Best Actresses Under 20

The entertainment industry is currently witnessing a surge of exceptional young talent as child stars transition into formidable leads and newcomers make their mark in major franchises. These actresses, all under the age of 20 as of early 2026, have already demonstrated remarkable range across prestige television, blockbuster films, and independent projects. From horror icons and Marvel heroes to dramatic powerhouses, this generation is redefining the future of Hollywood. This list highlights 50 of the most successful and promising actresses who continue to captivate audiences worldwide with their performances.

McKenna Grace

McKenna Grace is an American actress who rose to fame as a child star in ‘Gifted’ (2017). She has since taken on leading roles in major franchises, including playing Phoebe Spengler in ‘Ghostbusters: Afterlife’ and ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’. Her dramatic range earned her a Primetime Emmy nomination for her recurring role as Esther Keyes in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Beyond acting, she has established herself as a singer and songwriter with several successful singles. Grace continues to be one of the most prolific and sought-after young performers in the industry.

Xochitl Gomez

Xochitl Gomez gained worldwide recognition for her portrayal of America Chavez in the Marvel Cinematic Universe film ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’. Before joining the superhero genre, she starred as Dawn Schafer in the first season of the Netflix series ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’. Her performance as a young girl with the power to travel through the multiverse was praised for its energy and charm. Gomez has also appeared in various independent films and television shows such as ‘Gentefied’. She recently expanded her public profile by winning the 32nd season of ‘Dancing with the Stars’.

Kiawentiio

Kiawentiio is a First Nations actress and singer who broke out in the lead role of ‘Beans’ (2020), a film centered on the Oka Crisis. She reached a massive global audience portraying Katara in the Netflix live-action adaptation of ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’. Her work often focuses on Indigenous representation, including her role as Ka’kwet in the series ‘Anne with an E’. Kiawentiio is also an accomplished musician, having released her debut EP in 2021. She is considered a leading voice for Indigenous youth in the North American film industry.

Priah Ferguson

Priah Ferguson became a fan favorite for her scene-stealing role as Erica Sinclair in the hit Netflix series ‘Stranger Things’. Initially appearing in a recurring capacity, her popularity led to her promotion as a series regular for the later seasons. She has also starred in films such as ‘The Curse of Bridge Hollow’ and ‘The Oath’. Her comedic timing and assertive screen presence have made her a standout in the science fiction and horror genres. Ferguson continues to voice characters in various animated series while maintaining her role in ‘Stranger Things’.

Saniyya Sidney

Saniyya Sidney delivered a powerhouse performance as Venus Williams in the biographical drama ‘King Richard’, starring alongside Will Smith. Her portrayal of the legendary tennis star earned her nominations for several awards, including from the Screen Actors Guild. Sidney’s early career included significant roles in Academy Award-winning films like ‘Fences’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. She also portrayed a young Sasha Obama in the Showtime series ‘The First Lady’. Her ability to embody real-life historical figures has established her as a premier dramatic actress.

Momona Tamada

Momona Tamada is best known for her role as Claudia Kishi in the Netflix series ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’. She brought the stylish and artistic character to life over two seasons, earning praise for her authenticity. Tamada also appeared as the young version of Lara Jean in the ‘To All the Boys’ film franchise. In 2024, she joined the cast of the live-action ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ as Ty Lee. Her background in competitive dance often complements her physical acting roles in television and film.

Sophie Grace

Sophie Grace rose to prominence as the lead character Kristy Thomas in the Netflix adaptation of ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’. As the founder and president of the club, she portrayed a determined and independent young entrepreneur. Before her breakout series, she appeared in the television movie ‘Terror in the Woods’. Her performance as Kristy earned her a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Younger Performer in a Daytime Fiction Program. Grace remains active in the industry, focusing on projects that highlight strong female protagonists.

