Young Actresses Audiences Love Despite Controversy
The landscape of modern stardom often requires young actresses to balance their professional output with intense public scrutiny. While some controversies stem from personal choices or political stances, others arise from the demanding nature of major franchises and fan expectations. Despite these challenges, many performers have managed to maintain high levels of popularity and industry success. This list highlights fifty actresses who have remained prominent figures in entertainment while navigating various forms of public discourse.
Nicola Peltz Beckham
Nicola Peltz Beckham rose to prominence with roles in projects such as ‘The Last Airbender’ and the drama series ‘Bates Motel’. She has often been the subject of media attention regarding her marriage to Brooklyn Beckham and rumored tensions with her mother-in-law, Victoria Beckham. In 2024, she made her directorial debut with the film ‘Lola’, a project that she also wrote and starred in. Despite varied critical responses to her work, she remains a frequent fixture in both the film and fashion industries.
Kaia Gerber
Kaia Gerber transitioned from a highly successful modeling career into acting with roles in ‘American Horror Story’ and ‘Bottoms’. As the daughter of Cindy Crawford, she has faced ongoing discussions regarding nepotism in the entertainment industry. She has addressed these conversations by focusing on her professional development and appearing in projects like ‘Palm Royale’. Her popularity continues to rise as she takes on increasingly complex characters in film and television.
Madelaine Petsch
Madelaine Petsch gained international fame for her portrayal of Cheryl Blossom on the long-running series ‘Riverdale’. During her time on the show, she dealt with intense fan scrutiny regarding her character’s storylines and her own private life. She has successfully leveraged her television fame into a thriving digital presence and lead roles in films like ‘The Strangers: Chapter 1’. Her ability to connect with a young audience has kept her relevant in the post-CW landscape.
Zoey Deutch
Zoey Deutch has established herself as a versatile actress in films such as ‘Set It Up’ and the series ‘The Politician’. Like many of her peers, she has navigated the “nepo baby” discourse due to being the daughter of actress Lea Thompson and director Howard Deutch. She has often been praised for her comedic timing and work ethic, which fans cite as reasons for her sustained success. Deutch remains a sought-after lead for romantic comedies and independent dramas alike.
Phoebe Dynevor
Phoebe Dynevor became a global star after her lead role in the Netflix hit ‘Bridgerton’. She faced public debate regarding her departure from the series and her transition into more mature roles in films like ‘Fair Play’. As the daughter of ‘Coronation Street’ star Sally Dynevor, she has occasionally been included in discussions about industry connections. However, her performances have consistently earned critical praise, securing her place as a rising talent in Hollywood.
Camila Mendes
Camila Mendes is best known for her role as Veronica Lodge on the teen drama ‘Riverdale’. Throughout the show’s run, she was often at the center of social media discourse regarding the show’s writing and her public relationships. She has since moved into film production and starring roles in movies such as ‘Do Revenge’ and ‘Upgraded’. Mendes has been open about her struggles with body image, a topic that has resonated deeply with her large following.
Kiernan Shipka
Kiernan Shipka first gained acclaim as Sally Draper on ‘Mad Men’ before starring in ‘Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’. She has occasionally faced media speculation regarding her personal life and dating history as she transitioned into adult roles. Despite the gossip, she has maintained a steady career with projects like ‘Totally Killer’ and ‘Wildflower’. Her fans appreciate her fashion sense and her ability to lead both supernatural and dramatic series.
Kathryn Newton
Kathryn Newton has appeared in major franchises including ‘Big Little Lies’ and ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’. Her casting in the Marvel Cinematic Universe sparked some debate among fans who were attached to the previous actress in the role. Newton is also a competitive golfer, a fact that often surprises her audience and adds to her public image. She continues to work across genres, recently starring in the horror-comedy ‘Abigail’.
Kaitlyn Dever
Kaitlyn Dever received critical acclaim for her roles in ‘Booksmart’ and the miniseries ‘Dopesick’. While generally avoiding scandal, she faced casting discourse when she was selected to play Abby in the second season of ‘The Last of Us’. Fans of the video game were highly protective of the character, leading to intense online discussion. Dever has consistently focused on her craft, earning multiple award nominations for her dramatic performances.
