Hispanic Actresses Who Were Everywhere in the 2010s

The 2010s marked a significant era for representation as Hispanic actresses took center stage in some of the biggest television shows and blockbuster films of the decade. These talented performers broke barriers and moved beyond stereotypical roles to lead major franchises and critically acclaimed series. Audiences saw them dominate genres ranging from superhero action films to heartfelt sitcoms and gritty dramas. Their influence expanded globally and paved the way for a new generation of Latin talent in Hollywood. This list highlights the actresses who maintained a constant and impactful presence on our screens throughout those ten years.

Sofía Vergara

Sofía Vergara became a global superstar during the 2010s through her role as Gloria Delgado-Pritchett on the hit sitcom ‘Modern Family’. She received four Golden Globe nominations and four Primetime Emmy nominations for her performance in the series. The actress consistently ranked as the highest paid woman in television for a large portion of the decade. Her success extended to films such as ‘Chef’ and ‘Hot Pursuit’ where she showcased her comedic abilities. Vergara utilized her massive platform to become a powerful business mogul and an icon of pop culture.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldaña established herself as the queen of sci-fi cinema with leading roles in massive franchises throughout the decade. She starred as Gamora in the Marvel Cinematic Universe films including ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ and ‘Avengers: Infinity War’. The actress also reprised her role as Uhura in ‘Star Trek Into Darkness’ and ‘Star Trek Beyond’. Her ability to anchor billion-dollar blockbusters made her one of the most bankable stars in the industry. Saldaña proved her versatility by balancing action-heavy roles with dramatic performances in smaller films like ‘Infinitely Polar Bear’.

Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez experienced a major career resurgence in the 2010s across film, television, and music. She served as a judge on ‘American Idol’ for several seasons and helped revitalize the competition show. Her acting career thrived with the crime drama series ‘Shades of Blue’ where she played a corrupt detective. The decade culminated with her critically acclaimed performance as Ramona in the film ‘Hustlers’ which generated significant Oscar buzz. Lopez cemented her status as a triple threat who could command attention on any screen.

Michelle Rodriguez

Michelle Rodriguez remained a dominant force in the action genre by reprising her role as Letty Ortiz in the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise. She appeared in multiple installments including ‘Fast Five’ and ‘Furious 7’ which shattered box office records. The actress also returned to the world of sci-fi action with ‘Battle: Los Angeles’ and ‘Machete Kills’. Her tough and charismatic screen presence made her a go-to star for high-octane blockbusters. Rodriguez consistently advocated for stronger female characters within the male-dominated action landscape.

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson was ubiquitous in the 2010s appearing in indie hits and major comic book adaptations. She became the connecting thread of the Marvel Netflix universe by playing Claire Temple in ‘Daredevil’ and ‘Luke Cage’. Her film credits included ‘Sin City: A Dame to Kill For’ and the comedy ‘Top Five’ alongside Chris Rock. Dawson also lent her voice to Wonder Woman in several DC animated movies throughout the decade. Her work demonstrated a seamless ability to move between gritty television dramas and big-budget studio projects.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza defined a specific brand of deadpan comedy with her breakout role as April Ludgate on ‘Parks and Recreation’. The sitcom ran through the first half of the decade and launched her into film stardom. She starred in independent hits such as ‘Safety Not Guaranteed’ and ‘The To Do List’. Plaza later showcased her dramatic range and eccentric style in the superhero series ‘Legion’. Her unique persona made her an alternative icon for the 2010s generation.

Gina Rodriguez

Gina Rodriguez captured hearts with her titular role in the satirical romantic dramedy ‘Jane the Virgin’. Her performance earned her a Golden Globe award and established her as a leading lady in television. She used her newfound fame to produce projects that highlighted underrepresented voices in Hollywood. The actress also appeared in films like ‘Deepwater Horizon’ and voiced the main character in the animated series ‘Carmen Sandiego’. Rodriguez became a prominent advocate for Latinx representation in the entertainment industry.

