19 Successful Actors Who Made Their Film Debut in the Last 10 Years
The last decade has shown one thing loud and clear — a strong movie debut can totally change your life. One powerful role, and boom, you’re on the map. Over the past 10 years, we’ve seen a fresh wave of talented actors breaking into Hollywood, shaking things up with bold performances, unique styles, and stories that actually connect. From low-budget indie films to billion-dollar blockbusters, these stars didn’t just show up — they owned the screen.
In today’s fast-moving film industry, climbing from “who’s that?” to a household name is no small deal. Everyone’s chasing that big break — new faces, even seasoned actors trying again for the spotlight. But a few have managed to pull it off. These 19 rising stars didn’t just debut; they blew up in their first decade.
Their journeys prove that the movie world is wide open for dreamers — with talent, hustle, and a little bit of timing. Whether it’s the Hollywood box office, streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime, or even Oscar nominations, these actors are shaping the future of cinema.
1. Awkwafina
Awkwafina kicked off her movie career back in 2016 with Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising. Yeah, it wasn’t a huge role, but it was the spark that lit her Hollywood fire. From there, things just took off. Known for her quick wit, that deep raspy voice, and a vibe that’s totally her own, Awkwafina has built a name that’s impossible to ignore.
What’s wild is how she went from a viral rapper on YouTube to one of the most talked-about actresses in Hollywood. She’s got that perfect mix of humor, heart, and hustle — and people love it. Since her debut, Awkwafina has stacked up some serious wins, starring in major box office hits and lending her voice to big animated blockbusters.
From Crazy Rich Asians and The Farewell to Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, she’s proven she can do it all — comedy, drama, action, you name it. Her success shows that you don’t have to follow the old-school Hollywood path to make it big.
Now, she’s one of the most recognizable names in the industry, with major brand endorsements, Netflix projects, and a growing list of award nominations under her belt. Awkwafina’s story is the ultimate example of how being authentic and bold can turn a small role into a massive Hollywood success story.
2. Auli’i Cravalho
Auli’i Cravalho made her big splash in Hollywood back in 2016 when she voiced the fearless Moana in Disney’s Moana. She was only 14, but wow — that voice, that energy, that spark — it all just clicked. Her performance didn’t just make people fall in love with the movie; it turned her into a global star overnight.
What’s so special about Auli’i is how real she is. She didn’t just lend her voice; she gave Moana a soul. That powerful performance made her a huge icon for Pacific Islander representation in mainstream cinema — something Hollywood seriously needed.
Since then, she’s been leveling up her career with a mix of indie film roles, TV appearances, and her return to musicals. In 2024, she stepped into a new chapter, playing Janis ‘Imi’ike in the teen musical comedy Mean Girls — and she totally nailed it.
From Disney royalty to live-action queen, Auli’i is proving she’s way more than a one-hit wonder. With her talent, charm, and growing fanbase, she’s becoming one of the most exciting young actresses in Hollywood.
3. Anthony Ramos
Just like Awkwafina and Auli’i Cravalho, Anthony Ramos also kicked off his movie career in 2016 — making his film debut in the indie drama White Girl. It wasn’t a flashy start, but it set the stage for one of Hollywood’s most versatile and exciting rising stars.
Before the big screen, Ramos was already turning heads on Broadway with his breakout role in Hamilton, where his raw talent and charisma stood out instantly. From there, his career just exploded. He’s the kind of actor who can bring intensity to drama and pure energy to music-driven stories — and he’s proven it time and again.
After White Girl, Ramos landed powerful roles in A Star Is Born (2018) alongside Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper, and then owned the screen as the lead in In the Heights (2021). Both films showed off his range — the emotion, the rhythm, the storytelling — everything that makes him one of the most talked-about rising actors in Hollywood.
And he didn’t stop there. In 2023, Ramos took things up another notch with Transformers: Rise of the Beasts and Dumb Money, adding big-budget blockbusters and sharp social commentary to his growing résumé.
