In the dazzling universe of film and television, there’s always a buzz around who’s next to captivate audiences and who continues to redefine what it means to be a star. We’re talking about the fresh faces ready to make their indelible mark and the seasoned legends who’ve already etched their names into cinematic history. It’s a thrilling blend of raw potential and proven mastery that keeps us glued to our screens!
Variety, a name synonymous with tracking talent, has once again given us a peek into the future with its “10 Actors to Watch 2025” franchise. This isn’t just a list; it’s a testament to emerging brilliance, following a proud tradition that has highlighted over 35 Oscar winners and nominees since 1998, including names like Mahershala Ali, Timothée Chalamet, and Brie Larson. These are the artists who are poised to dominate our conversations and shape the stories of tomorrow.
But it’s not just about who’s new on the scene. We also love celebrating the global icons who inspire millions, whose appeal extends far beyond box office numbers. This journey celebrates both the exciting new voices stepping into the limelight and the unparalleled impact of those who have truly become household names. Let’s dive in and meet some of these incredible talents, starting with the next generation of stars!
1. **Milly Alcock: Soaring into the DC Universe**Milly Alcock is definitely one to watch, especially as she prepares to take flight – literally! This Australian actor is stepping into the massive role of Supergirl, Superman’s cousin, Kara Zor-El, for the DC Cinematic Universe. It’s a huge undertaking, and as she candidly admits, “Acting while flying is really hard.” Imagine mastering your lines and emotions while suspended in the air; that’s dedication!
Alcock has already given us a taste of her superpower potential, even with the “Supergirl” film not due until 2026. She made a brief yet unforgettable cameo in the recent “Superman” movie, delivering the already iconic line: “Thanks for looking after my dog, bitch!” Talk about making an entrance and leaving a lasting impression with just a few words. She’s got that undeniable star quality that grabs your attention.
Her resume is already looking pretty epic. Before joining the DC universe, Alcock earned her wings on HBO’s “House of the Dragon,” captivating audiences as young Rhaenyra Targaryen. She also recently starred in the hit Netflix limited series “Sirens” alongside the incredible Julianne Moore. This isn’t a rookie stepping onto the scene; she’s been studying drama since age 5 and even attended a performing arts school, dropping out in 2018 for her first TV role on the comedy “Upright.”
The journey to Supergirl wasn’t without its internal dialogues, as many actors face. Alcock shared her conflicted feelings, saying, “I think most actors deal with that kind of duality where I want to work and do things people watch and are important, but I also want to have a long career and not get pigeonholed into one part.” It’s a real and relatable concern for anyone trying to build a versatile career in a demanding industry.
However, once she delved into the character of Kara Zor-El, her perspective shifted dramatically. She was “so blown away; she’s like the coolest one,” she confessed. After flying to Atlanta for a screen test with co-CEO James Gunn, she found out she got the part in a truly modern way: “James just sent me the link to the [online] article,” she revealed. Her reaction? “I was kind of like, ‘Oh , it’s real!’” And real it is – Milly Alcock is about to be a global sensation.
Read more about: 15 Actors Who Faced Production Pitfalls and Industry Pressures
2. **Ella Anderson: From Nickelodeon Darling to Indie Film Star**Ella Anderson is another incredible talent whose career journey began remarkably early, at just 5 years old. She remembers her very first audition line vividly: “I want a teddy bear, Daddy.” Even at that tender age, her commitment was clear, as she’d pepper her mother with questions like, “Why do you think I want this teddy bear? Do you think it was promised to me? Did something happen at school?” That kind of analytical thinking shows a true dedication to character, even for a child actor.
For 15 years, Anderson has been working steadily as both a singer and an actor, showcasing a versatility that truly sets her apart. Many might recognize her from her role as the hero’s sister in the popular Nickelodeon series “Henry Danger,” where she certainly made her mark on a younger audience. But this year, she’s taking a significant leap into more dramatic and adult roles, proving her range.
Get ready to see her shine opposite Hollywood heavyweights Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson in “Song Sung Blue.” This charming true story is about a couple who start a Neil Diamond tribute band, and Anderson plays Rachel, the strong-willed daughter of Hudson’s Claire and stepdaughter to Jackman’s Mike. Holding her own against two Oscar nominees? That’s a true testament to her skill and impressive presence on screen.
Despite not having met her onscreen family before being cast, she quickly bonded with them. “We jumped into it, and it just felt right,” she noted, praising Kate Hudson as “the most warm, nurturing, motherly fun human,” and Hugh Jackman for feeling “like a warm hug.” These genuine connections clearly translated into authentic onscreen chemistry, making the family dynamics feel incredibly real and heartfelt.
