Young Actresses and Actors Who Were Everywhere in the 2000s

The 2000s marked a vibrant era for Hollywood, characterized by the rise of teen-centric franchises, high-energy sitcoms, and a new generation of stars who became household names. From the dominance of Disney Channel and Nickelodeon to the massive success of global film series, these young performers were omnipresent on magazine covers and movie screens. Whether they were leading romantic comedies or headlining blockbuster action films, their influence defined the pop culture landscape of the decade. This list highlights 50 young actresses and actors who were truly everywhere throughout the 2000s.

Lindsay Lohan

Lindsay Lohan became a defining figure of the 2000s with a string of commercial hits that showcased her comedic timing. She starred in the 2003 remake of ‘Freaky Friday’ and the cultural phenomenon ‘Mean Girls’ in 2004. Her presence was constant in both teen cinema and tabloid media, making her one of the most talked-about celebrities of the era. Lohan also pursued a music career, releasing albums like ‘Speak’ during the peak of her fame. By the mid-2000s, she was considered one of Hollywood’s most bankable young stars.

Hilary Duff

Hilary Duff rose to international stardom as the titular character in the Disney Channel series ‘Lizzie McGuire’. Following the show’s success, she transitioned into film with roles in ‘The Lizzie McGuire Movie’ and ‘A Cinderella Story’. Duff was a quintessential teen idol, simultaneously launching a successful pop music career with hits like “So Yesterday.” She continued to headline major projects such as ‘Cheaper by the Dozen’ and ‘The Perfect Man’ throughout the decade. Her relatable image made her a role model for a generation of young viewers.

Zac Efron

Zac Efron became an overnight sensation following the 2006 premiere of the Disney Channel Original Movie ‘High School Musical’. As Troy Bolton, he led one of the most successful media franchises of the decade, appearing in two sequels including a theatrical release. Efron quickly transitioned into mainstream cinema with roles in the musical ‘Hairspray’ and the comedy ’17 Again’. His status as a teen heartthrob was solidified by his frequent appearances on magazine covers like Rolling Stone. He remained a central figure in pop culture as the decade came to a close.

Amanda Bynes

Amanda Bynes transitioned from her successful Nickelodeon sketch show ‘The Amanda Show’ to becoming a leading lady in teen comedies. She starred in ‘What a Girl Wants’ and ‘She’s the Man’, the latter of which became a cult classic for its humor and her performance. Bynes also appeared in the ensemble cast of ‘Hairspray’ as Penny Pingleton, showcasing her range in musical theater. Throughout the 2000s, she was known for her expressive physical comedy and relatability. Her consistent presence in film made her one of the most recognizable young faces of the era.

Daniel Radcliffe

Daniel Radcliffe gained worldwide fame as the lead in the ‘Harry Potter’ film franchise, starting with ‘Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone’ in 2001. Over the course of the decade, he grew up on screen while filming six of the eight installments in the series. Outside of the wizarding world, he took on daring projects such as the stage play ‘Equus’ to prove his versatility. Radcliffe’s face was synonymous with the decade’s biggest cinematic phenomenon. He successfully navigated the transition from child star to a respected actor by the late 2000s.

Emma Watson

Emma Watson rose to prominence alongside her co-stars in the ‘Harry Potter’ series as the brilliant Hermione Granger. Her performance in the franchise earned her numerous awards and established her as a global icon. Beyond her acting, she became a fashion favorite, often appearing in high-profile campaigns for brands like Burberry. Watson balanced her massive film career with her education, eventually attending Brown University. By the end of the 2000s, she was recognized as one of the most influential young women in the industry.

Rupert Grint

Rupert Grint rounded out the core trio of the ‘Harry Potter’ films as the loyal and humorous Ron Weasley. Throughout the 2000s, he appeared in every installment of the series, becoming a beloved figure for fans of the books and movies. Grint also explored independent projects during the decade, such as the 2006 film ‘Driving Lessons’. His comedic timing and charm made him a standout in the ensemble cast. He finished the decade as one of the wealthiest young actors in the United Kingdom due to the franchise’s success.

Frankie Muniz

Frankie Muniz was a staple of early 2000s television as the star of the sitcom ‘Malcolm in the Middle’. His portrayal of a gifted child in a dysfunctional family earned him multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. Muniz expanded his career into film with the ‘Agent Cody Banks’ series and ‘Big Fat Liar’. He was frequently cited as one of the most powerful and well-paid young stars during the height of his fame. Later in the decade, he took a hiatus from acting to pursue professional open-wheel racing.

Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus became a household name in 2006 with the launch of the Disney Channel series ‘Hannah Montana’. The show’s massive success led to sold-out concert tours, hit soundtracks, and a theatrical film in 2009. Cyrus was a multi-hyphenate talent who dominated both the television ratings and the music charts simultaneously. Her transition from a child star to a more mature artist began toward the end of the decade with ‘The Last Song’. She was undeniably one of the most influential pop culture figures for the late 2000s youth.

Selena Gomez

Selena Gomez broke through on Disney Channel with her starring role as Alex Russo in ‘Wizards of Waverly Place’. The show premiered in 2007 and quickly became one of the network’s most popular programs, earning several Emmy Awards. Gomez also starred in films like ‘Another Cinderella Story’ and ‘Princess Protection Program’. In addition to acting, she formed the band Selena Gomez & the Scene, releasing her debut album ‘Kiss & Tell’ in 2009. She entered the 2010s as one of the most prominent young celebrities in Hollywood.

Demi Lovato

Demi Lovato rose to fame after starring in the 2008 Disney Channel Original Movie ‘Camp Rock’ alongside the Jonas Brothers. Their powerful vocals led to a successful music career, starting with the debut album ‘Don’t Forget’. Lovato also headlined their own Disney series, ‘Sonny with a Chance’, which premiered in 2009. They were a central part of the late-2000s “Disney era,” frequently appearing in cross-promotional events and films. Their talent for both acting and singing made them a constant presence in teen media.

Vanessa Hudgens

Vanessa Hudgens achieved stardom as Gabriella Montez in the ‘High School Musical’ franchise beginning in 2006. Her chemistry with co-star Zac Efron and her vocal performances made her a favorite among fans worldwide. Following the success of the trilogy, she released two studio albums and transitioned into feature films like the 2009 comedy ‘Bandslam’. Hudgens was a frequent fixture at red carpet events and in fashion magazines throughout the mid-to-late 2000s. She successfully parlayed her Disney fame into a steady career in the entertainment industry.

Ashley Tisdale

Ashley Tisdale was a mainstay on Disney Channel, first appearing in ‘The Suite Life of Zack & Cody’ before playing Sharpay Evans in ‘High School Musical’. Her portrayal of the ambitious antagonist became iconic and led to her own spin-off film, ‘Sharpay’s Fabulous Adventure’. Tisdale also voiced Candace Flynn in the popular animated series ‘Phineas and Ferb’. Outside of television, she released pop albums such as ‘Headstrong’ which debuted in the top five of the Billboard 200. She was one of the most prolific young stars of the decade across multiple platforms.

Shia LaBeouf

Shia LaBeouf began the decade as the lead of the Disney Channel series ‘Even Stevens’, which earned him a Daytime Emmy. He made a successful jump to the big screen with the 2003 film ‘Holes’ and the thriller ‘Disturbia’. In 2007, he became a global superstar as the lead in the ‘Transformers’ franchise directed by Michael Bay. He also appeared alongside Harrison Ford in ‘Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull’. LaBeouf was widely considered the next major leading man in Hollywood by the end of the 2000s.

Chad Michael Murray

Chad Michael Murray was a premier teen heartthrob of the 2000s, starring in the long-running drama ‘One Tree Hill’. Before his tenure as Lucas Scott, he had recurring roles on ‘Gilmore Girls’ and ‘Dawson’s Creek’. Murray also headlined several popular teen films, including ‘Freaky Friday’, ‘A Cinderella Story’, and ‘House of Wax’. His image was a staple on bedroom posters and in teen magazines for several years. He remained a central figure in television drama until his departure from his hit series in 2009.

Mischa Barton

Mischa Barton became an overnight sensation as Marissa Cooper on the hit Fox series ‘The O.C.’, which premiered in 2003. Her character’s fashion and dramatic storylines made her a major pop culture icon of the mid-2000s. Barton appeared on numerous “Best Dressed” lists and was the face of several high-profile advertising campaigns. Though she left the show in its third season, her impact on the decade’s television landscape was significant. She continued to work in independent films throughout the remainder of the decade.

