The Absolute Best Hispanic Actresses of the Past 15 Years

Hispanic actresses have significantly shaped the global entertainment landscape over the last decade and a half, delivering powerful performances across film and television. From breakout stars in streaming series to Academy Award winners, these women have broken barriers and brought diverse stories to the forefront. This list highlights the most influential and talented actresses of Hispanic descent who have defined the industry between 2011 and 2026.

Seychelle Gabriel

Seychelle Gabriel is an American actress with Mexican heritage who gained prominence for her voice work and television roles. She provided the voice for Asami Sato in the critically acclaimed animated series ‘The Legend of Korra’ from 2012 to 2014. In live-action, she starred as Lourdes Delgado in the science fiction series ‘Falling Skies’ and appeared in the 2016 film ‘Sleight’. Her work in the series ‘Get Shorty’ further demonstrated her range in dramatic storytelling. Gabriel has maintained a steady presence in the industry through both vocal and physical performances.

Emeraude Toubia

Emeraude Toubia, of Mexican and Lebanese descent, became a household name for her role as Isabelle Lightwood in the series ‘Shadowhunters’. The show, based on ‘The Mortal Instruments’ book series, ran from 2016 to 2019 and earned her a dedicated international following. She later starred in the romantic comedy series ‘With Love’, which explores the lives of siblings during various holidays. Toubia has also been recognized for her advocacy regarding Latin representation in Hollywood. Her career over the last decade has focused on lead roles in major streaming and cable productions.

Jackie Cruz

Jackie Cruz is a Dominican-American actress best known for her portrayal of Marisol ‘Flaca’ Gonzales on the series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She was a member of the ensemble cast that won multiple Screen Actors Guild Awards for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series. Following the conclusion of the show, Cruz appeared in the film ‘Lansky’ and the musical drama ‘Good Intentions’. She has also ventured into the music industry, releasing her own independent projects. Her transition from a breakout television star to a multifaceted performer has been a highlight of her career since 2013.

Michelle Veintimilla

Michelle Veintimilla is an American actress of Ecuadorian and Colombian descent who made an impact with her role as Firefly in the series ‘Gotham’. She appeared as a series regular in the drama ‘The Baker and the Beauty’, which followed a romance between a baker and an international superstar. Veintimilla also starred in the television series ‘Seven Seconds’ and appeared on Broadway in the musical ‘The Visit’. Her ability to move between intense superhero dramas and grounded romantic stories defines her professional trajectory. She continues to be a versatile talent in both New York theater and television.

Danay García

Danay García is a Cuban actress who has been a mainstay on television through her role as Luciana Galvez in ‘Fear the Walking Dead’. She joined the cast in the second season and remained a vital part of the survival drama until its conclusion. García also appeared in the action film ‘Sniper: Ultimate Kill’ and provided the voice for Elena in the video game ‘Far Cry 6’. Her career is marked by her ability to handle physically demanding roles in high-stakes environments. She has consistently worked to bridge the gap between Spanish and English-language media.

Cierra Ramirez

Cierra Ramirez gained widespread recognition for her role as Mariana Adams Foster in the television series ‘The Fosters’. She continued to portray the character in the spin-off series ‘Good Trouble’, which explored her professional and personal growth in Los Angeles. Ramirez has also lent her voice to the character America Chavez in several animated ‘Marvel Rising’ projects. Beyond acting, she has pursued a music career, releasing several singles and an EP titled ‘Discreet’. Her work over the last decade has established her as a prominent young talent in the television landscape.

Melonie Díaz

Melonie Diaz is a Puerto Rican actress who garnered critical acclaim for her role in the 2013 biographical drama ‘Fruitvale Station’. She later starred as Mel Vera in the 2018 reboot of the supernatural series ‘Charmed’, which ran for four seasons. Diaz has been a fixture in independent cinema, appearing in films such as ‘Gringo’ and ‘The Belko Experiment’. Her career highlights a commitment to diverse storytelling and complex character studies. She remains a significant figure in both the indie film circuit and mainstream television.

