Hollywood is a constantly changing landscape, with new stars emerging and old idols continuing to shine. However, the path to becoming a celebrity is no longer predictable, and the new generation has created their own unique journey. Even sharing screens with industry giants can have a significant impact.
The idea of ‘conflict’ with the Hollywood royal family may evoke dramatic live competition or intense divisions, but in this dynamic new era, it has a more subtle and exciting significance. This demonstrates a powerful artistic synergy, where rising stars exhibit undeniable magnetism and solemnity, allowing them not only to maintain their status but also truly stand out when sharing screens with film giants. This is about these emerging talents leaving an indelible mark, attracting attention, and proving their immense abilities from their early high-profile encounters. This proves their skills and presence, as they are able to withstand the immense pressure of this collaboration and become brighter.
This article explores the extraordinary journey of twelve emerging stars who have demonstrated their ability to shine alongside Hollywood’s big names, showcasing how these actors redefine the success of the film industry through their authenticity and dedication, and providing new perspectives for the entertainment industry.
1. **32-year-old Austin Butler, a standout example of a talent recognized by major directors, solidified his A-list status with an Oscar nomination for his role in the *Elvis* biopic, but his early, significant collaboration with Brad Pitt in Quentin Tarantino’s *Once Upon a Time in Hollywood* truly showcased his rising star power.
In *Once Upon a Time in Hollywood*, Butler didn’t just co-star with Pitt; he delivered a captivating performance that demonstrated his ability to command attention within a complex ensemble, using this pivotal early experience to learn from seasoned actors and establish his commanding screen presence.
Following this, the industry’s trust in Butler only deepened. Jeff Nichols tapped him for the ’60s-set *The Bikeriders*, and Darren Aronofsky chose him to lead his next film, the ’90s New York City-set *Caught Stealing*. Agency partners now exclaim, “Everybody wants him to be the lead of everything.” This meteoric rise, kickstarted by a memorable turn opposite a living legend, has allowed Butler to cultivate “an all-too-rare movie-star mystique,” demonstrating a powerful ability to make an impact that resonates across decades, much like the very royalty he shared the screen with.
2. **Monica Barbaro: Soaring to New Heights with an Iconic Action Star**Monica Barbaro, though “not yet a household name,” has swiftly “fiercely carved out a well-deserved space for herself in the blockbuster sphere” in under a decade. Her most striking instance of making a significant impression alongside Hollywood Royalty came through her role in *Top Gun: Maverick*. The context highlights her “soaring to unthinkable heights as a no-nonsense pilot alongside Tom Cruise, Miles Teller and Glen Powell in Top Gun: Maverick.” Tom Cruise, as one of the quintessential action stars and a powerhouse producer, represents the pinnacle of Hollywood royalty. To perform alongside him, not just as a supporting character but as a pivotal part of the flight team, speaks volumes about Barbaro’s capabilities.
In *Top Gun: Maverick*, Barbaro was not simply a background player; she was integral to the film’s success, holding her own in high-octane sequences and contributing to the ensemble’s dynamic chemistry. This role demanded not only physical prowess but also a strong screen presence to stand out amidst a cast of rising and established stars. Her ability to embody a “no-nonsense pilot” alongside Cruise demonstrated a remarkable blend of strength and poise, essential qualities for an actor looking to make a lasting impact in major studio productions. It showcased her readiness for prime-time and her ability to perform under the intense scrutiny of a legacy sequel.
Her career continues to impress with a starring role as Joan Baez in the musical biopic *A Complete Unknown*, a performance already generating Oscar buzz, where she sings alongside Timothée Chalamet, and she is set to further showcase her versatility in a crime drama with Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Barry Keoghan, and Halle Berry, proving her ability to thrive and make an impact among an array of ‘Hollywood Royalty’.
3. **Mikey Madison: Making an Impression in an Auteur’s Star-Studded Epic**Mikey Madison was virtually “bound to become the industry’s next big thing” after her compelling appearance in Quentin Tarantino’s *Once Upon A Time In Hollywood*. This film, a love letter to a bygone era of Tinseltown, was a showcase for cinematic royalty, featuring actors like Brad Pitt and Leonardo DiCaprio, and helmed by the inimitable auteur director Quentin Tarantino himself. Madison’s involvement in such a high-caliber project, especially in a role associated with the infamous Manson Family, immediately placed her under a significant spotlight, demanding a powerful and memorable performance to stand out.