America Ferrera

America Ferrera transitioned from her ‘Ugly Betty’ fame to new successes in both voice acting and sitcoms. She voiced Astrid in the highly successful ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ film trilogy which released two sequels in the 2010s. Ferrera returned to television comedy as the star and producer of the workplace sitcom ‘Superstore’. Her role as Amy Sosa resonated with audiences for its realistic portrayal of working-class life. She remained a visible activist and leader while maintaining a steady acting career.

Eva Longoria

Eva Longoria concluded her run on ‘Desperate Housewives’ early in the decade and immediately pivoted to producing and directing. She starred in the sitcom ‘Telenovela’ which spoofed the soap opera genre she knew well. Longoria also served as an executive producer for the hit series ‘Devious Maids’ which featured an all-Latina lead cast. She appeared in films like ‘Overboard’ and ‘Dora and the Lost City of Gold’ toward the end of the decade. Her influence behind the camera was just as significant as her on-screen presence.

Selena Gomez

Selena Gomez successfully transitioned from a Disney Channel child star to a mature actress and musician during the 2010s. She took on edgier roles in films like ‘Spring Breakers’ and gave a voice to Mavis in the ‘Hotel Transylvania’ franchise. Gomez starred in the indie drama ‘The Fundamentals of Caring’ and appeared in ‘The Big Short’. She also served as an executive producer for the hit series ’13 Reasons Why’. Her massive social media following kept her in the public eye throughout her career evolution.

Morena Baccarin

Morena Baccarin had a prolific decade in television with major roles in several cult favorite series. She starred as Jessica Brody in the acclaimed thriller ‘Homeland’ which earned her an Emmy nomination. Baccarin later played Dr. Leslie Thompkins in the Batman prequel series ‘Gotham’ for five seasons. She also entered the superhero film world as Vanessa in the massive hit ‘Deadpool’ and its sequel. Her work spanned intense drama and dark comedy with equal skill.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz broke stereotypes with her portrayal of the tough detective Rosa Diaz in ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. The show premiered in 2013 and became a beloved comedy staple throughout the rest of the decade. Her character was praised for her deadpan humor and for her storyline involving her bisexuality. Beatriz also delivered a moving performance in the critically acclaimed indie film ‘Short Term 12’. She became a significant figure for LGBTQ+ representation within the Latinx community.

Melissa Fumero

Melissa Fumero starred alongside Beatriz in ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ as the organized and ambitious Amy Santiago. Her chemistry with co-star Andy Samberg anchored the emotional core of the series. Fumero directed episodes of the show and became a prominent voice for Latina actresses in comedy. She appeared in guest roles on other series like ‘One Life to Live’ and ‘Gossip Girl’. Her character on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ provided a positive representation of a high-achieving Latina professional.

Dascha Polanco

Dascha Polanco rose to fame as Dayanara Diaz in the groundbreaking Netflix series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She remained a main cast member for the entire run of the show from 2013 to 2019. Polanco brought depth and vulnerability to her character in one of the most watched streaming series of the decade. She also appeared in films like ‘The Cobbler’ and ‘Joy’ alongside Jennifer Lawrence. Her unique style and presence made her a fixture on red carpets and fashion blogs.

Diane Guerrero

Diane Guerrero gained popularity for her roles in two of the decade’s most talked-about shows. She played Maritza Ramos in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and Lina in ‘Jane the Virgin’. Guerrero later took on the role of Crazy Jane in the DC Universe series ‘Doom Patrol’. She also wrote a memoir about her family’s deportation experience that brought attention to immigration issues. Her acting work was consistently praised for its charm and emotional resonance.

Cote de Pablo

Cote de Pablo spent the early part of the decade as one of the most popular actresses on television. She played Ziva David on the massive procedural hit ‘NCIS’ until her departure in 2013. Her character was a fan favorite and drove significant viewership numbers for the network. She later starred in the miniseries ‘The Dovekeepers’ based on the historical novel. De Pablo eventually made a highly publicized return to ‘NCIS’ at the very end of the decade.

Lana Parrilla

Lana Parrilla ruled the fantasy genre as the Evil Queen Regina Mills in ‘Once Upon a Time’. The show ran from 2011 to 2018 and developed a passionate cult following. Parrilla received praise for playing both the villain and the redeemed hero within the same series. She became a favorite at fan conventions and commanded a loyal fanbase. Her performance anchored the show through its many twists and reboots.

