Best Male Actors Under 20

The landscape of modern cinema and television is constantly being reshaped by a new generation of performers who bring emotional depth and technical precision to their roles. These young male actors, all under the age of 20 as of early 2026, have successfully transitioned from child stars to serious dramatic and comedic contenders. From leading major streaming franchises to winning prestigious awards like the Primetime Emmy, these individuals demonstrate that age is no barrier to critical acclaim. This list highlights the most prominent young men currently making waves in the entertainment industry.

Jacob Tremblay

This Canadian actor first rose to international prominence with his breakout performance in the critically acclaimed film ‘Room’. He continued to impress audiences with his range in ‘Wonder’, portraying a boy with Treacher Collins syndrome, and the R-rated comedy ‘Good Boys’. By 2026, he has transitioned into sophisticated voice work and mature live-action roles that showcase his evolving dramatic capabilities. His ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety has made him one of the most respected actors of his generation.

Iain Armitage

Best known for his long-running lead role in ‘Young Sheldon’, this actor effectively portrayed a younger version of a beloved sitcom character for seven seasons. Outside of the ‘Big Bang Theory’ prequel, he earned praise for his role as Ziggy Chapman in the HBO series ‘Big Little Lies’. His background as a theater critic provided him with a unique understanding of performance from a very young age. He remains a prominent figure in television, often lending his voice to major animated features like ‘PAW Patrol: The Movie’.

Walker Scobell

After making a splashy film debut opposite Ryan Reynolds in ‘The Adam Project’, this young actor quickly became a household name. He secured the titular role in the Disney+ series ‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’, bringing the beloved literary character to life for a new generation. His natural comedic timing and athletic screen presence have earned him comparisons to established action-comedy stars. He continues to lead high-budget projects, balancing physical stunts with relatable coming-of-age performances.

Roman Griffin Davis

This British-French actor gained immediate recognition for his debut role in Taika Waititi’s satirical drama ‘Jojo Rabbit’. His performance earned him a Golden Globe nomination, making him one of the youngest nominees in the category’s history. Following this success, he appeared in the apocalyptic dark comedy ‘Silent Night’ and the sci-fi sequel ‘Greenland: Migration’. He is noted for his ability to handle heavy thematic material while maintaining an authentic sense of childhood innocence.

Owen Cooper

In 2025, this English actor made history by becoming the youngest person to win the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series. His transformative performance as a teenager accused of murder in the Netflix miniseries ‘Adolescence’ was hailed as a masterclass in dramatic tension. Beyond his breakthrough role, he has been cast in the 2026 adaptation of ‘Wuthering Heights’ as the young Heathcliff. His rapid ascent reflects a rare talent for immersive and intense character work.

Christian Convery

After charming audiences as the lead in the Netflix fantasy series ‘Sweet Tooth’, this actor has become a staple of major genre productions. He has showcased his versatility in projects ranging from the thriller ‘Cocaine Bear’ to the horror-drama ‘The Monkey’. In 2026, he continues to expand his filmography with roles in high-profile projects like Guillermo del Toro’s ‘Frankenstein’. His career is characterized by a mix of high-energy adventure roles and more grounded, emotional characters.

Gordon Cormier

This Canadian actor stepped into the spotlight as Aang in the live-action adaptation of ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’. Prior to his breakout, he appeared in the Stephen King adaptation ‘The Stand’ and the sci-fi series ‘Lost in Space’. His performance in the ‘Avatar’ franchise required extensive martial arts training and the ability to carry a massive global property. He is recognized for his infectious energy and the physical dedication he brings to his action-oriented roles.

Banks Repeta

Known for his nuanced performance as the lead in the semi-autobiographical film ‘Armageddon Time’, this actor has worked with several legendary directors early in his career. He has also appeared in the horror hit ‘The Black Phone’ and the Netflix drama ‘The Devil All the Time’. His work is often cited for its quiet intensity and the ease with which he interacts with veteran co-stars. He has established himself as a reliable talent for atmospheric and emotionally driven cinema.