Aimee Garcia

Aimee Garcia portrayed the quirky forensic scientist Ella Lopez on the popular series ‘Lucifer’ for six seasons. Her performance was praised for bringing levity and emotional depth to the supernatural procedural drama. Garcia also appeared in the 2014 remake of ‘RoboCop’ and the television series ‘Dexter’ as Jamie Batista. She has expanded her career into writing, co-authoring several comic books and scripts for Netflix projects. Her versatility has allowed her to transition seamlessly between comedy, drama, and genre-heavy storytelling.

Dascha Polanco

Dascha Polanco rose to fame as Dayanara Diaz on the Netflix hit series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Her performance in the ensemble cast earned her multiple accolades and opened doors for roles in major films like ‘Joy’ and ‘The Perfect Match’. In 2021, she appeared in the film adaptation of the musical ‘In the Heights’ as Cuca. Polanco also starred in the series ‘Russian Doll’ and ‘Poker Face’, showcasing her talent for both drama and comedy. She is frequently cited for her influence in promoting body positivity and Afro-Latina representation in the media.

Melissa Fumero

Melissa Fumero is an American actress of Cuban descent who became widely known for her role as Amy Santiago on the sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. Her performance as the competitive and organized detective earned her critical praise throughout the show’s eight-season run. Following the series finale, she starred in the Netflix comedy ‘Blockbuster’ and provided voice work for the animated series ‘Velma’. Fumero has also directed several episodes of television, including ‘Grand Crew’ and ‘Gordita Chronicles’. Her career over the last 15 years has solidified her status as a leading figure in television comedy.

Liza Colón-Zayas

Liza Colón-Zayas is a veteran actress of Puerto Rican descent who experienced a significant career surge with her role as Tina in the series ‘The Bear’. Her performance as a veteran line cook earned her widespread critical acclaim and an Emmy Award in 2024. Prior to this, she appeared in ‘In Treatment’ and ‘David Makes Man’, as well as the film ‘The Purge: Election Year’. Colón-Zayas has spent decades in the New York theater scene before reaching mainstream global recognition. Her recent success highlights the depth of her talent in grounded, realistic drama.

Monica Barbaro

Monica Barbaro, who has Mexican heritage, achieved international stardom through her role as Lieutenant Natasha ‘Phoenix’ Trace in ‘Top Gun: Maverick’. The 2022 film became one of the highest-grossing movies of all time, showcasing her ability to perform in high-octane blockbusters. She also starred alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger in the action-comedy series ‘Fubar’. Barbaro appeared in the 2024 film ‘A Complete Unknown’ as Joan Baez, further demonstrating her range in biographical drama. Her career is currently on a rapid upward trajectory in both film and television.

Lali Espósito

Lali Espósito is an Argentine actress and singer who transitioned from teen stardom to international acclaim in the series ‘Sky Rojo’. The Netflix action-thriller showcased her ability to lead a high-stakes, dramatic narrative. She also starred in the romantic comedy ‘The End of Love’, which she also executive produced. Lali has balanced her acting career with a massively successful music career, touring globally as a pop icon. Her influence in Latin American entertainment is significant, spanning across music, television, and film production.

TINI

Martina Stoessel, known professionally as Tini, gained worldwide fame as the lead in the Disney Channel Latin America series ‘Violetta’. The show was an international phenomenon, leading to concert tours and a feature film titled ‘Tini: The Movie’. Over the last decade, Stoessel has shifted her focus to a highly successful solo music career while maintaining her status as a cultural icon. She returned to acting in recent years for select projects while continuing to dominate the Latin music charts. Her career represents the global reach of Hispanic teen media in the early 2010s.