Jordana Brewster

Jordana Brewster was a key member of the ‘Fast & Furious’ family throughout the 2010s. She reprised her role as Mia Toretto in ‘Fast Five’ and subsequent sequels that defined the action genre for the decade. Brewster also starred in the television reboot of ‘Dallas’ as Elena Ramos. She appeared in the first season of the anthology series ‘American Crime Story’. Her consistent work kept her in the spotlight of mainstream entertainment.

Eiza González

Eiza González made the leap from Mexican telenovelas to Hollywood stardom during this decade. She starred in the television adaptation of ‘From Dusk Till Dawn’ for several seasons. Her breakout film role came in Edgar Wright’s ‘Baby Driver’ where she played the outlaw Darling. She closed the decade with roles in big-budget films like ‘Alita: Battle Angel’ and ‘Hobbs & Shaw’. González quickly established herself as a rising action star and fashion icon.

Ana de Armas

Ana de Armas began her Hollywood ascent in the mid-2010s after a successful career in Spain. She appeared in the dark comedy ‘War Dogs’ and the boxing biopic ‘Hands of Stone’. Her breakthrough came with a holographic role in the sci-fi masterpiece ‘Blade Runner 2049’. She ended the decade on a high note with her Golden Globe-nominated performance in ‘Knives Out’. Critics hailed her as one of the most exciting new talents to emerge in recent years.

Naya Rivera

Naya Rivera left an indelible mark on pop culture as Santana Lopez on the musical series ‘Glee’. Her character evolved from a background antagonist to a primary lead with a groundbreaking LGBTQ+ storyline. Rivera showcased her exceptional singing and dancing talents in nearly every episode until the show ended in 2015. She later appeared in the series ‘Devious Maids’ and released a memoir. Her portrayal of Santana remains one of the most celebrated performances of the show.

Bella Thorne

Bella Thorne dominated the teen market early in the decade as CeCe Jones on the Disney Channel series ‘Shake It Up’. She transitioned into film with roles in ‘The DUFF’ and ‘Blended’. Thorne also starred in the television drama ‘Famous in Love’ later in the decade. She became known for her prolific output and constant presence in social media headlines. Her career shifted from child star to independent film actress and internet personality.

Christian Serratos

Christian Serratos had a visible presence in two major franchises during the 2010s. She finished her run as Angela in the ‘Twilight’ saga films released at the start of the decade. She then joined the cast of ‘The Walking Dead’ as the tough survivor Rosita Espinosa. Her character became a staple of the series as it dominated cable television ratings. Serratos maintained this role for several years while becoming a fan favorite.

Aimee Garcia

Aimee Garcia was a regular presence on television screens in popular crime and genre shows. She played Jamie Batista on the hit series ‘Dexter’ during its final seasons. Garcia later joined the cast of ‘Lucifer’ as the forensic scientist Ella Lopez. Her film credits included the reboot of ‘RoboCop’ and the animated ‘The Addams Family’. She brought a consistent warmth and humor to dark procedural dramas.

Gina Torres

Gina Torres commanded the screen as the powerful lawyer Jessica Pearson in the legal drama ‘Suits’. She played the role for most of the decade and eventually led her own spinoff series named ‘Pearson’. Torres also had a recurring role in the intense thriller ‘Hannibal’ as Bella Crawford. She appeared in the sci-fi western world of ‘Westworld’ towards the end of the 2010s. Her authoritative presence made her the perfect fit for playing leaders and professionals.

Alice Braga

Alice Braga built a strong resume with roles in both dystopian sci-fi films and crime dramas. She starred in films like ‘Predators’ and ‘Elysium’ alongside major Hollywood stars. Her biggest television role was Teresa Mendoza in the series ‘Queen of the South’. The show allowed her to lead a complex narrative about a woman rising through the ranks of a drug cartel. Braga successfully balanced her work between blockbuster movies and character-driven television.

Vanessa Hudgens

Vanessa Hudgens shed her ‘High School Musical’ image with gritty roles in the 2010s. She starred in the action fantasy ‘Sucker Punch’ and the crime drama ‘Spring Breakers’. Hudgens also appeared in ‘Machete Kills’ and the live television musical ‘Grease Live’. She found success on Netflix with ‘The Princess Switch’ movies later in the decade. Her choices demonstrated a desire to experiment with different genres and styles.

