The 2025 Best Actress category promises one of the most unpredictable and exciting races in recent memory. This year’s contenders range from industry veterans and legendary performers to breakout stars and historic firsts. With a mix of biopics, indie dramas, international films, and career comebacks, the field is packed with talent and stories that resonate far beyond the screen. Voter preferences may shift as more films become available, making this year’s race a wild card from start to finish. Here’s a closer look at the top contenders and the narratives shaping the race.
14. Tilda Swinton – The Room Next Door
Tilda Swinton continues to be one of Hollywood’s most fascinating actors, bringing her signature blend of intensity and subtlety to The Room Next Door. Teaming up with Pedro Almodóvar, Swinton tackles a role that’s both intellectually and emotionally layered, proving once again why she’s always a wildcard during awards season.
Though the film arrived late in the year, those who have seen it are impressed by the depth and nuance of Swinton’s performance. Her Golden Globe nomination keeps her visible in the conversation, but the Academy has often been unpredictable with her work. If voters catch her performance during the holidays, Swinton could pull off a surprise, though the crowded field makes her a long shot.
13. Kate Winslet – Lee
Kate Winslet has long been a benchmark for excellence in acting, and her portrayal of iconic photographer Lee Miller in Lee reinforces that reputation. Winslet’s ability to convey vulnerability alongside steely determination makes her performance compelling, providing a perfect showcase for her considerable talents.
Despite her pedigree and consistent craft, Lee hasn’t generated the same awards buzz as some of Winslet’s previous projects. The film’s quieter profile may limit her momentum, as the competition is fierce. Still, her name carries weight, and Winslet remains a contender who cannot be dismissed.
12. Pamela Anderson – The Last Showgirl
Pamela Anderson has defied expectations with her performance in The Last Showgirl, transforming from a pop culture icon into a seriously acclaimed actress. Her work is emotionally resonant and surprisingly layered, earning her a Golden Globe nod and critical admiration.
The film’s accessible storytelling makes it appealing to voters, but Anderson faces stiff competition from other comeback stories, particularly Demi Moore. The race between the two actresses for the “unexpected triumph” narrative adds intrigue, with Anderson needing sustained attention to break into the top tier.
11. Saoirse Ronan – The Outrun
Saoirse Ronan has consistently proven her range, and The Outrun is another vehicle showcasing her subtle, emotionally rich performances. The character-driven drama offers Ronan the chance to deliver the layered work that audiences and voters have come to expect.
Yet despite her impressive history and early buzz, the film hasn’t made as much of an awards splash as some of her prior projects. Without additional support from other elements of the film, her campaign may rely on international recognition or unexpected backing from organizations like BAFTA.
10. Zendaya – Challengers
Zendaya is solidifying her place among Hollywood’s leading actors with Challengers, blending sports drama and romance while highlighting her charm and emotional depth. Her ability to balance vulnerability with confidence has made her a standout in a competitive field.
The film’s popularity with younger audiences and its critical acclaim have kept Zendaya visible in the awards conversation. Representing the next generation of Hollywood talent, she embodies the fresh energy and evolving storytelling the Academy is beginning to embrace.
9. Marianne Jean-Baptiste – Hard Truths
Marianne Jean-Baptiste is finally receiving long-overdue recognition for her work in Hard Truths, a gritty, character-driven drama. Her nuanced and authentic performance elevates the film, proving her enduring talent and skill.
Jean-Baptiste’s campaign is quietly building momentum, and insiders see her as a potential spoiler in a wide-open field. With steady, understated excellence, she could appeal to voters looking for a performance that is quietly extraordinary rather than flashy.
8. Fernanda Torres – I’m Still Here
Fernanda Torres is making history as only the second Brazilian actor nominated for a major acting award at the Golden Globes, following her mother, Fernanda Montenegro. I’m Still Here explores themes of aging and legacy, with Torres delivering a deeply moving performance that resonates on both personal and universal levels.
The film’s international and foreign-language status makes her campaign a challenge, as the Academy historically favors English-language films. Yet Torres’ critical acclaim and Globe nomination give her a shot at breaking through if voters are feeling adventurous.
7. Cynthia Erivo – Wicked
Cynthia Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba in the lavish adaptation of Wicked is one of the season’s most talked-about performances. Her vocal power and emotional depth bring new life to the role, demonstrating her versatility as both a singer and actor.
While the film enjoys broad audience appeal and a high-profile campaign, the question remains whether the Academy will embrace it as enthusiastically as the Golden Globes did. For now, Erivo remains a formidable contender thanks to her sheer talent and show-stopping presence.
6. Karla Sofía Gascón – Emilia Pérez
Karla Sofía Gascón is making history as the first openly trans performer nominated for a major Golden Globe, with her work in Emilia Perez turning heads across the industry. Her performance is fearless and emotionally resonant, offering a unique perspective that sets her apart in the crowded field.
The divisive nature of the film may pose challenges, but the historic significance of her nomination gives her campaign momentum. If voters respond to both the artistry and the milestone moment, Gascón could become a trailblazer in the Best Actress category.
5. Nicole Kidman – Babygirl
Nicole Kidman returns to the awards conversation with Babygirl, a daring film that explores sensuality, self-discovery, and vulnerability. Kidman’s performance has been praised for its nuance and depth, standing out in a year full of strong contenders.
The Academy has historically rewarded Kidman for safer roles, but Babygirl allows her to demonstrate range and courage. If voters respond to the risks she takes in this project, Kidman could emerge as a serious contender, a dark horse with substantial potential.
4. Angelina Jolie – Maria
Angelina Jolie is once again capturing attention with her work in Maria, a biopic that highlights her dramatic chops and star power. Her performance has been met with praise from both industry insiders and critics, positioning her as a likely nominee.
With a high-profile role and a compelling narrative, Jolie’s campaign is textbook Oscar bait. Combined with the technical achievements of the film, she stands out as one of the safest bets in a competitive field.
3. Mikey Madison – Anora
Breakout star Mikey Madison has taken the season by storm with Anora, a small indie film that has garnered critical acclaim largely thanks to her electrifying performance. Madison balances humor and drama with a natural ease that makes her impossible to ignore.
Though the film’s indie status could pose challenges with older Academy voters, Madison’s discovery story and the critical buzz around her performance have made her a near-lock for nomination. She represents the continued opportunity for fresh talent to make waves in the awards race.
2. Demi Moore – The Substance
Demi Moore’s resurgence in The Substance has captured the industry’s attention, transforming her into the season’s most talked-about comeback story. Her bold performance in a polarizing body-horror film has become a must-watch for voters intrigued by reinvention and risk.
Moore’s narrative, overcoming industry bias and seizing a long-awaited spotlight, has proven irresistible. Though critics remain divided on the film itself, her story-driven campaign positions her as the front-runner, with a potential win representing one of the most celebrated redemption arcs in recent Oscar history.
1. The State of the 2025 Best Actress Race
The 2025 Best Actress race is one of the most diverse and unpredictable in years. With legends, newcomers, international stars, and historic firsts all vying for recognition, the category is a showcase of evolving tastes and values in Hollywood. The narratives surrounding each contender’s comebacks, breakthroughs, and boundary-pushing performances play as much of a role as the performances themselves.
Ultimately, this year’s race isn’t just about who gives the best performance; it’s about who tells the most compelling story and who resonates with a broad spectrum of voters. Whether the Academy plays it safe or rewards risk, the 2025 Best Actress lineup is shaping up to be a landmark moment, one that will be remembered for both its talent and its storytelling.