Gen Z’s Favorite Hollywood Actresses

Gen Z has shaped a new era of Hollywood stardom, favoring actresses who balance high-profile blockbusters with independent cinema and strong social media presence. These performers often transition seamlessly between streaming series and theatrical releases, building loyal fanbases through authentic public personas. Their careers are marked by diverse roles and a commitment to storytelling that reflects contemporary social values. This list highlights the actresses who have become the most influential figures for the current generation of viewers.

Zendaya

Zendaya rose to prominence on the Disney Channel before transitioning into major film and television roles. She earned critical acclaim for her portrayal of Rue Bennett in the HBO drama ‘Euphoria’, becoming the youngest two-time winner of the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. Her presence in the ‘Spider-Man’ franchise and the ‘Dune’ series has solidified her status as a global box-office draw. Beyond acting, she is recognized for her influence in the fashion industry and her work as a producer.

Jenna Ortega

Jenna Ortega gained widespread recognition for her title role in the Netflix series ‘Wednesday’, which became one of the platform’s most-watched shows. She has established a strong presence in the horror genre with performances in ‘Scream’ and ‘Scream VI’, earning her the title of a modern scream queen. Her early career included a notable role in the series ‘Jane the Virgin’ and a lead part in ‘Stuck in the Middle’. Ortega is also known for her vocal advocacy regarding social and political issues.

Florence Pugh

Florence Pugh is celebrated for her versatility across period dramas and action-heavy blockbusters. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role as Amy March in ‘Little Women’ and garnered praise for the psychological horror film ‘Midsommar’. Pugh joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Yelena Belova in ‘Black Widow’ and later appeared in the historical epic ‘Oppenheimer’. Her reputation for authenticity and her unique fashion choices have made her a favorite among younger audiences.

Millie Bobby Brown

Millie Bobby Brown became a household name at a young age for her role as Eleven in the Netflix hit ‘Stranger Things’. She successfully transitioned to film, starring in and producing the ‘Enola Holmes’ series for Netflix. Brown also appeared in ‘Godzilla: King of the Monsters’ and its sequel ‘Godzilla vs. Kong’. Her business ventures and status as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador have further increased her visibility and influence.

Sydney Sweeney

Sydney Sweeney is widely known for her breakout roles in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’ and ‘The White Lotus’, both of which earned her Emmy nominations. She has since expanded her career into film, starring in the romantic comedy ‘Anyone but You’ and the Marvel film ‘Madame Web’. Sweeney is also a producer, running her own production company called Fifty-Fifty Films. Her work ethic and mechanical hobbies, often shared on social media, have endeared her to a wide demographic.

Anya Taylor-Joy

Anya Taylor-Joy gained international fame with her leading role in the Netflix miniseries ‘The Queen’s Gambit’. She is recognized for her distinctive features and her performances in genre-bending films like ‘The Witch’, ‘Split’, and ‘The Menu’. Taylor-Joy took on the iconic role of Furiosa in the ‘Mad Max’ prequel ‘Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga’. Her ability to portray complex, often ethereal characters has established her as a prominent figure in contemporary cinema.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer made her acting debut as Jules Vaughn in ‘Euphoria’, a role that earned her significant praise and cultural impact. Before acting, she was a successful fashion model, walking for major brands such as Prada and Dior. Schafer expanded her filmography by starring in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ and the horror film ‘Cuckoo’. She is also a noted activist for LGBTQ+ rights and frequently contributes to the creative direction of her projects.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri is an actress, comedian, and writer who achieved breakout success with her role as Sydney Adamu in ‘The Bear’. She won an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe for her performance in the series, which highlights the high-pressure world of professional kitchens. Edebiri has also provided voices for animated projects like ‘Big Mouth’ and ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’. Her quick wit and relatable public persona have made her a staple of current pop culture discussions.

Rachel Zegler

Rachel Zegler rose to fame after being selected from an open casting call to play Maria in Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’. She continued her upward trajectory by starring in ‘Shazam! Fury of the Gods’ and leading ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’. Zegler is also set to portray the title character in the live-action adaptation of ‘Snow White’. Her strong vocal talent and active presence on social media platforms have helped her build a dedicated following.

