The Most Beautiful Hollywood Actresses of the 2000s

The 2000s marked a transformative era in cinema, defined by the rise of iconic leading ladies who balanced blockbuster appeal with critical acclaim. This decade saw a shift toward global stardom, where actresses from diverse backgrounds became the faces of major franchises and prestigious award ceremonies. These women not only defined the aesthetic of the millennium but also commanded the box office with performances that remain culturally significant. From the glamour of the red carpet to the grit of independent dramas, these performers dominated the entertainment landscape.

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie became a global icon in the early 2000s after portraying the titular character in ‘Lara Croft: Tomb Raider’. She earned significant critical praise for her role in ‘Girl, Interrupted’, which secured her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress at the start of the decade. Throughout the 2000s, she starred in high-profile projects like ‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’ and ‘Wanted’. Beyond her acting career, she became a prominent humanitarian, serving as a Goodwill Ambassador for the UNHCR. Her combination of action-hero status and dramatic depth made her one of the most influential figures of the era.

Charlize Theron

Charlize Theron underwent a legendary physical transformation for her role in ‘Monster’, which earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress in 2004. This performance solidified her reputation as a powerhouse performer capable of shedding her high-fashion image for complex roles. She continued to headline major films such as ‘The Italian Job’ and the action-sci-fi feature ‘Aeon Flux’. Theron remained a staple of Hollywood glamour while consistently choosing challenging and diverse characters. By the end of the decade, she was recognized as one of the industry’s most versatile and sought-after leading ladies.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry made history in 2002 as the first Black woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance in ‘Monster’s Ball’. During the 2000s, she also achieved massive commercial success as Storm in the ‘X-Men’ film franchise. She took on the role of a Bond girl in ‘Die Another Day’, delivering one of the most memorable character introductions in the series. Berry’s career during this period was a blend of prestigious drama and heavy-hitting summer blockbusters. She remained a frequent fixture on global most beautiful lists throughout the entire decade.

Nicole Kidman

Nicole Kidman dominated the early 2000s with a string of critically acclaimed performances, starting with the musical ‘Moulin Rouge!’. She won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Virginia Woolf in ‘The Hours’ in 2003. Kidman also starred in the chilling supernatural thriller ‘The Others’, which became a significant box office hit. Her ability to transition between avant-garde projects like ‘Dogville’ and commercial successes defined her career during this time. She was widely considered the epitome of Hollywood elegance and artistic dedication.

Scarlett Johansson

Scarlett Johansson transitioned from a child actress to a major star with her breakout role in ‘Lost in Translation’ in 2003. Her performance earned her a BAFTA Award and established her as a muse for several prominent directors. She starred in a variety of films during the decade, including the period drama ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’ and the thriller ‘The Prestige’. Johansson’s career saw her move into the action genre toward the end of the 2000s, setting the stage for her future franchise work. She was frequently cited by media outlets as a modern-day Hollywood bombshell.

Natalie Portman

Natalie Portman gained international fame during the 2000s for her role as Padmé Amidala in the ‘Star Wars’ prequel trilogy. While appearing in those blockbusters, she also pursued demanding roles in independent films like ‘Garden State’. She received her first Academy Award nomination for her performance in the 2004 drama ‘Closer’. In 2005, she demonstrated her commitment to her craft by shaving her head for her role in ‘V for Vendetta’. Portman ended the decade as one of the most respected and intellectually driven actresses in the industry.

Keira Knightley

Keira Knightley rose to prominence as a teenager in the surprise hit ‘Bend It Like Beckham’ before joining the massive ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ franchise. She became synonymous with period dramas, starring in ‘Pride & Prejudice’, for which she received an Academy Award nomination. Knightley continued this trend with acclaimed roles in ‘Atonement’ and ‘The Duchess’. Her distinct look and ability to portray headstrong historical figures made her a defining face of British and American cinema. She was consistently ranked among the most beautiful women in film throughout the decade.

