fashion-forward Claudia Kishi in ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’ on Netflix. Her portrayal was celebrated for bringing a modern touch to the iconic character while honoring her Japanese-American heritage. She also played the young version of Lara Jean in the ‘To All the Boys’ film series. Recently, she joined the cast of ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ as Ty Lee and appeared in the film ‘Secret Headquarters’. Tamada is also a competitive dancer, a skill she has showcased in several of her projects.

Shay Rudolph

Shay Rudolph played Stacey McGill in the Netflix series ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’, where she portrayed a sophisticated teen managing Type 1 diabetes. Her performance helped raise awareness for the condition among younger viewers. Before her breakout in the series, she had a recurring role as Maya in the procedural drama ‘Lethal Weapon’. She is known for her interest in fashion and sustainability, often sharing her creative pursuits on social media. Rudolph’s relatable and stylish persona has made her a favorite within the Gen Alpha community.

Sophie Grace

Sophie Grace took on the role of Kristy Thomas, the president of the club, in the Netflix series ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’. Her portrayal of the ambitious and outspoken character resonated with viewers who admired her leadership qualities. She began her career in local theater before moving to television and film. Grace also appeared in the television movie ‘Terror in the Woods’. She maintains a strong connection with her fans through social media and her personal YouTube channel where she shares acting tips.

Vivien Lyra Blair

Vivien Lyra Blair achieved significant fame for her role as a young Princess Leia Organa in the Disney+ series ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’. Her performance captured the spirit of the iconic character, earning her praise from long-time ‘Star Wars’ fans and newcomers alike. Before her trip to a galaxy far, far away, she appeared as “Girl” in the viral Netflix hit ‘Bird Box’. she also starred in the indie film ‘Dear Zoe’ and the horror movie ‘The Boogeyman’. Her ability to play strong-willed, intelligent children has made her a standout talent.

Tamara Smart

Tamara Smart has become a fixture in the fantasy and horror genres for younger audiences. She starred as Kelly Ferguson in the Netflix film ‘A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting’. She also had major roles in ‘The Worst Witch’ series and the ‘Are You Afraid of the Dark?’ revival. In 2022, she played the young Jade Wesker in the ‘Resident Evil’ television series. Her experience in supernatural storytelling has made her a familiar face on major streaming platforms.

Elle Graham

Elle Graham delivered a memorable performance in the film adaptation of ‘Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret’ as Nancy Wheeler. Her work in the coming-of-age story was praised for its authenticity and comedic timing. She also had a recurring role as Savannah Dillon in the Disney Channel series ‘Sulphur Springs’. Earlier in her career, she appeared in the supernatural drama ‘The Originals’. Graham’s ability to navigate both period pieces and modern mysteries has earned her a steady fan base.

Dafne Keen

Dafne Keen first rose to international prominence for her role as Laura, also known as X-23, in the film ‘Logan’. Her intense, largely non-verbal performance alongside Hugh Jackman was considered one of the best child performances in recent years. She later transitioned to television as the lead character Lyra Belacqua in the HBO/BBC series ‘His Dark Materials’. Most recently, she joined the ‘Star Wars’ universe in the series ‘The Acolyte’. Keen is known for her athletic ability and her skill in performing her own stunts.

Kyla-Drew

Kyla-Drew is a versatile actress who has appeared in numerous projects popular with young audiences. She starred as Sasha Dixon in the Netflix sitcom ‘Dad Stop Embarrassing Me!’ alongside Jamie Foxx. She also had a long-standing recurring role as Mae Valentine in the Nickelodeon series ‘Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn’. Her film credits include a role in the thriller ‘Prisoners’. She is often recognized for her comedic range and her ability to play high-energy characters in family-oriented shows.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi began her career as a child actress in ‘Imagine That’ before becoming a star on ‘Black-ish’. Her character, Zoey Johnson, was so popular that she led the successful spin-off series ‘Grown-ish’ for six seasons. Recently, she took on the iconic role of Tinker Bell in the live-action ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’ on Disney+. Shahidi is also known for her activism and her pursuit of higher education, having graduated from Harvard University. Her status as a role model has made her a significant figure for younger girls.

Sofia Wylie

Sofia Wylie is a multi-talented performer who gained fame through her role as Buffy Driscoll on ‘Andi Mack’. She further cemented her stardom by playing Gina Porter in ‘High School Musical: The Musical: The Series’ on Disney+. Wylie is an accomplished dancer, having appeared on ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ and launched her own dance series on IGTV. She also starred in the Netflix fantasy film ‘The School for Good and Evil’. Her combination of acting, singing, and dancing has made her a quintessential modern triple threat.

Dara Reneé

Dara Reneé is best known for her powerhouse vocals and her role as Kourtney Greene in ‘High School Musical: The Musical: The Series’. Her character’s journey from a costume designer to a lead performer mirrored Reneé’s own rising star status. She recently starred as Uliana, the sister of Ursula, in the Disney+ movie ‘Descendants: The Rise of Red’. She also appeared in the Disney Channel Original Movie ‘Freaky Friday’. Her high-energy performances and soulful voice have made her a standout in the Disney musical universe.