Malia Baker

Malia Baker starred as Mary Anne Spier in the Netflix series ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’, portraying the shy and organized member of the group. She is also recognized for her role in the television series ‘The Flash’ as Alice Boland. Baker has used her platform to advocate for social justice and empowerment for young women. She recently appeared in the film ‘Harvest Moon’ and the television series ‘Descendants: The Rise of Red’. Her versatility allows her to move easily between contemporary drama and fantasy genres.

Millie Davis

Millie Davis is a Canadian actress who gained widespread recognition for her role as Ms. O in the educational series ‘Odd Squad’. She has had a long-standing career in television, featuring prominently in shows like ‘Orphan Black’ and ‘Dino Dana’. Davis also appeared in the 2017 hit film ‘Wonder’ as Summer, the friend of the lead character. Her work in ‘Odd Squad’ earned her multiple Canadian Screen Award nominations. Davis remains a staple of children’s and family programming while transitioning into more mature teen roles.

Pixie Davies

Pixie Davies is a British actress known for her roles in major feature films such as ‘Mary Poppins Returns’, where she played Annabel Banks. She also appeared in Tim Burton’s ‘Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children’ as Bronwyn Bruntley. Her early career includes work in the television series ‘Humans’ as Sophie Hawkins. Davies has provided voice work for several projects, including ‘101 Dalmatian Street’. She is recognized for her ability to hold her own alongside veteran actors in high-budget productions.

Kyndra Sanchez

Kyndra Sanchez took over the role of Dawn Schafer in the second season of ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’ on Netflix. She previously appeared in the Netflix original film ‘Finding ‘Ohana’, where she showcased her adventurous side. Sanchez has also done extensive voice work, notably voicing characters in the animated series ‘Santiago of the Seas’. Her portrayal of Dawn was noted for its sincerity and environmental focus. She continues to pursue roles that emphasize her diverse cultural heritage and musical talents.

Anais Lee

Anais Lee is known for her role as Jessi Ramsey in the Netflix series ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’. Along with her twin sister Mirabelle Lee, she has been acting since she was a toddler, appearing in films like ‘The Sun Is Also a Star’. She has also had recurring roles in television series such as ‘The Blacklist’. Anais is a trained ballet dancer, a skill that often influences her graceful screen presence. She remains a rising star in both the acting and fashion industries.

Lidya Jewett

Lidya Jewett had a prominent role in the television series ‘Good Girls’ as Sara Hill, the daughter of the main characters. She also starred as the lead in the Netflix film ‘Nightbooks’, portraying a girl trapped by a witch in a magical apartment. Jewett appeared in the 2023 horror film ‘The Exorcist: Believer’ as Angela, one of the possessed girls. Her career began with appearances in ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Black Panther’. She is praised for her ability to convey deep emotion in intense dramatic and horror roles.

Ariana Greenblatt

Ariana Greenblatt is a prolific young actress who starred as Sasha in the 2023 blockbuster ‘Barbie’. She gained early fame as Daphne Diaz in the Disney Channel series ‘Stuck in the Middle’. Greenblatt has appeared in major films such as ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ as young Gamora and ’65’ alongside Adam Driver. In 2024, she portrayed Tiny Tina in the video game adaptation ‘Borderlands’. Her career is marked by a mix of high-concept science fiction and relatable coming-of-age stories.

Cailey Fleming

Cailey Fleming is best known for her role as Judith Grimes in the long-running series ‘The Walking Dead’. She joined the show at a young age and became a central figure in its final seasons. Fleming also appeared as the young Rey in ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ and ‘Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker’. In 2024, she starred in the family fantasy film ‘IF’ directed by John Krasinski. Her performances are often noted for their emotional depth and maturity beyond her years.

Ever Anderson

Ever Anderson is an American actress and model who portrayed a young Natasha Romanoff in the Marvel film ‘Black Widow’. She also starred as Wendy Darling in the 2023 Disney live-action film ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’. Anderson made her film debut in ‘Resident Evil: The Final Chapter’, playing a younger version of her mother Milla Jovovich’s character. She has become a prominent figure in the fashion world, serving as a brand ambassador for major labels. Her film choices reflect an interest in action and fantasy adaptations.