Adam Brody

Adam Brody rose to fame playing the sarcastic and lovable Seth Cohen on ‘The O.C.’. His character is often credited with popularizing the “indie” and “geek chic” aesthetic in mainstream media during the 2000s. Brody appeared in films such as ‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’ and ‘Jennifer’s Body’ during the height of his television success. He was a frequent subject of media attention due to his off-screen relationship with co-star Rachel Bilson. His portrayal of Seth Cohen remains one of the most memorable television performances of the era.

Rachel Bilson

Rachel Bilson gained widespread recognition as Summer Roberts on ‘The O.C.’, a role that was originally intended to be minor. Her character’s popularity led to her becoming a series regular and a central figure in the show’s success. Bilson became a fashion icon of the mid-2000s, frequently featured in magazines like Cosmopolitan and Lucky. She also starred in the 2006 film ‘The Last Kiss’ and the sci-fi action movie ‘Jumper’. Her presence on television and in style columns made her a prominent celebrity throughout the decade.

Blake Lively

Blake Lively burst onto the scene in the 2005 film ‘The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants’. She achieved massive television success starting in 2007 as Serena van der Woodsen in the CW series ‘Gossip Girl’. The show became a cultural phenomenon, and Lively was quickly established as a major fashion icon and “it girl”. During the late 2000s, she also appeared in films like ‘New York, I Love You’. Her role on ‘Gossip Girl’ ensured her status as one of the most photographed young actresses of the decade.

Leighton Meester

Leighton Meester became a star playing the complex and fashionable Blair Waldorf on ‘Gossip Girl’. Her performance as the manipulative yet vulnerable Upper East Side queen earned her critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase. In addition to her television work, Meester appeared in films such as the 2008 comedy ‘Killer Movie’. She also pursued a music career, collaborating with Cobra Starship on the hit single “Good Girls Go Bad.” By the end of the 2000s, she was a major fixture in the fashion and entertainment worlds.

Mary-Kate Olsen

Mary-Kate Olsen transitioned from her childhood role on ‘Full House’ to becoming a media mogul and fashion icon in the 2000s. Along with her sister, she starred in the film ‘New York Minute’ in 2004, which served as their final joint project as teens. She made a notable solo acting appearance in the television series ‘Weeds’ and the film ‘The Wackness’. Mary-Kate was a primary figure in the “boho-chic” fashion movement that dominated the mid-2000s. Her influence extended far beyond acting as she co-founded the luxury fashion brand The Row.

Ashley Olsen

Ashley Olsen was half of the most famous sibling duo of the 2000s, appearing in numerous direct-to-video films and the theatrical release ‘New York Minute’. She and her sister built a billion-dollar empire through their production company, Dualstar, which sold everything from movies to clothing. Following the mid-2000s, Ashley stepped away from acting to focus on her career as a fashion designer. She was a constant presence in fashion magazines and was often cited for her influential personal style. Along with Mary-Kate, she defined the “twin” phenomenon of the early millennium.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné dominated the Disney Channel in the mid-2000s as the lead of ‘That’s So Raven’. The show was the first in the network’s history to reach 100 episodes due to its high ratings and Raven’s comedic performance. She also starred in the successful ‘The Cheetah Girls’ film franchise and lent her voice to ‘Kim Possible’. Beyond television, she released albums and starred in the theatrical film ‘College Road Trip’. Her influence as a young Black actress in a leading comedy role was significant for the era.

Brenda Song

Brenda Song was a recurring face on Disney Channel, most notably playing the wealthy London Tipton in ‘The Suite Life of Zack & Cody’. Her character was a fan favorite, leading her to reprise the role in ‘The Suite Life on Deck’ toward the end of the decade. Song also starred in the 2006 Disney Channel Original Movie ‘Wendy Wu: Homecoming Warrior’, which showcased her martial arts skills. She appeared in several mainstream films, including ‘Like Mike’ and ‘Special Delivery’. By 2009, she was one of the most established young veterans on the network.

Dylan Sprouse

Dylan Sprouse rose to fame alongside his twin brother in the hit Disney Channel series ‘The Suite Life of Zack & Cody’. He played Zack Martin, the more mischievous of the two brothers, a role he continued in the spin-off ‘The Suite Life on Deck’. Before their Disney success, he appeared in the 1999 film ‘Big Daddy’ and the sitcom ‘Friends’. During the 2000s, Dylan was one of the highest-paid teenage actors in the world. He was a constant presence at award shows like the Kids’ Choice Awards throughout the decade.