Penélope Cruz

Penélope Cruz successfully transitioned from Spanish cinema to Hollywood stardom with roles in films like ‘Vanilla Sky’ and ‘Blow’. She became the first Spanish actress to win an Academy Award for her performance in the 2008 film ‘Vicky Cristina Barcelona’. During the 2000s, she also continued her long-standing collaboration with director Pedro Almodóvar in the critically acclaimed ‘Volver’. Her career was marked by a balance of high-energy Hollywood roles and prestigious international projects. Cruz was widely celebrated for her vibrant screen presence and undeniable classic beauty.

Salma Hayek

Salma Hayek achieved a career milestone in 2002 when she produced and starred in the biographical film ‘Frida’. Her portrayal of artist Frida Kahlo earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, making her a trailblazer for Latina performers. Throughout the 2000s, she appeared in popular films such as ‘Once Upon a Time in Mexico’ and ‘After the Sunset’. Hayek also ventured into television production, serving as an executive producer for the hit series ‘Ugly Betty’. She remained one of the most prominent and influential actresses in Hollywood during the decade.

Monica Bellucci

Monica Bellucci gained widespread recognition in Hollywood during the early 2000s with her role in the French film ‘Malèna’. She appeared in American blockbusters like ‘The Matrix Reloaded’ and ‘The Matrix Revolutions’ as Persephone. Bellucci also played the role of Mary Magdalene in the controversial and commercially successful film ‘The Passion of the Christ’. Her presence in Hollywood was often associated with sophisticated and enigmatic characters. She was frequently lauded by international media as one of the most beautiful women in the world.

Jennifer Aniston

Jennifer Aniston successfully made the jump from television to film during the 2000s while finishing her iconic run on ‘Friends’. She took on more serious roles in independent films like ‘The Good Girl’, which showcased her dramatic range. Aniston remained a queen of the romantic comedy genre with hits such as ‘Bruce Almighty’ and ‘The Break-Up’. Her personal style and “girl next door” persona made her a constant focus of pop culture media. She ended the decade as one of the highest-paid and most recognizable actresses in the world.

Megan Fox

Megan Fox became an overnight sensation and a primary sex symbol of the late 2000s after starring in ‘Transformers’. Her role as Mikaela Banes made her a staple of magazine covers and online searches during that era. She followed this success with the cult classic horror-comedy ‘Jennifer’s Body’, where she played a possessed cheerleader. Fox was often compared to classic Hollywood sirens due to her striking features and screen charisma. Despite the media scrutiny, she remained one of the most talked-about actresses of the decade’s end.

Jessica Alba

Jessica Alba rose to fame as the lead in the television series ‘Dark Angel’ before moving into major film roles. She starred as Susan Storm in ‘Fantastic Four’ and its sequel, cementing her status as a blockbuster actress. Her role in ‘Sin City’ showcased her as a visual icon of the mid-2000s neo-noir aesthetic. Alba appeared in numerous comedies and action films, including ‘Honey’ and ‘Into the Blue’. Throughout the 2000s, she was a perennial favorite on various lists of the world’s most beautiful women.

Anne Hathaway

Anne Hathaway started the decade as a teen idol in ‘The Princess Diaries’ before successfully transitioning to adult roles. She garnered critical acclaim for her performance in ‘Brokeback Mountain’ and starred in the massive fashion comedy ‘The Devil Wears Prada’. In 2008, she received an Academy Award nomination for her role in the indie drama ‘Rachel Getting Married’. Hathaway proved her versatility by moving between family-friendly films and gritty, emotional dramas. By 2009, she was established as one of Hollywood’s most talented young leading ladies.

Rachel McAdams

Rachel McAdams had a breakout year in 2004 with the dual success of ‘Mean Girls’ and ‘The Notebook’. These films established her as both a comedic talent and a romantic leading lady for a new generation. She continued to choose diverse projects, including the thriller ‘Red Eye’ and the comedy ‘Wedding Crashers’. After a brief hiatus, she returned to the screen in the late 2000s with roles in ‘Sherlock Holmes’ and ‘State of Play’. McAdams was celebrated for her natural charm and her ability to elevate any material she worked on.