Jude Hill

This Northern Irish actor captivated viewers as the protagonist Buddy in Kenneth Branagh’s Oscar-winning film ‘Belfast’. The role earned him a Critics’ Choice Award for Best Young Performer and set the stage for a thriving international career. He collaborated with Branagh again for the Hercule Poirot mystery ‘A Haunting in Venice’, further demonstrating his poise in ensemble casts. His expressive face and naturalistic acting style make him a standout in period dramas and character studies.

Woody Norman

After delivering a BAFTA-nominated performance opposite Joaquin Phoenix in ‘C’mon C’mon’, this English actor became one of the most sought-after young talents in the industry. He has since appeared in the horror film ‘The Last Voyage of the Demeter’ and the large-scale sci-fi project ‘The Electric State’. His ability to engage in complex, dialogue-heavy scenes with adult actors has been frequently noted by critics. He possesses a maturity on screen that belies his age, often tackling roles that require deep empathy.

Mason Thames

This actor broke through with his leading role in the supernatural horror film ‘The Black Phone’, where he portrayed a resourceful teenager fighting for survival. He has since transitioned into major franchise work, including the lead role of Hiccup in the live-action ‘How to Train Your Dragon’. His background as a trained ballet dancer contributes to the physical grace and timing he brings to his screen performances. He is currently positioned as one of the leading young men in blockbuster cinema.

Lonnie Chavis

Initially rising to fame as the young Randall Pearson on the hit drama ‘This Is Us’, this actor has built a diverse portfolio across multiple genres. He took on a leading role in the fantasy adventure ‘The Water Man’ and appeared in the horror-thriller ‘The Boy Behind the Door’. His career is also defined by his activism and his ability to tackle socially relevant themes through his performances. He has successfully navigated the transition from child television star to a versatile film and television actor.

JD McCrary

This multitalented performer gained widespread recognition as the voice of young Simba in the 2019 reimagining of ‘The Lion King’. In addition to his voice work, he has appeared in the film ‘Little’ and the television series ‘K.C. Undercover’. He is equally known for his musical talents, often incorporating his singing and dancing skills into his professional projects. His charisma and stage presence have made him a recurring favorite in both live-action and animated media.

Winslow Fegley

Following a breakout role in ‘Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made’, this actor has become a frequent lead in family-oriented films. He anchored the holiday comedy ‘8-Bit Christmas’ and the musical adaptation ‘Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile’. His expressive features and comedic timing allow him to lead films that rely on both humor and heart. He continues to take on diverse roles, including younger versions of established characters in biographical dramas like ‘Spinning Gold’.

Cameron Crovetti

This actor is best known for his recurring role as Ryan Butcher, the powerful son of Homelander, in the hit series ‘The Boys’. He previously appeared alongside his twin brother in the HBO drama ‘Big Little Lies’ as one of Nicole Kidman’s sons. His work in ‘The Boys’ has allowed him to explore the psychological complexity of a child with immense, dangerous power. He has also ventured into horror with films like ‘Goodnight Mommy’ and action in ‘Boy Kills World’.

Nicholas Crovetti

Like his twin brother, this actor began his professional career with a significant role in ‘Big Little Lies’. He starred in the psychological horror remake ‘Goodnight Mommy’ and the supernatural thriller ‘Witch Hunt’. While he often works alongside his sibling, he has established his own screen identity through his work in projects like the animated series ‘Ada Twist, Scientist’. His filmography shows a strong inclination toward dark, atmospheric storytelling and ensemble dramas.

Jett Klyne

This Canadian actor is widely recognized for his portrayal of Tommy Maximoff in the Marvel Cinematic Universe series ‘WandaVision’. He reprised this role in ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’, solidifying his place in a major global franchise. Outside of the superhero genre, he has appeared in ‘The X-Files’ and ‘Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’. His ability to portray the specific energy of a superpowered child has made him a fan favorite in the genre community.