Cole Sprouse

Cole Sprouse became a household name as Cody Martin in ‘The Suite Life of Zack & Cody’, which premiered in 2005. He and his brother Dylan were among the most recognizable child stars of the 2000s, appearing in various films and promotional campaigns. Cole also had a notable recurring role as Ross Geller’s son, Ben, on the sitcom ‘Friends’ earlier in the decade. The twins launched their own brand, including a magazine and clothing line, during their peak years. Cole’s portrayal of the more intellectual twin made him a favorite among the show’s massive audience.

Miranda Cosgrove

Miranda Cosgrove first gained attention as the precocious Summer Hathaway in the 2003 film ‘School of Rock’. She soon became a Nickelodeon star, playing Megan Parker on ‘Drake & Josh’ before landing her own series, ‘iCarly’, in 2007. ‘iCarly’ became a massive success, leading to several television movies and a music career for Cosgrove. She was one of the highest-paid child actors on television by the end of the 2000s. Her image was everywhere on the network, from commercials to holiday specials.

Victoria Justice

Victoria Justice rose to fame on Nickelodeon during the mid-to-late 2000s, initially as Lola Martinez on ‘Zoey 101’. She also made guest appearances on several other hit shows like ‘The Suite Life of Zack & Cody’ and ‘iCarly’. In 2009, she began filming ‘Victorious’, where she played the lead role of Tori Vega. Justice was also featured in the musical film ‘Spectacular!’, showcasing her singing and dancing abilities. Her consistent work on high-rated teen shows made her a prominent figure in the Nickelodeon lineup.

Jamie Lynn Spears

Jamie Lynn Spears became a major teen star as the lead of the Nickelodeon series ‘Zoey 101’, which premiered in 2005. The show was one of the highest-rated programs for the network and made her a household name. Prior to her own series, she was a regular performer on the sketch comedy show ‘All That’. Spears was frequently in the media spotlight due to her famous sister and her own rising career. Her time as a teen idol was a significant part of the mid-2000s television landscape.

Michael Cera

Michael Cera became the face of the “awkward teen” archetype in the 2000s following his role on the critically acclaimed series ‘Arrested Development’. He transitioned to film with the massive 2007 hits ‘Superbad’ and ‘Juno’. These films were both critical and commercial successes, establishing Cera as a leading comedic actor. He continued this momentum with roles in ‘Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist’ and ‘Year One’. By the end of the decade, his unique comedic style had made him one of the most recognizable young actors in Hollywood.

Jonah Hill

Jonah Hill became a breakout star of the 2000s comedic boom, particularly through his collaborations with Judd Apatow. He had small roles in ‘The 40-Year-Old Virgin’ and ‘Knocked Up’ before his leading turn in ‘Superbad’ in 2007. Hill’s performance in ‘Superbad’ was a major factor in the film’s success and helped define the R-rated teen comedy genre of the era. He also appeared in ‘Forgetting Sarah Marshall’ and ‘Funny People’ during the late 2000s. His presence was a staple in the decade’s most successful ensemble comedies.

Christopher Mintz-Plasse

Christopher Mintz-Plasse achieved instant fame with his film debut as Fogell, also known as “McLovin,” in the 2007 comedy ‘Superbad’. The character became a cultural icon, and Mintz-Plasse’s performance was widely praised for its comedic timing. He followed this success with a role in the 2008 comedy ‘Role Models’ alongside Paul Rudd and Seann William Scott. In 2009, he appeared in ‘Year One’ and began work on the superhero film ‘Kick-Ass’. His rapid rise from an unknown high schooler to a recognizable movie star was a quintessential 2000s success story.

Jesse McCartney

Jesse McCartney was a prominent teen idol who successfully balanced a career in acting and music. He starred in the WB drama ‘Summerland’ and made guest appearances on shows like ‘The Suite Life of Zack & Cody’. McCartney was also well known as a voice actor, providing the voice for Roxas in the ‘Kingdom Hearts’ video game series and Theodore in ‘Alvin and the Chimpanzees’. His music career peaked in the mid-2000s with hits like “Beautiful Soul.” He was a frequent cover star for teen magazines like J-14 and Tiger Beat.