Ester Expósito

Ester Expósito became an international sensation through her role as Carla Rosón Caleruega in the Spanish series ‘Elite’. The show’s global success on Netflix made her one of the most followed actresses on social media and a fashion icon. She followed this success with roles in the limited series ‘Someone Has to Die’ and the horror film ‘Venus’. Expósito has become a frequent collaborator with high-end luxury brands and a staple of European cinema. Her rapid rise to fame defines the impact of streaming platforms on the careers of young Spanish actresses.

Ivana Baquero

Ivana Baquero, originally known for her childhood role in ‘Pan’s Labyrinth’, successfully transitioned into adult roles in major television series. She starred as Eretria in the fantasy series ‘The Shannara Chronicles’ from 2016 to 2017. Baquero then took on a lead role in the Netflix Spanish mystery series ‘High Seas’, portraying Eva Villanueva. Her work over the last 15 years has spanned across international productions in both English and Spanish. She continues to be a prominent figure in the genre of fantasy and period drama.

Justina Machado

Justina Machado is a Puerto Rican actress who earned critical acclaim for her lead role as Penelope Alvarez in the reboot of ‘One Day at a Time’. Her performance was lauded for its authentic portrayal of a veteran and single mother, earning her multiple award nominations. Machado also appeared in the series ‘Queen of the South’ and the horror-comedy ‘The Horror of Dolores Roach’. She participated in ‘Dancing with the Stars’, further increasing her public profile. Her career is characterized by her ability to lead both heartfelt comedies and dark, gritty dramas.

Leslie Grace

Leslie Grace is a Dominican-American actress and singer who made her film debut as Nina Rosario in the 2021 musical ‘In the Heights’. Her performance was a breakout success, showcasing her vocal talent and acting range in a major studio production. She was cast as the lead in the ‘Batgirl’ film, a project that remains a significant part of Hollywood discussion despite its cancellation. Grace has continued to release music and pursue high-profile acting roles in the following years. Her transition from a Latin Grammy-nominated singer to a film actress has been highly successful.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, also known as MJ Rodriguez, made history with her role as Blanca Evangelista in the FX series ‘Pose’. In 2022, she became the first transgender actress to win a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series Drama. She transitioned to comedy with a lead role in the series ‘Loot’ alongside Maya Rudolph. Rodriguez also provided voice work for ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’ and appeared in the 2021 film ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’. Her career is a landmark for representation and artistic excellence in the television industry.

Daniela Vega

Daniela Vega is a Chilean actress who rose to international prominence for her performance in the 2017 film ‘A Fantastic Woman’. The film won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, making Vega the first openly transgender person to be a presenter at the Oscars. She has since appeared in the Netflix series ‘Tales of the City’ and the Amazon Prime thriller ‘La Jauría’. Vega is also a classically trained opera singer and has integrated her musical talents into her career. Her work has been instrumental in bringing Chilean cinema and transgender narratives to a global audience.

Maite Perroni

Maite Perroni is a Mexican actress who transitioned from pop music fame to being a leading star in streaming dramas. She earned widespread recognition for her role in the Netflix series ‘Dark Desire’, which became a global hit for the platform. Perroni also starred in ‘The War Next Door’ and the thriller series ‘Triptych’, where she played three different characters. Her ability to lead high-traffic streaming content has made her one of the most bankable actresses in Latin America. She remains a powerful figure in the industry, balancing acting with her continued musical influence.

Úrsula Corberó

Úrsula Corberó achieved global stardom for her portrayal of Tokyo in the hit Spanish series ‘Money Heist’. The character became a symbol of the show’s worldwide popularity, leading to her international film debut in ‘Snake Eyes’. She also starred in the Netflix series ‘Burning Body’ and appeared in the 2024 heist film ‘Lift’. Corberó is recognized for her distinct style and has become a frequent face for major international luxury brands. Her career exemplifies the transition from Spanish domestic television to global franchise stardom.

