Who Is the Best Latina Actress in the World Right Now?

Latina actresses are currently dominating the global entertainment industry with remarkable performances across television and film. These talented women bring diverse backgrounds and unique cultural perspectives to their roles in major blockbuster franchises and intimate independent dramas. Their presence continues to reshape Hollywood by breaking stereotypes and demanding more complex representation on screen. This list explores the most influential and skilled performers working today based on their recent body of work and career longevity.

Christian Serratos

Christian Serratos gained significant recognition for her portrayal of Rosita Espinosa in the long-running series ‘The Walking Dead’. She showcased her musical and acting range by starring as the titular Tejano legend in ‘Selena: The Series’ on Netflix. Her career began early with a recurring role in ‘Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide’ before she moved into the blockbuster ‘Twilight’ franchise. Serratos continues to be a prominent figure in television with a loyal fanbase supporting her diverse projects.

Genesis Rodriguez

Genesis Rodriguez has built a steady career with roles in both action films and voice acting projects. She recently starred in the spy thriller series ‘Special Ops: Lioness’ alongside major Hollywood veterans. Her voice work includes the character Honey Lemon in the animated hit ‘Big Hero 6’ and its subsequent television adaptation. Rodriguez consistently delivers strong performances that highlight her versatility across different genres and mediums.

Cote de Pablo

Cote de Pablo is best known for her defining role as Ziva David in the police procedural drama ‘NCIS’. Her portrayal of the former Mossad officer became iconic and earned her an ALMA Award for leading actress in a drama. After leaving the show, she returned for a highly anticipated narrative arc that thrilled long-time viewers of the franchise. She remains one of the most recognized Chilean-American actresses working in television today.

Emily Tosta

Emily Tosta captured audience attention with her breakout role as Leticia Cruz in the gritty drama series ‘Mayans M.C.’. She demonstrated her horror chops by starring in the Nicolas Cage film ‘Willy’s Wonderland’ where she played the rebellious lead. Her career includes various guest appearances in popular shows like ‘The Resident’ and ‘Rosewood’. Tosta is considered one of the rising young talents to watch in the coming years.

Emeraude Toubia

Emeraude Toubia gained international fame for her role as Isabelle Lightwood in the fantasy series ‘Shadowhunters’. She transitioned to romantic comedy with the lead role in the series ‘With Love’ which centers on family dynamics. Her background in beauty pageants helped her transition into acting where she has advocated for positive representation. Toubia continues to expand her portfolio with roles that emphasize both glamour and emotional depth.

Cierra Ramirez

Cierra Ramirez became a household name playing Mariana Adams Foster in ‘The Fosters’ and its spinoff ‘Good Trouble’. Her performance spans over a decade of character development that has resonated deeply with young audiences. Beyond acting, she serves as an executive producer and pursues a career in music. Ramirez consistently chooses roles that explore the complexities of growing up and facing modern societal challenges.

Aimee Garcia

Aimee Garcia won over fans with her bubbly and intelligent portrayal of Ella Lopez in the hit series ‘Lucifer’. She also appeared as the main character’s sister in the acclaimed drama ‘Dexter’ which showcased her dramatic range. Her film credits include the remake of ‘RoboCop’ and the animated ‘The Addams Family’ movies. Garcia is also venturing into writing comics and producing content that highlights Latino stories.

Judy Reyes

Judy Reyes is a television veteran best known for her role as Carla Espinosa on the medical comedy ‘Scrubs’. She transitioned to drama with a leading role in ‘Devious Maids’ and recently garnered praise for her work in the horror film ‘Smile’. Her career spans decades with consistent work in both comedic and serious productions. Reyes remains a steadfast presence in the industry with an ability to anchor diverse casts.

Rosie Perez

Rosie Perez is an Academy Award-nominated actress with a distinctive voice and energetic screen presence. She recently starred in the thriller series ‘The Flight Attendant’ where she received critical acclaim for her nuanced performance. Her legacy includes iconic roles in ‘Do the Right Thing’ and ‘White Men Can’t Jump’ which cemented her status in Hollywood. Perez continues to be a powerhouse performer who seamlessly moves between film and television.

Justina Machado

Justina Machado delivered a heartfelt performance as the matriarch in the reboot of ‘One Day at a Time’. Her work on the show earned her praise for balancing comedy with serious discussions about mental health and family. She previously held a significant role in ‘Six Feet Under’ which showcased her dramatic abilities. Machado remains a strong advocate for Latino representation and consistently delivers authentic performances.

Melissa Fumero

Melissa Fumero is best known for her role as Amy Santiago in the beloved police sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. Her character became a fan favorite for her ambition and chemistry with the ensemble cast. She recently starred in the workplace comedy ‘Blockbuster’ and has directed episodes of television. Fumero continues to be a leading figure in comedy with impeccable timing and charm.