Mia Goth

Mia Goth has become a defining figure in the modern horror genre, particularly through her collaboration with director Ti West. She delivered a dual performance in the slasher film ‘X’ and starred in its prequel ‘Pearl’, which she also co-wrote. Goth is known for her intense, transformative acting style and her work in independent films like ‘Suspiria’ and ‘Infinity Pool’. Her status as a “cult” favorite has resonated deeply with Gen Z film enthusiasts.

Maya Hawke

Maya Hawke gained widespread popularity after joining the cast of ‘Stranger Things’ as Robin Buckley in its third season. As the daughter of Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman, she has carved out her own path in both acting and music. She appeared in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’ and the Netflix film ‘Do Revenge’. Hawke is also a singer-songwriter with several folk-influenced albums that have gained a following among her fans.

Sadie Sink

Sadie Sink is best known for her role as Max Mayfield in ‘Stranger Things’, particularly for her acclaimed performance in the show’s fourth season. She earned further critical praise for her role in the film ‘The Whale’ and the short film ‘All Too Well: The Short Film’ directed by Taylor Swift. Sink began her career on Broadway, starring in productions like ‘Annie’ and ‘The Audience’. Her ability to convey deep emotional resonance has made her one of the most respected young actresses of her generation.

Hailee Steinfeld

Hailee Steinfeld first gained critical acclaim as a teenager for her role in the western ‘True Grit’, which earned her an Academy Award nomination. She has since starred in the ‘Pitch Perfect’ franchise and the ‘Transformers’ spin-off ‘Bumblebee’. Steinfeld joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Kate Bishop in the series ‘Hawkeye’ and voices Gwen Stacy in the ‘Spider-Verse’ films. She also maintains a successful music career with several hit singles and EPs.

Saoirse Ronan

Saoirse Ronan is a four-time Academy Award nominee known for her roles in critically acclaimed films like ‘Atonement’, ‘Brooklyn’, and ‘Lady Bird’. She has had a long-standing creative partnership with director Greta Gerwig, also starring as Jo March in ‘Little Women’. Ronan is celebrated for her technical skill and her ability to master various accents. Her career choices often focus on strong, character-driven narratives that appeal to discerning young viewers.

Lily-Rose Depp

Lily-Rose Depp began her career with roles in independent films such as ‘Yoga Hosers’ and ‘The King’. She gained significant media attention for her leading role in the HBO series ‘The Idol’. Depp has also been a long-time brand ambassador for Chanel, continuing a legacy started by her mother, Vanessa Paradis. Her aesthetic and presence in the high-fashion world have made her a prominent figure in Gen Z visual culture.

Madelyn Cline

Madelyn Cline achieved stardom through her role as Sarah Cameron in the Netflix series ‘Outer Banks’. The show’s popularity propelled her into the spotlight, leading to a role in the critically acclaimed ensemble film ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’. She has become a recognizable face in both the streaming landscape and the fashion industry. Cline’s relatable personality and participation in popular teen dramas have secured her a spot as a fan favorite.

Olivia Rodrigo

While primarily known as a global pop star, Olivia Rodrigo began her career as an actress on the Disney Channel. She starred in the series ‘Bizaardvark’ before taking on the lead role of Nini Salazar-Roberts in ‘High School Musical: The Musical: The Series’. Her transition into music with the album ‘SOUR’ broke numerous records and earned her multiple Grammy Awards. Rodrigo remains a significant cultural icon for Gen Z due to her songwriting and her roots in teen television.

Halle Bailey

Halle Bailey made history when she was cast as Ariel in the live-action reimagining of Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid’. She first gained fame as one half of the musical duo Chloe x Halle, mentored by Beyoncé. Bailey also appeared in the musical film adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’. Her vocal range and high-profile film roles have established her as a major talent in both the music and movie industries.