Jackson Robert Scott

Known for his iconic and chilling role as Georgie Denbrough in the ‘It’ film series, this actor has specialized in high-tension thriller and horror roles. He played a lead role in the Netflix series ‘Locke & Key’, where he portrayed the youngest of the Locke siblings. His performance in the horror film ‘The Prodigy’ further demonstrated his capacity for carrying intense, unsettling narratives. He remains a prominent young actor in the genre space, known for his professionalism and maturity on set.

Malachi Barton

This actor gained a following through his roles on the Disney Channel, including the series ‘Stuck in the Middle’. He later moved into feature films with a role in ‘Dora and the Lost City of Gold’ and the leading part in ‘Under Wraps’. His career has progressed into more dramatic territory with appearances in series like ‘Villains of Valley View’. He is noted for his energetic screen presence and his ability to lead projects aimed at a youth audience.

Ian Chen

Rising to fame as Evan Huang in the long-running sitcom ‘Fresh Off the Boat’, this actor demonstrated sharp comedic timing from a very early age. He successfully moved into film with a role as Eugene Choi in the DC superhero movie ‘Shazam!’ and its sequel. His career has also included voice work for various animated projects and guest appearances on major television dramas. By 2026, he has become a seasoned performer with a decade of experience in the industry.

Zackary Arthur

This actor is best known for leading the ‘Chucky’ television series, where he plays the protagonist Jake Wheeler. His work on the show has been praised for its emotional groundedness in the midst of horror and camp elements. He previously appeared in the sci-fi film ‘The 5th Wave’ and the series ‘Transparent’. His ability to anchor a popular horror franchise has established him as a significant talent in television and genre cinema.

Julian Hilliard

After making a memorable debut in the horror series ‘The Haunting of Hill House’, this actor became a go-to talent for high-profile genre projects. He played Billy Maximoff in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s ‘WandaVision’ and appeared in ‘The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It’. His performances are often marked by a sincerity that heightens the emotional stakes of the supernatural stories he inhabits. He is considered one of the most promising young actors currently working in the horror genre.

Alan Kim

This actor won the hearts of audiences and critics alike with his debut performance in the Academy Award-nominated film ‘Minari’. His role as David Yi earned him a BAFTA nomination and several youth acting awards. He has continued to work in both film and television, appearing in the series ‘Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens’ and the movie ‘Latchkey Kids’. He is recognized for his natural charisma and the authenticity he brings to his portrayals of childhood.

Archie Yates

Following a scene-stealing debut as Yorki in ‘Jojo Rabbit’, this British actor led the ‘Home Alone’ reboot, ‘Home Sweet Home Alone’. His comedic energy and distinct voice have made him a standout in both live-action roles and voice acting. He has provided voices for animated series like ‘Amphibia’ and ‘Wolfboy and the Everything Factory’. His career focuses on high-energy comedy and family-friendly adventures that utilize his unique screen persona.

Aryan Simhadri

This actor has built a steady career in television and film, most notably as Grover Underwood in the ‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’ series. He previously appeared in the ‘Cheaper by the Dozen’ remake and provided voices for animated shows like ‘Mira, Royal Detective’. His role in the ‘Percy Jackson’ franchise has brought him significant international attention and a dedicated fanbase. He is known for his ability to provide both comedic relief and genuine emotional support to his co-stars.

Javon Walton

Known for his intense performance as Ashtray in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’, this actor has brought a gritty realism to his roles. In addition to acting, he is a high-level competitive boxer and gymnast, skills he utilized in the superhero film ‘Samaritan’. He also appeared in the third season of ‘The Umbrella Academy’ as Stan. His career is marked by roles that require a combination of physical toughness and emotional vulnerability.

Azhy Robertson

This actor earned critical acclaim for his role as Henry in the Academy Award-nominated drama ‘Marriage Story’. His performance was noted for its subtlety and the realistic way he portrayed a child navigating his parents’ divorce. He has also starred in the series ‘The Plot Against America’ and the horror film ‘Come Play’. He is frequently cast in projects that require a high level of emotional intelligence and naturalistic acting.

