40 Most Beautiful Actresses Over 40 in Hollywood

In Hollywood, some stars possess a timeless appeal that only seems to grow stronger with each passing year. These actresses have not only captivated audiences with their talent but have also redefined standards of beauty, proving that age is merely a number. Their continued success in a notoriously youth-obsessed industry is a powerful statement, showcasing their enduring charisma and formidable skill on screen.

Their careers are marked by a range of memorable performances, from blockbuster hits to critically acclaimed independent films and television series. They consistently deliver compelling portrayals that resonate with viewers and critics alike. As they continue to take on challenging and diverse roles, these women remain at the forefront of the entertainment world, inspiring many with their grace, strength, and unwavering dedication to their craft.

40. Padma Lakshmi

Padma Lakshmi is a true multi-talent, known for her work as an author, activist, model, and television host. She has graced the covers of numerous high-fashion magazines and has become a prominent figure in the culinary world. Her intelligence and elegance have made her a respected voice on various social issues, further solidifying her status as a dynamic and influential personality.

Many people recognize her as the host of the cooking competition show ‘Top Chef’ (2006-2023), a role she held for many seasons, earning her widespread acclaim. Beyond her work in food, she has appeared in several acting roles, including the series ‘Star Trek Enterprise’ (2001-2005) and the film ‘Glitter’ (2001). She also created and hosted the series ‘Taste the Nation with Padma Lakshmi’ (2020-2023).

39. Carla Gugino

Carla Gugino has built a reputation as a versatile and compelling actress, seamlessly moving between film and television with ease. She is known for her ability to tackle a wide array of genres, from action-packed blockbusters to intimate dramas. Her performances are often praised for their depth and emotional honesty, making her a sought-after talent in the industry.

Gugino has a long list of memorable roles, including her work in the ‘Spy Kids’ film series and the crime film ‘American Gangster’ (2007). In recent years, she gained significant attention for her leading roles in the popular Netflix horror series ‘The Haunting of Hill House’ (2018) and ‘The Haunting of Bly Manor’ (2020). She also appeared in the action movie ‘San Andreas’ (2015).

38. Winona Ryder

Winona Ryder became one of the most iconic actresses of her generation, known for her portrayals of quirky and complex characters. She rose to fame in the late 1980s and 1990s with a string of critically acclaimed performances in films that have since become cult classics. Her unique screen presence and ability to convey deep emotion made her a defining star of that era.

Her notable early work includes films like ‘Beetlejuice’ (1988), ‘Heathers’ (1989), and ‘Edward Scissorhands’ (1990). After a break from the spotlight, she made a major comeback with the global hit series ‘Stranger Things’ (2016-2025), where her role as the determined mother Joyce Byers introduced her to a new generation of fans and earned her numerous award nominations.

37. Zoe Saldana

Zoe Saldana has established herself as a queen of the science fiction genre, starring in some of the highest-grossing films of all time. Her commanding presence and ability to bring strength and humanity to her characters have made her a fan favorite. She is celebrated for her dedication to her roles, often undergoing extensive physical training and makeup transformations.

Saldana is widely recognized for her role as Neytiri in the ‘Avatar’ films (2009, 2022) and as Gamora in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, appearing in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ (2014) and ‘Avengers Infinity War’ (2018). She also portrayed Nyota Uhura in the rebooted ‘Star Trek’ film series (2009-2016), solidifying her status as a major box-office draw.

36. Rosamund Pike

Rosamund Pike is a British actress who has captivated audiences with her sophisticated and often enigmatic performances. She possesses a remarkable ability to portray characters with complex inner lives, often leaving a lasting impression with her nuanced portrayals. Her talent for both drama and suspense has made her a respected figure in film.

While she had earlier roles in films like ‘Pride & Prejudice’ (2005) and the James Bond movie ‘Die Another Day’ (2002), her international breakthrough came with her chilling performance as Amy Dunne in the thriller ‘Gone Girl’ (2014), which earned her an Academy Award nomination. More recently, she has taken the lead role in the fantasy series ‘The Wheel of Time’ (2021-present).

35. Diane Kruger

Diane Kruger, a German and American actress and former fashion model, is known for her elegance and striking presence in both European and American cinema. She first gained notice on the international stage with her captivating beauty, but quickly proved her acting prowess with a series of challenging roles. Her fluency in multiple languages has also allowed her to work with a diverse range of acclaimed directors.