Darby Camp

Darby Camp gained significant attention for her role as Chloe Mackenzie in the HBO series ‘Big Little Lies’. She also starred in the ‘Christmas Chronicles’ films on Netflix as Kate Pierce. Camp played the lead role of Emily Elizabeth in the live-action ‘Clifford the Big Red Dog’ (2021). She has appeared in independent dramas like ‘Benji’ and television series such as ‘Gaslit’. Her naturalistic acting style has made her a reliable lead for both family-oriented and dramatic projects.

Demi Singleton

Demi Singleton is an American actress who achieved fame portraying Serena Williams in the Academy Award-nominated film ‘King Richard’. Her performance captured the discipline and talent of the tennis icon during her early years. Before her film breakout, she performed on Broadway in ‘The Lion King’ and ‘School of Rock’. Singleton also had a recurring role in the series ‘Godfather of Harlem’ as Margaret Johnson. She is recognized for her powerful screen presence and commitment to authentic storytelling.

Vivian Watson

Vivian Watson is a young actress who appeared as a series regular in the Netflix adaptation of ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’. She played the role of Mallory Pike, the junior member of the club with a passion for writing and horses. Watson has appeared in various commercials and short films before her major television break. Her portrayal of Mallory was praised for capturing the awkwardness and ambition of early adolescence. She continues to develop her craft in both television and theater.

Bronte Carmichael

Bronte Carmichael is a British actress known for her role as Madeline Robin in the Disney film ‘Christopher Robin’. She also appeared in the television series ‘Nightflyers’ and ‘Game of Thrones’, where she played Martha. Carmichael voiced the character of Robin in the Academy Award-nominated short ‘Robin Robin’. Her work often spans the genres of fantasy, historical drama, and animation. She is noted for her expressive acting and ability to convey wonder in magical settings.

Chloe Guidry

Chloe Guidry is an American actress who gained recognition for her role as young Jolene in the television series ‘Under the Bridge’. She has appeared in films such as ‘The Last Tycoon’ and ‘The Secrets We Keep’. Guidry’s work in psychological dramas has been noted for its intensity and nuance. She often portrays complex characters navigating difficult social environments. As she transitions into teen roles, she continues to be cast in prestige television productions.

Kensington Tallman

Kensington Tallman provided the voice for the lead character Riley Andersen in the 2024 Pixar sequel ‘Inside Out 2’. She has also appeared in live-action television series such as ‘Drama Club’ and ‘Side Hustle’. Tallman has extensive experience in voice acting, contributing to projects like ‘The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run’. Her performance in ‘Inside Out 2’ was a critical success, helping the film become one of the highest-grossing animated features. She balances her voice work with a growing presence in Nickelodeon and Disney productions.

Abby Ryder Fortson

Abby Ryder Fortson is an American actress who became famous for her role as Cassie Lang in ‘Ant-Man’ and ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp’. In 2023, she starred as the titular character in the film adaptation of ‘Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret.’ Her performance in the coming-of-age drama was widely acclaimed for its sensitivity and relatability. Fortson also had a recurring role in the series ‘Togetherness’ and ‘Transparent’. She is considered one of the most talented dramatic young actresses of her generation.

Madeleine McGraw

Madeleine McGraw gained a significant following for her role as Gwen in the 2021 horror hit ‘The Black Phone’. Her performance as a psychic young girl was a standout element of the film and earned her a Saturn Award nomination. She also starred as Zoey Campbell in the Disney Channel series ‘Secrets of Sulphur Springs’. McGraw appeared in the Marvel film ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp’ as a young Hope van Dyne. She is frequently cast in horror and supernatural thrillers due to her convincing emotional intensity.