Victoria Pedretti
Victoria Pedretti became a prominent figure in the horror genre with her roles in ‘The Haunting of Hill House’ and ‘You’. She is known for her extreme privacy, which has occasionally led to fan frustration and intense speculation about her personal life. Pedretti has spoken about the challenges of fame and the impact of playing psychologically taxing characters. Her dedicated fan base remains loyal, following her from television to independent film projects.
Elle Fanning
Elle Fanning has been acting since she was a toddler, starring in films like ‘Super 8’ and ‘Maleficent’. She faced some controversy for her role in the series ‘The Great’, specifically regarding the show’s use of nudity and historical inaccuracies. Fanning has also been a frequent subject of discussions regarding her family’s place in the industry. However, her consistent nominations for Emmy and Golden Globe awards have cemented her reputation as a serious artist.
Hailee Steinfeld
Hailee Steinfeld made a massive impact with her Oscar-nominated debut in ‘True Grit’ at age thirteen. As she transitioned into a pop music career and roles in ‘Hawkeye’, she has faced scrutiny over her privacy and high-profile friendships. She has largely avoided major scandals, though her romantic life remains a frequent topic for tabloids. Steinfeld remains one of the most successful “triple threats” of her generation, balancing acting, singing, and producing.
Anya Taylor-Joy
Anya Taylor-Joy became a global phenomenon after starring in ‘The Queen’s Gambit’ and ‘Dune: Part Two’. She has faced internet rumors regarding her appearance and potential cosmetic procedures, which often go viral on social media. Taylor-Joy has ignored the speculation, focusing instead on her collaborations with directors like George Miller and Robert Eggers. Her unique look and intense acting style have made her a favorite for both critics and audiences.
Vanessa Hudgens
Vanessa Hudgens rose to fame in ‘High School Musical’ and has since appeared in ‘Spring Breakers’ and ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’. In 2020, she faced significant backlash for comments she made regarding the COVID-19 pandemic during a live stream. She later issued an apology, and her career has since recovered with hosting duties and new film roles. Audiences have largely embraced her return to the spotlight, particularly her work on Broadway and in festive films.
Elizabeth Olsen
Elizabeth Olsen is widely recognized for her portrayal of Wanda Maximoff in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. She faced controversy regarding the casting of a non-Romani actress for a character with Romani heritage in the source material. Olsen has also dealt with the shadow of her famous sisters, Mary-Kate and Ashley, while carving out her own path. Her performance in ‘WandaVision’ was highly praised, helping her maintain a massive and supportive fan base.
Brie Larson
Brie Larson won an Academy Award for ‘Room’ before taking on the lead role in ‘Captain Marvel’. She became a polarizing figure due to her outspoken advocacy for diversity in film criticism and the industry at large. Despite online harassment campaigns, she has remained a box office draw and a prominent figure in the Marvel franchise. Larson has used her digital platforms to connect more directly with fans and humanize her public image.
Kristen Stewart
Kristen Stewart became a superstar through the ‘Twilight’ franchise and has since shifted toward independent cinema. She faced a massive media firestorm in 2012 following a public cheating scandal, which dominated headlines for months. Stewart has since become an Academy Award nominee for ‘Spencer’ and a respected director. Her transition into a queer icon has garnered her a new level of support and admiration from modern audiences.
Dakota Fanning
Dakota Fanning was one of the most famous child stars of the 2000s, appearing in ‘War of the Worlds’ and ‘I Am Sam’. At age twelve, she starred in ‘Hounddog’, a film that sparked national controversy due to a scene involving sexual violence. She and her parents defended the artistic merit of the project against significant public outcry at the time. Fanning has since maintained a steady and professional career, most recently appearing in ‘The Equalizer 3’.