Corbin Bleu

Corbin Bleu was a central figure in the ‘High School Musical’ franchise, playing the role of Chad Danforth. His athletic dance style and charisma made him one of the most popular stars on Disney Channel during the mid-2000s. He also starred in the 2007 Disney Channel Original Movie ‘Jump In!’, which set viewership records at the time. Bleu released solo albums, including ‘Another Side’, and appeared on ‘Discovery Kids’ and ‘Hannah Montana’. He was a consistent presence in both musical theater and television throughout the decade.

Michelle Trachtenberg

Michelle Trachtenberg was a frequent presence in both television and film during the 2000s. She played Dawn Summers on ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ and later portrayed the villainous Georgina Sparks on ‘Gossip Girl’. Trachtenberg also starred in films such as ‘EuroTrip’ and ‘Ice Princess’, showcasing her range from comedy to drama. Her career began as a child actress, but she successfully transitioned into more mature roles as the decade progressed. She was often featured in teen and fashion magazines during her peak years.

Hayden Panettiere

Hayden Panettiere gained international fame as Claire Bennet, the indestructible cheerleader on the hit NBC series ‘Heroes’. Her character’s catchphrase, “Save the cheerleader, save the world,” became a defining meme of the mid-2000s. Prior to ‘Heroes’, she appeared in films like ‘Remember the Titans’ and ‘Bring It On: All or Nothing’. Panettiere also lent her voice to the character Kairi in the ‘Kingdom Hearts’ video game series. Her high-profile television role and activist work made her a prominent young celebrity throughout the decade.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart began the decade as a respected child actress in films like ‘Panic Room’ and ‘Zathura: A Space Adventure’. She achieved massive global stardom in 2008 when she was cast as Bella Swan in the ‘Twilight’ film series. The franchise became a cultural phenomenon, placing Stewart at the center of intense media scrutiny and fan devotion. She continued to work on independent projects like ‘Adventureland’ and ‘The Runaways’ during the height of her franchise fame. By 2009, she was one of the most famous and highest-paid young actresses in the world.

Robert Pattinson

Robert Pattinson first appeared on the radar of many fans as Cedric Diggory in the 2005 film ‘Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire’. He became a global superstar in 2008 with his role as the vampire Edward Cullen in ‘Twilight’. Pattinson’s image was inescapable for the remainder of the decade as he became a premier Hollywood heartthrob. He also starred in the 2009 drama ‘Little Ashes’, portraying Salvador Dalí. His presence defined the “vampire craze” that dominated pop culture in the late 2000s.

Taylor Lautner

Taylor Lautner rose to fame as Jacob Black in the ‘Twilight’ saga, beginning with the first film in 2008. His physical transformation for the 2009 sequel ‘The Twilight Saga: New Moon’ became a major media talking point and solidified his status as a teen icon. Earlier in the decade, he starred as Sharkboy in ‘The Adventures of Sharkboy and Lavagirl’ and appeared in ‘Cheaper by the Dozen 2’. Lautner was a frequent guest on talk shows and a staple of teen magazine covers. He was one of the three central figures of the decade’s biggest romantic film rivalry.

Megan Fox

Megan Fox became a major sex symbol and movie star following her breakout role in the 2007 blockbuster ‘Transformers’. Her performance as Mikaela Banes made her a household name and a frequent subject of media attention. She reprised the role in the 2009 sequel ‘Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen’ and starred in the cult horror film ‘Jennifer’s Body’. Fox was consistently voted as one of the most beautiful women in the world by various publications during the late 2000s. Her presence was a defining element of late-decade action cinema.

Dakota Fanning

Dakota Fanning was the most prominent child actress of the early 2000s, known for her performances in high-profile dramas. She starred in ‘I Am Sam’ at age seven, followed by lead roles in ‘Uptown Girls’, ‘Man on Fire’, and ‘War of the Worlds’. Fanning worked with some of the industry’s biggest directors, including Steven Spielberg and Tony Scott, before she was even a teenager. She transitioned into teen roles toward the end of the decade with films like ‘The Secret Life of Bees’ and ‘The Twilight Saga: New Moon’. Her talent and maturity on screen were frequently lauded by critics.

Abigail Breslin

Abigail Breslin became a major child star in the mid-2000s, most notably for her Academy Award-nominated role in ‘Little Miss Sunshine’. Before her breakout success, she appeared in the M. Night Shyamalan film ‘Signs’ and the comedy ‘Raising Helen’. Breslin continued to headline family films such as ‘Nim’s Island’ and ‘Kit Kittredge: An American Girl’. She also took on more dramatic roles in ‘My Sister’s Keeper’ toward the end of the decade. Her consistent work and awards recognition made her one of the most respected young performers of the era.