Alexa Demie

Alexa Demie became a fashion and acting icon through her role as Maddy Perez in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. Her performance captured the intensity of teenage angst and made her a breakout star of the show. She appeared in the poignant drama ‘Waves’ which further displayed her ability to handle heavy emotional material. Demie carefully selects projects that allow her to maintain a mysterious and artistic public persona.

Barbie Ferreira

Barbie Ferreira gained prominence for her role as Kat Hernandez in the teen drama ‘Euphoria’. She acted in the film ‘Unpregnant’ where she displayed her ability to lead a road-trip comedy with heart. Ferreira began her career as a model and has used her platform to advocate for body positivity in the industry. Her acting choices often reflect a desire to tell stories about complex young women.

Camila Mendes

Camila Mendes rose to global fame playing Veronica Lodge in the teen mystery series ‘Riverdale’. She showcased her comedic chops in the Netflix film ‘Do Revenge’ alongside Maya Hawke. Her recent projects include the romantic comedy ‘Upgraded’ where she served as an executive producer. Mendes has successfully leveraged her television success into a blossoming film career.

Leslie Grace

Leslie Grace made a stunning film debut as Nina Rosario in the musical adaptation ‘In the Heights’. She is a successful singer who has received multiple Latin Grammy nominations for her music. Although her ‘Batgirl’ film was shelved, she remains a sought-after talent with a strong fanbase. Grace combines her vocal talents with a natural screen presence that appeals to wide audiences.

Yalitza Aparicio

Yalitza Aparicio made history with her debut performance in Alfonso Cuarón’s masterpiece ‘Roma’. She became the first Indigenous woman from Mexico to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress. Since her debut, she has appeared in the horror series ‘Los Espookys’ and the film ‘Presences’. Aparicio uses her fame to advocate for Indigenous rights and representation in media.

Kate del Castillo

Kate del Castillo is a superstar in the world of telenovelas and action series. She is most famous for her starring role in ‘La Reina del Sur’ which became a global phenomenon. Her film credits include ‘Under the Same Moon’ and the blockbuster ‘Bad Boys for Life’. Del Castillo is known for playing strong and resilient women who command authority in dangerous situations.

Karla Souza

Karla Souza is widely recognized for her role as Laurel Castillo in the legal thriller ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. She recently starred in the sports drama ‘La Caída’ which earned her an International Emmy Award. Her career includes massive box office hits in Mexico such as ‘Nosotros los Nobles’. Souza is a classically trained actress who delivers intense and sophisticated performances.

Jessica Alba

Jessica Alba was one of the biggest stars of the 2000s with roles in ‘Dark Angel’ and ‘Sin City’. She recently returned to action films with the Netflix hit ‘Trigger Warning’ where she played a special forces commando. While she spent years focusing on her business empire, her return to acting was met with high viewing numbers. Alba remains a recognizable global icon with a legacy in the superhero and action genres.

Dascha Polanco

Dascha Polanco had her breakout role as Dayanara Diaz in the hit series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She appeared in the film version of ‘In the Heights’ and the series ‘Poker Face’. Her performances often bring a mix of toughness and vulnerability to the characters she inhabits. Polanco continues to be a reliable talent who enhances every ensemble she joins.

Diane Guerrero

Diane Guerrero is known for her roles in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and as Jane in ‘Doom Patrol’. She voiced the character Isabela Madrigal in the Disney animated phenomenon ‘Encanto’. Her advocacy for immigration reform has made her a significant cultural voice outside of her acting work. Guerrero consistently chooses roles that allow her to explore mental health and complex identity.

Morena Baccarin

Morena Baccarin has been a staple in sci-fi and action genres with roles in ‘Firefly’ and ‘V’. She reached a massive audience playing Vanessa in the ‘Deadpool’ film franchise alongside Ryan Reynolds. Her television work includes a major role in the prequel series ‘Gotham’ as Dr. Leslie Thompkins. Baccarin possesses a classic screen presence that fits seamlessly into both fantasy worlds and grounded dramas.

Alice Braga

Alice Braga has established a strong career in both Brazilian and Hollywood productions. She starred as the lead in the USA Network crime drama ‘Queen of the South’ for five successful seasons. Her filmography includes major sci-fi action movies like ‘I Am Legend’ and ‘Elysium’. Braga brings an intensity to her roles that makes her a compelling lead in action-heavy narratives.