Chloe Bailey
Chloe Bailey first gained fame as part of the musical duo Chloe x Halle before pursuing a solo career and acting in ‘Swarm’. She has faced persistent criticism for her more mature and sexualized public image compared to her earlier Disney-associated years. Bailey has addressed these critiques by emphasizing her right to creative and personal expression. Her fans often defend her against social media scrutiny, keeping her at the center of cultural conversations.
Lili Reinhart
Lili Reinhart became a household name playing Betty Cooper on ‘Riverdale’ for seven seasons. She has frequently been the subject of controversy for her candid social media posts regarding body image and mental health. Reinhart has also dealt with the public aftermath of her breakup with a high-profile co-star. Despite the drama, she has published a book of poetry and starred in the successful film ‘Look Both Ways’.
Joey King
Joey King has starred in a wide range of projects from ‘The Kissing Booth’ trilogy to the prestige drama ‘The Act’. She faced criticism from some viewers who felt that her casting as a real-life figure with disabilities was a missed opportunity for representation. King has also been open about the difficulties of filming romantic scenes with an ex-boyfriend for her streaming projects. She remains highly popular on social media and continues to land major roles in action and drama.
Barbie Ferreira
Barbie Ferreira was a breakout star on ‘Euphoria’, playing the character Kat Hernandez. Her departure from the show ahead of its third season sparked intense rumors of a feud with the show’s creator. Ferreira later clarified that she wanted to pursue new opportunities and avoid being sidelined in the narrative. She remains a prominent advocate for body positivity and continues to work in film and fashion.
Olivia Cooke
Olivia Cooke has starred in ‘Me and Earl and the Dying Girl’ and the ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel ‘House of the Dragon’. She faced internet scrutiny regarding the age gap between herself and the actors playing her on-screen children. Cooke has also been a viral sensation due to her interviews, particularly a widely shared clip about her favorite drink. Her ability to handle internet fame with humor has endeared her to a younger generation of fans.
Margaret Qualley
Margaret Qualley earned Emmy nominations for ‘Fosse/Verdon’ and starred in the hit series ‘Maid’. She faced public backlash for her past relationship with an actor following allegations of abuse made against him by a former partner. Qualley eventually ended the relationship and has since focused on her acting career and high-profile marriage. Her talent and fashion-forward public image have kept her as a top choice for prestige projects.
Mia Goth
Mia Goth has become the face of modern horror through her work in ‘X’ and ‘Pearl’. In 2024, she was the subject of a lawsuit filed by an extra who alleged she intentionally kicked him on a film set. Goth has not publicly commented on the legal matter, maintaining her enigmatic public persona. Her intense performances have earned her a cult following that supports her despite the off-screen allegations.
Maude Apatow
Maude Apatow plays Lexi Howard on the hit series ‘Euphoria’. As the daughter of a prominent director and actress, she has been a focal point of the ongoing debate regarding industry connections. She has acknowledged her privilege while continuing to pursue roles in theater and film to prove her capabilities. Fans of ‘Euphoria’ have particularly praised her character’s development, helping her build a following independent of her parents.
Maya Hawke
Maya Hawke joined the cast of ‘Stranger Things’ in its third season and quickly became a fan favorite. She is the daughter of two famous actors, which has led to frequent discussions about her advantages in the industry. Hawke has been praised for her musical talent and her self-aware approach to her family’s legacy. She continues to star in major films like ‘Asteroid City’, maintaining a high level of popularity.
Lily-Rose Depp
Lily-Rose Depp has appeared in several independent films and the controversial series ‘The Idol’. The show was widely criticized for its graphic content and treatment of female characters, putting Depp at the center of a media firestorm. She defended the project and her collaboration with the series’ creator despite the negative reviews. As the daughter of two international stars, she continues to be a major figure in both film and luxury fashion.
Bella Thorne
Bella Thorne transitioned from a Disney Channel star on ‘Shake It Up’ to a prolific independent actress and director. She caused a massive industry controversy when she joined a subscription-based content platform and reportedly crashed its payment system. Many creators criticized her for potentially harming the platform’s ecosystem through her high earnings. Despite this, Thorne remains incredibly popular, with millions of followers and a steady stream of film projects.
