Teen Actresses Who Deserve Way More Attention

Hollywood is currently experiencing a surge of incredible young talent that is redefining the landscape of film and television. While some teenage stars have already become household names, there are many others working consistently who have not yet received the global recognition they merit. These actresses are delivering powerful performances in everything from blockbuster superhero franchises to intimate independent dramas. The following list highlights forty teen actresses born in 2006 or later who are proving themselves as the next generation of leading ladies.

Mckenna Grace

Mckenna Grace has built an extensive resume with roles in both film and television projects that span various genres. She captivated audiences as a young genius in ‘Gifted’ before taking on major roles in ‘Ghostbusters: Afterlife’ and its sequel ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’. Her television work includes a memorable turn as a young commander in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ which earned her critical acclaim. She also showcases her musical talents by releasing original songs that often accompany her acting projects.

Ariana Greenblatt

Ariana Greenblatt has quickly transitioned from Disney Channel sitcoms to major motion pictures. She delivered a standout performance in ‘Barbie’ as a cynical teenager who challenges the worldview of the main character. Science fiction fans recognize her from her role as young Ahsoka Tano in the ‘Star Wars’ series ‘Ahsoka’. Her ability to handle intense action roles was further demonstrated in the adaptation of the video game ‘Borderlands’.

Xochitl Gomez

Xochitl Gomez burst onto the scene with her portrayal of America Chavez in the Marvel Cinematic Universe film ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’. Before entering the superhero realm she starred as Dawn Schafer in the first season of ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’. Her charismatic presence and athletic abilities were showcased when she won a season of ‘Dancing with the Stars’. She continues to be a prominent voice for Latinx representation in mainstream media.

Julia Butters

Julia Butters gained widespread attention for her role as a precocious child actor in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood’. She held her own in scenes opposite Leonardo DiCaprio and earned praise for her poise and delivery. Later she appeared in Steven Spielberg’s autobiographical film ‘The Fabelmans’ as the sister of the protagonist. Her selection of high profile projects suggests a career trajectory focused on working with prestige directors.

Chloe Coleman

Chloe Coleman has proven her versatility by starring alongside major action stars in films like ‘My Spy’ and ‘Gunpowder Milkshake’. She took on the role of a barbarian’s daughter in the fantasy adventure ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’. Her dramatic skills were utilized in the hit HBO series ‘Big Little Lies’ where she played the daughter of one of the main leads. Coleman consistently brings a grounded maturity to her child and teen roles.

Brooklynn Prince

Brooklynn Prince first stunned critics with her heartbreaking performance in ‘The Florida Project’ at a very young age. She has since matured into a capable teen actress with leading voice roles in ‘The Angry Birds Movie 2’ and a gritty turn in the thriller ‘The Marsh King’s Daughter’. Prince also showcased her comedic timing in the horror comedy ‘Cocaine Bear’. She remains one of the most promising indie talents transitioning into mainstream features.

Cailey Fleming

Cailey Fleming became a fan favorite for her lengthy role as Judith Grimes in the apocalyptic series ‘The Walking Dead’. She also appeared in the ‘Star Wars’ sequel trilogy as a young Rey during flashback sequences. In 2024 she took on a lead role in the fantasy film ‘IF’ which allowed her to display a wide range of emotions. Her experience in intense drama has prepared her for complex leading roles.

Abby Ryder Fortson

Abby Ryder Fortson charmed audiences as the daughter of Scott Lang in the first two ‘Ant-Man’ movies. She later headlined the long awaited adaptation of Judy Blume’s ‘Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret’ where she received praise for her relatable portrayal of adolescence. Her ability to navigate both blockbuster effects films and intimate stories about growing up sets her apart. Fortson continues to select projects that focus on strong female protagonists.