Belinda

Belinda Peregrín, known mononymously as Belinda, is a Spanish-Mexican actress and singer who has been active since childhood. In recent years, she returned to the screen with a prominent role in the Netflix series ‘Welcome to Eden’. She also appeared in the 2017 film ‘Baywatch’ alongside Dwayne Johnson and Zac Efron. Belinda has maintained a massive presence in the Latin entertainment world through her roles as a judge on reality competitions and her successful music career. Her longevity in the industry makes her one of the most recognizable Hispanic figures in the world.

Lorenza Izzo

Lorenza Izzo is a Chilean actress who has established a significant career in Hollywood over the past decade. She gained early attention for her roles in horror films like ‘The Green Inferno’ and the thriller ‘Knock Knock’. In 2019, she appeared as Francesca Capucci in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’. Izzo also starred in the series ‘Penny Dreadful: City of Angels’ and the comedy ‘Hacks’. Her transition from genre films to prestige television and major cinematic productions has been marked by consistent success.

Genesis Rodriguez

Genesis Rodriguez, the daughter of singer José Luis Rodríguez, has built a diverse career in both television and film. She starred in the action films ‘Man on a Ledge’ and ‘The Last Stand’, working alongside major Hollywood stars. Rodriguez provided the voice for Honey Lemon in the Disney film ‘Big Hero 6’ and its subsequent television series. In 2022, she joined the cast of ‘The Umbrella Academy’ as Sloane Hargreeves, gaining a new wave of recognition. Her ability to navigate voice acting, action cinema, and supernatural drama has defined her recent career.

Roselyn Sánchez

Roselyn Sánchez is a Puerto Rican actress who has remained a consistent presence on American television for decades. Between 2013 and 2016, she starred in the series ‘Devious Maids’ as Carmen Luna, a role that earned her critical praise. She later took on the lead role of Elena Roarke in the 2021 reboot of ‘Fantasy Island’. Sánchez has also directed several projects and served as a host for various award ceremonies like the Latin Grammys. Her enduring career is a testament to her versatility as an actress, dancer, and producer.

Kate del Castillo

Kate del Castillo is a Mexican actress who gained international fame for her role as Teresa Mendoza in ‘La Reina del Sur’. The series became a massive success, leading to multiple seasons and a crossover appeal in both Spanish and English-language markets. She appeared in the film ‘Bad Boys for Life’ and the series ‘The Cleaning Lady’ as a major antagonist. Del Castillo has also been a vocal advocate for various social causes and has produced several of her own projects. Her career over the last 15 years has solidified her as one of the most powerful women in Hispanic media.

Karla Souza

Karla Souza is a Mexican actress who rose to prominence in the United States for her role as Laurel Castillo in ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. Before her American television success, she starred in major Mexican box office hits like ‘Nosotros los Nobles’. She continued her career with a lead role in the comedy series ‘Home Economics’ and the sports drama ‘La Caída’. Souza is known for her ability to balance comedic timing with intense dramatic performances. She has also become an influential voice in the industry regarding women’s rights and safety on set.

Morena Baccarin

Morena Baccarin is a Brazilian-American actress who has starred in some of the most successful genre franchises of the last 15 years. She gained significant acclaim for her role as Jessica Brody in ‘Homeland’ and as Leslie Thompkins in the series ‘Gotham’. Baccarin is perhaps most recognized for her role as Vanessa in the ‘Deadpool’ film franchise. She also provided the voice for Gideon in the series ‘The Flash’ and starred in the survival film ‘Greenland’. Her career spans across television drama, comic book adaptations, and major cinematic blockbusters.

Isabela Merced

Isabela Merced, of Peruvian descent, transitioned from a child star on Nickelodeon to a major film actress. She starred as the titular character in ‘Dora and the Lost City of Gold’ and appeared in ‘Sicario: Day of the Soldado’. In 2024, she joined the superhero genre in ‘Madame Web’ and was cast as Dina in the second season of ‘The Last of Us’. Merced is also an accomplished singer, releasing her own EP and collaborating with various Latin artists. Her recent roles in major franchises have made her one of the most prominent young Hispanic stars in Hollywood.

