Ready to meet the next big Hollywood legends? 2025 is bursting with fresh faces and breakout talents who are shaking up the industry like never before. Forget old headlines, these rising stars bring raw energy, fresh charisma, and unforgettable performances that have critics buzzing and fans obsessed. They’re the future of Hollywood, and you’ll want to say you knew them before the world did. So buckle up and dive into the list of the brightest newbies lighting up screens right now.
What Makes 2025’s Rising Stars So Exciting
The world of Hollywood in 2025 is a thrilling blend of indie brilliance, blockbuster firepower, and streaming sensations. This year’s rising stars are not just fresh faces; they’re trailblazers with bold choices, killer talent, and unstoppable ambition.
Many come from diverse backgrounds, blending theater, television, and film experience with savvy social media presence. They’re game-changers who understand the new celebrity rules: authentic storytelling, digital connection, and fearless creativity. These actors aren’t waiting for fame to find them, they’re grabbing the spotlight and owning it with style, substance, and heart.
1. Monica Barbaro – Poised to Be a Star of Every Genre
Monica Barbaro burst onto the scene with her powerhouse performance in Top Gun: Maverick as an ace fighter pilot. But she’s so much more than just a skilled pilot on screen. Trained in ballet and several styles of dance, Monica brings a fierce physicality and grace to every role.
Her upcoming role as folk legend Joan Baez in A Complete Unknown has critics already whispering Oscar buzz. Monica’s ability to switch between action, drama, and biopic roles effortlessly makes her one of 2025’s most versatile rising performers.
2. Mikey Madison – Breakout Queen with a Cannes Gold Touch
Mikey Madison made waves playing tough characters in cult hits and TV shows, but it was her lead in Sean Baker’s Anora that truly put her on the map. Winning the Palme d’Or at Cannes 2024, Anora gave Mikey a role to captivate critics and audiences globally.
Her sharp, emotional portrayals and edgy vibe make her a name to watch, especially as she gears up for award season domination.
3. David Corenswet – Hollywood’s Superman in Training
Known for his charm and depth on shows like Hollywood, David’s next big gig is playing Clark Kent in the Warner Bros. upcoming Superman reboot. That’s a huge deal for any rising star. And with director James Gunn at the helm, this role could be David’s rocket fuel to mega-stardom.
His previous performances reveal a mix of boyish charm and serious acting chops. Watch out, this Clark Kent can fly straight into the top tier of Hollywood’s leading men.
4. Sophie Wilde – The Indie Darling with Big Ambitions
Sophie’s mesmerizing performances in indie films and shows have set hearts fluttering. Known for her work in The End of the F**ing World* spin-off, Sophie has that rare ability to turn raw vulnerability into cinematic gold.
In 2025, she’s taking on bold roles, including Back to Black, the Amy Winehouse biopic, where her gritty portrayal promises to boost her star power further.
5. Damson Idris – Leading the Charge in Hollywood’s Next Generation
Damson is making a name with intense dramas and major studio projects like F1, mixing raw talent with action-packed performances. His work in Snowfall solidified his place as a serious actor, and with Brad Pitt co-starring in F1, 2025 could be the year Damson breaks out as a major Hollywood leading man.
6. Jenna Ortega – Versatile and Unstoppable
From terrorizing audiences in Netflix’s Wednesday to charming viewers in heartfelt dramas, Jenna Ortega is the definition of a versatile rising star. Her ability to navigate horror, comedy, and drama lets her capture a wide fanbase eager for her next move.
2025 looks like a banner year as Jenna’s projects expand across film and series, solidifying her as a youthful force.
7. Anthony Boyle – The Theatrical Powerhouse
From brilliant stage performances to screen, Anthony Boyle is a name that’s growing fast. His role in shows like The Crowded Room displayed his dramatic range, and upcoming projects promise more spotlight.
His theatrical roots give him a unique edge in Hollywood’s new wave of actors with depth.
8. Marisa Abela – The Rising Star with Award Season Buzz
Marisa, known for Industry and her role in Barbie, is gaining traction fast. Her upcoming role as Amy Winehouse not only highlights her acting chops but puts her in the big league of award contenders.