Catherine Zeta-Jones

Catherine Zeta-Jones reached the height of her fame in the early 2000s, winning an Academy Award for her role in ‘Chicago’. Her performance as Velma Kelly showcased her skills in singing, dancing, and acting. She also starred in ‘Traffic’, which won multiple awards, and the romantic comedy ‘Intolerable Cruelty’. Zeta-Jones was known for her classic, sophisticated beauty and her ability to portray strong, independent women. She remained a major Hollywood power player throughout the first half of the decade.

Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez was a dominant force in both music and film throughout the 2000s. She starred in the massive hit ‘The Wedding Planner’ and the romantic comedy ‘Maid in Manhattan’. Lopez also took on more dramatic roles in films like ‘Enough’ and ‘Monster-in-Law’. Her high-profile relationships and fashion choices made her a constant subject of media attention. She was widely considered a pioneer for Latina entertainers in the mainstream Hollywood industry.

Reese Witherspoon

Reese Witherspoon became a household name with her iconic role as Elle Woods in ‘Legally Blonde’ in 2001. She successfully balanced comedic roles with dramatic work, eventually winning an Academy Award for ‘Walk the Line’. Her portrayal of June Carter Cash was praised for its emotional depth and musical authenticity. Witherspoon also ventured into producing, ensuring she had a hand in the types of stories being told about women. She ended the decade as one of the most respected and commercially successful actresses in the business.

Cameron Diaz

Cameron Diaz remained one of the highest-paid actresses in Hollywood during the 2000s. She starred in the ‘Charlie’s Angels’ franchise and provided the voice for Princess Fiona in the ‘Shrek’ series. Diaz also explored more dramatic territory in films like ‘Gangs of New York’ and ‘In Her Shoes’. Known for her wide smile and energetic screen presence, she was a staple of the romantic comedy genre. Her consistent box office success made her a defining star of the millennium’s first decade.

Kate Beckinsale

Kate Beckinsale became an action icon in the 2000s through her role as Selene in the ‘Underworld’ franchise. She also starred in the big-budget historical drama ‘Pearl Harbor’ and the romantic comedy ‘Serendipity’. Beckinsale showcased her dramatic range in ‘The Aviator’, playing the legendary Ava Gardner. Her ability to move between intense action roles and sophisticated dramas made her a unique presence in Hollywood. She was frequently recognized for her striking looks and athletic prowess on screen.

Eva Mendes

Eva Mendes gained significant attention in the early 2000s with her role in ‘Training Day’. She went on to star in commercial hits like ‘2 Fast 2 Furious’ and ‘Hitch’ alongside Will Smith. Mendes was often cast in roles that highlighted her charisma and comedic timing. She also worked on more artistic projects such as ‘We Own the Night’ and ‘The Spirit’. Her consistent presence in both blockbusters and genre films made her one of the decade’s most visible stars.

Jennifer Connelly

Jennifer Connelly began the decade with a powerful performance in the harrowing drama ‘Requiem for a Dream’. She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in ‘A Beautiful Mind’ in 2002. Connelly continued to work in high-profile films like ‘Hulk’, ‘House of Sand and Fog’, and ‘Blood Diamond’. She was often praised for her expressive eyes and her ability to portray deeply emotional characters. Connelly’s career in the 2000s was marked by a commitment to serious, thought-provoking cinema.

Naomi Watts

Naomi Watts became an overnight star after her dual role in David Lynch’s ‘Mulholland Drive’ in 2001. She followed this with the massive horror hit ‘The Ring’, which established her as a leading lady in Hollywood. Watts received Academy Award nominations for her work in ’21 Grams’ and continued to star in major projects like ‘King Kong’. She was known for her vulnerability and her willingness to take on dark, complex subject matter. By the end of the decade, she was considered one of the finest actresses of her generation.

Liv Tyler

Liv Tyler achieved worldwide fame for her role as Arwen in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy during the early 2000s. Her ethereal beauty and gentle screen presence made her a fan favorite in the massive fantasy franchise. She also appeared in the comedy ‘Jersey Girl’ and the terrifying home-invasion thriller ‘The Strangers’. Tyler was a prominent figure in the fashion world and served as a face for Givenchy for many years. Her career during the decade was a mix of epic blockbusters and intimate character studies.