Victoria Justice

Victoria Justice, who has Puerto Rican heritage, became a teen icon as the lead of the Nickelodeon series ‘Victorious’. Following the show’s conclusion in 2013, she transitioned into film roles such as ‘The Outcasts’ and ‘Trust’. In recent years, she has found success on Netflix with leading roles in the romantic comedies ‘Afterlife of the Party’ and ‘A Perfect Pairing’. Justice has also maintained a music career, releasing independent singles that showcase her vocal range. Her career over the last 15 years reflects a successful evolution from television stardom to film and music production.

Christian Serratos

Christian Serratos is an American actress of Mexican and Italian descent who became widely known for her role as Rosita Espinosa in ‘The Walking Dead’. She joined the series in 2014 and remained a core cast member until its finale in 2022. Serratos also took on the iconic role of Selena Quintanilla in the Netflix production ‘Selena: The Series’. Her performance was praised for its dedication to the late singer’s legacy and physical portrayal. Serratos has consistently appeared in major franchises, including her early work in the ‘Twilight’ saga.

Camila Mendes

Camila Mendes, of Brazilian descent, rose to fame for her role as Veronica Lodge on the long-running series ‘Riverdale’. During the show’s tenure, she expanded her filmography with roles in the Netflix hits ‘The Perfect Date’ and ‘Dangerous Lies’. In 2022, she starred in and executive produced the dark comedy ‘Do Revenge’, which received positive critical reviews. She also appeared in the 2024 romantic comedy ‘Upgraded’ and the film ‘Música’. Mendes has established herself as a leading actress for the streaming generation, often taking on producing roles.

Diane Guerrero

Diane Guerrero is an American actress of Colombian descent who gained fame for her roles in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and ‘Jane the Virgin’. She later joined the DC Universe as Jane in the series ‘Doom Patrol’, where she portrayed multiple personalities within one character. Guerrero provided the voice for Isabela Madrigal in the 2021 Disney film ‘Encanto’, which became a cultural phenomenon. She is also an accomplished author, writing about her family’s experiences with the immigration system in ‘In the Country We Love’. Her career is marked by a blend of high-profile acting and significant social advocacy.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is an Argentine-born actress who became a fan favorite for her role as Detective Rosa Diaz on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. Her deep-voiced, tough character became an iconic part of the ensemble comedy for eight seasons. Beatriz also starred as the lead voice of Mirabel Madrigal in the Academy Award-winning film ‘Encanto’. She appeared in the film adaptation of ‘In the Heights’ and starred in the action-comedy series ‘Twisted Metal’. Her ability to perform in both live-action comedy and major animated features has made her a highly sought-after talent.

Alice Braga

Alice Braga is a Brazilian actress who has led major English and Portuguese-language productions over the last 15 years. She is most famous for her lead role as Teresa Mendoza in the series ‘Queen of the South’, which ran for five seasons. Braga also appeared in the 2021 film ‘The Suicide Squad’ as Sol Soria and in the mystery series ‘Dark Matter’. Her career includes roles in science fiction films like ‘Elysium’ and ‘Predators’, showcasing her strength as an action lead. She remains one of the most successful Brazilian actresses working in Hollywood today.

Adria Arjona

Adria Arjona, the daughter of singer Ricardo Arjona, has rapidly become a major presence in Hollywood film and television. She starred in the series ‘Andor’ as Bix Caleen and in the 2022 film ‘Father of the Bride’. Arjona received critical acclaim for her role alongside Glen Powell in the 2023 film ‘Hit Man’. She also appeared in ‘Morbius’ and the series ‘Good Omens’, demonstrating her range across genres. Her career is currently at a peak, with several lead roles in upcoming major studio productions.