Julia Lester

Julia Lester gained a significant following for her role as Ashlyn Caswell in ‘High School Musical: The Musical: The Series’. Her performance of the song “Wondering” became a viral hit among fans of the show. In 2022, she made her Broadway debut as Little Red Riding Hood in the revival of ‘Into the Woods’, earning a Tony Award nomination. She also appeared in the television series ‘Prince of Peoria’. Lester is admired for her vocal talent and her transition from television to the theatrical stage.

Saylor Curda

Saylor Bell Curda became a fan favorite during the third season of ‘High School Musical: The Musical: The Series’ as Maddox. Her portrayal of the tech-savvy camper provided important representation and resonance for younger viewers. She has also appeared in other Disney-related projects, including ‘I Didn’t Do It’ and ‘Bunk’d’. She comes from a family of actors, which helped her start her career at a young age. Her relatable acting style and participation in popular franchises have kept her in the spotlight.

Izabella Alvarez

Izabella Alvarez is a prominent young voice actress known for her role as Ronnie Anne Santiago in ‘The Loud House’ and its spin-off ‘The Casagrandes’. Her character is a favorite among Gen Alpha for her tough exterior and kind heart. In live-action, she has appeared in the series ‘Westworld’ and ‘Euphoria’. She also starred in the film ‘Magic Camp’ on Disney+. Alvarez is recognized for her ability to bring depth to both animated characters and complex live-action roles.

Navia Robinson

Navia Robinson is best known for her role as Nia Baxter-Flynn in the ‘That’s So Raven’ spin-off, ‘Raven’s Home’. She spent several seasons as a core cast member of the Disney Channel hit. Robinson also starred in the Netflix series ‘Free Rein’, which is popular among younger viewers who enjoy equestrian-themed stories. She provided the voice for Zora in the Marvel animated series ‘Marvel Rising’. Her consistent presence in Disney and Netflix content has made her a highly recognizable figure for her generation.

Sky Katz

Sky Katz rose to fame as a rapper on ‘America’s Got Talent’ before transitioning into a successful acting career. She starred as Tess O’Malley in the Disney Channel series ‘Raven’s Home’, where she showcased her comedic skills and musical talent. Following her time on Disney, she took on the lead role of Summer Torres in the Netflix surfing drama ‘Surviving Summer’. The show’s international success has expanded her fan base across the globe. Katz continues to release original music alongside her acting projects.

Ruth Righi

Ruth Righi gained a large following as the lead character in the Disney Channel series ‘Sydney to the Max’. The show, which dealt with modern-day issues and flashbacks to the 1990s, was a staple for younger viewers during its run. Before her television career, Righi performed on Broadway in the musical ‘School of Rock’. She also appeared in the television series ‘Unsolved’. Her musical background and relatable television persona have made her a favorite among Disney fans.

Kylie Cantrall

Kylie Cantrall is a triple-threat performer who first gained attention through her YouTube series ‘Hello Kylie’. She starred as the titular character in the Disney Channel series ‘Gabby Duran & the Unsittables’. More recently, she took on the lead role of Red in the hit Disney+ movie ‘Descendants: The Rise of Red’. She has also appeared in ‘High School Musical: The Musical: The Series’ as Dani. Cantrall is known for her high-energy dance routines and her original pop music.

Leah Sava Jeffries

Leah Jeffries gained significant attention when she was cast as Annabeth Chase in the Disney+ series ‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’. Her casting in the beloved franchise made her an immediate figure of interest for Gen Alpha fans of the book series. Before her journey to Camp Half-Blood, she appeared in the thriller film ‘Beast’ alongside Idris Elba. She also had a role in the series ‘Empire’ as Lola. Jeffries is praised for her confidence and her ability to handle the pressure of lead roles in major adaptations.

Ruby Rose Turner

Ruby Rose Turner is a well-known actress and dancer who starred as Cami Wrather on the Disney Channel series ‘Coop & Cami Ask the World’. She began her career as a professional dancer, appearing on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ and ‘Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition’. Turner has also lent her voice to the character Bridget in the animated series ‘Raven’s Home’. She is very active on social media, where she shares dance content and lifestyle updates. Recently, she starred in the ‘Descendants’ spin-off ‘Descendants: The Rise of Red’ as the young Queen of Hearts.

Scarlet Spencer

Scarlet Spencer is best known for her role as Ivy in the Nickelodeon series ‘Cousins for Life’. She also starred alongside Will Smith in the Netflix original film ‘Bright’ as Sophia Ward. Her comedic timing was further showcased in the series ‘#BlackAF’, where she played Izzy. Spencer has also appeared in ‘Black-ish’ and ‘Colony’. Her range across both intense dramas and lighthearted comedies has made her a versatile young talent in the industry.

Jayden Bartels

Jayden Bartels is a prolific creator who transitioned from social media stardom to a successful television career. She starred as Presley in the Nickelodeon buddy-comedy ‘Side Hustle’ alongside Jules LeBlanc. Bartels has also appeared in ‘Criminal Minds’ and ‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’. She is a talented singer-songwriter and has released numerous singles and an EP that are popular with her young audience. Her ability to engage with fans across multiple digital and traditional platforms has made her a staple of Gen Alpha media.

Tell us which of these rising stars is your favorite in the comments.