Miguel Mora

After a breakout role in the horror hit ‘The Black Phone’, this actor became a prominent figure in the young acting scene. His performance as Robin provided a crucial emotional anchor for the film and resonated strongly with audiences. He has since appeared in various independent projects and maintains a significant presence in the genre community. His work is characterized by a cool, confident screen presence that has earned him a growing fanbase.

Braxton Bjerken

This actor is recognized for his role as Kenny in the comedy series ‘The Righteous Gemstones’. He has also appeared in high-profile films like ‘The House with a Clock in Its Walls’ and ‘The Adam Project’. His career often balances quirky comedic roles with parts in major studio productions. He is noted for his ability to hold his own alongside comedy legends and for his versatile acting range.

Benjamin Evan Ainsworth

This British actor gained recognition for his leading role in ‘The Haunting of Bly Manor’ as Miles Wingrave. He went on to provide the voice for the titular character in Disney’s live-action ‘Pinocchio’ and appeared in the Netflix series ‘The Sandman’. His performances often involve a level of sophistication and complexity that is rare for his age. He is established as a major talent in both British and American productions.

Billy Barratt

This actor made history as the youngest person to win an International Emmy Award for Best Actor for his role in the drama ‘Responsible Child’. His performance as a young boy on trial for murder was hailed as an extraordinary achievement in dramatic acting. He has since appeared in the sci-fi film ‘Invasion’ and the fantasy series ‘Willow’. His career continues to focus on challenging, high-stakes roles that showcase his technical skill and emotional depth.

Felix Cameron

This Australian actor gained international acclaim for his lead role in the Netflix adaptation of ‘Boy Swallows Universe’. His performance as Eli Bell required him to navigate a story filled with trauma, magic realism, and complex family dynamics. The role earned him numerous awards in Australia and established him as a major new talent on the global stage. He is noted for his incredible screen presence and the depth of feeling he brings to his characters.

Keivonn Woodard

This actor made a significant impact with his performance as Sam in the HBO series ‘The Last of Us’. As a deaf actor, he brought an authentic and moving perspective to his role in the post-apocalyptic drama, earning an Emmy nomination. His performance was praised for its non-verbal communication and the powerful chemistry he shared with his co-stars. He has become a trailblazing figure for representation in the entertainment industry.

Cade Woodward

Following his appearance as young Clint Barton’s son in ‘Avengers: Endgame’, this actor has continued to work in major television and film projects. He appeared in the Marvel series ‘Hawkeye’ and has taken on roles in various independent dramas. His early exposure to massive franchise sets has provided him with a strong foundation for a professional career. He is recognized for his natural acting style and his ability to work effectively in high-pressure environments.

Raphael Alejandro

This actor is best known for his role as Matteo Silva in the Disney Channel series ‘Bunk’d’. He has also appeared in feature films such as ‘How to Be a Latin Lover’ and ‘Jungle Cruise’. His career is defined by a consistent presence in family-friendly comedy and large-scale adventure films. He is recognized for his comedic timing and his ability to appeal to a wide demographic of young viewers.

August Maturo

After gaining fame as Auggie Matthews in the Disney series ‘Girl Meets World’, this actor has pursued roles in the horror and thriller genres. He appeared in the ‘The Nun’ and the independent film ‘Shepherd: The Story of a Jewish Dog’. His transition into more mature and darker roles has demonstrated his range as a performer. He remains active in the industry, often participating in projects that challenge his established screen image.

Elias Harger

This actor is widely recognized for his role as Max Fuller in the Netflix revival series ‘Fuller House’. For five seasons, he portrayed the energetic and meticulous middle child of the Fuller family. Following the conclusion of the series, he has continued to work on television and in theater productions. He is noted for his professionalism and the charm he brought to his long-running television role.

Jason Maybaum

Best known for his role as Levi Grayson in the Disney Channel series ‘Raven’s Home’, this actor has established a strong career in television comedy. He also appeared in the musical ‘Freaky Friday’ and the film ‘Becoming Eddie’. His work is characterized by high energy and sharp comedic instincts that have made him a favorite on youth-oriented networks. He continues to expand his portfolio with guest appearances on various sitcoms and dramas.