Elle Fanning

Elle Fanning has been acting since early childhood, appearing in films like ‘Super 8’ and ‘Somewhere’. She is widely known for her portrayal of Princess Aurora in the ‘Maleficent’ films and her role as Catherine the Great in the series ‘The Great’. Fanning has earned several award nominations for her comedic and dramatic performances. Her longevity in the industry and her sophisticated red-carpet style have made her a respected figure among young audiences.

Joey King

Joey King became a prominent star of the streaming era through the ‘The Kissing Booth’ trilogy on Netflix. She showcased her dramatic range in the miniseries ‘The Act’, for which she received Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. King also appeared in the action film ‘Bullet Train’ alongside Brad Pitt. She has been working in the industry since childhood and has successfully navigated the transition into adult roles.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained attention for playing Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. They have since starred in influential films such as ‘The Hate U Give’, which explores social justice themes, and ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’. Stenberg is also known for their work in ‘The Acolyte’, part of the Star Wars franchise. They are a vocal advocate for intersectional feminism and LGBTQ+ rights, often using their platform for activism.

Storm Reid

Storm Reid had her breakout role as Meg Murry in the film ‘A Wrinkle in Time’. She is widely recognized for her recurring role as Gia Bennett, the sister of Zendaya’s character, in ‘Euphoria’. Reid also starred in the thriller ‘Missing’ and the horror film ‘The Nun II’. In addition to her acting career, she is a student at the University of Southern California and runs her own production company.

Lana Condor

Lana Condor became a global sensation for her role as Lara Jean Covey in the ‘To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before’ film series. She has appeared in the action series ‘Deadly Class’ and the science fiction film ‘Alita: Battle Angel’. Condor also lent her voice to the animated film ‘Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken’. Her charm and the success of her romantic comedies have made her a prominent figure in Gen Z media.

Camila Mendes

Camila Mendes rose to fame for her portrayal of Veronica Lodge in the long-running series ‘Riverdale’. She has since starred in several Netflix original movies, including ‘Dangerous Lies’ and ‘Do Revenge’. Mendes also appeared in the romantic comedy ‘Upgraded’, which she executive produced. Her involvement in projects that subvert teen tropes has helped maintain her relevance with a younger demographic.

Lili Reinhart

Lili Reinhart is best known for playing Betty Cooper on the popular television series ‘Riverdale’. She transitioned into film with a role in ‘Hustlers’ and starred in the Amazon Studios drama ‘Chemical Hearts’. Reinhart also played the lead in the Netflix film ‘Look Both Ways’. She is highly regarded for her transparency regarding mental health and body image on social media.

Madelaine Petsch

Madelaine Petsch gained a large following for her role as Cheryl Blossom on the series ‘Riverdale’. She has parlayed her television success into film roles, including the horror movie ‘The Strangers: Chapter 1’. Petsch is also an active YouTube creator, where she shares behind-the-scenes content and lifestyle videos. Her entrepreneurial spirit is further evidenced by her various collaborations in the fashion and beauty industries.

Alexa Demie

Alexa Demie became a breakout star for her role as Maddy Perez in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. Her character’s fashion and makeup looks became viral sensations, heavily influencing Gen Z aesthetic trends. Demie has also appeared in the film ‘Waves’ and the series ‘Mainstream’. She is known for her selective approach to roles and her mysterious, highly curated public image.

Maude Apatow

Maude Apatow is recognized for her role as Lexi Howard in the hit series ‘Euphoria’. She began her career appearing in her father Judd Apatow’s films, such as ‘Knocked Up’ and ‘This Is 40’. Apatow has also ventured into stage acting, performing in the musical ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ off-Broadway. Her relatable portrayal of a grounded character in a high-intensity show has made her a fan favorite.

Barbie Ferreira

Barbie Ferreira gained significant recognition for her role as Kat Hernandez in the first two seasons of ‘Euphoria’. Before her television debut, she was a successful curve model and a vocal advocate for body positivity. She also appeared in the film ‘Unpregnant’, which addresses reproductive rights. Ferreira’s style and commitment to inclusivity have made her a prominent icon for Gen Z.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi first gained fame for her role as Zoey Johnson on the sitcom ‘Black-ish’. Her character’s popularity led to the spin-off series ‘Grown-ish’, which follows her character’s journey through college. Shahidi also portrayed Tinker Bell in the live-action film ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’. She is an honors graduate of Harvard University and is widely known for her social and political activism.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin is best known for her role as Diane Johnson on the comedy series ‘Black-ish’. She made history as the youngest person to ever produce a major Hollywood film with the movie ‘Little’. Martin has won multiple NAACP Image Awards for her acting and entrepreneurial efforts. She continues to develop projects through her production company, Genius Productions.