Eiza González

Eiza González is a Mexican actress who successfully transitioned from telenovelas to major Hollywood blockbusters. She gained international recognition for her role in ‘Baby Driver’ and followed it with ‘Alita: Battle Angel’ and ‘Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw’. In 2024, she starred in the high-profile Netflix science fiction series ‘3 Body Problem’ and the action film ‘The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare’. González is also a prominent figure in the fashion world, representing several luxury brands. Her career is defined by her consistent presence in large-scale action and science fiction projects.

Yalitza Aparicio

Yalitza Aparicio made a historic debut in Alfonso Cuarón’s 2018 film ‘Roma’, where she played the lead role of Cleo. Her performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, making her the first Indigenous American woman to be nominated in that category. Since her breakout, she has used her platform for Indigenous rights and was named a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador. Aparicio has appeared in the horror film ‘Presencias’ and the series ‘Midnight Family’. Her influence extends beyond acting, as she remains a vital figure in global cultural and social discussions.

Sônia Braga

Sonia Braga is a legendary Brazilian actress who has continued to deliver powerhouse performances well into the 2020s. She received widespread critical acclaim for her role in the 2016 film ‘Aquarius’ and the 2019 neo-Western ‘Bacurau’. In 2024, she appeared in the horror film ‘The First Omen’, proving her enduring presence in the industry. Braga has been a major figure in international cinema for decades, and her recent work has only furthered her legacy. She is often cited as one of the greatest actresses in Brazilian history.

Rachel Zegler

Rachel Zegler rose to fame after being selected from an open casting call to play María in Steven Spielberg’s 2021 ‘West Side Story’. Her performance won her a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy. She followed this success with a lead role in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ and was cast as the titular character in the 2025 ‘Snow White’ film. Zegler also appeared in ‘Shazam! Fury of the Gods’ and the film ‘Y2K’. Her rapid ascent to leading roles in major franchises has made her one of the most prominent young actresses in the industry.

Alexa Demie

Alexa Demie became a breakout star for her role as Maddy Perez in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. Her performance and the character’s aesthetic influence had a significant impact on fashion and pop culture during the early 2020s. Demie also appeared in the critically acclaimed film ‘Waves’ and the series ‘Mainstream’. She has been recognized for her distinct style and has appeared in numerous high-profile fashion campaigns. Her career is characterized by selective, high-impact roles that resonate with a younger global audience.

Xochitl Gomez

Xochitl Gomez gained international stardom for her portrayal of America Chavez in the Marvel Cinematic Universe film ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’. The 2022 role introduced her as a key figure in the next generation of Marvel superheroes. Prior to her MCU 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 with the general public. She is considered one of the brightest young Hispanic talents currently working in major studio franchises.

Michelle Rodriguez

Michelle Rodriguez has been a dominant force in action cinema for over two decades, particularly through the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise. Between 2011 and 2026, she reprised her role as Letty Ortiz in multiple installments, including the series’ massive global hits. She also starred in the 2023 film ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’, which was praised for its action and humor. Rodriguez appeared in the heist film ‘Widows’ and provided voice work for various animated projects. Her career is defined by her consistency as a leading action star and her portrayal of strong, independent characters.

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson has maintained an prolific career across film, television, and comic book media over the last 15 years. She took on the iconic role of Ahsoka Tano in the live-action series ‘The Mandalorian’ and her own titular series, ‘Ahsoka’. Dawson also appeared in the Netflix Marvel series as Claire Temple and starred in the critically acclaimed drama ‘Dopesick’. In film, she appeared in ‘Rent’, ‘Sin City’, and the 2023 ‘Haunted Mansion’ remake. Her career is a blend of major franchise leadership and impactful dramatic roles in television.

Melissa Barrera

Melissa Barrera is a Mexican actress who became a major figure in the horror genre through her lead roles in ‘Scream’ (2022) and ‘Scream VI’. She also starred as Vanessa in the film adaptation of ‘In the Heights’, showcasing her musical and dance abilities. In 2024, she led the horror film ‘Abigail’ and appeared in the survival drama ‘Keep Breathing’. Barrera’s career has seen a rapid rise from Mexican television to becoming a prominent “scream queen” and leading lady in Hollywood. She is recognized for her versatility and her ability to lead high-profile commercial projects.