Anderson also played the young Jeannette Walls in the biographical film “The Glass Castle,” a role she considered a privilege due to the opportunity to speak with her real-life counterpart. She takes this responsibility seriously, stating, “To have the opportunity to be trusted to portray someone’s life with care and love and empathy is something I love to do. I just want to do them justice.” Beyond acting, her musical talent is equally impressive, with her EP “Evolving” released in 2021. As she mulls over her next steps, she’s “filmmaker-driven,” seeking passionate storytellers with strong perspectives, which signals a thoughtful and promising future in cinema.
3. **Miles Caton: From Touring Musician to Acclaimed Actor**Miles Caton’s life has truly transformed in a short amount of time, proving that sometimes, a single project can change everything. Just a few years ago, at the age of 16, Caton was touring with none other than H.E.R. This incredible experience of being on his own, performing in front of large crowds, proved “important and crucial” for him when he landed his first movie role in “Sinners.” It’s clear that the confidence gained from his musical career gave him the courage to make the leap into acting.
“Sinners” quickly became one of the biggest hits of the year, directed by the acclaimed Ryan Coogler and starring Michael B. Jordan in a dual role as twins Smoke and Stack. Caton’s character, Sammie, is their cousin, recruited by the twins to sing at a juke joint. But as the story unfolds, Sammie’s incredible talent for singing triggers a chain of supernatural events, adding a thrilling, unexpected layer to his performance that captivated audiences.
His acting debut has earned him rave reviews, and it’s no surprise that Hollywood is now knocking on his door. Caton is still adjusting to the newfound recognition, sharing, “I get recognized all the time, which is something that I’m still learning to adjust to, because I can’t tell if somebody’s staring at me like they’ve got a problem with me or just because they know me. So, I’m trying to differentiate that.” Despite the learning curve, he happily adds, “People show me so much love.”
Working with a visionary like Ryan Coogler was a masterclass in filmmaking for Caton. He didn’t receive explicit advice so much as he learned by observing Coogler’s process and trusting his vision. “I had no choice but to just have faith in him and his process,” Caton noted, adding that Coogler “taught me a lot as a young Black man with a vision and a dream to accomplish.” It sounds like an invaluable mentorship that goes beyond the craft of acting, shaping his worldview as well.
Looking ahead, Caton is incredibly excited for what the future holds. He’s actively taking calls and meetings, and he specifically has his sights set on action and adventure films, which seems like a natural fit given his dynamic screen presence. With influences like Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Michael B. Jordan, and Leonardo DiCaprio, it’s clear he’s aiming for a career filled with impactful and diverse roles. “I’ve got a lot of different things I want to do,” he says, and we can’t wait to see them unfold!
4. **Edmund Donovan: A Theatrical Powerhouse Steps onto the Big Screen**Edmund Donovan is an actor who truly swept the theater scene, proving his formidable talent on stage before transitioning to film. In 2020, he earned an impressive trifecta of awards—an Obie, a Drama Desk, and a Lucille Lortel Award—all for his compelling work in the play “Greater Clements.” This remarkable achievement came just three years after he graduated from the prestigious MFA program at Yale School of Drama, a program he pursued “largely because I knew school would guarantee me three years of working and practicing.” His strategic approach clearly paid off, setting a strong foundation.
Now, employment certainly won’t be an issue for Donovan, as he’s currently earning rave reviews for his role opposite the legendary Willem Dafoe in Kent Jones’ film “Late Fame.” In the movie, Donovan portrays an acolyte of Dafoe’s underappreciated poet, a role that he found surprisingly easy to inhabit. “That was very easy,” he laughed, explaining that he, Dafoe, and co-star Greta Lee all share deep theater backgrounds, which fostered an immediate sense of connection and understanding on set.
He also highlighted the truly collaborative spirit of the independent film production. Donovan remarked, “It was made by people who are incredibly selfless and team-oriented. Kent talks about [how] this film was made in the true spirit of camaraderie, and I also think that’s a theme of the movie.” This emphasis on teamwork and shared purpose, characteristic of indie cinema, allowed for a genuine and impactful creative process, leading to a film that resonated deeply and bowed at this year’s Venice Film Festival.
Earlier in the year, theatergoers saw Donovan in “Your Monster,” where he played a selfish playwright who callously dumps his girlfriend after a cancer diagnosis. He’s openly admitted to playing quite a few “deplorable” characters throughout his career. However, his approach to these roles is fascinating: he always strives to find the humanity within them. “It’s not useful if you think of them as a bad person,” he wisely states. “The best villains are people who really believe they’re justified.” This nuanced perspective allows him to bring depth and complexity even to morally ambiguous characters, making them more compelling.