Mila Kunis

Mila Kunis spent much of the 2000s starring in the hit sitcom ‘That ’70s Show’ while also voicing Meg Griffin on ‘Family Guy’. She made a successful jump to the big screen with her role in ‘Forgetting Sarah Marshall’ in 2008. Her performance in the comedy was widely praised and helped establish her as a rising film star. Kunis was known for her distinctive eyes and sharp comedic timing. She concluded the decade by transitioning into more serious film roles, setting up her breakthrough in the years to follow.

Gwyneth Paltrow

Gwyneth Paltrow remained a central figure in Hollywood throughout the 2000s, starring in films like ‘The Royal Tenenbaums’. She played the role of Pepper Potts in ‘Iron Man’, which helped launch the Marvel Cinematic Universe in 2008. Paltrow also appeared in the musical drama ‘Sylvia’ and the thriller ‘Contagion’. Beyond acting, she began building her lifestyle brand, which would eventually become a major part of her public identity. Her elegant style and consistent film presence made her one of the decade’s most enduring stars.

Julia Roberts

Julia Roberts began the 2000s by winning an Academy Award for her performance in ‘Erin Brockovich’. She remained one of the biggest box office draws in the world with films like ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ and ‘Mona Lisa Smile’. Roberts was known for having one of the most recognizable smiles in history and a massive global appeal. She took on a variety of roles, from romantic comedies to voice work in animated features like ‘Charlotte’s Web’. Even as she took more time off for her family, she remained a quintessential Hollywood star.

Sandra Bullock

Sandra Bullock had a productive decade that culminated in her winning an Academy Award for ‘The Blind Side’ in 2009. She starred in the massive hit ‘Miss Congeniality’ and its sequel, as well as the ensemble drama ‘Crash’. Bullock was often referred to as “America’s Sweetheart” due to her relatable persona and comedic talent. She also found success in the romantic comedy ‘The Proposal’ alongside Ryan Reynolds. Her career longevity and ability to lead both dramas and comedies made her a Hollywood mainstay.

Kate Winslet

Kate Winslet spent the 2000s solidifying her status as one of the greatest actresses of her time. She received Academy Award nominations for ‘Iris’, ‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’, and ‘Little Children’. In 2009, she finally won the Oscar for Best Actress for her role in ‘The Reader’. Winslet was known for her refusal to conform to Hollywood’s beauty standards and her dedication to complex roles. Her work in the 2000s is often cited as some of the best acting of the decade.

Cate Blanchett

Cate Blanchett showcased incredible versatility during the 2000s, playing everything from an elf queen to Bob Dylan. She won an Academy Award for her portrayal of Katharine Hepburn in ‘The Aviator’. Blanchett also starred in the ‘Lord of the Rings’ trilogy and the critically acclaimed ‘Notes on a Scandal’. She was frequently praised for her “chameleon-like” ability to disappear into any character she played. Her statuesque beauty and immense talent made her a favorite of critics and directors alike.

Marion Cotillard

Marion Cotillard became an international sensation in 2007 with her portrayal of Edith Piaf in ‘La Vie en Rose’. Her performance was so powerful that she became the first actress to win an Oscar for a French-language role. Following this success, she was cast in major Hollywood productions like ‘Public Enemies’ and ‘Nine’. Cotillard was celebrated for her expressive face and her ability to convey deep emotion without words. She ended the decade as a major new force in both European and American cinema.

Kirsten Dunst

Kirsten Dunst became a global star playing Mary Jane Watson in the ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy throughout the 2000s. She also took on the lead role in Sofia Coppola’s stylized historical drama ‘Marie Antoinette’. Dunst appeared in a variety of cult favorites and critical successes, including ‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’. She was known for her ability to balance blockbuster roles with quirky, independent projects. Her presence was a constant in the 2000s film landscape.