4. Yahya Abdul-Mateen II
Yahya Abdul-Mateen II stepped into Hollywood with his feature film debut in The Vanishing of Sidney Hall (2017). Sure, the movie didn’t blow up the box office, but it introduced a fresh face with serious screen power. From that very first role, it was clear — this guy had star quality written all over him.
And he wasted no time proving it. Within just a few years, Yahya showed off his insane range — from superhero epics to deep, emotional dramas. His breakout came with Aquaman (2018), where he brought major charisma and strength to the DC Universe. He came back even stronger in the 2023 sequel, showing that he’s not just a side character — he’s leading man material.
But Yahya didn’t stop at blockbusters. He took on heavy, critically acclaimed roles in The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020), Candyman (2021), and The Matrix Resurrections (2021), proving he can handle any genre — action, horror, drama, or sci-fi — with pure confidence.
What makes Yahya Abdul-Mateen II stand out is that perfect mix of talent, presence, and depth. He’s one of those rare actors who can be both a box office draw and a critical favorite. In just a few years, he’s gone from “who’s that guy?” to one of the most in-demand names in Hollywood cinema.
5. Georgina Campbell
After winning hearts and serious praise on TV, English actress Georgina Campbell made a smooth move into films — and honestly, she made it look effortless. Her big-screen debut came in King Arthur: Legend of the Sword (2017), a bold start that opened the doors to even bigger and more exciting projects.
Since then, Georgina’s career has been nothing short of impressive. She’s delivered unforgettable performances in Barbarian (2022), Bird Box Barcelona (2023), and The Watchers (2024) — each one showing off a different side of her acting chops. Whether it’s horror, thriller, or mystery, she’s got that rare ability to pull viewers in and keep them hooked.
And she’s not just killing it in movies. On TV, her role in Suspicion (2022) proved she can dominate both the big and small screens with the same level of intensity and emotion.
Georgina Campbell isn’t just another rising star — she’s quickly becoming one of the most talked-about British actresses in Hollywood. With her natural talent, striking presence, and smart role choices, she’s building a career that’s both powerful and versatile.
6. Jodie Comer
Jodie Comer’s journey from British TV to global superstardom is straight-up inspiring. She’s one of those rare talents who seem to own every scene she’s in. Though she first popped up on screens way back in 2008, it wasn’t until 2017 that she made her official film debut in the British biographical drama England Is Mine. That role quietly marked the start of a powerhouse film career.
Then came the real breakthrough — Killing Eve (2018). Her performance as the unpredictable, dangerous, and oddly lovable Villanelle turned her into a worldwide sensation almost overnight. That show didn’t just make her famous; it made her unforgettable.
From there, Jodie’s film career skyrocketed. She brought charm and wit to Free Guy (2021), held her own alongside Hollywood heavyweights in The Last Duel (2021), and kept proving she’s got both the talent and the range to do it all — action, drama, even comedy.
More recently, she’s taken on deeper, grittier roles in The Bikeriders (2023) and the upcoming 28 Years Later (2025), continuing to show just how fearless she is when it comes to choosing projects.
7. Harris Dickinson
English actor Harris Dickinson burst onto the scene with his powerful film debut in Beach Rats (2017) — and wow, what a start. Playing a conflicted Brooklyn teen struggling with identity and desire, he showed a level of emotional depth that instantly marked him as one to watch. It wasn’t just a debut — it was a statement.
Since then, Harris has quietly built one of the most impressive portfolios among rising British actors in Hollywood. He’s not afraid to take on bold, layered roles, and it shows. From the action-packed The King’s Man (2019) to the darkly funny Triangle of Sadness (2022), he’s proven he can handle blockbuster energy and indie intensity with equal skill.
Then came The Iron Claw (2023), where he delivered one of his most gripping performances yet, showing off that rare mix of raw emotion and quiet strength. And with Babygirl (2024), he’s continuing to push boundaries and explore more complex characters.