Josh Hutcherson

Josh Hutcherson was a prolific child and teen actor throughout the 2000s, appearing in a wide variety of film genres. He had lead roles in the family adventures ‘Little Manhattan’, ‘Zathura: A Space Adventure’, and ‘Bridge to Terabithia’. Hutcherson also starred in the 2008 3D blockbuster ‘Journey to the Center of the Earth’. His ability to carry lead roles in major studio films made him a reliable young star for nearly the entire decade. He was well-positioned for his even greater success in the following decade.

Mandy Moore

Mandy Moore was a staple of the 2000s as both a pop singer and a leading actress in teen movies. She moved beyond her bubblegum pop roots with her acclaimed performance in the 2002 romantic drama ‘A Walk to Remember’. Moore followed this with roles in ‘Saved!’, ‘How to Deal’, and ‘Chasing Liberty’. She also lent her voice to various projects and continued to release music, such as the 2007 album ‘Wild Hope’. Her girl-next-door image and versatility made her a favorite of the decade’s youth audience.

Julia Stiles

Julia Stiles was a prominent leading lady in the early 2000s, starring in several successful teen films based on classic literature. She led the 2001 hit ‘Save the Last Dance’ and appeared in the ‘Bourne’ film series as Nicky Parsons. Stiles also starred in ‘Mona Lisa Smile’ and ‘The Prince and Me’ during the first half of the decade. Her intellectual approach to acting and choice of diverse roles set her apart from other young stars of the era. She remained a consistent presence in both blockbusters and independent cinema.

Kirsten Dunst

Kirsten Dunst began the 2000s with the cult classic cheerleading comedy ‘Bring It On’. She achieved global fame as Mary Jane Watson in the ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy, which began in 2002 and became one of the highest-grossing franchises of the decade. Dunst also took on challenging roles in films like ‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’ and ‘Marie Antoinette’. Her transition from teen star to respected leading actress was one of the most successful of her generation. She was a constant fixture in fashion and entertainment media for the entire decade.

Keira Knightley

Keira Knightley burst onto the international scene with the 2002 surprise hit ‘Bend It Like Beckham’. She achieved massive stardom in 2003 as Elizabeth Swann in the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ franchise. Knightley also earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘Pride & Prejudice’ in 2005. She was a frequent star of period dramas, including ‘Atonement’ and ‘The Duchess’, which showcased her dramatic range. Her presence in both major blockbusters and prestigious dramas made her a top-tier celebrity of the 2000s.

Orlando Bloom

Orlando Bloom became an immediate heartthrob in the early 2000s with his role as Legolas in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy. He followed this success by playing Will Turner in the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ series, starring in two major franchises simultaneously. Bloom also headlined the historical epic ‘Kingdom of Heaven’ and the romantic comedy ‘Elizabethtown’. His face was ubiquitous on posters and in magazines during the peak of the “epic film” era. He was one of the most recognizable and bankable male stars of the decade.

Emma Roberts

Emma Roberts rose to fame as the star of the Nickelodeon series ‘Unfabulous’, which aired from 2004 to 2007. She transitioned into film with the leading role in ‘Nancy Drew’ and the mermaid comedy ‘Aquamarine’. Roberts also starred in the 2008 teen comedy ‘Wild Child’ and the family film ‘Hotel for Dogs’. As the niece of Julia Roberts, she was frequently in the spotlight and was considered a rising star throughout the late 2000s. Her work on television and in film made her a significant figure in the teen media landscape.

Alyson Stoner

Alyson Stoner was a versatile young performer who appeared in many of the decade’s biggest hits for children and teens. She was well known for her role as Sarah Baker in the ‘Cheaper by the Dozen’ films and as Camille Gage in ‘Step Up’. Stoner was also a prominent dancer, famously appearing in several Missy Elliott music videos as a child. On television, she had recurring roles on ‘The Suite Life of Zack & Cody’ and voiced Isabella in ‘Phineas and Ferb’. Her multi-faceted talent made her a constant presence across film, television, and music videos.

Which of these 2000s stars was your favorite to see on screen, and who do you think defined the decade most? Share your thoughts in the comments.