Alexa PenaVega

Alexa PenaVega continued her acting career well past her childhood stardom in the ‘Spy Kids’ movies. She appeared in ‘Machete Kills’ and ‘Sin City: A Dame to Kill For’ directed by Robert Rodriguez. The actress had a recurring role in the musical drama series ‘Nashville’. She also competed on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ and starred in numerous Hallmark Channel movies. PenaVega maintained a steady connection with audiences through family-friendly entertainment.

Salma Hayek Pinault

Salma Hayek remained a Hollywood powerhouse with a mix of comedies and dramatic films. She starred in the commercially successful ‘Grown Ups’ films alongside Adam Sandler. Hayek garnered critical acclaim for her role in the dark fantasy ‘Tale of Tales’ and the drama ‘Beatriz at Dinner’. She also lent her voice to the animated hit ‘Puss in Boots’. Her versatility allowed her to stay relevant in both mass-market comedies and art-house cinema.

Penélope Cruz

Penélope Cruz continued her reign as an international star with significant projects in the 2010s. She starred in ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides’ which was a massive global box office hit. Cruz delivered a memorable performance as Donatella Versace in ‘The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story’. She frequently collaborated with director Pedro Almodóvar in Spanish films like ‘Pain and Glory’. Her work consistently garnered awards and critical respect on a global scale.

Anya Taylor-Joy

Anya Taylor-Joy exploded onto the scene with her debut in the horror film ‘The Witch’. She quickly became a scream queen for the new generation with roles in ‘Split’ and ‘Glass’. Her unique look and intense acting style drew immediate attention from critics and audiences. She also appeared in the series ‘Peaky Blinders’ and the dark comedy ‘Thoroughbreds’. Taylor-Joy established herself as one of the most promising young actresses of the decade.

Rosa Salazar

Rosa Salazar built a strong filmography with roles in young adult adaptations and survival thrillers. She appeared in ‘The Divergent Series: Insurgent’ and ‘Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials’. Her biggest break came with the lead motion-capture role in ‘Alita: Battle Angel’. Salazar also starred in the viral Netflix horror hit ‘Bird Box’. Her energetic performances made her a standout in action-oriented projects.

Justina Machado

Justina Machado received overdue recognition for her leading role in the reimagined sitcom ‘One Day at a Time’. Her portrayal of Penelope Alvarez tackled PTSD and single motherhood with humor and grace. Before that she appeared in ‘The Purge: Anarchy’ and the drama ‘Queen of the South’. She was a working actress for years who finally found a vehicle that showcased her full range. The show was praised largely due to her grounding performance.

Dania Ramirez

Dania Ramirez was a familiar face in ensemble casts for television and film. She starred as one of the leads in ‘Devious Maids’ and played Cinderella in ‘Once Upon a Time’. Her film roles included the action thriller ‘Premium Rush’ and the comedy ‘American Reunion’. Ramirez consistently secured roles in high-profile network television series. She brought charisma and energy to every project she joined.

Roselyn Sánchez

Roselyn Sánchez was a key player in the Lifetime hit series ‘Devious Maids’. She played Carmen Luna for four seasons and brought comedic flair to the role. Sánchez later starred in the drama series ‘Grand Hotel’ which she also produced. She remained a visible figure in English and Spanish language media throughout the decade. Her work often highlighted the glamorous side of Latinx stories.

Judy Reyes

Judy Reyes moved from her long-running role on ‘Scrubs’ to the dramedy ‘Devious Maids’. She played Zoila Diaz and served as the grounded emotional center of the group. Reyes later took on a very different role as Quiet Ann in the crime comedy ‘Claws’. Her transformation for ‘Claws’ demonstrated her range as a character actress. She remained a consistent and reliable performer on television for the entire decade.

Ana Ortiz

Ana Ortiz followed up her ‘Ugly Betty’ success with a lead role in ‘Devious Maids’. She played the central character Marisol Suarez who investigates a murder in the first season. Ortiz later starred in the spy dramedy ‘Whiskey Cavalier’ alongside Scott Foley. She also appeared in episodes of ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ and ‘Black-ish’. Her ability to handle both mystery and comedy made her a valuable television star.