Helena Zengel

Helena Zengel is a German actress who earned international acclaim for her role in ‘System Crasher’ (2019). Her performance led to a starring role alongside Tom Hanks in the Western drama ‘News of the World’ (2020). For her work in the film, she received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Zengel’s ability to perform in both German and English has opened doors for her in global cinema. She is known for her raw, powerful acting style and her ability to portray deeply troubled or resilient characters.

Chloe Coleman

Chloe Coleman is a versatile actress who starred alongside Dave Bautista in the action-comedy ‘My Spy’ and its sequel. She appeared in the 2023 film ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’ as Kira. Coleman also had a role in the sci-fi thriller ’65’ and the science fiction sequel ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’. Her early career includes a significant role in the HBO series ‘Big Little Lies’ as Skye Carlson. She has successfully transitioned from child roles into major action and fantasy blockbusters.

Audrey Grace Marshall

Audrey Grace Marshall is known for her role as young Cassie Bowden in the HBO Max series ‘The Flight Attendant’. She also starred as Viv Turner in the Nickelodeon series ‘The Fairly OddParents: Fairly Odder’. Marshall has appeared in films such as ‘The Last Summer’ and ‘A Very Merry Toy Store’. Her work in both comedy and drama has showcased her versatility as a young performer. She continues to be a regular face in high-profile streaming series and family films.

Matilda Lawler

Matilda Lawler received critical praise for her portrayal of Young Kirsten in the HBO Max miniseries ‘Station Eleven’. She also starred in the Disney+ film ‘Flora & Ulysses’ as the imaginative lead character Flora Buckman. Lawler has appeared on Broadway in the play ‘The Ferryman’ and in the television series ‘The Gilded Age’. Her performance in ‘Station Eleven’ earned her several award nominations for her nuanced depiction of survival. She is recognized for her exceptional dramatic range and stage presence.

Raegan Revord

Raegan Revord is an American actress best known for her role as Missy Cooper in the long-running CBS sitcom ‘Young Sheldon’. Over seven seasons, she portrayed the witty and confident twin sister of the titular character. Revord began her career with a recurring role in ‘Modern Family’ and guest appearances in ‘Grace and Frankie’. She is also an author, having written her debut young adult novel. Her comedic timing and character development in ‘Young Sheldon’ have made her a household name in television.

Eliana Sua

Eliana Sua is an American actress who played the role of Sam Hobbs in the 2019 film ‘Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw’. She also appeared in the television series ‘Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin’ as a young version of a lead character. Sua has been active in Disney and Nickelodeon productions, showcasing her talent in family-friendly content. Her work often highlights her Polynesian heritage and athleticism. She is a rising star in the action and young adult drama genres.

Summer Fontana

Summer Fontana is known for her role as the young Hope Mikaelson in the series ‘The Originals’. She portrayed the powerful supernatural child across several episodes, establishing the character’s early history. Fontana also appeared in the film ‘Dark Phoenix’ as a young Jean Grey. Her dramatic performances in supernatural and comic book settings have earned her a dedicated fan base. She continues to pursue roles in television dramas and feature films.

Julia Butters

Julia Butters became a breakout star after her scene-stealing role as Trudi Frazer in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’. Her professional interaction with Leonardo DiCaprio in the film was highly praised by critics and audiences alike. She subsequently starred in Steven Spielberg’s semi-autobiographical film ‘The Fabelmans’ as Anne Fabelman. Butters also had a series regular role in the sitcom ‘American Housewife’ for several seasons. She is recognized as one of the most technically skilled young actresses working today.

Leah Sava Jeffries

Leah Sava Jeffries gained international fame when she was cast as Annabeth Chase in the Disney+ series ‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’. Before this breakout role, she starred in the thriller film ‘Beast’ alongside Idris Elba. Her early career includes a recurring role in the television series ‘Empire’ as Lola. Jeffries’ portrayal of the wise and strategic Annabeth has been central to the success of the ‘Percy Jackson’ adaptation. She is a prominent figure in the new generation of fantasy television leads.