What makes Harris Dickinson stand out is his authenticity — he doesn’t chase the spotlight, he earns it. Every role feels honest, thoughtful, and totally lived-in. That’s why he’s fast becoming one of the most respected names among Hollywood’s rising stars.
8. Ariana Greenblatt
Ariana Greenblatt made her big-screen debut in the 2017 Christmas comedy A Bad Moms Christmas — and honestly, she’s been unstoppable ever since. At such a young age, she’s already one of Hollywood’s brightest rising stars, turning heads with performances that feel way beyond her years.
Her breakout moment came when she played Young Gamora in Avengers: Infinity War, where she held her own in a movie packed with A-list talent. That role put her firmly on the map, and from there, Ariana’s career has only skyrocketed.
She’s since shown off her incredible range in 65 (2023) alongside Adam Driver, brought emotional depth and charm to Barbie (2023), and is gearing up for another huge performance in Borderlands (2024). Every role just proves how talented and versatile she really is.
What’s even more impressive is her confidence — she doesn’t just act alongside big Hollywood names; she matches their energy scene for scene. It’s no wonder she’s being called one of the most promising young actresses in Hollywood right now.
9. Finn Wolfhard
After stealing hearts (and a few screams) on Netflix’s Stranger Things, Finn Wolfhard made his big-screen debut in the 2017 horror blockbuster It — and totally nailed it. His performance proved that he wasn’t just a TV star; he had the talent and presence to shine in major Hollywood films too.
From that point on, Finn’s career has been all about range. He’s taken bold steps outside the shadow of his breakout role, showing off his versatility in everything from big-budget Ghostbusters films to the heartfelt indie drama When You Finish Saving the World (2022).
What’s cool about Finn is that he’s not afraid to mix things up — one minute he’s hunting ghosts, the next he’s diving deep into emotional storytelling. On top of acting, he’s also a talented musician and filmmaker, making him one of the most creative and well-rounded young stars in Hollywood today.
Whether it’s horror, comedy, or drama, Finn brings that same mix of charm, wit, and authenticity that first won over audiences in Stranger Things. And honestly, it’s paying off — his filmography just keeps getting stronger, and his fan base keeps growing worldwide.
10. David Corenswet
David Corenswet first started turning heads on television, but it was his leap to the big screen that really cemented his place in Hollywood. He made his film debut in Affairs of State (2018), a political thriller that showed early signs of his leading-man potential. While the film didn’t make massive waves, it was the first glimpse of a star in the making.
Most fans, though, probably recognize him from his breakout TV roles, where his charm and quiet intensity made him one of the most talked-about rising talents. But it wasn’t until Twisters (2024) that Corenswet scored his first major film role — and it proved he could command the big screen just as powerfully as the small one.
Then came the real game-changer: Clark Kent / Superman. Landing the lead in the 2025 Superman reboot instantly transformed David from a promising actor to a full-fledged Hollywood superstar. It’s one of the most iconic roles in cinematic history — and he’s stepping into the cape with the kind of confidence and charisma that fans can’t stop talking about.
11. Winston Duke
For Winston Duke, his big-screen debut couldn’t have been more epic. The Tobagonian actor exploded onto the Hollywood scene with his powerful performance as M’Baku in Black Panther (2018) — a role that instantly made him a fan favorite across the world. It wasn’t just a debut; it was a full-blown breakout moment that introduced a bold new force to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Before Black Panther, Winston had been working steadily on television, but it was that larger-than-life role in Wakanda that catapulted him straight into Hollywood stardom. His mix of strength, humor, and raw presence made M’Baku unforgettable — and it was clear right away that Duke was here to stay.
Since then, he’s continued to build an impressive career, showing off his versatility in films like Us (2019), Nine Days (2020), Spenser Confidential (2020), and The Fall Guy (2024). Whether he’s leading a psychological drama or throwing punches in an action flick, Winston brings that same magnetic energy to every role.
