As the entertainment world gears up for an exciting lineup of movies and TV shows in 2025, a fresh wave of talent is poised to take center stage.
While household names dominate headlines, these emerging stars are ready to carve out their space, showcasing their unique charm, skill, and versatility. Whether it’s through groundbreaking performances in movies or stealing scenes in TV series, these 10 actors are the ones to keep an eye on this year.
10. Geraldine Viswanathan
Notable Projects: Drive-Away Dolls (2024), Miracle Workers (2019–2023)
Known for her comedic flair, Geraldine Viswanathan has consistently wowed audiences with her sharp timing and scene-stealing performances. From her standout role in the quirky comedy Drive-Away Dolls to her versatility in the anthology series Miracle Workers, Viswanathan is set to make waves in 2025 with her role in Marvel’s Thunderbolts. Expect her to balance comedy and action with equal finesse.
Rotten Tomatoes Scores:
- Drive-Away Dolls: 63% Critics | 36% Audience
9. Mikey Madison
Notable Projects: Anora (2024), Better Things (2016–2022)
Mikey Madison’s powerful portrayal in Sean Baker’s Anora has already made her a frontrunner for awards season. Her ability to transition seamlessly from the relatable roles of her earlier career, like Better Things, to the emotionally charged performance in Anora proves she is a force to be reckoned with.
Rotten Tomatoes Scores:
- Anora: 95% Critics | 90% Audience
8. Drew Starkey
Notable Projects: Queer (2024), Outer Banks (2020–)
From the brooding Rafe in Outer Banks to a poignant performance in Luca Guadagnino’s Queer, Drew Starkey has shown remarkable growth. Though Queer polarized audiences, Starkey’s nuanced acting continues to win hearts. His journey into more mature roles is bound to capture even greater attention in 2025.
Rotten Tomatoes Scores:
- Queer: 77% Critics | 58% Audience
7. Katy O’Brian
Notable Projects: Twisters (2024), Love Lies Bleeding (2024)
Katy O’Brian’s background in professional bodybuilding adds a unique edge to her action-packed roles, as seen in The Mandalorian and Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania. However, her performance in Love Lies Bleeding revealed a deeper emotional range. With Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning on the horizon, O’Brian is set for a stellar year ahead.
Rotten Tomatoes Scores:
- Twisters: 75% Critics | 90% Audience
6. David Jonsson
Notable Projects: Alien: Romulus (2024), Rye Lane (2023)
David Jonsson first captured hearts in the charming rom-com Rye Lane, and now he’s stepping into the sci-fi epic Alien: Romulus as Andy, a new addition to the iconic franchise. His ability to tackle diverse roles is what makes him one of the most exciting names to watch this year.
Rotten Tomatoes Scores:
- Alien: Romulus: 80% Critics | 85% Audience
5. Cole Escola
Notable Projects: Difficult People (2015–2017), Oh, Mary (2024–)
A Broadway sensation and a television gem, Cole Escola’s comedic genius shines brightly. Their acclaimed performance in the play Oh, Mary has cemented their reputation as a creative visionary. While their theater career soars, fans eagerly await what’s next for Escola on screen.
Rotten Tomatoes Scores:
- Difficult People: 96% Critics | 85% Audience
More Buzz
4. Monica Barbaro
Notable Projects: A Complete Unknown (2024), Top Gun: Maverick (2022)
Monica Barbaro delivered a breathtaking performance as Joan Baez in A Complete Unknown, proving her mettle alongside Timothée Chalamet. With Fubar season 2 on the way, Barbaro continues to impress, seamlessly blending action-packed roles with emotionally resonant performances.
3. Leo Woodall
Notable Projects: One Day (2024), The White Lotus (2021–)
Leo Woodall’s ability to oscillate between charming romantic leads and dark, mysterious characters makes him a versatile talent. In 2025, fans will see him take on major projects, including Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy and Nuremberg, solidifying his place in Hollywood.
2. Megan Stalter
Notable Projects: Hacks (2021–), Cora Bora (2023)
Megan Stalter’s comedic genius has been on full display in Hacks and Cora Bora. With her new show Too Much on the horizon, audiences are eager to see Stalter bring her unique charm to 2025’s TV lineup.
Rotten Tomatoes Scores:
- Hacks: 99% Critics | 90% Audience
1. Eiza González
Notable Projects: The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare (2024), 3 Body Problem (2024–)
Eiza González is a star on the rise, with roles in Ash and Fountain of Youth further showcasing her versatility. As she transitions into more prominent projects, González is undoubtedly on the path to becoming a household name.
Rotten Tomatoes Scores:
- The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare: 68% Critics | 92% Audience
Final Note
These 10 actors are redefining the industry with their talent and versatility. As 2025 unfolds, their performances are sure to captivate audiences, leaving a lasting impression and paving the way for even greater success. Keep an eye on these rising stars—they’re just getting started!