Gina Rodriguez

Gina Rodriguez became a household name for her Golden Globe-winning performance in the title role of ‘Jane the Virgin’. The series, which ran from 2014 to 2019, established her as a major talent in both comedy and drama. She has since starred in films such as ‘Annihilation’, ‘Miss Bala’, and ‘Someone Great’. Rodriguez also provided the voice for the titular character in the animated series ‘Carmen Sandiego’ and starred in the sitcom ‘Not Dead Yet’. Her career is marked by her work as an actress, producer, and advocate for Hispanic representation in entertainment.

Eva Longoria

Eva Longoria has successfully transitioned from her iconic role in ‘Desperate Housewives’ to becoming a powerful producer and director. Over the past 15 years, she has directed episodes of ‘Black-ish’ and ‘Jane the Virgin’, and made her feature film directorial debut with ‘Flamin’ Hot’ in 2023. As an actress, she starred in the series ‘Grand Hotel’ and the 2024 drama ‘Land of Women’. Longoria has remained a prominent figure in Hollywood through her activism and her production company, UnbeliEVAble Entertainment. Her career represents a multifaceted approach to the industry, focusing on both on-screen talent and behind-the-scenes leadership.

Selena Gomez

Selena Gomez has built one of the most successful and diverse careers in entertainment, spanning music, television, and film. She received critical acclaim for her role in the series ‘Only Murders in the Building’, which earned her multiple Emmy nominations. In 2024, she starred in the musical crime drama ‘Emilia Pérez’, which won the Best Actress award for its ensemble cast at the Cannes Film Festival. Gomez also executive produced the hit series ’13 Reasons Why’ and continues to release chart-topping music. Her influence is global, making her one of the most powerful and recognizable Hispanic figures in the world today.

Rita Moreno

Rita Moreno is a legendary actress who has continued to make history well into her 90s. In 2021, she appeared in and executive produced Steven Spielberg’s remake of ‘West Side Story’, the same film that won her an Oscar decades prior. She also starred in the 2023 film ’80 for Brady’ and provided voice work for the series ‘Maya and the Three’. Moreno remains one of the few performers to have achieved the EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony) status. Her enduring career and recent high-profile roles solidify her as a timeless icon of the entertainment industry.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose achieved international stardom for her portrayal of Anita in the 2021 film ‘West Side Story’. Her performance won her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, making her the first Afro-Latina and openly queer woman of color to win an acting Oscar. She has since starred in the series ‘Schmigadoon!’ and provided the lead voice for Disney’s ‘Wish’. DeBose also appeared in the action film ‘Argylle’ and hosted the Tony Awards multiple times to critical acclaim. Her career is currently at the forefront of the industry, blending musical theater excellence with major film success.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o, who was born in Mexico and identifies as Mexican-Kenyan, remains one of the most respected actresses in the industry. Between 2011 and 2026, she won an Academy Award for ’12 Years a Slave’ and starred in the global phenomenon ‘Black Panther’ and its sequel. She also delivered a dual performance in the horror film ‘Us’ and starred in the 2024 prequel ‘A Quiet Place: Day One’. Nyong’o is known for her meticulous preparation and her ability to lead both prestige dramas and massive blockbusters. Her presence in the industry is marked by critical acclaim and significant commercial success.

America Ferrera

America Ferrera has been a leading voice for Hispanic actresses through her work in ‘Superstore’ and her recent cinematic achievements. In 2023, she received an Academy Award nomination for her role as Gloria in the ‘Barbie’ movie, which included a viral monologue on womanhood. She also continued to provide the voice for Astrid in the ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ franchise and its various spin-offs. Ferrera has been a prominent activist and producer, focusing on stories that highlight the Latino experience in the United States. Her career has evolved from television stardom to becoming a significant force in major film productions and social leadership.