What really sets him apart is his authenticity — he represents his Caribbean roots with pride and brings a unique voice to every project he touches. That blend of talent, presence, and personality has made him one of the most exciting rising actors in Hollywood right now.
12. Daisy Edgar-Jones
Like many of today’s breakout stars, Daisy Edgar-Jones first made her mark on television before conquering the big screen. The English actress kicked off her film career with Pond Life (2018), a quiet indie gem that set the stage for everything that came next. Since then, she’s made a flawless transition from TV favorite to full-blown Hollywood leading lady.
Audiences first fell for Daisy’s natural charm and emotional depth in shows like War of the Worlds (2019–2021) and the hit series Normal People (2020), which skyrocketed her to international fame. She followed that up with a gripping performance in Under the Banner of Heaven (2022), proving she could hold her own in intense, award-worthy drama.
On the film side, Daisy’s career just keeps leveling up. She brought raw vulnerability to Where the Crawdads Sing (2022), showed major star power in Twisters (2024), and continued to impress critics with On Swift Horses (2024). Each role feels different, yet she brings the same mix of authenticity, subtlety, and emotion that makes her so captivating to watch.
13. Jacob Elordi
Jacob Elordi first popped up on the big screen in the 2017 Australian comedy Swinging Safari — and if you look closely, you might even catch him in an uncredited role in Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales. But it wasn’t until The Kissing Booth (2018) hit Netflix that things really blew up for him. That movie turned him into an overnight teen heartthrob and introduced him to millions of fans around the world.
Since then, Jacob’s career has taken a sharp turn — from rom-com favorite to one of Hollywood’s most in-demand young actors. He’s shown serious range, taking on darker, more complex roles that prove he’s way more than just a pretty face. His work in HBO’s Euphoria made him a household name, earning praise for his intense and layered performance as Nate Jacobs.
Then came 2023 — the year he fully leveled up. With powerful performances in Priscilla and Saltburn, Jacob established himself as a serious Hollywood leading man. Both roles showed his ability to dive deep into emotionally charged, unpredictable characters, earning him critical acclaim and major industry respect.
And he’s not slowing down anytime soon. His upcoming role in Frankenstein (2025) is one of the most anticipated films of the year, and it’s set to cement his place among the next generation of Hollywood superstars.
14. Cynthia Erivo
Cynthia Erivo made her big-screen debut in Widows (2018), quickly followed by Bad Times at the El Royale — and honestly, what a way to start a film career. From the moment she hit the screen, it was clear she wasn’t just another actress trying to make it in Hollywood — she was something special.
Even before her film debut, Cynthia was already a Tony Award-winning performer, known for her powerhouse vocals and magnetic stage presence. But when she stepped into the world of cinema, she did it with pure confidence, emotional depth, and a kind of intensity that instantly set her apart.
In Widows, she brought grit and authenticity to her role, and in Bad Times at the El Royale, she completely owned every scene she was in — proving that her transition from Broadway to Hollywood stardom wasn’t just smooth, it was spectacular.
Since then, Cynthia has continued to raise the bar with powerful performances in several critically acclaimed films. From Harriet (where she earned Oscar nominations) to upcoming projects like Wicked, she’s showing the world that her talent knows no limits.
15. Maya Hawke
Maya Hawke made her big-screen debut in the 2018 thriller Ladyworld, a bold and intriguing start that hinted at the talent waiting to shine. Just a year later, she scored a role in Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019) — and that’s when everyone started paying attention. It didn’t take long for Maya to step out of the shadows of her legendary parents, Uma Thurman and Ethan Hawke, and carve out a name that’s entirely her own.
With her effortless charm, intelligence, and grounded screen presence, Maya quickly became one of Hollywood’s most promising young stars. Her breakout moment came with Stranger Things, where she instantly became a fan favorite, followed by her sharp and hilarious performance in Do Revenge (2022), which proved she’s got serious comedic chops too.
But Maya’s talent goes way beyond teen roles. In Asteroid City (2023) and Wildcat (2023), she showed off her range, tackling emotionally rich and complex characters. And with her voice role in Inside Out 2 (2024), she’s now part of one of Disney Pixar’s biggest animated franchises, solidifying her place among today’s most versatile performers.