Diane Kruger

Diane Kruger gained international fame for her role as Helen of Troy in the 2004 epic ‘Troy’. She went on to star in the ‘National Treasure’ franchise alongside Nicolas Cage, which was a major commercial success. Kruger also delivered a memorable performance in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Inglourious Basterds’ toward the end of the decade. Before her acting career, she was a successful high-fashion model, and her style remained a focus of fashion media. She was widely considered one of the most beautiful and sophisticated actresses in Hollywood.

Eva Longoria

Eva Longoria became a household name in the mid-2000s as Gabrielle Solis on the hit series ‘Desperate Housewives’. The show’s massive success propelled her into the Hollywood spotlight and led to numerous film roles. She starred in movies like ‘The Sentinel’ and ‘Over Her Dead Body’ while maintaining her television career. Longoria was also a prominent face for L’Oreal and appeared on countless magazine covers. She was frequently cited as one of the most beautiful women in the world during the decade’s peak.

Jennifer Garner

Jennifer Garner rose to prominence as the lead in the action-packed television series ‘Alias’. She successfully transitioned to film with the romantic comedy ’13 Going on 30′, which became a modern classic. Garner also played the Marvel character Elektra in ‘Daredevil’ and a subsequent spin-off film. She was known for her athletic ability and her approachable, charming personality. Throughout the 2000s, she was a major star of both the small and large screens.

Amy Adams

Amy Adams had a breakout year in 2005 with her Academy Award-nominated performance in ‘Junebug’. She followed this with a starring role in Disney’s ‘Enchanted’, which showcased her singing talent and comedic timing. Adams received further Oscar nominations for her work in ‘Doubt’ and established herself as a top-tier dramatic actress. Her red hair and blue eyes became her trademark look in Hollywood. By 2009, she was considered one of the most promising and talented actresses in the industry.

Zooey Deschanel

Zooey Deschanel became the ultimate “indie darling” of the 2000s with her roles in films like ‘Almost Famous’. She starred in the holiday classic ‘Elf’ and the quirky romantic comedy ‘(500) Days of Summer’. Deschanel was known for her deadpan delivery and her vintage-inspired personal style. She also gained fame for her musical talents as part of the duo She & Him. Her unique look and personality made her a cultural icon of the mid-to-late 2000s.

Michelle Williams

Michelle Williams transitioned from the teen drama ‘Dawson’s Creek’ to become a respected film actress in the 2000s. She earned her first Academy Award nomination for her heartbreaking role in ‘Brokeback Mountain’. Williams continued to choose challenging roles in independent films like ‘Wendy and Lucy’ and ‘Synecdoche, New York’. She was praised for her understated acting style and her ability to choose high-quality projects. By the end of the decade, she was a fixture of the independent film scene.

Hilary Swank

Hilary Swank won her second Academy Award for Best Actress in 2005 for her role in ‘Million Dollar Baby’. Her performance as a determined boxer showcased her incredible physical and emotional range. During the 2000s, she also starred in the romantic drama ‘P.S. I Love You’ and the biographical film ‘Amelia’. Swank was known for her intense preparation and her ability to portray resilient women. She remained one of the most decorated actresses of the decade.

Drew Barrymore

Drew Barrymore enjoyed a massive career resurgence in the 2000s, both as an actress and a producer. She starred in and produced the ‘Charlie’s Angels’ films, which were global box office hits. She also appeared in popular romantic comedies such as ’50 First Dates’ and ‘Music and Lyrics’. Barrymore’s production company, Flower Films, was responsible for many of her most successful projects. Her free-spirited personality and long history in Hollywood made her a beloved figure of the era.

Lucy Liu

Lucy Liu became an action star in the 2000s with her roles in ‘Charlie’s Angels’ and ‘Kill Bill: Vol. 1’. Her portrayal of O-Ren Ishii in the latter earned her significant critical praise for her intensity and screen presence. She also appeared in the musical ‘Chicago’ and provided voices for several animated features. Liu was a trailblazer for Asian-American actresses in major Hollywood roles. She was consistently recognized for her striking beauty and her ability to command the screen.