Anya Taylor-Joy

Anya Taylor-Joy, who has Argentine roots and speaks fluent Spanish, has become one of the most sought-after actresses in the world. She achieved global fame with the Netflix limited series ‘The Queen’s Gambit’, which earned her a Golden Globe. Her film career includes lead roles in ‘The Menu’, ‘The Northman’, and the 2024 blockbuster ‘Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga’. She also provided the voice for Princess Peach in ‘The Super Mario Bros. Movie’, one of the highest-grossing films of all time. Her distinct screen presence and ability to lead diverse genres have made her a definitive star of the current era.

Jenna Ortega

Jenna Ortega has become a global cultural phenomenon through her lead role in the Netflix series ‘Wednesday’. The show broke numerous streaming records and established her as a major star for a new generation. Her film work includes leading roles in the ‘Scream’ franchise and the 2024 sequel ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ alongside Michael Keaton. Ortega has been praised for her ability to bring depth to dark, genre-leaning characters and has become a fashion icon. At a young age, she has already established herself as one of the most influential Hispanic actresses in the entertainment industry.

Sofía Vergara

Sofia Vergara was the highest-paid actress on television for several years during her tenure on ‘Modern Family’. Her role as Gloria Delgado-Pritchett earned her multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations and made her a global superstar. In 2024, she transitioned to a dark, dramatic role in the Netflix limited series ‘Griselda’, where she also served as executive producer. Vergara has maintained a massive presence as a judge on ‘America’s Got Talent’ and through her various successful business ventures. Her career is a prime example of successfully pivoting from a beloved comedic role to intense dramatic acting and production.

Salma Hayek

Salma Hayek continues to be one of the most influential Mexican actresses in Hollywood history. Over the last 15 years, she joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Ajak in ‘Eternals’ and starred in the hit drama ‘House of Gucci’. She also appeared in ‘Magic Mike’s Last Dance’ and provided voice work for the Academy Award-nominated ‘Puss in Boots: The Last Wish’. Hayek has balanced her acting with significant production work through her company, Ventanarosa. Her enduring star power and ability to command the screen in various genres remain unparalleled.

Ana de Armas

Ana de Armas has experienced a meteoric rise from Spanish-language television to becoming one of Hollywood’s premier leading ladies. She received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Marilyn Monroe in the 2022 film ‘Blonde’. Her roles in ‘Knives Out’, ‘No Time to Die’, and ‘The Gray Man’ have showcased her range in both mystery and high-level action. In 2025, she took on the lead role in the ‘John Wick’ spin-off ‘Ballerina’, further cementing her status as an action star. Her career represents the pinnacle of international success for a Hispanic actress in the modern era.

Penélope Cruz

Penélope Cruz remains a titan of international cinema, frequently collaborating with director Pedro Almodóvar to critical acclaim. Her performance in the 2021 film ‘Parallel Mothers’ earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress and the Volpi Cup at the Venice Film Festival. She also starred in the 2023 biographical drama ‘Ferrari’ as Laura Ferrari and the international thriller ‘The 355’. Cruz continues to be a major face for global luxury brands and a consistent presence at the world’s most prestigious film festivals. Her career is defined by a level of artistic prestige and international success that few can match.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldaña holds the unique distinction of being the only actress to appear in four of the highest-grossing films of all time. Her roles as Neytiri in ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ and Gamora in the ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ and ‘Avengers’ franchises have made her a global icon. In addition to her blockbuster success, she starred in the 2023 series ‘Special Ops: Lioness’ and the 2024 musical drama ‘Emilia Pérez’. Saldaña has consistently used her platform to advocate for greater diversity in film and to support various humanitarian causes. Her unmatched box office track record and versatile talent make her the most successful Hispanic actress of the last 15 years.

Tell us which of these talented Hispanic actresses has delivered your favorite performance of the past decade in the comments.