What’s next for this versatile actor? Donovan is set to appear in an upcoming film from the actor-filmmaker Kit Zauhar, whom he praises as “so singular and self-assured.” And, true to his roots, he’s eager to get back on stage. He loves the intense commitment of theater, saying, “One of the things I love about it is that you really feel used up. It burns you to the filter. You know you’re going to be tired, but you also know you’re going to feel like you left it all out there.” That passion for the craft is palpable and promises a long, exciting career.
5. **Chase Infiniti: Fearless in the Face of Stardom**Chase Infiniti is an actor who simply isn’t easily intimidated, a quality that has quickly propelled her into working alongside some of Hollywood’s biggest names. Her very first television job placed her as the daughter of Jake Gyllenhaal and Ruth Negga in the Apple TV+ series “Presumed Innocent.” Talk about a trial by fire! And now, her debut feature film sees her acting opposite cinematic heavyweights Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, and Benicio del Toro in Paul Thomas Anderson’s critically acclaimed “One Battle After Another.”
What’s truly remarkable is Infiniti’s calm demeanor even amidst such high-profile projects. While shooting “One Battle After Another,” she admitted she “didn’t understand the full possible scope of how much people were looking forward to it.” This quiet confidence served her well, allowing her to focus on the work rather than the immense anticipation surrounding the film, which is now playing to rave reviews. She genuinely expressed her happiness that “people seem to be loving it.”
Her character in the film, Willa Ferguson, is equally poised under pressure, keeping her cool while evading capture, firing guns, and generally proving herself to be an absolute force. This inner strength translated during her audition process. After a self-tape, she was called in to meet with Paul Thomas Anderson, an experience she cherished. “Obviously, I wanted to book the part but those moments getting to workshop it were such a gift,” she shared, adding, “I was like, ‘If this is where my journey ends with this film, I will still be completely satisfied with my performance and grateful I got the opportunity to sit down and talk with Paul Thomas Anderson.’”
But of course, her journey is far from over; it’s really just beginning. Infiniti has already wrapped her next project, taking on a starring role as Agnes in “The Testaments,” the highly anticipated spinoff of “The Handmaid’s Tale.” In this new series, she’ll be playing the grown daughter of Elisabeth Moss and O-T Fagbenle’s characters. When it’s mentioned that she always seems to have the coolest parents, Infiniti wholeheartedly agrees, noting, “Both in real life and in fictional life, yes.”
With influences like Zendaya and Denée Benton, Infiniti is clearly charting a path toward impactful, strong roles. Her ability to remain grounded while navigating such significant projects is a testament to her inherent talent and composure, making her a formidable and exciting presence in the industry. She’s definitely one to keep a very close eye on!
Read more about: 15 Actors Who Faced Production Pitfalls and Industry Pressures
6. **Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas: A Rising Voice in Norwegian Cinema**Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas truly fell in love with the idea of acting when she was 18, during the final round of theater school auditions. It wasn’t just a childhood fantasy; it became a tangible possibility. “When I got to the last round, I started to realize that it was maybe actually something I could do for a living, and it wasn’t just this dream, but something that other people saw in me that weren’t just my parents,” she revealed. That pivotal moment of external validation sparked a passionate pursuit of her craft.
Eighteen years later, Lilleaas has firmly established herself as an upcoming and significant voice in Norwegian cinema. Her next project, Joachim Trier’s feature film “Sentimental Value,” is highly anticipated. In the film, Lilleaas portrays Agnes Borg Pettersen, the younger sister of Nora (played by Renate Reinsve), finding herself caught in the complex dynamics between her sister and their father, Stellan Skarsgård, who is about to begin production on his next film.
The narrative explores deep family wounds, as the sisters grew up with a largely absent father. Agnes grapples with her own childhood experiences as an actor in her father’s films and how these shared, often traumatic, experiences bonded the sisters. “There’s a crisis all around her constantly,” Lilleaas explained. “Both Nora and Agnes are in a family crisis at the same time, but Agnes really wants everyone to be together. She wants the family to work.” This showcases a character driven by a profound desire for unity amidst familial strife.
Lilleaas hopes that “Sentimental Value” will resonate deeply with audiences, opening discussions about family dynamics. She particularly wishes that “siblings, sisters and chosen family members can watch the film and feel comforted by the subject matter.” It’s clear that the film is a personal and heartfelt endeavor for her, as she openly shared, “I really opened up and all of me was put into making this film. Working with Joachim, the cast and crew made it feel safe with that feeling of making something together.”