Trinity Jo-Li Bliss

Trinity Bliss is an American actress and singer who portrays Tuktirey ‘Tuk’ Sully in the ‘Avatar’ film franchise. She made her debut in ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ and is set to appear in the upcoming sequels. Bliss also starred in the television series ‘The Garcias’ and ‘Mr. Corman’. In addition to acting, she is a songwriter who has released her own music and music videos. Her role in the ‘Avatar’ universe has made her part of one of the most successful film series in history.

Alisha Weir

Alisha Weir is an Irish actress who rose to global prominence as the lead in ‘Matilda the Musical’ (2022) on Netflix. Her performance as the telekinetic schoolgirl showcased her singing, dancing, and acting abilities. Following this success, she starred in the 2024 horror-thriller ‘Abigail’ as the titular character. Weir’s ability to transition from a whimsical musical lead to a menacing horror figure demonstrates her impressive range. She is widely considered one of the brightest young stars in the UK and Ireland.

Calah Lane

Calah Lane starred as Noodle in the 2023 musical fantasy film ‘Wonka’, appearing opposite Timothée Chalamet. Her performance as the clever and resourceful orphan was a key element of the film’s success. Lane has also appeared in television series such as ‘This Is Us’ and ‘Kidding’. She started her career in theater and commercials before moving into major feature films. Her work in ‘Wonka’ earned her several nominations for her breakout performance in a musical role.

Shaylee Mansfield

Shaylee Mansfield is a deaf actress who has become a significant figure for disability representation in Hollywood. She starred in the Disney+ film ‘Noelle’ and the Netflix film ‘Feel the Beat’. Mansfield gained wider recognition for her role in the action-thriller ’13 Minutes’ and the series ‘Madagascar: A Little Wild’. She uses her platform to advocate for accessibility and the use of American Sign Language in media. Her performances are noted for their expressiveness and emotional clarity.

Brooklynn Prince

Brooklynn Prince gained international critical acclaim at age seven for her breakout performance as Moonee in ‘The Florida Project’. Her portrayal of a precocious child living in a budget motel earned her numerous awards, including a Critics’ Choice Movie Award. She transitioned to television as the lead in the Apple TV+ series ‘Home Before Dark’, playing young journalist Hilde Lisko. Prince has also lent her voice to animated projects like ‘The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part’. She remains a prominent figure in independent cinema while expanding into mainstream roles.

Alyla Browne

Alyla Browne is an Australian actress who portrayed the young version of the title character in ‘Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga’. She also starred as Maria Robotnik in the film ‘Sonic the Hedgehog 3’ (2024). Her early career includes roles in ‘Nine Perfect Strangers’ and the television series ‘The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart’. Browne’s work in high-intensity action and drama has quickly established her as a rising international talent. She is known for her physical acting and ability to carry major character origin stories.

Ryan Kiera Armstrong

Ryan Kiera Armstrong is a prominent young actress in the horror and science fiction genres. She starred as Charlie McGee in the 2022 remake of ‘Firestarter’ and appeared in ‘It Chapter Two’ as Victoria. Armstrong also had a lead role in the series ‘American Horror Story: Red Tide’ as Alma Gardner. Her performance in the 2023 film ‘The Old Way’ alongside Nicolas Cage further showcased her dramatic abilities. She is recognized for her ability to handle dark and mature themes in her filmography.

Ella Allan

Ella Allan is an American actress known for her role as Amy Fogerty in the ABC sitcom ‘Single Parents’. Along with her twin sister Mia, she has appeared in several high-profile series including ‘Jane the Virgin’ as young Jane. She also had a recurring role in the television series ‘The Flash’ and ‘Schooled’. Allan’s comedic timing and experience in ensemble casts have made her a consistent presence in network television. She continues to pursue roles in both comedic and dramatic series.

Mia Allan

Mia Allan is a young actress who, alongside her twin sister Ella, starred in the series ‘Single Parents’ and ‘Jane the Virgin’. She has appeared in multiple television productions such as ‘Young Sheldon’ and ‘Parenthood’. Her early career was marked by playing the same characters as her sister, a common practice for child actors. Mia has since begun to take on more individual roles while maintaining a presence in family-friendly programming. She remains a recognizable face in American television comedy.