Keep your eyes peeled; Marisa’s poised for a breakout moment that might define modern British talent crossing to Hollywood screens.
9. Leo Woodall – The Charmer and Genre-Bender
Leo’s recent roles in projects like Twisters and Pearl showcase his range in gritty thrillers and fresh drama. In 2025, he’ll take center stage as a key character in the Superman reboot, giving him blockbuster exposure.
With a mix of brooding charm and emotional depth, Leo’s star is definitely on the rise.
10. Geraldine Viswanathan – Comedy’s New Favorite
Geraldine’s sharp wit and comedic timing have won her roles that showcase more than laughs, they show heart. Her breakout film Palm Springs was a cult hit and her upcoming projects continue to add layers to her range.
She’s the rising star who can light up a room and keep you glued to the screen.
11. Miles Caton – The Quiet Force
Miles is a young actor winning fans with his subtle, grounded performances in films like Cape Town. He proves that sometimes stillness speaks louder than words, and his work in 2025 will push him fully into the spotlight.
12. Yerin Ha – Genre-Bending Star
Yerin’s roles in sci-fi and drama series have made her a buzzworthy name. Known for Halo and other genre projects, she’s honing a reputation as a new-gen actress who can make fantastical worlds feel deeply human.
13. Mikey Madison – Fearless and Buzzworthy
Mikey’s fearless choices in indie and mainstream films give her an edge that Hollywood loves. With Cannes acclaim under her belt, she’s poised to star in bigger high-profile projects that make waves internationally.
14. Jay Lycurgo – Cool and Commanding
Jay is steadily rising with roles in Titans and Steve, impressing with natural ease and raw talent. His upcoming projects promise to unlock more doors in major studios.
15. Austin Abrams – Indie Darling with Range
Known for Dash & Lily and Chemical Hearts, Austin’s natural, charm-filled acting places him among the actors redefining modern indie and mainstream drama.
16. Ella Hunt – The Rising Star with Edge
Ella is captivating viewers with distinct roles in horror and drama. Her versatility and presence have made her a go-to for fresh, compelling characters.
17. Anthony Ramos – Star Bound
Ramos, known for his musical and film roles like In the Heights, combines stage talent with mainstream appeal. His rising Hollywood presence is demanding attention.
18. Emma Mackey – Bold and Beautiful
Emma’s dramatic roles, from Sex Education to Barbie, highlight her ability to blend charm with complexity. She’s a star on the rise in both film and TV.
19. Tom Hughes – British Talent Breaking Through
Tom’s recent roles in period dramas and thrillers are winning acclaim, marking him as a rising force with distinctive style.
20. Jessie Mei Li – The New Face of Drama
Known for Shadow and Bone, Jessie’s strong performances are earning strong buzz and roles that push new boundaries.
21. Sarah Pidgeon – Rising Indie Star
Sarah’s powerful lead in American Love Story shows a new voice gaining traction with critics and fans alike.
22. Luna Blaise – The Youthful Heartthrob
With a string of young adult roles and charming performances, Luna’s star brightly shines in Hollywood’s youth scene.
23. Ben Wang – The Versatile Actor
Ben’s cross-genre performances in film and TV earn him spots on many “ones to watch” lists.
24. Jessie Buckley – The Rising Powerhouse
Known from Wild Rose and Chernobyl, Jessie’s emotionally raw performances promise bigger Hollywood breakthrough.
25. Jacob Elordi – The Gen Z Heartthrob
Jacob’s roles in Euphoria and films like Saltburn make him a leading Gen Z star capturing hearts and attention globally.
Why This New Generation Is Hollywood’s Future
These 25 rising stars show that talent today is dynamic, diverse, and ready to take Hollywood to bold new places. From blockbuster ready actors to indie darlings, their combined force will shape entertainment and culture for years.
Want the inside scoop on Hollywood’s hottest new blood? Follow them, binge their projects, and be first to spot the next big star.
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