Her influences, including her mom, her dad, and Julia Roberts, suggest a profound appreciation for both personal connections and iconic female performers. Lilleaas’s dedication to bringing nuanced, emotionally rich characters to life, especially within the context of family relationships, positions her as a compelling and empathetic talent to watch in the years to come. Her work is a reminder of the power of cinema to explore the human condition and foster understanding.
7. **Jay Lycurgo: From Audience Dreamer to Festival Darling**Remember those moments when you’re watching a film festival and dream of being up there, talking about *your* work? Jay Lycurgo absolutely does! Just a few years ago, he was a guest at the Toronto International Film Festival, picturing himself on that stage. Fast forward to 2025, and he wasn’t just there; he hit the fest with *two* buzzy films – the epic romance “Eternal Return” and the Cillian Murphy-led “Steve.” Talk about a glow-up!
In “Steve,” directed by Tim Mielants and adapted from Max Porter’s novel “Shy,” Lycurgo takes on the role of a teenager at a school for troubled youth, with Cillian Murphy playing his teacher. Jay had a secret weapon for this role: his own dad! He shares, “My dad works in alternative educational units, just like Steve.” Observing his dad come home “exhausted every day” gave him a “newfound respect for his work,” which clearly fueled his powerful performance. Imagine getting career advice directly from someone living the experience!
It wasn’t just dad-advice that helped him shine; Lycurgo, who beat out 3,000 other actors for the part, apparently didn’t even do a chemistry test with Murphy, who also produced the film. Yet, he more than holds his own against the newly minted Oscar winner. He raves about Murphy, calling him “a brilliant actor and a great scene partner but also just such a grounded person.” There was an “unspoken synergy and energy” on set that made him “feel seen in a new way.” How cool is that?
And the Murphy magic doesn’t stop there! Jay’s next two projects are actually connected to his “Steve” co-star. They’re reuniting for “The Immortal Man,” the “Peaky Blinders” movie, and Lycurgo also has a role in the upcoming film “I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning,” adapted by frequent Murphy collaborator Enda Walsh. Jay modestly believes Cillian “put in a good word” for him, proving that having awesome people on your side in this industry is everything.
8. **Guillaume Marbeck: The Accidental Godard and 360-Degree Filmmaker**Ever had a moment where losing your glasses completely changes your destiny? For Guillaume Marbeck, it wasn’t just any glasses; it was the *perfect* pair of Jean-Luc Godard’s signature specs for his audition in Richard Linklater’s “Nouvelle Vague.” He’d misplaced them, and showing up without this key piece of Godard’s persona was unthinkable. Scrambling to find another pair, he ended up late for his audition. When asked why, Marbeck thought, “What would Godard do?” His answer: “Of course I’m late. I needed these glasses.” Pure genius!
It turns out, it wasn’t the glasses themselves, but Marbeck’s incredible commitment to embodying Godard’s persona that sealed the deal for the filmmakers. Before this breakout role, Marbeck had spent a decade immersing himself in every aspect of the film business. He attended film school focusing on cinematography, then studied screenwriting and directing actors in New York. “I’ve been doing every job that you can imagine on the set,” he explains, from production to distribution. He jokingly adds, “The only two jobs I didn’t do were makeup artist and hairdresser.”
His motivation for this hands-on approach? “I just wanted to know every point of view of the business, so I could have the most 360-degree view in my head when I’m writing the script.” For Marbeck, acting for a visionary like Linklater was like “grad school.” He understood the high stakes of playing such an iconic figure, noting, “For people that love cinema, playing Godard is like playing the pope.”
Fortunately, his gamble paid off in a big way! “Nouvelle Vague” was met with widespread acclaim at Cannes, with many critics specifically highlighting Marbeck’s standout performance. While he’s proving to be a natural in front of the camera, his ultimate goal remains to write and direct his own films. This acting experience, he believes, can only make him a stronger, more empathetic filmmaker.
9. **Mari Yamamoto: From “Devil Wears Rolex” to Hollywood’s Heart**Imagine your boss is “The Devil Wears Rolex” and you see a guy on the subway reading “The Disease Called Being an Editor.” That was Mari Yamamoto’s sign to ditch journalism in Japan! She was writing for a culture magazine she adored, but her editor? Not so much. The final straw led her to a life-changing epiphany while watching “Grey’s Anatomy” – she saw Sandra Oh on screen. “I’ve never seen somebody who truly looked like me playing a character, a person, like that,” she recalls. “It changed my life. I realized this is an art form an Asian person can do in America.”