Her presence in *Once Upon A Time In Hollywood* was not about a large volume of screen time, but rather the intensity and distinctiveness of her portrayal. To make an impression amidst such an array of established talent and under the meticulous direction of Tarantino is a clear indicator of a young actor’s inherent potential. “Endorsements like that are few and far between,” as the context aptly notes, signifying the immense value of such an early, impactful role. It showed her ability to embody a complex character with conviction, even within the shadow of towering performances from industry legends.
This early exposure and validation from an auteur like Tarantino set the stage for her subsequent triumphs. Madison went on to lead Sean Baker’s latest film, *Anora*, which garnered the prestigious Palme D’or at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. This victory solidified her status, with the industry acknowledging, “we knew we had a leading lady on our hands.” Her journey from making a striking impression in a film populated by “Hollywood Royalty” to helming a Palme D’or winner underscores her remarkable talent and her capacity to not just exist in star-studded projects, but to truly thrive and lead.
4. **Sophie Wilde: “Rustling Feathers” and Holding Her Own with Film Royalty**The trajectory of Sophie Wilde is rapidly becoming “one of Australia’s greatest success stories,” a testament to her undeniable talent and burgeoning star power. At a mere 26 years old, she has already accrued significant accolades, including a BAFTA Rising Star Award nomination and an honorary Trophée Chopard at the Cannes Film Festival. Wilde’s journey clearly demonstrates her ability to make a powerful impact even when working alongside the industry’s most revered figures, a characteristic that perfectly embodies the spirit of “clashing” in a positive, impactful sense.
The context offers a particularly telling phrase about her upcoming work: she is set to “rustle feathers alongside film royalty Nicole Kidman in A24’s upcoming erotic thriller, *Babygirl*.” The term “rustle feathers” strongly implies a dynamic, noticeable presence, suggesting that Wilde will not be overshadowed but will instead contribute a vibrant, perhaps even challenging, energy to the scenes she shares with a legend like Nicole Kidman. This isn’t about conflict but about a rising star asserting her artistic voice and presence in a compelling way, even opposite an actress of Kidman’s immense stature and experience.
Beyond *Babygirl*, Wilde’s capacity to hold her own with “Hollywood Royalty” is further underscored by her involvement in another star-studded project. She will also be seen “alongside Tom Cruise, Sandra Hüller and Jesse Plemons in the black comedy film *Judy*, which is currently being filmed.” To be cast alongside an icon like Tom Cruise and critically acclaimed actors like Sandra Hüller speaks volumes about her recognized talent and gravitas. Her breakout as a “bona fide scream queen” in the independent Australian possession horror *Talk To Me*, followed by her role in Netflix’s *Boy Swallows Universe*, demonstrates a diverse range that prepares her to stand out in any ensemble, no matter how distinguished.
5. **Certified as an ‘internet boyfriend,’ Drew Starkey has successfully transitioned into an ‘indie darling,’ clearly demonstrating his growing influence and distinctive career path in Hollywood, highlighted by his pivotal role as a leading man working with acclaimed director Luca Guadagnino and alongside a globally recognized star.
Starkey took center stage as Luca Guadagnino’s ‘latest frontman’ in the film *Queer*, a testament to the director’s trust in his talent and presence, and he also made a significant impression in his role as Eugene, a character who intrigues Daniel Craig’s character, showing his capacity to hold his own and create compelling dynamics with industry titans.
Although Starkey had already gained a following from the popular series *Outer Banks*, his role in *Queer* marked his definitive arrival as a leading man, a transition from teen heartthrob to respected indie actor, and his upcoming role in the surrealist adaptation of William S. Burroughs’ *Queer* is highly anticipated, proving how strategic early collaborations can significantly boost a rising talent.
6. **Ella Hunt: Stealing Scenes and Embodying a Legendary Comedic Figure Alongside Acclaimed Filmmakers**
Ella Hunt, a 26-year-old London native, is rapidly becoming “one to watch” in Hollywood, with a growing presence at prestigious events like the Cannes Film Festival and the Academy Museum Gala. Her ability to make a significant impact, even when surrounded by both emerging and established talent, demonstrates her powerful presence and potential to truly “clash” in the most compelling sense—by outshining and captivating audiences. Her breakout role provided a unique opportunity to embody a legendary figure while working with an acclaimed director and esteemed co-stars.