Christina Ricci

Christina Ricci continued her transition from child star to adult actress with roles in ‘Prozac Nation’ and ‘Monster’. In the latter, she played the girlfriend of Aileen Wuornos, delivering a performance that was highly praised by critics. She also starred in the visually groundbreaking ‘Speed Racer’ and the quirky ‘Penelope’. Ricci was known for her unconventional beauty and her willingness to take on “dark” or “weird” roles. She remained a significant figure in both mainstream and independent cinema throughout the decade.

Jessica Biel

Jessica Biel rose to fame on the family drama ‘7th Heaven’ before pursuing a career in film. She starred in the remake of ‘The Texas Chainsaw Massacre’, which became a box office hit in 2003. Biel also appeared in ‘The Illusionist’ and the action film ‘Stealth’. She was widely recognized for her athletic physique and her status as a prominent Hollywood beauty. Throughout the late 2000s, she remained a frequent presence in both action films and romantic comedies.

Katherine Heigl

Katherine Heigl became a major star in the mid-2000s thanks to her role on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. She successfully moved into film with the hit comedy ‘Knocked Up’ in 2007. This led to a string of leading roles in romantic comedies like ’27 Dresses’ and ‘The Ugly Truth’. Heigl was often compared to classic blonde leading ladies of Hollywood’s Golden Age. At the height of the decade, she was one of the most sought-after actresses for mainstream comedies.

Isla Fisher

Isla Fisher had a major breakout role as the eccentric Gloria Cleary in the 2005 comedy ‘Wedding Crashers’. Her comedic timing and high energy earned her immediate attention and led to more leading roles. She starred in ‘Confessions of a Shopaholic’ and ‘Definitely, Maybe’ during the latter half of the decade. Fisher was known for her bright red hair and her ability to play both charming and chaotic characters. She became one of the decade’s most successful comedic leading ladies.

Rose Byrne

Rose Byrne gained international recognition for her role as Briseis in the 2004 epic ‘Troy’. She also starred in the psychological thriller series ‘Damages’ starting in 2007, for which she received Emmy nominations. Byrne appeared in films such as ’28 Weeks Later’ and ‘Knowing’ during the mid-to-late 2000s. She was praised for her versatility and her ability to work in multiple genres across film and television. Her refined beauty and talent made her a rising star to watch by the decade’s end.

Sienna Miller

Sienna Miller became a style icon and a major media figure in the mid-2000s. She starred in films like ‘Alfie’, ‘Layer Cake’, and ‘Layer Cake’, which helped establish her acting credentials. Her portrayal of Edie Sedgwick in ‘Factory Girl’ showcased her ability to take on demanding biographical roles. Miller was often more famous for her fashion influence and personal life, but she consistently delivered strong performances. She was a defining face of the “boho-chic” trend that dominated the mid-2000s.

Katie Holmes

Katie Holmes transitioned from her starring role on ‘Dawson’s Creek’ to major film projects in the early 2000s. She played Rachel Dawes in ‘Batman Begins’, which was one of the most successful films of 2005. Holmes also appeared in ‘Phone Booth’ and the satirical comedy ‘Thank You for Smoking’. Her high-profile personal life often made her a central figure in tabloid media during the decade. Despite the scrutiny, she remained a recognizable and popular leading lady throughout the 2000s.

Mischa Barton

Mischa Barton became an “it girl” of the early 2000s as the star of the hit teen drama ‘The O.C.’. Her character, Marissa Cooper, became a fashion icon for a generation of viewers. The show’s popularity led to film roles in projects like ‘The Sixth Sense’ and ‘Closing the Ring’. Barton was a frequent presence on the covers of fashion and lifestyle magazines during the peak of the show’s success. She was one of the most photographed and discussed young actresses of the mid-2000s.

Maggie Gyllenhaal

Maggie Gyllenhaal earned critical acclaim in 2002 for her breakout role in the dark comedy ‘Secretary’. She became a favorite of the independent film world with performances in ‘Sherrybaby’ and ‘Stranger than Fiction’. Gyllenhaal took on her biggest commercial role as Rachel Dawes in ‘The Dark Knight’ in 2008. She was known for her intellectual approach to acting and her unconventional, soulful beauty. By the end of the 2000s, she was considered one of the most talented actresses in Hollywood.

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