Gina Rodriguez

Gina Rodriguez won a Golden Globe for her delightful performance in the satire ‘Jane the Virgin’. She currently stars in the sitcom ‘Not Dead Yet’ where she plays an obituary writer who sees ghosts. Her film career includes the action remake ‘Miss Bala’ and the sci-fi thriller ‘Annihilation’. Rodriguez is also a prolific producer who actively works to increase Latino presence in Hollywood.

Selena Gomez

Selena Gomez has successfully transitioned from a Disney channel star to a critically acclaimed actress. She stars in the hit mystery comedy ‘Only Murders in the Building’ which has earned her Emmy nominations as a producer. Her performance in the film ‘Emilia Pérez’ garnered significant buzz at film festivals. Gomez remains a massive pop culture force with a unique ability to balance dramatic and comedic acting.

Xochitl Gomez

Xochitl Gomez burst onto the scene with her role as America Chavez in ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’. She previously starred in ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’ which highlighted her natural charisma and energy. Her participation in the Marvel Cinematic Universe has positioned her as a key figure for the next generation of superheroes. Gomez brings a youthful enthusiasm to her roles that resonates with global audiences.

Isabela Merced

Isabela Merced has quickly become one of the busiest young actresses in Hollywood. She starred in the live-action ‘Dora and the Lost City of Gold’ and the sci-fi horror ‘Alien: Romulus’. Her upcoming role as Hawkgirl in the new ‘Superman’ film will further elevate her profile. Merced is a triple threat who sings, dances, and handles action-heavy roles with apparent ease.

Adria Arjona

Adria Arjona has gained momentum with standout performances in high-profile projects. She starred in the ‘Star Wars’ series ‘Andor’ and received praise for her chemistry with Glen Powell in ‘Hit Man’. Her credits include the action film ‘6 Underground’ and the Marvel movie ‘Morbius’. Arjona possesses a captivating screen presence that allows her to stand out in large ensemble casts.

Michelle Rodriguez

Michelle Rodriguez is the definitive female action star of the last two decades. She is best known for her role as Letty Ortiz in the multibillion-dollar ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise. Her resume includes other massive hits like ‘Avatar’ and ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’. Rodriguez has carved a niche for playing tough and capable characters who physically dominate the screen.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o is an Academy Award winner known for her incredible range and emotional depth. She starred in the horror hits ‘Us’ and ‘A Quiet Place: Day One’ where she carried the films with her expressive performance. Her role as Nakia in the ‘Black Panther’ films cemented her status as a global superstar. Nyong’o consistently selects challenging scripts that allow her to display her formidable acting skills.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has built an impressive career moving between indie darlings and blockbuster hits. She plays Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and starred in the ‘Creed’ franchise. Her performance in ‘Passing’ demonstrated her subtle dramatic abilities and received critical acclaim. Thompson is a versatile performer who brings intelligence and strength to every character she portrays.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is celebrated for her role as the tough detective Rosa Diaz in ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. She showcased her voice acting talent as the lead character Mirabel in Disney’s ‘Encanto’. Her recent work includes the action comedy ‘Twisted Metal’ based on the video game series. Beatriz has proven she can lead a major musical production as well as play deadpan comedy perfection.

Melissa Barrera

Melissa Barrera has emerged as a modern scream queen with her roles in the ‘Scream’ franchise. She recently starred in the vampire thriller ‘Abigail’ and the musical film ‘Carmen’. Her career began in telenovelas before she transitioned to Hollywood with ‘In the Heights’. Barrera brings a fierce intensity to her performances that captivates audiences in the horror and thriller genres.

Eiza González

Eiza González has become a go-to actress for high-octane action films and stylish thrillers. She starred in Michael Bay’s ‘Ambulance’ and the recent sci-fi series ‘3 Body Problem’. Her breakout role in ‘Baby Driver’ introduced her to international audiences as a charismatic performer. González consistently books major roles that utilize her action skills and dramatic presence.

Eva Longoria

Eva Longoria is a television icon known for her role as Gabrielle Solis on ‘Desperate Housewives’. She has transitioned into a successful director with her feature film debut ‘Flamin’ Hot’. She recently returned to acting with roles in ‘Only Murders in the Building’ and ‘Land of Women’. Longoria remains a powerful figure in the industry who balances acting with producing and directing.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza is famous for her deadpan comedy style and increasingly complex dramatic choices. She received rave reviews for her role in the second season of ‘The White Lotus’ and starred in ‘Emily the Criminal’. Her performance in the surreal show ‘Legion’ demonstrated her range beyond simple comedy. Plaza continues to surprise critics with bold role choices that challenge her public persona.