Cierra Ramirez

Cierra Ramirez became a breakout star on the family drama ‘The Fosters’. She played Mariana Adams Foster for five seasons and became a fan favorite. This success led to her starring in her own spinoff series ‘Good Trouble’ at the end of the decade. She also pursued a music career and appeared in the film ‘Girl in Progress’. Ramirez represented a new wave of Latina talent on cable television.

Victoria Justice

Victoria Justice was a major teen idol at the start of the decade with her show ‘Victorious’. The Nickelodeon series launched her music and acting career to a global audience. She starred in the MTV thriller series ‘Eye Candy’ where she played a hacker solving crimes. Justice also appeared in the remake of ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’. She remained a pop culture fixture through her acting and social media presence.

Camila Mendes

Camila Mendes became an instant star when she was cast as Veronica Lodge in ‘Riverdale’. The teen drama premiered in 2017 and became a massive pop culture phenomenon. Her portrayal of the sophisticated high school student earned her a Teen Choice Award. Mendes also starred in the Netflix rom-com ‘The Perfect Date’. Despite starting her career late in the decade she made a massive impact very quickly.

Genesis Rodriguez

Genesis Rodriguez showcased her talent in a variety of genres from comedy to action. She acted alongside Will Ferrell in the Spanish-language comedy ‘Casa de mi Padre’. Rodriguez also had roles in ‘Man on a Ledge’ and the Kevin Smith horror film ‘Tusk’. She voiced the character Honey Lemon in Disney’s ‘Big Hero 6’. Her ability to switch between serious thrillers and broad comedy kept her in demand.

Andrea Navedo

Andrea Navedo is best known for her role as Xiomara Villanueva in ‘Jane the Virgin’. She played the loving and youthful mother of the title character for five seasons. Navedo also appeared in the fantasy action film ‘Bright’ with Will Smith. Her chemistry with the cast of ‘Jane the Virgin’ was a highlight of the series. She brought warmth and relatable struggles to her portrayal of a single mother.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson had a meteoric rise in the 2010s with critically acclaimed roles. She starred in the indie hit ‘Dear White People’ and the boxing drama ‘Creed’. Thompson joined the Marvel universe as Valkyrie in ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ and battled aliens in ‘Men in Black: International’. She also played a major role in the HBO series ‘Westworld’. Her range extended from intimate dramas to massive blockbuster spectacles.

Odette Annable

Odette Annable was a constant presence on network television dramas. She joined the cast of ‘House’ for its final season as Dr. Jessica Adams. Annable later played the villain Reign in the superhero series ‘Supergirl’. She also had a lead role in the astronaut drama ‘The Astronaut Wives Club’. Her classic look and acting chops allowed her to fit into various dramatic worlds.

Sarah Shahi

Sarah Shahi starred as the mediator Kate Reed in the legal drama ‘Fairly Legal’. She then took on a fan-favorite role as Sameen Shaw in ‘Person of Interest’. Shahi brought intense physicality and dry wit to the action-heavy series. She also appeared in ‘Chicago Fire’ and ‘The Rookie’. Her background in martial arts helped her excel in action-oriented television roles.

Paz Vega

Paz Vega continued to bridge the gap between European cinema and Hollywood productions. She voiced the horses in ‘Madagascar 3’ and appeared in ‘Grace of Monaco’. Vega starred in the mysterious Netflix series ‘The OA’ as Renata. She eventually took on the iconic role of Catalina Creel in a reboot of ‘Cuna de Lobos’. Her career maintained a steady international flavor throughout the decade.

Kate del Castillo

Kate del Castillo is an icon of Mexican television who crossed over to American projects. She starred in the film ‘The 33’ about the Chilean mining disaster. Del Castillo also played a major role in the Netflix series ‘Ingobernable’ as the First Lady of Mexico. She reprised her most famous role in ‘La Reina del Sur’ which garnered massive ratings. Her fearless approach to roles and personal life kept her constantly in the headlines.

Tell us which of these actresses had your favorite performance of the decade in the comments.