Hollywood’s landscape is constantly evolving, with new talent emerging every year. These rising actors are carving out impressive paths in Hollywood, bringing fresh perspectives and incredible talent to every project they join. With more opportunities on the horizon, their impact on the industry is sure to grow, shaping the stories and trends that define the next generation of film and television. Here’s a look at 20 rising actors who are gaining recognition for their performances and have the potential to shape Hollywood’s future. From indie darlings to breakout stars, these actors are already making an impact with compelling performances and unique roles.
Florence Pugh
Known For: Midsommar, Little Women, Oppenheimer
Why Rising: Pugh has quickly become known for her emotional depth, playing complex characters with incredible range, and her versatility continues to open doors in high-profile projects.
Upcoming Projects: Dune: Part Two
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Timothée Chalamet
Known For: Call Me by Your Name, Dune, Wonka
Why Rising: Chalamet’s charisma and emotional depth have made him a critical favorite, and he’s already established a huge following thanks to his unique film choices.
Upcoming Projects: Dune: Part Two, Wonka
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Zendaya
Known For: Euphoria, Spider-Man series, Dune
Why Rising: With a history of tackling emotionally charged roles and capturing attention in big franchises, Zendaya is both a fashion icon and one of Hollywood’s hottest talents.
Upcoming Projects: Dune: Part Two
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Jonathan Majors
Known For: Lovecraft Country, The Last Black Man in San Francisco, Creed III
Why Rising: Majors’ magnetic performances have made him one of the most versatile actors of his generation, moving seamlessly between action, drama, and science fiction.
Upcoming Projects: Avengers: The Kang Dynasty
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Anya Taylor-Joy
Known For: The Queen’s Gambit, The Witch, Last Night in Soho
Why Rising: Taylor-Joy’s hypnotic screen presence and unique look have captivated audiences, and she’s able to transform in every role she takes on.
Upcoming Projects: Mad Max: Furiosa
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Paul Mescal
Known For: Normal People, Aftersun, God’s Creatures
Why Rising: Mescal brings intense vulnerability and authenticity to his roles, especially in indie films, making him a critical darling and fan favorite.
Upcoming Projects: Gladiator 2
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Sydney Sweeney
Known For: Euphoria, The White Lotus, Reality
Why Rising: Sweeney’s impressive range has made her one of Hollywood’s most sought-after young talents, with roles that showcase her versatility from drama to dark comedy.
Upcoming Projects: Madame Web
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LaKeith Stanfield
Known For: Get Out, Atlanta, Judas and the Black Messiah
Why Rising: Known for his unique roles and laid-back style, Stanfield has made a name for himself in both film and TV with daring performances.
Upcoming Projects: The Book of Clarence
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Regé-Jean Page
Known For: Bridgerton, Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves
Why Rising: Page captured attention globally with Bridgerton, and his charisma has landed him multiple big-screen projects as he transitions from TV to film.
Upcoming Projects: Butch and Sundance series
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Jenna Ortega
Known For: Wednesday, Scream series, X
Why Rising: With her breakout performance as Wednesday Addams, Ortega has shown she can hold her own in horror and dark comedy, making her a fan favorite.
Upcoming Projects: Beetlejuice 2
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Hunter Schafer
Known For: Euphoria
Why Rising: Schafer’s debut role in Euphoria captivated audiences with its depth and authenticity, showcasing her as a powerful and thoughtful performer.
Upcoming Projects: The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes
Kayla Oaddams
Austin Butler
Known For: Elvis, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
Why Rising: Butler’s transformative performance in Elvis garnered widespread acclaim, proving his ability to tackle challenging roles with charisma.
Upcoming Projects: Dune: Part Two
Matt Winkelmeyer
Teyonah Parris
Known For: WandaVision, If Beale Street Could Talk, The Marvels
Why Rising: Parris’ ability to move between big franchises and smaller, nuanced roles has made her a versatile talent and a rising star.
Upcoming Projects: The Marvels
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Damson Idris
Known For: Snowfall, Outside the Wire
Why Rising: Known for his gripping performances, especially in Snowfall, Idris brings a depth that’s turning heads and opening new doors.
Upcoming Projects: Swarm
Maarten De Boer
Rachel Zegler
Known For: West Side Story
Why Rising: Zegler’s breakout performance in West Side Story put her on the map as a young actress with immense talent and vocal ability.
Upcoming Projects: The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, Snow White
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Maya Hawke
Known For: Stranger Things, Do Revenge, Asteroid City
Why Rising: Hawke, who brings both charisma and quirkiness to her roles, is gaining a fanbase and standing out as a talented character actor.
Upcoming Projects: Maestro
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Kelvin Harrison Jr.
Known For: Waves, Luce, Chevalier
Why Rising: Harrison Jr.’s emotionally complex roles have established him as a versatile and compelling actor with a bright future.
Upcoming Projects: The Lion King (voice)
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Emma Mackey
Known For: Sex Education, Death on the Nile, Emily
Why Rising: Mackey’s engaging performances have made her a standout talent, with a growing fanbase and more high-profile projects on the horizon.
Upcoming Projects: Barbie
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Jacob Elordi
Known For: Euphoria, The Kissing Booth series, Priscilla
Why Rising: Known for his versatility, Elordi is quickly transitioning from teen heartthrob to serious actor with his bold role choices.
Upcoming Projects: The Narrow Road to the Deep North
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Ariana DeBose
Known For: West Side Story, Schmigadoon!
Why Rising: DeBose’s Oscar-winning performance in West Side Story solidified her as a powerhouse, and her dance and musical talents set her apart in Hollywood.
Upcoming Projects: Kraven the Hunter
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