Letitia Wright
Letitia Wright is best known for her role as Shuri in the ‘Black Panther’ franchise. In 2020, she faced a significant backlash for sharing a video on social media that questioned the safety of certain medical treatments. The incident led to intense rumors about her status on the set of ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. Wright eventually deleted her social media and has since returned to acting, with fans continuing to support her work in the Marvel universe.
Amandla Stenberg
Amandla Stenberg rose to fame in ‘The Hunger Games’ and has starred in ‘The Hate U Give’ and ‘The Acolyte’. As a lead in the ‘Star Wars’ universe, she faced intense online harassment from a segment of the fan base. Stenberg responded to the backlash with creative projects that addressed the accusations and defended her artistic choices. She remains a prominent voice for social justice and a respected actress in both film and television.
Melissa Barrera
Melissa Barrera gained international recognition for her roles in ‘In the Heights’ and the ‘Scream’ franchise. In late 2023, she was removed from a major horror sequel following social media posts she made regarding international conflict. Her departure sparked a massive debate about free speech and led to her co-star also exiting the project in solidarity. Barrera has received significant support from fans and colleagues, continuing her career with new independent films.
Sophie Turner
Sophie Turner became a global icon for her portrayal of Sansa Stark in ‘Game of Thrones’. She faced intense media scrutiny in 2023 following her high-profile divorce and subsequent custody battle. The public narrative shifted several times as various reports emerged about her personal life and parenting style. Turner has since returned to her home country and continues to work on new projects, with a strong fan base supporting her.
Hunter Schafer
Hunter Schafer is a model and actress who broke through in the series ‘Euphoria’. In 2024, she was arrested during a protest in New York City advocating for a ceasefire in international conflict. Her activism has made her a polarizing figure for some, while others admire her commitment to political causes. As a prominent figure in Hollywood, she continues to be a trailblazer in both the fashion and film industries.
Dove Cameron
Dove Cameron started her career on the Disney Channel’s ‘Liv and Maddie’ and ‘Descendants’. She has undergone a significant image transformation, moving into darker musical themes and more mature acting roles. Cameron has faced rumors regarding cosmetic procedures and her personal life, which she has addressed with varying degrees of transparency. Her fans have embraced her new aesthetic and her openness about her identity and mental health struggles.
Shailene Woodley
Shailene Woodley starred in ‘The Fault in Our Stars’ and the ‘Divergent’ series. She has frequently been the subject of controversy for her unconventional lifestyle choices, including her arrest during environmental protests. Woodley has also faced criticism for her views on alternative wellness and her high-profile romantic relationships. Despite these headlines, her acting remains highly respected, particularly her work in the award-winning series ‘Big Little Lies’.
Emma Roberts
Emma Roberts has had a long career with roles in ‘American Horror Story’ and ‘Scream Queens’. She faced legal controversy in 2013 following a domestic dispute with a former partner. More recently, she was involved in a public disagreement with a former co-star, which led to an apology for her behavior. Roberts continues to be a mainstay of major television productions and maintains a large following interested in her fashion and literary choices.
Dakota Johnson
Dakota Johnson gained worldwide fame for the ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ trilogy. She became an internet favorite after a viral interview where she corrected a prominent talk show host about a birthday party invitation. Johnson also drew attention for her blunt comments about the production of ‘Madame Web’, which many saw as refreshing honesty. Her dry wit and willingness to speak her mind have earned her a reputation as a candid Hollywood star.
Emma Watson
Emma Watson is best known for playing Hermione Granger in the ‘Harry Potter’ series. She has faced public discourse over her stance on social issues, which placed her at odds with certain segments of the fan base. Watson has also been the subject of media investigation regarding her financial arrangements, though she maintained they were for privacy. As a global ambassador for women’s rights, she remains a powerful figure in activism while maintaining her acting career.