Momona Tamada

Momona Tamada is best known for her role as Claudia Kishi in Netflix’s ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’ where she became a fashion icon for young viewers. She recently showcased her physical agility and martial arts training as Ty Lee in the live action adaptation of ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’. Tamada also appeared in the superhero film ‘Secret Headquarters’ alongside Owen Wilson. Her background in competitive dancing adds a unique physicality to her performances.

Kiawentiio

Kiawentiio garnered international attention for her powerful portrayal of Katara in the live action series ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’. Prior to this breakout role she starred as the titular character in the film ‘Beans’ which explored the Oka Crisis from a young indigenous perspective. She also had a recurring role in the series ‘Anne with an E’. Kiawentiio is a singer and songwriter who often incorporates her Mohawk heritage into her artistic work.

Leah Sava Jeffries

Leah Sava Jeffries secured a massive role as Annabeth Chase in the Disney+ series ‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’. Her casting sparked conversations about diversity in book adaptations and she won over audiences with her fierce and intelligent performance. Before this she appeared in the survival thriller ‘Beast’ playing the daughter of Idris Elba’s character. Jeffries has quickly become a role model for a new generation of fantasy fans.

Alisha Weir

Alisha Weir delivered a powerhouse performance as the title character in ‘Matilda the Musical’ where she showcased exceptional singing and dancing skills. She pivoted to the horror genre with a leading role in the vampire film ‘Abigail’. In ‘Abigail’ she played a ballerina with a dark secret and performed many of her own stunts. Weir has demonstrated an impressive range that spans from whimsical family entertainment to intense horror.

Amie Donald

Amie Donald is a dancer and actress who provided the physical movement for the killer doll in the horror hit ‘M3GAN’. Her background in dance allowed her to perform the uncanny and robotic movements that went viral on social media. She also appeared as a hybrid child in the fantasy series ‘Sweet Tooth’. Donald is carving out a niche for herself as a physical performer capable of bringing non human characters to life.

Violet McGraw

Violet McGraw has become a staple in the horror and thriller genres with notable roles in ‘The Haunting of Hill House’ and ‘M3GAN’. In ‘Black Widow’ she played the younger version of Florence Pugh’s character Yelena Belova. Her ability to convey genuine fear and emotion has made her a top choice for dark and suspenseful projects. She continues to build a strong resume with recurring roles in various streaming series.

Madeleine McGraw

Madeleine McGraw is known for her sharp comedic timing and memorable dialogue in the horror film ‘The Black Phone’. She stars as a time traveling camper in the Disney Channel mystery series ‘Secrets of Sulphur Springs’. McGraw often plays characters who are tough and outspoken and fiercely loyal to their friends. Her voice acting work includes characters in major animated films like ‘Toy Story 4’ and ‘The Mitchells vs. the Machines’.

Vivien Lyra Blair

Vivien Lyra Blair captured the hearts of ‘Star Wars’ fans with her portrayal of a young Princess Leia Organa in the series ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’. She brought a perfect mix of precociousness and wisdom to the iconic role. Blair also starred in the adaptation of Stephen King’s ‘The Boogeyman’ where she played a child terrified of the dark. Her early work includes a memorable role as Girl in the thriller ‘Bird Box’.

Darby Camp

Darby Camp is recognized for her role as the daughter of Reese Witherspoon’s character in the acclaimed drama ‘Big Little Lies’. She took center stage in the family adventure film ‘Clifford the Big Red Dog’. Camp also appeared in the holiday film ‘The Christmas Chronicles’ and its sequel. Her career balances serious dramatic work with lighthearted family entertainment.

Raegan Revord

Raegan Revord spent several years making audiences laugh as Missy Cooper in the hit sitcom ‘Young Sheldon’. Her portrayal of the sarcastic and business savvy twin sister made her a standout in the ensemble cast. Revord has grown up on screen and developed a strong sense of comedic timing. She is now looking to expand her repertoire with roles outside of the sitcom format.