Her standout performance came in 2024’s ensemble comedy *Saturday Night*, where “director Jason Reitman chronicles the first 90 minutes leading up to the first-ever episode of Saturday Night Live.” Jason Reitman, an acclaimed filmmaker, provided a significant platform. Even within a cast “ripe with Young Hollywood starlets like Rachel Sennott, Cooper Hoffman and Gabriel LaBelle,” Hunt truly distinguished herself. The context explicitly states that she “truly stole every scene as legendary comedy veteran and character actor Gilda Radner.” This phrase is a powerful declaration of her ability to not only stand out but to dominate the screen, embodying a comedic icon with such precision and charisma that she overshadowed other notable performers.
Hunt’s transformation into Radner was remarkable, achieved “through her identical Michigan accent and curly mop of hair,” showcasing her profound dedication to character. Her ability to capture the essence of a “legendary comedy veteran” while working under the guidance of an acclaimed director speaks volumes about her talent and commitment. Beyond this transformative role, Hunt’s versatility is further highlighted by her appearances in “Kevin Costner’s four-part Western epic saga, *Horizon*,” placing her alongside another titan of the industry. Her ability to “steal every scene” and embody an icon in such a high-profile ensemble project solidifies her as a rising talent who can powerfully assert her presence among “Hollywood Royalty.”
Okay, get ready, because we’re not done celebrating the incredible new guard of Hollywood! If you thought the first six talents were electrifying, hold onto your seats because these next six are just as captivating, proving that when it comes to making a splash with Tinseltown’s biggest names, our “new A-listers” are truly playing in a league of their own. They’re not just stepping into the spotlight; they’re owning it, right alongside the legends.
7. **Cailee Spaeny: From Midwest Princess to Sci-Fi Siren Alongside Industry Heavyweights**Cailee Spaeny, our very own Midwest Princess, certainly didn’t tiptoe into Hollywood; she burst onto the scene by tackling one of America’s most iconic, and sometimes controversial, love stories. Her breakout moment was portraying teen Priscilla Presley in Sofia Coppola’s 2023 biopic, a role that immediately placed her at the heart of a narrative steeped in rock ‘n’ roll royalty. To embody such a well-known figure, especially under the nuanced direction of an auteur like Sofia Coppola, speaks volumes about Spaeny’s dramatic range and fearlessness right out of the gate.
But here’s the thing about this Miu Miu girl: she’s not one to stick to just one lane. After dipping her toes in the glamour of *Priscilla*, Spaeny pivoted dramatically, swapping red carpet chic for gritty realism. She took on the role of Jessie, an upstart photographer, in the dystopian thriller *Civil War*, where she starred opposite the formidable Kirsten Dunst. This move showcased her incredible versatility and her willingness to challenge audience expectations, proving she’s far more than just a pretty face – she’s an actor with serious chops and an eye for compelling narratives.
And if that wasn’t enough, Spaeny is set to lead the sci-fi epic *Alien: Romulus*, taking on a franchise that’s synonymous with iconic female leads. Talk about holding your own! It’s clear she’s attracting attention from the very best, as evidenced by her enthusiastic words about her peers: “I’m so inspired by all the performances and new talent that’s coming out,” she shared with GRAZIA. “It feels very rich [in impressive performances] right now and I feel lucky that I’ve worked with some of them in the last couple of years. They’re the real deal.”
Her dance card is looking even more stacked with an appearance in the highly anticipated third *Knives Out* film, where she’ll be mingling with none other than Daniel Craig, Josh O’Connor, and Andrew Scott. This string of high-profile, diverse projects demonstrates Spaeny’s undeniable presence and her capacity to thrive in ensembles packed with Hollywood royalty, asserting herself as a force to be reckoned with, no matter the genre or the caliber of her co-stars. She’s not just rising; she’s soaring.
8. **Florence Pugh: The Chameleon Who Commands Attention in Auteur Ensembles and Marvel Universes**Florence Pugh, truly the powerhouse performer of this entire bunch, didn’t just break out; she *erupted* onto the scene with the indie film *Lady Macbeth* in 2016. Since then, her trajectory has been nothing short of spectacular, blending critical acclaim with undeniable commercial appeal. An Oscar nomination for Greta Gerwig’s *Little Women* and the A24 horror hit *Midsommar* solidified her status as an actor who delivers both unforgettable performances and box office pull, proving she can captivate audiences and critics alike.
Even when her first major studio lead, *Don’t Worry Darling*, faced a bit of a bumpy landing, Pugh managed to hold her own and then some in a series of star-studded ensembles. Think about her impactful roles in Christopher Nolan’s epic *Oppenheimer* and Denis Villeneuve’s visually stunning *Dune: Part Two*. In both these films, she wasn’t just another face in a crowded cast; she stood out, making a significant impact alongside some of the biggest names and most revered directors in the industry. It’s a testament to her sheer talent that she can absorb the spotlight and still shine so brightly.
