In Hollywood, becoming an icon isn’t just about talent, it’s about presence, versatility, and the ability to leave a lasting mark on culture. Florence Pugh and Anne Hathaway are two actresses who have not only captivated audiences with their performances but have also redefined what it means to be modern screen icons.
From commanding dramatic roles to embracing bold, unconventional choices, they exemplify the power of both craft and charisma. Alongside them, a handful of other actresses have similarly transcended their careers to become cultural touchstones, influencing fashion, social discourse, and generations of aspiring performers.
Florence Pugh
Within the new generation, multiple talents have emerged that have left a mark on cinema in recent years, and one of them is Florence Pugh, who has risen as one of the most prominent actresses thanks to her innate acting ability.
She has chosen multiple challenging roles that explore the complexity of the human condition, demonstrating impressive versatility and unwavering commitment. Her portrayal in “Little Women” earned her an Academy Award nomination and garnered critical acclaim for her authentic and moving portrayal of Amy March.
Furthermore, her role in “Midsommar” solidified her as a force to be reckoned with in the horror genre. Undoubtedly, she has showcased a maturity and depth in her performances that transcend her age, leading her to be recognized as one of the most promising talents in the film industry.
Anne Hathaway
Anne Hathaway’s success in the entertainment industry is reflected not only in her impressive filmography but also in the recognition and admiration she has gained from both critics and audiences over the years.
From her iconic role as Mia Thermopolis in “The Princess Diaries” to her award-winning performance in “Les Misérables”, where she portrayed Fantine, she has demonstrated her ability to adapt to any genre or specific character.
Her performance in “The Devil Wears Prada” also left an indelible mark, where she shared the screen with Meryl Streep, further solidifying her position in the film industry. In 2026 she will reprise her role as Andy.
Viola Davis
If we talk about great icons of the industry, Viola Davis undoubtedly enters the list, whose career is not only filled with successes but also with box office hits. She has stood out for her ability to infuse each character with striking emotional depth.
Her performance is visceral and powerful, conveying a complete range of emotions with impressive authenticity. Her acting versatility shines in projects like “The Help”, where she portrayed Aibileen Clark, and in the series “How to Get Away with Murder”, where she embodied the brilliant lawyer Annalise Keating.
Some of her most acclaimed works are dramas, such as “Fences”, where she brought the character of Rose Maxson to life and deservedly won an Academy Award. Additionally, her impressive portrayal in “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” earned her another Oscar nomination and highlighted her unwavering commitment to every role she takes on.
Anya Taylor-Joy
Anya Taylor-Joy has emerged as one of the brightest stars of the decade thanks to her innate talent and her ability to captivate audiences with each performance. Her presence on screen is hypnotic, blending unique beauty with striking emotional depth.
The young star challenges conventions with her eclectic choice of roles, ranging from vulnerable characters to powerful leaders, showcasing extraordinary versatility in each portrayal. Her ability to convey such a wide range of emotions with impressive subtlety has made her an unstoppable force in the industry.
Her meteoric rise promises even more outstanding achievements in the near future, and it’s also thanks to her filmography full of successes, with “The Menu” being one of them, alongside other globally known productions like “Last Night in Soho”, “Emma” and now “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga.”
Emma Stone
Emma Stone has consistently demonstrated her talent, versatility, and ability to excel in a variety of roles, making her one of the most prominent actresses of the decade so far.
Her ability to portray a wide range of roles, from comedies to intense dramas, has stood out, especially as she does so with a skill and emotional depth that sets her apart.
She has received critical acclaim and has been recognized with numerous major awards, including an Academy Award for her performances in “La La Land” and “Poor Things”. To date, her career is one of the most memorable and is filled with successes.