16. Cailee Spaeny
Cailee Spaeny made her big-screen debut in Pacific Rim Uprising (2018) — and right from that first performance, it was clear she was something special. Even though it was her first major role, she brought a level of confidence, maturity, and emotional depth that immediately caught the attention of both critics and audiences. You could just tell this was the start of a major Hollywood career.
In less than a decade, Cailee has built an incredible résumé packed with range and ambition. She’s proven time and again that she’s not afraid to take on complex, demanding roles — and it’s paying off big time. Her performances in Mare of Easttown (2021) and The First Lady (2022) showcased her sharp instincts for drama and character work.
Then came Priscilla (2023), where she absolutely blew everyone away. Her portrayal of Priscilla Presley was haunting, powerful, and deeply human — earning her massive critical acclaim and solidifying her place among the best young actresses in Hollywood.
17. Paul Mescal
Paul Mescal’s rise to fame has been nothing short of meteoric. The Irish actor first captured global attention with his breakout role in the hit TV series Normal People, where his raw, emotional performance instantly made him a fan favorite — and a serious acting talent to watch.
After conquering television, Paul made a seamless jump to the big screen with The Lost Daughter (2021), directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal. It was a subtle but powerful debut that proved he could hold his own alongside Hollywood heavyweights. From there, his career trajectory has been nothing short of incredible.
His stunning performance in Aftersun earned him an Oscar nomination, cementing his reputation as one of the most gifted young actors in Hollywood. The emotional honesty he brings to his roles has made him stand out in a sea of rising stars — he doesn’t just act; he makes you feel every moment.
And Paul’s just getting started. With major upcoming projects like Gladiator II, he’s stepping into true leading man territory, blending indie credibility with blockbuster potential. It’s the kind of balance that only the most versatile actors can pull off — and Mescal makes it look effortless.
18. Aaron Pierre
Like Paul Mescal, English actor Aaron Pierre has seen his career skyrocket in just a few short years. He made his film debut in M. Night Shyamalan’s eerie body-horror thriller Old (2021), and even in a cast packed with seasoned performers, Aaron’s quiet intensity and emotional depth stood out. It was a bold and memorable introduction to the Hollywood film scene.
Since then, Aaron’s rise has been nothing short of impressive. In less than five years, he’s landed major roles across both film and television — proving he’s not just a one-movie wonder, but a true rising star in Hollywood. His performances have consistently shown range, charisma, and a rare ability to command attention without even trying.
From standout work in The Underground Railroad to roles in Brother and Foe, Aaron’s filmography reflects an actor who’s selective, intentional, and totally committed to storytelling that matters. And with upcoming high-profile projects, including the highly anticipated Lion King prequel (Mufasa: The Lion King), he’s stepping into full-blown leading man territory.
19. Rachel Zegler
Rachel Zegler burst onto the Hollywood scene with one of the most memorable debuts in recent years — starring as Maria in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story (2021). Chosen from thousands of audition tapes, Rachel didn’t just win the role — she owned it. Her stunning voice, emotional depth, and undeniable screen presence made it clear that a new Hollywood star had arrived.
Her performance earned her a Golden Globe Award and rave reviews from critics worldwide. It was the kind of debut most actors dream of — and Rachel delivered it with confidence, grace, and genuine talent.
Since then, she’s kept that momentum going strong, landing major roles in some of the biggest franchises in Hollywood. From Shazam! Fury of the Gods (2023) to The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes (2023), Rachel has proven she can move effortlessly between genres — action, drama, musical, or fantasy — without missing a beat.
And now, she’s stepping into yet another iconic role as Snow White (2025) in Disney’s live-action remake, a project that’s set to take her global recognition to the next level. It’s the perfect full-circle moment for an actress who grew up loving musicals and is now bringing one of the most beloved fairy tales to life.