While Hollywood studios might not yet be ready to rest an entire franchise solely on Pugh’s shoulders, let’s be real, she’s practically *everywhere* that matters. She’s a regular at film markets, actively throwing her considerable weight into exciting new packages, such as the upcoming romancer *We Live in Time*, where she’s set to co-star with the equally fantastic Andrew Garfield. It’s clear she’s actively shaping her career, seeking out projects that truly resonate with her artistic vision.
What’s even more thrilling is that Florence, at 28, is one of the few new A-listers making a full-court press with Marvel – and not just any Marvel gig. Unlike some who signed on years ago (we’re looking at you, Zendaya, and definitely not mentioning *Madame Web*, Sydney Sweeney!), Pugh earned an impressive eight-figure payday for two major Marvel films. She made her debut in the Scarlett Johansson-led *Black Widow* and is now slated to be at the absolute top of the call sheet for *Thunderbolts*. Plus, she even popped up in the *Hawkeye* TV series, showing a dedication that’s either incredibly admirable or a very well-negotiated contractual obligation. Either way, she’s a force!
9. Glen Powell: The Megawatt Smile That Conquered Hollywood From Supporting Roles to Studio Savior
Oh, Glen Powell! If anyone embodies the grind and eventual triumph in Hollywood, it’s this charismatic Texan. He didn’t become an overnight sensation; he put in the work, slowly but surely climbing the industry ladder as an actor, producer, and writer. After years of shining in smaller parts in films like *Hidden Figures* and *Expendables 3*, Powell finally captured the hearts of audiences (and, crucially, Netflix executives) with the streaming success of his first leading man role in the 2018 workplace romcom *Set It Up*.
Then came the game-changer: *Top Gun: Maverick*. This mega-hit not only earned Powell (and his now-iconic six-pack) tons of media attention but also solidified his potential as a true movie star. But he’s not just an actor for hire; his ambition is undeniable. He optioned the material for, produced, and starred in the war drama *Devotion*, proving he’s interested in more than just collecting a paycheck. It’s this kind of strategic involvement that separates the stars from the legends in the making.
But if there was a one-two punch that officially vaulted him onto the A-list, it was his festival darling *Hit Man*, which he brilliantly co-wrote with the acclaimed Richard Linklater, followed by his absolutely delightful rom-com with Sydney Sweeney, *Anyone But You*. The industry has taken notice, and Powell himself, a noted enthusiast for every part of the movie-making and marketing process, articulated this new era of collaboration perfectly: “Are we going to find ourselves going after the same roles? Absolutely,” he told THR. “But are we ever in competition? No. We do different things.”
In the months since, Powell has been fielding a dizzying number of offers, making smart choices like signing on for Edgar Wright’s *Running Man* remake and JJ Abrams’ next directorial effort, while shrewdly passing on others (sorry, *Jurassic Park* fans!). And while being a “movie star” has always been his goal, Powell is also flexing his creative muscles by co-creating a college football comedy series with the Manning brothers for Hulu and, get this, even penning a Broadway musical. Talk about a multi-hyphenate mogul in the making, standing tall among any royalty!
10. **Anya Taylor-Joy: The Genre Queen Who Mastered Auteur Vision and is Now Taking On the Wasteland**
Anya Taylor-Joy, with her ethereal presence and intense gaze, is another star on this list with a monumental “proving-ground” moment hitting screens: the *Mad Max: Fury Road* prequel, *Furiosa*, which proudly debuted at Cannes. But let’s be clear, she didn’t just appear out of nowhere; Taylor-Joy, 28, has meticulously built her career since her electrifying breakout in Robert Eggers’ cerebral horror film *The Witch*. This role immediately established her as a sharp, captivating actress beloved by filmmakers who specialize in elevated, female-led genre fare.
She quickly became a go-to for directors seeking nuanced performances in high-concept thrillers, from M. Night Shyamalan’s *Split* in 2017 to the deliciously unsettling culinary thriller *The Menu* in 2022. While general audiences might know her best from the hugely popular Netflix series *The Queen’s Gambit*, Taylor-Joy has been strategic, gracefully declining major TV projects to prioritize a theatrical career. It’s a bold move that clearly signals her ambition to dominate the big screen.
Her upcoming role in *Furiosa* isn’t just a big moment; it’s a statement that she can absolutely command an action epic. And she’s not stopping there. She’s set to continue on this exhilarating path with Scott Derrickson’s upcoming feature *The Gorge*, rumored to be a love story centered around two assassins – intense! Even more exciting, she’ll share the screen with bona fide action star Chris Evans in the genre thriller *Sacrifice*. This isn’t just about making an impression; it’s about proving her mettle alongside Hollywood royalty in a genre typically dominated by established male stars.
Taylor-Joy’s journey highlights her remarkable ability to seamlessly transition from indie darlings to tentpole blockbusters, always maintaining that unique, magnetic quality that first captivated audiences. She’s not just a genre queen; she’s a master of transformation, poised to lead Hollywood into its next thrilling chapter, unafraid to clash with any established notions of what a leading woman can do.
11. **Sophie Thatcher: The Horror Anti-Damsel Who’s Winning Over Audiences and Legends Alike**Get ready to meet your new favorite anti-damsel in horror: Sophie Thatcher! This 24-year-old talent has swiftly become a standout, carving out a unique niche that’s both fierce and unforgettable. Her impactful role as Natalie, the younger counterpart to none other than Juliette Lewis in the Showtime series *Yellowjackets*, immediately put her on the map, allowing her to brilliantly play off an industry icon and establish her own intense screen presence.
Thatcher’s momentum didn’t stop there. She quickly landed roles that solidified her “scream queen” status, albeit with a fresh, anti-damsel twist. She appeared in the ’80s-inspired slasher *MaXXXine*, starring Mia Goth, and then took on the chilling film adaptation of Stephen King’s classic 1973 short story, *The Boogeyman*. These roles demonstrate her clear strength in navigating complex, darker narratives and making them her own, proving she’s far from a traditional leading lady.
What’s truly fascinating about Thatcher is her unique personal background – a former member of the LDS Church herself. This undoubtedly informs her upcoming role as a Mormon missionary attempting to convert the legendary Hugh Grant in *Heretic*. Talk about a captivating clash of talents and ideologies! She’s also set to star across from Jack Quaid in the psychological thriller *Companion*, continuing her streak of intriguing, high-concept projects.
But wait, there’s more! Sophie isn’t just an actress; she’s also a talented musician, writing and producing her own original music. She even recorded a powerful rendition of Bob Dylan’s “Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door” for the *Heretic* soundtrack. Her ability to hold her own opposite established actors like Hugh Grant, while also exploring her creative passions, perfectly encapsulates the multidimensional talent defining this new generation of Hollywood royalty.
12. **Paul Mescal: Art House Prince Ready to Conquer Empires with Ridley Scott * * Our beloved Art House Prince Paul Mescal has been captivating audiences with his raw fragility and intense performances since his debut on Hulu’s Normal People in 2020. Despite almost constant media attention, what is truly surprising is that the upcoming sequel to Ridley Scott’s “Gladiator” will mark the 28 year old Irish actor’s first mature studio lead. Mescal deliberately avoided traditional Hollywood blockbusters and instead chose festival favorites and highly acclaimed independent projects.
His choice after Ordinary People is a master of artistic integrity: he played a powerful supporting role in Elena Ferrant’s adaptation of Lost Daughter and the moving independent film Tangshan Earthquake, both of which won the Cannes premiere. He even made an excellent adaptation of Tennessee Williams’ “The Streetcar Named Desire”, adding glory to the London theater industry. These picky choices not only earned him praise; They earned him a well deserved Oscar nomination for his performance in ‘The Great Tangshan Earthquake’, making him a serious actor among his peers.
However, as an executive candidly stated, “Every filmmaker likes Paul Meskar. But the audience still doesn’t know who he is.” This perception is about to undergo a dramatic change in Gladiator 2. The footage showcased at this year’s CinemaCon definitely surprised cinema owners, indicating that Mescal is about to make a significant breakthrough in mainstream consciousness. He is approaching the top spot for major studio roles, including a great opportunity to play one of the Beatles quartet in Sam Mendes’ upcoming Beatles movie.
Mescal’s journey from independent darling to leading Ridley Scott’s epic perfectly illustrates how artistic integrity becomes the ultimate path to conquering Tinseltown. He is not just a rising star; He is proving that taking a rarely traveled path can lead to a grander destination, leaving his mark with some of the big names and most epic stories Hollywood offers. Prepare for the rise of the Mescal Empire!
These twelve talented individuals are not just actors; They have completely changed the meaning of becoming a star today by embracing authenticity, talent, and bold creative methods. Whether it’s challenging veteran legends, leading director driven projects, or revitalizing famous franchises, each one brings unique energy, making the screen vibrant, inspiring our imagination, and proving that Hollywood’s future is incredibly bright due to its influence.