Priah Ferguson

Priah Ferguson became a breakout star on ‘Stranger Things’ with her portrayal of the sassy and intelligent Erica Sinclair. Originally intended for a smaller role her charisma led to her becoming a main cast member in later seasons. She voiced a lead character in the animated series ‘My Dad the Bounty Hunter’. Ferguson has established herself as a standout performer who brings energy and wit to every project.

Lidya Jewett

Lidya Jewett delivered a terrifying performance as one of the possessed girls in ‘The Exorcist: Believer’. She was also a series regular on the crime comedy drama ‘Good Girls’ where she played the daughter of Retta’s character. Jewett appeared in the family fantasy film ‘Nightbooks’ on Netflix. Her work demonstrates a capability to handle intense horror as well as character driven drama.

Saniyya Sidney

Saniyya Sidney received critical acclaim for playing Venus Williams in the biographical drama ‘King Richard’. Her filmography includes roles in prestigious films like ‘Fences’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. She portrayed young Sasha Obama in the series ‘The First Lady’. Sidney is known for her dedication to capturing the essence of real life figures in historical dramas.

Demi Singleton

Demi Singleton starred alongside Saniyya Sidney in ‘King Richard’ playing the role of tennis legend Serena Williams. She also appeared in the crime drama series ‘Godfather of Harlem’ as the daughter of Forest Whitaker’s character. Her background includes performing on Broadway in major productions like ‘The Lion King’. Singleton combines athletic physicality with dramatic depth in her on screen performances.

Akira Akbar

Akira Akbar took on the dramatic lead role of Ashley Banks in ‘Bel-Air’ the dramatic reimagining of the classic sitcom. She previously appeared in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as a young Monica Rambeau in ‘Captain Marvel’. Her role in ‘Bel-Air’ has allowed her to tackle complex storylines involving teenage romance and social issues. Akbar is establishing herself as a strong dramatic actress in television.

Trinity Jo-Li Bliss

Trinity Jo-Li Bliss was introduced to global audiences as Tuk the youngest Sully child in ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’. She is set to reprise her role in future installments of the massive science fiction franchise. Bliss also stars in the television series ‘The Garcias’ which is a reboot of a classic Nickelodeon show. She is a talented singer and songwriter who releases her own music.

Miya Cech

Miya Cech has become a familiar face in the science fiction and fantasy genres with roles in ‘The Darkest Minds’ and ‘Rim of the World’. She starred in the mystery series ‘Surfside Girls’ about teenagers solving supernatural crimes. Cech played a young version of Ali Wong’s character in the romantic comedy ‘Always Be My Maybe’. Her resume is filled with adventurous and intelligent characters.

Helena Zengel

Helena Zengel held her own against Tom Hanks in the western drama ‘News of the World’ for which she received a Golden Globe nomination. The German actress originally broke out in the intense drama ‘System Crasher’ where she played a troubled child. Her performances are characterized by a raw intensity and emotional maturity rare for her age. She continues to work on projects in both Europe and the United States.

Ever Anderson

Ever Anderson played the young Natasha Romanoff in the Marvel film ‘Black Widow’. She took on the lead role of Wendy Darling in the live action film ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’. As the daughter of actress Milla Jovovich and director Paul W.S. Anderson she has action movies in her blood. Anderson is quickly building a modeling career alongside her acting work.

Malia Baker

Malia Baker is best known for her role as Mary Anne Spier in ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’ on Netflix. She joined the ‘Descendants’ franchise in the film ‘Descendants: The Rise of Red’ playing the daughter of Cinderella. Baker appeared in the horror anthology series ‘Are You Afraid of the Dark?’. She is an outspoken advocate for social justice and uses her platform to discuss important issues.

Sophie Grace

Sophie Grace starred as Kristy Thomas the president of the club in the acclaimed series ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’. Her performance was praised for capturing the leadership and determination of the iconic book character. She has also appeared in television movies such as ‘Terror in the Woods’. Grace brings a natural confidence and screen presence to her leadership roles.