Violet McGraw

Violet McGraw is best known for her role as Cady in the 2023 horror-thriller ‘M3GAN’. She also portrayed the young Nell Crain in the acclaimed Netflix series ‘The Haunting of Hill House’. Her filmography includes a role as Jelena Belova in the Marvel Cinematic Universe film ‘Black Widow’. McGraw’s ability to act in intense, scary, and emotional scenes has made her a favorite for horror directors. She is the younger sister of actress Madeleine McGraw and continues to lead major genre films.

Nell Fisher

Nell Fisher is a young actress who gained attention for her role as Kassie in the 2023 horror film ‘Evil Dead Rise’. Her performance in the intense and violent sequel was praised for its maturity and realism. She also appeared in the film ‘Choose Love’ and is set to join the cast of the ‘Stranger Things’ final season. Fisher’s work in the horror genre has established her as a rising talent to watch. She continues to be cast in high-profile streaming and theatrical productions.

Alix West Lefler

Alix West Lefler is a Canadian actress known for her roles in television series like ‘Riverdale’ and ‘Resident Alien’. She also appeared in the 2022 Netflix film ‘The Good Nurse’ as the daughter of Jessica Chastain’s character. Her work in ‘The Good Nurse’ was noted for its emotional authenticity in a high-stakes drama. Lefler has a growing presence in the Hallmark Channel’s productions and independent films. She is recognized for her naturalistic acting and consistency in dramatic roles.

Amelie Bea Smith

Amelie Bea Smith is a British actress known for her role as Flora Wingrave in the Netflix series ‘The Haunting of Bly Manor’. She is also the current voice of the titular character in the world-famous animated series ‘Peppa Pig’. Smith has appeared in the television series ‘EastEnders’ and ‘Holby City’. Her performance in ‘Bly Manor’ was praised for its haunting and ‘perfectly splendid’ delivery. She balances her iconic voice work with roles in prestige television dramas.

Lexi Janicek

Lexi Janicek is a young actress who appeared in the television series ‘Ordinary Joe’ as Sophie. She has also had roles in various television movies and short films, including ‘A Nashville Country Christmas’. Janicek has been active in commercials and print modeling before moving into scripted television. Her work in family dramas and holiday-themed projects has made her a familiar face for television audiences. She continues to expand her filmography with recurring roles in streaming series.

Imogen Cohen

Imogen Cohen starred as Zina in the Disney+ series ‘The Fairly OddParents: Fairly Odder’. She is also known for her role as young Catherine in the television series ‘The Great’. Cohen has a background in theater and has appeared in various independent projects. Her comedic energy and expressive acting have made her a standout in children’s television. She is an emerging talent currently focusing on both comedic and historical dramatic roles.

Mykal-Michelle Harris

Mykal-Michelle Harris became a breakout star for her role as Santamonica Johnson in the ABC series ‘Mixed-ish’. Her energetic and comedic performance was a central part of the ‘Black-ish’ spin-off for two seasons. She has also appeared in the HBO series ‘Big Little Lies’ and voiced characters in ‘The Casagrandes’. Harris is a frequent guest on talk shows and has a significant social media presence due to her vibrant personality. She continues to work in both live-action and animated projects for major networks.

Vivien Lyra Blair

Vivien Lyra Blair gained massive international attention for her role as young Princess Leia Organa in the Disney+ series ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’. Before this, she was widely recognized for her performance as Girl in the Netflix hit ‘Bird Box’. Blair also starred in the 2023 horror film ‘The Boogeyman’ and the series ‘The First Lady’. Her ability to portray iconic characters with maturity and charm has made her a highly respected young performer. She is a prominent figure in the ‘Star Wars’ universe and the broader fantasy genre.

Tell us which of these talented young actresses you are most excited to see more of in the comments.