Kiernan Shipka

Kiernan Shipka first earned acclaim for her role as Sally Draper in the prestigious series ‘Mad Men’. She later starred as the lead in the Netflix series ‘Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’, a dark reimagining of the comic book character. Shipka has also appeared in films like ‘Totally Killer’ and the disaster movie ‘Twisters’. Her transition from a child actor to a leading lady in genre-heavy projects has kept her in the spotlight.

Xochitl Gomez

Xochitl Gomez gained international attention for her role as America Chavez in the Marvel Cinematic Universe film ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’. Prior to her Marvel debut, she starred in the Netflix series ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’. Gomez also won the 32nd season of ‘Dancing with the Stars’, further increasing her popularity. Her energetic personality and representation in major franchises have made her a rising star for younger fans.

Iman Vellani

Iman Vellani achieved fame after being cast as Kamala Khan in the Marvel Studios series ‘Ms. Marvel’. She reprised the role in the feature film ‘The Marvels’ alongside Brie Larson and Teyonah Parris. Vellani is known for being a genuine fan of the source material, which has resonated with the comic book community. Her casting was widely praised for providing important representation within the superhero genre.

Taylor Russell

Taylor Russell is an actress known for her compelling performances in independent films like ‘Waves’ and ‘Bones and All’. She also starred in the commercially successful ‘Escape Room’ film franchise. Russell has received several award nominations for her work, including an Independent Spirit Award. Her collaborations with acclaimed directors have established her as one of the most promising young talents in dramatic cinema.

Cailee Spaeny

Cailee Spaeny gained critical acclaim for her portrayal of Priscilla Presley in the biographical film ‘Priscilla’. She also appeared in the action-thriller ‘Civil War’ and the science fiction film ‘Alien: Romulus’. Spaeny’s early career included roles in ‘Bad Times at the El Royale’ and the series ‘Mare of Easttown’. Her ability to anchor major productions with grounded performances has made her a standout in recent years.

Thomasin McKenzie

Thomasin McKenzie is a New Zealand actress who gained international recognition for her role in ‘Leave No Trace’. She has since starred in major films such as ‘Jojo Rabbit’, ‘Old’, and ‘Last Night in Soho’. McKenzie is noted for her ability to play vulnerable yet resilient characters across various genres. Her consistent work in high-quality projects has earned her a strong reputation among cinephiles.

Sophie Thatcher

Sophie Thatcher is best known for her role as the younger version of Natalie in the hit series ‘Yellowjackets’. She also appeared in the Star Wars series ‘The Book of Boba Fett’ and the horror film ‘The Boogeyman’. Thatcher’s background in musical theater and her distinct grunge-influenced style have helped her stand out. Her performance in ‘Yellowjackets’ has been particularly praised for its intensity and emotional depth.

Jasmin Savoy Brown

Jasmin Savoy Brown is a prominent actress known for her roles in ‘Yellowjackets’ and the ‘Scream’ franchise. She plays Taissa Turner in the former and Mindy Meeks-Martin in the latter, becoming a key figure in modern horror. Brown also starred in the legal drama series ‘For the People’ and provides the voice for Phin Mason in the ‘Spider-Man: Miles Morales’ video game. She is an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ representation in the media.

Tati Gabrielle

Tati Gabrielle is recognized for her roles in several popular television series, including ‘The 100’ and ‘Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’. She played Marienne Bellamy in the Netflix thriller ‘You’ and appeared in the action film ‘Uncharted’. Gabrielle also lent her voice to the animated series ‘The Owl House’. Her versatility and presence in fan-favorite streaming shows have made her a recognizable face to Gen Z audiences.

Margaret Qualley

Margaret Qualley earned widespread praise for her leading role in the Netflix limited series ‘Maid’, which showcased her dramatic range. She has appeared in major films like ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’ and the surrealist comedy ‘Poor Things’. Qualley began her career as a dancer and model before transitioning into acting with the series ‘The Leftovers’. Her collaborations with auteur directors have made her a significant figure in both independent and mainstream cinema.

Kaitlyn Dever

Kaitlyn Dever is known for her roles in the comedy ‘Booksmart’ and the dramatic miniseries ‘Unbelievable’. She received several award nominations for her performance in the series ‘Dopesick’, which explored the opioid crisis. Dever has also appeared in the romantic comedy ‘Ticket to Paradise’ and the sci-fi thriller ‘No One Will Save You’. Her ability to shift between broad comedy and intense drama has defined her successful career.

Angourie Rice

Angourie Rice is an Australian actress who gained attention for her role in the film ‘The Nice Guys’. She is widely known for playing Betty Brant in the Marvel Cinematic Universe ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy. Rice also starred as Cady Heron in the musical film adaptation of ‘Mean Girls’ and appeared in the series ‘Mare of Easttown’. She hosts a literary podcast and is known for her thoughtful approach to her career.

McKenna Grace

McKenna Grace began her career as a child actress, appearing in projects like ‘Gifted’ and ‘The Haunting of Hill House’. She has successfully transitioned to teen roles, starring in ‘Ghostbusters: Afterlife’ and its sequel ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’. Grace is also a singer-songwriter and has released several singles that resonate with her young fanbase. Her extensive filmography at a young age has made her one of the most prolific actresses of her generation.

Emma Mackey

Emma Mackey rose to international fame for her role as Maeve Wiley in the Netflix series ‘Sex Education’. She received a BAFTA Rising Star Award for her performance in the show and for her work in the film ‘Emily’. Mackey also appeared in the blockbuster ‘Barbie’ and the mystery film ‘Death on the Nile’. Her resemblance to other famous actresses and her sharp comedic timing have made her a frequent subject of social media discussion.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin achieved widespread recognition for their portrayal of Princess Diana in the fourth season of ‘The Crown’. This role earned them a Golden Globe Award and an Emmy nomination. Corrin has since starred in films like ‘My Policeman’ and ‘Lady Chatterley’s Lover’. They also joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the villain Cassandra Nova in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’.

Milly Alcock

Milly Alcock became a global star after playing the young Rhaenyra Targaryen in the HBO series ‘House of the Dragon’. Her performance in the ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel was highly praised and helped establish the show’s massive success. Alcock has since been cast as Supergirl in the new DC Universe film franchise. Her rapid ascent to stardom has made her a significant figure for fans of epic fantasy and superhero media.

Phoebe Dynevor

Phoebe Dynevor gained massive popularity for her role as Daphne Bridgerton in the first season of the Netflix hit ‘Bridgerton’. The show’s success made her a household name and a prominent figure in the “regencycore” trend. She has since starred in the financial thriller ‘Fair Play’, which received critical acclaim at the Sundance Film Festival. Dynevor is the daughter of actress Sally Dynevor and has been acting since her teenage years.

Isabela Merced

Isabela Merced is known for her roles in ‘Dora and the Lost City of Gold’ and ‘Transformers: The Last Knight’. She has also appeared in the Marvel film ‘Madame Web’ and the romantic drama ‘Turtles All the Way Down’. Merced is a talented singer as well, having released an EP and several singles. Her upcoming roles in major franchises like ‘The Last of Us’ and the DC Universe continue to build her profile.

Sophie Turner

Sophie Turner became a global icon for her portrayal of Sansa Stark in the HBO series ‘Game of Thrones’. She also played the lead role of Jean Grey in the ‘X-Men’ film series, including ‘Dark Phoenix’. Turner has remained a fixture in the media due to her high-profile projects and her presence on social media. Her transition from a long-running fantasy epic to diverse film and television roles has kept her fanbase engaged for over a decade.

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