Hollywood has seen an influx of young talent whose performances are reshaping what it means to be a “breakout star.” From veteran stage actors stepping into film for the first time to musicians discovering their cinematic voices, these rising performers are capturing attention with authenticity, charisma, and skill. They bring depth to their characters, command the screen, and are proving that the future of film is in talented hands.
13. Woody Norman (C’mon C’mon)
Woody Norman delivered a standout performance in Mike Mills’ C’mon C’mon, portraying a perceptive young nephew opposite Joaquin Phoenix’s work-driven uncle. Norman’s portrayal avoided clichés, balancing wisdom beyond his years with the natural curiosity and energy of childhood. The chemistry between Norman and Phoenix anchors the film, giving the story warmth and nuance. With expressive eyes and physicality that bring his character vividly to life, Norman proves he’s more than a promising newcomer. Upcoming projects, including Last Voyage of the Demeter and Cobweb, signal that his career is just beginning.
12. Saniyya Sidney (King Richard)
Saniyya Sidney made a definitive mark playing young Venus Williams in King Richard. Standing alongside Will Smith, Sidney captured the tennis star’s drive and charisma with remarkable authenticity, both on the court and in intimate moments of growth and discovery. Her performance is a blend of confidence and vulnerability, leaving a lasting impression. Future roles, such as portraying Sasha Obama in The First Lady, indicate that Sidney’s presence in Hollywood will only grow stronger.
11. Jude Hill (Belfast)
Jude Hill debuted in Kenneth Branagh’s Belfast, playing Buddy, a young version of Branagh himself. Hill’s portrayal captured both childhood innocence and the subtle anxieties of growing up amid political unrest. Working alongside a stellar ensemble, including Judi Dench and Ciarán Hinds, Hill’s performance stood out for its charm and emotional depth. With roles lined up in Magpie Murders and the Mandrake remake, he’s poised to build on his impressive introduction to film.
10. Cooper Hoffman (Licorice Pizza)
Cooper Hoffman made a memorable debut in Paul Thomas Anderson’s Licorice Pizza. The son of Philip Seymour Hoffman, he met high expectations with a magnetic portrayal of Gary Valentine, a teenage dreamer navigating ambition and romance. Hoffman’s charm and nuance allowed audiences to connect with a character who might otherwise have been polarizing. Sharing the National Board of Review’s Breakthrough Performance award with co-star Alana Haim, he has already proven he can step out of his father’s shadow while building his own legacy.
9. Robin de Jesús (tick… tick… Boom!)
Robin de Jesús brought his Tony-winning stage energy to Lin-Manuel Miranda’s tick… tick… Boom!, delivering a performance full of humor, heartbreak, and humanity. Portraying Michael, he honored the stories of gay men living through the AIDS crisis with nuance and empathy. His unforgettable musical moments, particularly in “No More” and “Real Life,” highlighted his versatility and reinforced his status as a performer capable of transcending the stage.
8. Simu Liu (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings)
Simu Liu became a global sensation starring as Shang-Chi in Marvel’s first Asian-led superhero film. Combining martial arts skill with magnetic screen presence, Liu’s performance resonated with audiences worldwide. The film’s cultural significance and Liu’s charisma earned him the People’s Choice Award for Favorite Action Movie Star. Upcoming projects, including One True Loves and Arthur the King, signal a continued rise in his cinematic influence.
7. Mike Faist (West Side Story)
Mike Faist transitioned from Broadway acclaim to cinematic prominence with his portrayal of Riff in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story. His energy, charm, and intensity brought depth to the role, blending Shakespearean inspiration with streetwise realism. Faist’s nuanced performance, physicality, and emotional resonance suggest a career capable of tackling both complex and iconic characters. Future projects, including Pinball: The Man Who Saved the Game, promise continued growth.
6. Kodi Smit-McPhee (The Power of the Dog)
Kodi Smit-McPhee quietly impressed audiences as Peter Gordon in The Power of the Dog. His portrayal of a sensitive, bullied boy who gradually asserts his strength was subtle yet commanding. Winning a Golden Globe and earning nominations from SAG and CCA, Smit-McPhee has proven he can dominate a narrative with restraint and intelligence. Upcoming appearances in Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis project highlight his rising status.
5. Alana Haim (Licorice Pizza)
Alana Haim made her film debut in Licorice Pizza, bringing natural charm, humor, and presence to the screen. Her performance earned her critical acclaim and numerous newcomer awards, establishing her as a promising actress beyond her music career. While music remains her focus, Haim’s ability to translate stage presence into cinematic nuance suggests a strong future in film if she chooses to pursue it further.
4. Emilia Jones (CODA)
Emilia Jones immersed herself completely in her role as Ruby in CODA, mastering sign language and operating a fishing trawler to deliver authenticity. Her performance balanced complex emotions, family dynamics, and the challenges of being the only hearing member of a deaf family. Her emotional finale, singing and signing Both Sides Now, became a cinematic highlight, earning her the Gotham Award for Breakthrough Performer and cementing her status as an emerging talent.
3. Anthony Ramos (In the Heights)
Anthony Ramos leapt from Broadway fame in Hamilton to wider recognition with In the Heights. His magnetic energy, humor, and emotional resonance brought life to the film, showcasing his versatility and screen presence. With roles in Distant, The Bad Guys, and Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, Ramos is solidifying his place as a leading talent in both musical and mainstream cinema.
2. Rachel Zegler (West Side Story)
Rachel Zegler earned acclaim as Maria in Spielberg’s West Side Story. Her singing, dancing, and acting skills earned her the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical. Her chemistry with co-stars and her ability to convey emotional depth set her apart. With major upcoming roles in Shazam! Fury of the Gods and Snow White, Zegler is poised to become one of Hollywood’s defining young performers.
1. Ariana DeBose (West Side Story)
Ariana DeBose brought her Broadway experience to the screen as Anita in West Side Story, delivering fire, grace, and emotional intensity. Her performance earned her the Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress and a SAG nomination, as well as the opportunity to host Saturday Night Live. With roles in Argylle and I.S.S. on the horizon, DeBose’s combination of singing, dancing, and acting talent positions her as one of the most exciting stars of her generation.
These emerging talents demonstrate the range, versatility, and dedication required to leave a lasting mark in film. Each of them brings something unique, whether it’s emotional depth, physical precision, or musicality to the screen. As their careers continue to unfold, these actors are shaping the future of Hollywood and proving that the next generation of performers is ready to captivate audiences worldwide.