YaYa Gosselin

YaYa Gosselin led the cast of the superhero film ‘We Can Be Heroes’ directed by Robert Rodriguez. She starred in the mystery series ‘Surfside Girls’ alongside Miya Cech. Gosselin also had a recurring role in the drama series ’13 Reasons Why’. She excels in roles that require a mix of action and leadership and emotional vulnerability.

Faithe Herman

Faithe Herman charmed audiences as the youngest sibling Darla Dudley in the ‘Shazam!’ superhero movies. She was a series regular on the hit drama ‘This Is Us’ playing the daughter of Randall and Beth Pearson. Her character in ‘Shazam!’ provided the emotional heart of the foster family dynamic. Herman has grown up on screen transitioning from adorable child roles to more mature parts.

Hala Finley

Hala Finley held her own as a series regular on the sitcom ‘Man with a Plan’ alongside Matt LeBlanc. She showed her dramatic range in the science fiction thriller ‘Paradise Highway’ appearing with Juliette Binoche and Morgan Freeman. Finley also played a superhero with time manipulation powers in ‘We Can Be Heroes’. Her career is a mix of broad comedy and gritty dramatic thrillers.

Dior Goodjohn

Dior Goodjohn joined the cast of ‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’ as the strong and competitive Clarisse La Rue. She previously appeared in the ‘Are You Afraid of the Dark?’ reboot series as a member of the Midnight Society. Goodjohn had a recurring role on the reboot of the sitcom ‘Head of the Class’. She brings an intense physical energy and toughness to her characters.

Ella Jay Basco

Ella Jay Basco made her film debut as Cassandra Cain in the DC comic book movie ‘Birds of Prey’. She worked closely with Margot Robbie and showcased great chemistry in the female led action film. Basco comes from a family of actors and has deep roots in the industry. She continues to seek out roles that highlight Asian American representation.

Thalia Tran

Thalia Tran voiced the character of Little Noi in the animated Disney film ‘Raya and the Last Dragon’. She plays the knife throwing warrior Mai in the live action ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ series. Her performance as Mai captures the signature stoicism and deadpan humor of the character. Tran is skilled at portraying characters who are outwardly tough but internally complex.

Melody Hurd

Melody Hurd delivered an emotional performance as the daughter of Kevin Hart in the drama ‘Fatherhood’. She also starred in the horror anthology series ‘Them’ where she played a child in a family terrorized by supernatural forces. Her ability to convey deep fear and sadness was praised by critics. Hurd is proving to be a capable dramatic actress in intense narratives.

Mila Davis-Kent

Mila Davis-Kent made her feature film debut in ‘Creed III’ playing the deaf daughter of Adonis Creed. Her performance was a highlight of the film and she shared touching scenes with Michael B. Jordan. Davis-Kent is a deaf actress who brings authentic representation to the screen. She effectively communicates complex emotions through American Sign Language and facial expressions.

Mykal-Michelle Harris

Mykal-Michelle Harris was a breakout star on the sitcom ‘Mixed-ish’ where she played the young Santamonica. She currently stars in the Disney Channel revival series ‘Raven’s Home’. Harris is known for her high energy and precocious delivery of comedic lines. She gained early internet fame for viral videos before transitioning to professional acting.

Lexi Rabe

Lexi Rabe is famous for playing Morgan Stark the daughter of Tony Stark in ‘Avengers: Endgame’. She delivered the iconic line “I love you 3000” which became a cultural phenomenon. Rabe also appeared in ‘Godzilla: King of the Monsters’ as a young girl caught in the monster battles. She is continuing to work in the industry while attending school.

Audrey Grace Marshall

Audrey Grace Marshall played the young version of Kaley Cuoco’s character in the hit series ‘The Flight Attendant’. She starred as the lead character Viv in the live action reboot ‘The Fairly OddParents: Fairly Odder’. Marshall appeared in the romantic comedy ‘The Last Summer’ on Netflix. Her work spans both surreal comedy and psychological drama flashbacks.

Please share your favorite performance from these talented young actresses in the comments.