Halle Bailey
Halle Bailey is one half of a successful musical duo and starred as Ariel in ‘The Little Mermaid’. Her casting sparked a significant racist backlash online, which she addressed with poise in numerous public appearances. Despite the controversy, the film was a box office success and her performance was widely praised by critics. She has since balanced her music career with high-profile acting roles while entering a new phase of motherhood.
Millie Bobby Brown
Millie Bobby Brown became a superstar at age twelve for her role in ‘Stranger Things’. She has faced criticism for her public persona and for her business ventures, which some felt were aimed at a demographic she no longer represented. Her engagement at a young age also sparked a wide range of public opinions and debate. Despite the constant scrutiny, Brown remains one of the most influential young people in the world, with a successful beauty brand.
Selena Gomez
Selena Gomez is a singer and actress who currently stars in the hit series ‘Only Murders in the Building’. She has been at the center of multiple social media conflicts, leading to her taking several breaks from the internet. Gomez has been incredibly open about her battle with chronic illness and her mental health journey, earning her a deeply loyal following. She is currently one of the most-followed people on social media, despite the frequent drama surrounding her life.
Jennifer Lawrence
Jennifer Lawrence won an Academy Award for ‘Silver Linings Playbook’ and led ‘The Hunger Games’ franchise. She faced a period of public fatigue after a series of interviews that some perceived as overly rehearsed or relatable. In 2022, she was criticized for a comment regarding women in action movies, which she later clarified. Lawrence has since returned to success with new comedic roles and remains a top-tier Hollywood star.
Margot Robbie
Margot Robbie became a global icon for her roles in ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ and ‘Barbie’. Before her massive recent success, she was labeled by some tabloids as a risky investment due to the underperformance of several projects. She successfully transitioned into a powerhouse producer, proving her business acumen and influence. Robbie is now one of the most powerful women in Hollywood, beloved for both her talent and her executive leadership.
Florence Pugh
Florence Pugh earned an Oscar nomination for ‘Little Women’ and has starred in ‘Midsommar’ and ‘Oppenheimer’. She was at the center of a major media narrative during the production of a high-profile drama, with rumors of a feud with the director. Pugh largely stayed silent during the drama, letting her work speak for itself during the film’s promotional cycle. Her authenticity and vocal defense of her personal style choices have made her a hero to many of her fans.
Jenna Ortega
Jenna Ortega became a global phenomenon after starring in the hit series ‘Wednesday’. She faced some backlash from industry professionals after she admitted to changing lines on set without consulting the show’s writers. Ortega also made headlines when she exited a major horror franchise shortly after a co-star was removed from the project. Despite these professional shifts, she remains one of the most sought-after actresses of her generation.
Rachel Zegler
Rachel Zegler made her debut in ‘West Side Story’ and starred in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’. She has been a frequent target of online criticism for her comments regarding classic film remakes and her political views. In 2024, she faced further backlash for social media posts regarding national elections, for which she later apologized. Zegler has continued to find success on Broadway and in film, maintaining her status as a top young talent.
Sydney Sweeney
Sydney Sweeney rose to fame with standout roles in ‘Euphoria’ and ‘The White Lotus’. She has faced ongoing discourse regarding the content of her roles and the public’s perception of her family’s political leanings. Sweeney has defended her professional choices and her right to a private life outside of her acting career. Her recent box office hits have solidified her position as a leading lady in modern Hollywood.
Lily Collins
Lily Collins is the star of the streaming hit ‘Emily in Paris’. The show has faced significant criticism for its stereotypical portrayal of life in a foreign country. Collins has also been open about her past struggles with health issues, a topic she explored in her published memoir. Despite the mixed critical reception of her show, it remains a global viewership success, and Collins is widely praised for her fashion and acting.
Zendaya
Zendaya is one of the most popular and influential actresses in the world, known for ‘Euphoria’ and the ‘Spider-Man’ films. While largely avoiding personal scandal, she has been at the center of broader industry discussions regarding colorism and representation. Zendaya has acknowledged her position in these conversations and consistently uses her platform to advocate for more diversity. She remains a highly celebrated actress of her generation, maintaining a consistently positive public image.
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