Paxton Booth

This actor gained recognition for his role as Ollie Wrather in the Disney series ‘Coop & Cami Ask the World’. He is known for his distinct style and his ability to deliver comedic lines with a unique flair. Outside of his series regular work, he has appeared in various national commercials and guest roles. His career focuses on comedic television, where he has built a reputation for being a reliable and charismatic young performer.

Parker Bates

Rising to prominence as young Kevin Pearson on ‘This Is Us’, this actor portrayed the character’s childhood struggles and family dynamics for six seasons. His performance was a key part of the show’s multi-generational storytelling, earning him praise for his consistency and emotional resonance. He has also appeared in films such as ‘Magic Max’ and worked as a producer on short films. He remains an active talent in the industry, transitioning into more mature roles as he grows older.

Cooper J. Friedman

This actor has built a prolific career with guest roles on a wide variety of major television series. He has appeared in ‘The Big Bang Theory’, ‘Shameless’, and ‘Girl Meets World’, showing a great deal of versatility. His ability to fit into established ensemble casts for brief but memorable turns has made him a frequent choice for casting directors. He continues to work steadily, building a dense filmography of television and commercial credits.

Jacob Moran

After appearing in the horror hit ‘The Black Phone’, this actor gained a following for his portrayal of Billy. His performance contributed to the film’s tense atmosphere and high-stakes narrative. He has since participated in various film festivals and remains a popular figure among fans of the genre. His work demonstrates a commitment to building a career within the thriller and horror spaces.

Tristan Pravong

This actor became a breakout star through his role as Bruce Yamada in ‘The Black Phone’. Despite his character’s limited screen time, his performance resonated deeply with audiences and became a focal point for the film’s fanbase. He has since been cast in various upcoming projects that look to capitalize on his sudden rise to fame. He is recognized for his charismatic screen presence and his ability to make a significant impact in a short amount of time.

Elliot Grihault

This British actor gained international attention for his role as Lucerys Velaryon in the HBO series ‘House of the Dragon’. His performance in the high-stakes fantasy drama was central to one of the most pivotal moments in the show’s first season. His ability to convey fear and resolve in the face of overwhelming odds earned him significant critical notice. He is part of a new wave of actors bringing fresh energy to the ‘Game of Thrones’ universe.

Leo Ashton

Known for portraying the younger version of Aemond Targaryen in ‘House of the Dragon’, this actor delivered a performance marked by intensity and vulnerability. His work during the character’s formative and traumatic experiences set the foundation for the character’s later development in the series. He has also appeared in various British television dramas, showcasing a range beyond high fantasy. His ability to handle dark and physical roles has marked him as a talent to watch.

Harvey Sadler

This young actor played the role of young Lucerys Velaryon in the early episodes of ‘House of the Dragon’. His performance helped establish the brotherhood and family bonds that would drive the show’s later conflicts. He has a background in stage performance and has appeared in several commercial campaigns. His work in the ‘Avatar’ and ‘Game of Thrones’ adjacent projects has given him a high-profile start in the industry.

Logan Kim

This actor broke through with his role as Podcast in the ‘Ghostbusters: Afterlife’ film and its sequel, ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’. His fast-talking, high-energy performance provided a modern comedic touch to the classic franchise. He has also appeared in the series ‘The Walking Dead: Dead City’, expanding his range into more dramatic and suspenseful territory. He is noted for his intelligence on screen and his ability to handle rapid-fire dialogue.

Evan Alex

Known for his dual role in Jordan Peele’s horror-thriller ‘Us’, this actor demonstrated a remarkable ability to play two distinct and chilling characters. His performance was central to the film’s themes of identity and duality, earning him praise for his technical precision. He has also appeared in the series ‘Kidding’ and provided voices for various animated projects. His career is characterized by a talent for intense, imaginative storytelling.

Who is your favorite young actor currently dominating the screen, and which of their performances impressed you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments.