Have you ever thought about what it really takes to conquer Hollywood? In addition to dazzling lights and captivating premieres, there is also an area that requires tremendous dedication, extraordinary talent, and extensive travel!
From coast to coast, this journey often requires actors to go to incredible lengths for their craft, chasing auditions, film sets, and promotional tours. While every production throws up its own unique set of challenges and itineraries, there are definitely some common threads when it comes to how much actors find themselves on the move for work. It’s a demanding lifestyle that calls for flexibility, resilience, and a serious love for the art of acting.
But what happens when you reach the absolute pinnacle of fame and success? When your name alone can greenlight a project and your face is instantly recognizable worldwide? It’s only natural to wonder if, at that level, actors might gain a bit more control over their schedules and the sheer amount of travel required for their roles. Imagine having the kind of star power that lets you call the shots! We’re talking about the kind of leverage that could potentially lead to roles with minimum travel demands. Let’s dive into the astonishing careers of some of the most famous actors on the planet and see just how they’ve carved out their incredible legacies.
1. Scarlett Johansson
Kicking off our list is none other than Scarlett Johansson, a powerhouse who has truly cemented her place in cinematic history. As of July 8, 2025, she holds the Hollywood record for being the highest-grossing actor, with a staggering $14.8 billion in box office income. This incredible feat was largely propelled by the release of “Jurassic World Rebirth” on July 2, 2025, which itself generated over $318 million in its first five days.
Scarlett Johansson’s career is a masterclass in versatility, from her breakout in ‘Lost in Translation’ (2003) to the heartfelt ‘Marriage Story’ (2019), but it was her unforgettable role as Black Widow in the Avengers saga that cemented her global recognition, leading to her own solo film, ‘Black Widow’ (2021), a landmark for female-led Marvel stories.
Her dedication to diverse roles continues into 2025, where she’s set to appear in two high-profile films. First up is the massive blockbuster “Jurassic World Rebirth,” which clearly had a monumental impact on her gross earnings. Additionally, she’s gracing the screen in Wes Anderson’s newest venture, “The Phoenician Scheme.” Her ability to balance blockbuster hits with nuanced dramatic performances speaks volumes about her enduring appeal and significant industry clout.
With such an impressive career and proven box office appeal, Scarlett Johansson has achieved a level of success few can match, demonstrating a path built on smart choices and extraordinary talent, which naturally makes one ponder the creative and logistical freedom a star of her stature might enjoy when selecting future roles, possibly allowing for greater flexibility in her work arrangements.
2. Samuel L. Jackson
Next up, we have the legendary Samuel L. Jackson, a true titan of the acting world and the longest-running actor featured on our highest-grossing list. His career income stands impressively at $14.6 billion. There’s a good reason why he’s been a household name for decades: his unmistakable swagger and powerful screen presence, often enhanced by his signature role as the super-spy Nick Fury within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
Beyond his Marvel commitments, Jackson is also a frequent and beloved collaborator of Quentin Tarantino, delivering unforgettable performances in films like “Pulp Fiction” from 1994, “Django Unchained” in 2012, and “The Hateful Eight” in 2015, among others. His ability to embody such distinct characters, from the philosophical hitman Jules Winnfield to the shrewd Major Marquis Warren, showcases a remarkable range that has captivated audiences for generations.
His influence extends further into major franchises, having also starred as Mace Windu in the “Star Wars prequel trilogy” and lent his distinctive voice to the superhero Frozone in “The Incredibles franchise.” It’s worth noting that before Scarlett Johansson’s recent ascension, Samuel L. Jackson held the title of the highest-grossing actor starting in the early 2010s, thanks in large part to his foundational role in the Avengers franchise and the wider MCU. This sustained success highlights his incredible consistency and enduring appeal.
Over his long and illustrious career, Jackson has amassed numerous accolades, including six NAACP Image Awards, a testament to his impact both on and off screen. His journey reflects not just talent, but also a strategic approach to roles that have allowed him to remain relevant and beloved across diverse genres. For an actor with such a prolific output and widespread recognition, the level of agency they possess in choosing projects and managing their demanding schedules must be immense, allowing for a unique kind of career longevity.
3. Robert Downey Jr.
Prepare for a deep dive into the extraordinary career of Robert Downey Jr., whose $14.3 billion in gross income places him firmly among Hollywood’s elite. He achieved truly international fame by flawlessly embodying Tony Stark, or Iron Man, a character he famously described as a “genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist” in “Avengers” (2012). His eleven-year tenure with Marvel, beginning with “Iron Man” in 2008 – the very first MCU movie – and culminating in “Avengers: Endgame” in 2019, transformed him into one of the most iconic faces of the entire Marvel universe.
But to confine Downey’s acting prowess solely to the role of Iron Man would be a disservice to his incredible range. He has consistently ventured into diverse dramatic territory, earning critical acclaim in films such as “Zodiac” (2007), a gripping drama about the notorious Zodiac killer, and “The Judge” (2014), where he delivered a powerful performance alongside Robert Duvall. He also successfully spearheaded the mystery franchise “Sherlock Holmes,” bringing a fresh, energetic take to the classic detective.
His ability to transition seamlessly between massive blockbusters and intricate character-driven dramas is truly a hallmark of his career. In a testament to his enduring talent and versatility, Downey Jr. clinched the Academy Award for best supporting actor in 2024 for his compelling performance as Lewis Strauss in Christopher Nolan’s epic “Oppenheimer” (2023). This Oscar win further solidified his reputation as an actor who continually reinvents himself and delivers memorable portrayals.
Robert Downey Jr.’s journey is one of remarkable comeback and sustained brilliance, demonstrating that a powerful combination of charisma and acting chops can lead to unparalleled heights in the industry. With a career spanning such a wide array of genres and achieving both critical and commercial success, his influence over project selection and his working conditions is undoubtedly significant. It makes you ponder the kind of flexibility and choice such a celebrated figure might have when mapping out his next cinematic adventures, perhaps enabling him to prioritize personal commitments alongside professional ones.
4. Zoe Saldaña
Get ready to celebrate Zoe Saldaña, an actor who has truly made her mark on some of the biggest cinematic franchises of all time, amassing an incredible $14.2 billion in gross income! You know her as Gamora in the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy (2014–23) and across the wider MCU, Uhura in the modern Star Trek films (2009–16), and the striking Neytiri in the groundbreaking Avatar franchise. Her roles in these high-grossing films have made her a recognizable and beloved face across pop culture and fandoms worldwide.
What’s truly astounding is that Zoe Saldaña holds the unique honor of being the first actor to star in four movies that have each grossed more than $2 billion dollars! That’s not just impressive; it’s practically legendary status. Her presence clearly elevates a film, making her an invaluable asset to any major production seeking massive box office success. She’s not just in blockbusters; she *is* a blockbuster force.
Beyond her renowned sci-fi and action roles, Saldaña has also showcased her dramatic prowess, earning her first Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in the 2024 musical ‘Emilia Pérez,’ a testament to her artistic depth and embrace of diverse genres, proving she’s far more than just a blockbuster icon and highlighting her dedication to challenging narratives.
While Saldaña reached heightened stardom around 2009 with her pivotal roles in “Avatar” and “Star Trek,” she candidly shares that her “big break” actually came from starring in a Burger King commercial! This charming detail reminds us that every superstar has a beginning, and often it’s humble roots that lead to stratospheric success. Her extensive involvement in multiple, long-running, mega-successful franchises surely grants her considerable sway in her career choices, including potentially shaping the travel demands of future projects.
5. Chris Pratt
Prepare to laugh, cheer, and maybe even get a little bit teary-eyed for Chris Pratt, a true Hollywood man-of-action and voice acting wizard with a gross income of $14.1 billion. He solidified his position as a leading man with his fantastic portrayal of Peter Quill, or Star-Lord, in the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise and across the wider MCU. And who could forget his rugged charm as Owen Grady in the wildly popular Jurassic World movies? He just has that blockbuster hero vibe down pat!
But Chris Pratt isn’t just about punching aliens and wrangling dinosaurs; he’s also got some serious voice acting chops that have won over audiences of all ages. He brought vibrant characters to life in “The Lego Movie” (2014), stepped into the iconic red hat for “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” (2023), enchanted us in “Onward” (2020), and will soon be purring as the famous feline in “The Garfield Movie” (2024). His ability to seamlessly transition between live-action and voice-over work is incredibly impressive.
Many fans also fondly remember Pratt from his earlier career on the small screen, particularly his hilarious and heartwarming role as Andy Dwyer in the hit television series “Parks and Recreation” (2009–15). His journey from a beloved comedic TV actor to a global action and animation star is a fantastic example of building a diverse and impactful career. It shows a strategic evolution, embracing different facets of the entertainment industry.
Chris Pratt’s undeniable charisma and widespread appeal across family-friendly animated features, massive action blockbusters, and beloved TV comedies have made him a genuine superstar. This incredible range and consistent box office performance suggest that he has achieved a level of influence within Hollywood. Such a position could allow him significant input on the logistics of his demanding schedule, possibly even paving the way for roles that align with specific travel preferences, making his career truly his own.
6. Tom Cruise
Last but certainly not least for this section, we have the one, the only, Tom Cruise, an actor who has been one of the most well-known figures in Hollywood for an astonishing more than 40 years! Dating all the way back to his film debut in “Endless Love” (1981), Cruise’s incredible career has now amassed a gross income of $12.6 billion, a testament to his enduring star power and dedication to his craft.
Even now in his 60s, Cruise shows absolutely no signs of slowing down, continuing to push the boundaries of action cinema with breathtaking stunts and unwavering commitment. Most recently, he reprised his iconic leading role as the super-spy Ethan Hunt in the latest installment of the wildly successful Mission Impossible franchise, “Mission: Impossible—The Final Reckoning” (2025). This series alone showcases his incredible dedication to delivering unparalleled cinematic experiences.
His filmography reads like a curated collection of cinematic triumphs, including ‘War of the Worlds,’ ‘Rain Man,’ ‘Jerry Maguire,’ ‘The Last Samurai,’ ‘Minority Report,’ and ‘The Firm,’ each showcasing his captivating presence and ability to enthrall audiences, whether through thrilling action or profound dramatic performances, reflecting a career defined by consistent excellence and a pursuit of artistic perfection.
Throughout his illustrious acting career, Tom Cruise has accumulated more than 60 awards, including three Golden Globes, proving that his impact is recognized by both audiences and critics alike. For an actor of his legendary status, whose career spans over four decades and who consistently delivers top-tier performances in global blockbusters, the degree of control he exerts over his projects, including where and how they are filmed, must be immense. It’s a level of creative and logistical freedom that few in the industry ever achieve, perhaps making the concept of minimal travel demands a very real possibility.
Okay, are you ready to keep this Hollywood travelogue going? Because we’ve got even more incredible stars to shine a light on! In the first part of our article, we dove headfirst into how some of the biggest names in Tinseltown manage their globe-trotting careers, and now we’re ready to introduce you to seven more iconic and rising stars whose paths to fame have been just as captivating. You’ll definitely want to see how these folks are potentially shaping their demanding careers to fit their lives, not the other way around. Let’s get into it!
7. Chris Hemsworth
First up in this stellar lineup is Chris Hemsworth, the god of thunder himself, who has seriously electrified the box office with an incredible $12.1 billion gross income! You probably know him best as Thor, the formidable Marvel superhero who has graced our screens since 2011, making him a cornerstone of the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe. He’s got that heroic charisma down pat, blending raw power with a charming wit that makes him truly unforgettable.
But before he was wielding Mjolnir and battling intergalactic threats, our Australian-born hero was honing his craft Down Under. Chris kicked off his acting journey on his home country’s television programs, appearing in shows like “Guinevere Jones” and “Home and Away” in the early 2000s. It was this foundation that set the stage for his big move to the U.S., where he ambitiously transitioned into a film career that would, quite literally, take him to new heights.
And talk about versatility! While Thor might be his most famous role, Hemsworth has flexed his acting muscles across a fantastic range of genres. He’s battled fairytale villains in “Snow White and the Huntsman,” explored the final frontier in “Star Trek,” joined the hilarious team in the 2016 “Ghostbusters” reboot, gone intergalactic again in “Men in Black: International,” taken a wild family “Vacation,” and faced the unforgiving sea in “In the Heart of the Sea.” Seriously, the man has done it all!
With his unmistakable face, a portfolio brimming with blockbuster hits, and a worldwide following, Chris Hemsworth wields considerable industry influence, a position that likely affords him substantial negotiation power over his demanding schedule, making the prospect of choosing projects that minimize time away from home a reality—a true superpower that allows him to stay grounded.
8. Vin Diesel
Next, we’re zooming in on Vin Diesel, the undisputed king of fast cars and furious action, with an impressive $12.0 billion career gross income! He’s practically synonymous with Dominic Toretto, the iconic character he first brought to life in “The Fast and the Furious,” a role that has kept us on the edge of our seats for decades. His gravelly voice and tough-guy persona make him instantly recognizable, a true force to be reckoned with on screen.
But Diesel’s journey to the top wasn’t exactly a smooth ride. He actually honed his early, difficult industry experiences into a semi-autobiographical short film called “Multi-Facial.” This project, which chronicled a biracial actor struggling to find roles, caught the keen eye of none other than the critically acclaimed director Steven Spielberg. This led to Diesel’s breakout role in “Saving Private Ryan” in 1998, a pivotal moment that launched his career into the stratosphere.
Of course, his career isn’t just about the Fast saga. Vin has also starred in the high-octane “XXX franchise” and the compelling “Chronicles of Rid franchise,” proving his prowess in gritty action roles. And let’s not forget his fantastic voice work as the titular character in “The Iron Giant,” showcasing a tender side many might not expect. He even made an appearance in the drama “Boiler Room,” demonstrating his range beyond pure action.
From his beginnings as an indie filmmaker to his current status as a global action star, Vin Diesel’s commitment to his craft and strategic career moves have forged a lasting legacy, creating a unique brand that resonates with millions, a star power that translates directly into significant control over his projects, prompting speculation about the extent to which he can influence where and how his future adventures unfold, perhaps favoring choices that keep travel demands manageable.
9. Dwayne Johnson
Get ready to smell what The Rock is cooking, because Dwayne Johnson is up next, flexing his incredible charisma and box office muscles with a gross income of $11.44 billion! This professional actor and wrestler truly made a seamless transition from the ring to the big screen, effortlessly translating his captivating wrestling-match monologues into his very first film role in “The Mummy Returns” in 2001. Seriously, has anyone ever dominated two industries quite like him?
He quickly earned widespread recognition across both the action and family genres, becoming a beloved figure for audiences of all ages. Think about his electrifying presence in the high-octane “Fast and Furious franchise,” his adventurous spirit in films like “Journey 2: Mysterious Island” (2012) and “San Andreas,” or his charming performances in the “Jumanji franchise.” He consistently delivers that larger-than-life energy that keeps us coming back for more.
Johnson continues to land starring roles in these popular categories, with recent hits like “Jungle Cruise” (2021) and his iconic voice work as Maui in Disney’s animated smash hit, “Moana” (2016). His incredible physicality, engaging charisma, and undeniable appeal make him a consistent draw, ensuring that his projects are often global blockbusters. He’s not just an actor; he’s an entire entertainment phenomenon!
With such an unparalleled track record as a box office magnet, Dwayne Johnson holds immense power in shaping his career. This level of stardom undoubtedly grants him significant influence over production choices, including where filming locations are set and how schedules are managed. It’s easy to imagine The Rock having the kind of pull that allows him to pick and choose roles that align with his personal life, perhaps even making minimal travel demands a key negotiating point. Talk about living the dream!
10. Chris Evans
Prepare to salute Captain America himself, Chris Evans, who rounds out our list of highest-grossing titans with an impressive $11.42 billion in career earnings! His journey as an action star famously kicked off with his first superhero film, “Fantastic Four” (2005). But it was his iconic portrayal of the titular character in the “Captain America franchise” that truly solidified his superhero status, making him a major, beloved player in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
But here’s the cool part: Evans has brilliantly expanded his acting repertoire far beyond the shield and super-soldier serum, showcasing incredible range across diverse genres. He wowed us with his sharp wit in the popular mystery “Knives Out” (2019), captivated us in the cult classic “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World,” delivered a chilling performance in “Snowpiercer,” and is even set to appear in “Deadpool & Wolverine.” Plus, in 2025, he’s starring in Celine Song’s romance film “Materialists” as one of Dakota Johnson’s love interests, alongside Pedro Pascal! See? Total versatility!
His ability to seamlessly transition from massive blockbusters to intricate, character-driven dramas is a testament to his undeniable talent. Chris Evans has not only conquered the superhero world but has also proven his mettle in critically acclaimed projects, demonstrating a commitment to challenging and varied roles. It’s this strategic balancing act that has kept him at the forefront of Hollywood and ensured his enduring appeal.
With such incredible star power and a career built on diverse, successful projects, Chris Evans definitely has the leverage to influence his working conditions. The kind of clout he possesses means he can likely advocate for filming schedules and locations that align more closely with his personal preferences, making him a prime example of an actor who can truly shape his career on his own terms. Who wouldn’t want that kind of control?
Now, let’s pivot from these established Hollywood titans to some incredibly promising rising stars who are rapidly making their mark and demonstrating the early potential for the kind of career flexibility enjoyed by their more seasoned counterparts!
11. Milly Alcock
Get ready to meet Milly Alcock, an absolute force to be reckoned with! This rising star is already earning her wings – quite literally – after shooting “Supergirl,” where she plays Superman’s cousin, Kara Zor-El. She even had a brief but unforgettable cameo in the recent “Superman” movie, spitting out the already iconic line, “Thanks for looking after my dog, bitch!” Seriously, talk about making an entrance!
Before taking flight as Supergirl, Milly was already captivating audiences on HBO’s colossal hit, “House of the Dragon,” as the young Rhaenyra Targaryen, and she just starred in the hit Netflix limited series “Sirens” alongside Julianne Moore. This Australian actor has been studying drama since age 5 and even dropped out of a performing arts school when she landed her first TV role on the comedy “Upright” in 2018. Talk about dedication!
Her journey to Supergirl is pure Hollywood magic: in 2023, DC Studios co-CEO Peter Safran approached her for a general meeting, and in just a few short weeks, asked her to tape for the part. Milly admits she had conflicted feelings, noting, “I think most actors deal with that kind of duality where I want to work and do things people watch and are important, but I also want to have a long career and not get pigeonholed into one part.” But as she researched, she realized Kara was “the coolest one.”
After a screen test in Atlanta, she found out she got the part in the most modern way possible: James Gunn simply sent her the link to the online article. “I was kind of like, ‘Oh , it’s real!’” she revealed. With a role this massive already secured and a career trajectory that’s nothing short of phenomenal, Milly Alcock is on track to gain the kind of star power that will certainly grant her significant say in how and where her incredible career takes her next.
12. Mari Yamamoto
Last but certainly not least, let’s talk about Mari Yamamoto, an actor whose unique path to Hollywood stardom is as inspiring as it is captivating! She actually began her career as a journalist in Japan, writing “for a culture magazine I was so in love with.” But after some less-than-ideal experiences (hello, “The Devil Wears Rolex” editor!), a pivotal moment came when she saw Sandra Oh on “Grey’s Anatomy.” “I’ve never seen somebody who truly looked like me playing a character, a person, like that,” she says. “It changed my life. I realized this is an art form an Asian person can do in America.” What an incredible realization!
That pivotal experience inspired Mari to pursue acting studies at Lee Strasberg in New York, where she discovered a profound passion for the craft, subsequently performing in approximately 30 off-off-Broadway productions within a year, immersing herself in experimental theater, including a memorable play about a cult featuring an orgy scene, where the writer and director even participated in rehearsals out of solidarity—truly embodying commitment to the art!
Her dedication paid off, leading to standout roles on the Apple TV+ series “Pachinko” and “Monarch: Legacy of Monsters.” And get this: she’ll soon be seen opposite Oscar-winner Brendan Fraser in this fall’s “Rental Family.” In the film, they play employees at a firm in Tokyo that lends out actors for various tasks. For research, Mari and her fellow actor Hira Takehiro met with members of such an agency, learning how often people just wanted someone to talk to. “I think because therapists aren’t very common yet in Japan, there aren’t a lot of places where you can be vulnerable and reach out for help,” she noted, highlighting the profound human connection.
Moving forward, Mari is looking to beautifully marry her two loves: “I’m working on my own thing right now to write and act in,” she reveals. “That’s the dream.” Her inspiring journey from journalism to acting, fueled by personal epiphany and relentless dedication, is truly remarkable. As she continues to carve out her own unique space in the industry, her passion for storytelling and her ability to deeply connect with human experience will undoubtedly give her the agency to choose projects that not only fulfill her artistically but also align with her vision for a balanced and meaningful career, perhaps minimizing the travel and maximizing the artistry.
So, you got it! From shaping legendary figures in movies to dynamic emerging talents shaping the future of cinema, these actors provide examples of how reaching a certain level of celebrity status gives power to shaping a person’s career path, whether driven by blockbuster appeal, critical acclaim, or pure charm, proving that a successful performing career does not require a constantly changing life. On the contrary, it can be a combination of creative achievement, strategic choice, and perhaps even less time difference, allowing us to reconsider the true meaning of becoming a Hollywood idol today!