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson acts as the live-action anchor for the ‘Star Wars’ universe as Ahsoka Tano. Her extensive career includes cult hits like ‘Sin City’ and ‘Clerks II’ as well as serious dramas like ‘Dopesick’. She has been a consistent presence in Hollywood for decades with a resume that spans every genre. Dawson brings a gravitas to her roles that makes her believable as both a Jedi warrior and a dramatic lead.

Rita Moreno

Rita Moreno is a living legend and one of the few entertainers to achieve EGOT status. She recently starred in the remake of ‘West Side Story’ and the comedy film ’80 for Brady’. Her career spans over seven decades and she continues to work in both television and film. Moreno brings unparalleled experience and charisma to the screen that commands respect from audiences of all ages.

Rachel Zegler

Rachel Zegler rocketed to stardom with her Golden Globe-winning debut in ‘West Side Story’. She led the hunger games prequel ‘The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’ to box office success. Her upcoming projects include the live-action ‘Snow White’ which will keep her in the spotlight. Zegler possesses a rare combination of acting ability and vocal talent that fits perfectly in modern Hollywood.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose won an Academy Award for her supporting role as Anita in Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’. She recently voiced the lead character in the Disney animated film ‘Wish’ and starred in the spy thriller ‘Argylle’. Her background on Broadway translates into an energetic and physical acting style on camera. DeBose has quickly established herself as a major talent capable of handling high-profile projects.

America Ferrera

America Ferrera earned an Oscar nomination for her powerful monologue in the blockbuster ‘Barbie’. She is beloved for her lead role in ‘Ugly Betty’ which broke barriers for Latinas on network television. Her voice work in the ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ franchise has been heard by millions worldwide. Ferrera chooses projects that often contain strong social messages and empower women.

Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez remains one of the most influential entertainers in the world with a dual career in music and film. She recently starred in the action hit ‘The Mother’ which became one of Netflix’s most-watched movies. Her performance in ‘Hustlers’ generated significant awards buzz and reminded critics of her acting chops. Lopez brings a level of star power and work ethic to her projects that few can match.

Sofía Vergara

Sofia Vergara became the highest-paid actress in television history during her run on ‘Modern Family’. She recently transformed herself to play a drug lord in the gritty limited series ‘Griselda’. Her ability to shed her comedic image for a serious dramatic role impressed critics and audiences alike. Vergara continues to be a dominant force in the industry with massive global appeal.

Penélope Cruz

Penélope Cruz is an Academy Award winner known for her frequent collaborations with director Pedro Almodóvar. She recently starred in ‘Ferrari’ and continues to deliver acclaimed performances in European and American cinema. Her role in ‘Parallel Mothers’ earned her another Oscar nomination and solidified her status as an acting giant. Cruz brings a raw emotional honesty to her characters that transcends language barriers.

Salma Hayek Pinault

Salma Hayek is a global icon who has remained at the top of the industry for thirty years. She recently appeared in ‘Magic Mike’s Last Dance’ and the Marvel film ‘Eternals’. Her production work on ‘Frida’ paved the way for more complex stories about Latina women. Hayek combines glamour with a sharp comedic wit and dramatic ability that keeps her in high demand.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldaña acts in the highest-grossing films of all time including ‘Avatar’ and ‘Avengers: Endgame’. She leads the series ‘Special Ops: Lioness’ which allows her to display her dramatic range outside of science fiction. Her consistent presence in billion-dollar franchises makes her one of the most successful actresses in history. Saldaña brings a physical discipline and emotional intensity to every role she undertakes.

Ana de Armas

Ana de Armas earned an Academy Award nomination for her controversial and transformative role in ‘Blonde’. She proved her action capabilities in ‘No Time to Die’ and the thriller ‘The Gray Man’. Her breakout performance in ‘Knives Out’ showcased her ability to play the sympathetic lead in a star-studded ensemble. De Armas is currently one of the most sought-after leading ladies in Hollywood.

Jenna Ortega

Jenna Ortega has become a cultural phenomenon through her role as Wednesday Addams in the Netflix series ‘Wednesday’. She revitalized the ‘Scream’ franchise for a new generation before leaving the series to pursue other projects. Her performance in ‘Miller’s Girl’ and ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ shows her commitment to diverse and darker roles. Ortega commands a massive Gen Z following and critical respect for her specific brand of deadpan intensity.

Anya Taylor-Joy

Anya Taylor-Joy is a critically acclaimed superstar known for her unique look and intense performances. She won a Golden Globe for ‘The Queen’s Gambit’ and recently led the action epic ‘Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga’. Her filmography includes prestigious projects like ‘The Menu’ and ‘The Northman’ which highlight her versatility. Taylor-Joy consistently delivers mesmerizing performances that make her the top Latina actress working today.

Which of these actresses do you think deserves the top spot? Share your favorites in the comments.