Inspired, Yamamoto packed her bags for New York to study at Lee Strasberg, where she “fell in love with the craft.” Her early days were a whirlwind of “experimental theater,” including an eye-opening show about a cult where the writer and director rehearsed in solidarity. She estimates she did around 30 off-off-Broadway shows within a year! This fearless approach clearly paved the way for her later standout roles.
Soon, she was captivating audiences in the Apple TV+ series “Pachinko” and “Monarch: Legacy of Monsters.” And this fall, get ready to see her shine opposite Oscar-winner Brendan Fraser in “Rental Family.” In the film, they play employees at a Tokyo firm that rents out actors for various tasks. For research, Mari and co-star Hira Takehiro met with real-life “rental family” members, learning that often, people just need someone to talk to. She observed, “Because therapists aren’t very common yet in Japan, there aren’t a lot of places where you can be vulnerable and reach out for help.”
Now, Mari is looking to beautifully blend her talents, working on her “own thing right now to write and act in.” She calls this “the dream,” and we can absolutely see it happening! Her journey is a testament to embracing unexpected paths and finding your voice, a powerful story for any aspiring creative.
Read more about: 15 Actors Who Faced Production Pitfalls and Industry Pressures
10. **Leonardo DiCaprio: The Enduring Legacy of a Cinematic Titan**And now, shifting gears from the incredible emerging talents, let’s talk about the legends, the global icons who inspire millions and whose impact is truly unparalleled. When you think of actors who have etched everlasting portraits into cinematic history, Leonardo DiCaprio’s name instantly comes to mind. He’s not just an actor; he’s a phenomenon, a star whose appeal transcends borders and generations.
From the heart-wrenching romance of “Titanic” to the high-octane drama of “The Wolf of Wall Street,” DiCaprio has consistently delivered performances that captivate and challenge. His ability to embody complex characters with such depth and conviction has made him a fixture in pop culture discussions, proving time and again that his talent is as limitless as his global appeal. He doesn’t just act in films; he becomes the characters, pulling audiences into their worlds.
His box office numbers speak volumes about his universal draw, but it’s more than just commercial success. DiCaprio has leveraged his platform to advocate for environmental causes, becoming a powerful voice for change. This commitment to causes beyond the screen only amplifies his impact, turning him into a role model for many, demonstrating that true stardom comes with responsibility and the power to influence.
Leonardo DiCaprio defines lasting impact not only through his extraordinary filmography but also through his unwavering dedication to his craft and his passionate engagement with the world. He exemplifies how an established star continues to redefine excellence, leaving an indelible mark on both cinema and society.
Read more about: Hollywood’s Honest Confessions: 12 Actors and Their Candid Takes on Hit Movies
11. **Robert Downey Jr.: The Irrepressible Charm of a Modern Icon**Speaking of redefining what it means to be a star, let’s shine a spotlight on Robert Downey Jr. He’s one of those actors whose trajectory is as compelling as his on-screen presence. His career journey is a powerful narrative of redemption and unparalleled success, culminating in his iconic portrayal of Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. To say he brought Tony Stark to life would be an understatement; he *became* him, making the character an integral part of global pop culture.
Downey Jr.’s distinctive style and signature roles have made him a household name, resonating with varied audiences across the globe. Whether it’s his quick wit, his charismatic delivery, or his ability to infuse depth and humanity into even the most fantastical characters, he has a unique way of connecting with viewers. His performance as Iron Man alone cemented his status as a global icon, proving his immense range and undeniable star power.
But his impact goes far beyond the suit. Robert Downey Jr. is an actor whose personal story, marked by challenges and triumph, inspires countless fans. He has shown incredible resilience and dedication, transforming his career and becoming a beacon of hope and second chances in Hollywood. This personal journey adds another layer to his iconic status, fostering an emotional bond with his audience that extends beyond mere appreciation for his acting skills.
So, as we celebrate both the fresh faces of tomorrow and the enduring legends of today, Robert Downey Jr. stands as a testament to lasting impact. He reminds us that the most famous actors in the world are not just masters of their craft, but also individuals who, through their art and their lives, inspire, entertain, and shape our collective imagination.
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What a ride, right? From the electrifying new talents poised to redefine our screens to the established titans whose legacies continue to inspire, the world of acting is a vibrant tapestry of passion, dedication, and sheer brilliance. These are the artists who remind us why we fall in love with stories, why we cheer for heroes, and why we connect so deeply with the human experience, one unforgettable performance at a time. The power to shape cinematic history is truly in their hands, and honestly, we can’t wait to see what they do next! Keep your eyes peeled, because the next iconic moment might just be around the corner.