She first gained widespread recognition for her role as Helen in the epic film ‘Troy’ (2004). Kruger also starred as Dr. Abigail Chase in the ‘National Treasure’ film series (2004, 2007) and delivered a memorable performance in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Inglourious Basterds’ (2009). For her role in the German film ‘In the Fade’ (2017), she won the Best Actress Award at the Cannes Film Festival.

34. Marion Cotillard

Marion Cotillard is a French actress who has achieved international stardom for her powerful and transformative performances. She is one of a few performers to win an Academy Award for a non-English speaking role, a testament to her incredible talent. Her ability to fully inhabit her characters has made her one of the most respected actresses of her generation.

Cotillard’s portrayal of the French singer Édith Piaf in ‘La Vie en Rose’ (2007) earned her the Oscar for Best Actress. She has also starred in major Hollywood productions, including ‘Inception’ (2010), ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ (2012), and ‘Allied’ (2016). Her work continues to span both French and American films, showcasing her versatility.

33. Vera Farmiga

Vera Farmiga is an American actress known for her intense and emotionally resonant performances across film and television. She has a commanding screen presence and is often drawn to complex, psychologically rich characters. Her work in the horror genre has been particularly notable, earning her a reputation as a modern ‘scream queen’.

Farmiga is widely recognized for her role as paranormal investigator Lorraine Warren in ‘The Conjuring’ film series (2013-2021). She also received critical acclaim for her portrayal of Norma Louise Bates in the psychological thriller series ‘Bates Motel’ (2013-2017), which served as a prequel to Alfred Hitchcock’s film ‘Psycho’. She also earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in the film ‘Up in the Air’ (2009).

32. Lena Headey

Lena Headey is a British actress who has become famous for her portrayals of strong, often formidable, women. With a career spanning several decades, she has demonstrated remarkable range, but it was her role in one of television’s biggest shows that made her a household name. Her ability to convey power and vulnerability has earned her a dedicated following.

Headey is best known for her iconic performance as the ruthless queen Cersei Lannister in the HBO fantasy series ‘Game of Thrones’ (2011-2019), a role that earned her multiple Emmy nominations. Before her reign in Westeros, she starred in films like ‘300’ (2006) as Queen Gorgo and led the sci-fi television series ‘Terminator The Sarah Connor Chronicles’ (2008-2009).

31. Kate Winslet

Kate Winslet is a highly decorated English actress known for her compelling and emotionally charged performances. From a young age, she demonstrated a remarkable talent for portraying complex female characters, earning her first Academy Award nomination at just 20 years old. She is celebrated for her refusal to conform to Hollywood’s typical beauty standards and for her powerful on-screen presence.

Winslet became a global superstar with her role as Rose DeWitt Bukater in the epic romance ‘Titanic’ (1997). She finally won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance in ‘The Reader’ (2008). Her other notable works include ‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’ (2004) and the acclaimed HBO series ‘Mare of Easttown’ (2021), for which she won an Emmy Award.

30. Lucy Liu

Lucy Liu is an American actress who first rose to prominence with a standout role in a popular television series, quickly becoming a recognizable face in Hollywood. Her sharp wit and ability to handle both comedic and dramatic roles have defined her successful career. She has also expanded her talents to directing and art, showcasing her creativity beyond acting.

Many viewers first noticed Liu as the formidable Ling Woo in the legal comedy-drama series ‘Ally McBeal’ (1998-2002). She gained international fame as one of the three leads in the ‘Charlie’s Angels’ films (2000, 2003) and as the voice of Master Viper in the ‘Kung Fu Panda’ franchise. More recently, she starred as Dr. Joan Watson in the modern Sherlock Holmes adaptation ‘Elementary’ (2012-2019).

29. Uma Thurman

Uma Thurman possesses a unique and commanding screen presence that has made her a muse for some of the industry’s most daring directors. Known for her statuesque beauty and fearless approach to her roles, she has created some of the most iconic female characters in modern cinema. Her career is marked by bold choices and unforgettable performances.

Thurman’s long-standing collaboration with director Quentin Tarantino produced her most famous role as The Bride in the ‘Kill Bill’ films (2003, 2004). She also earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in his earlier film, ‘Pulp Fiction’ (1994). Her other notable credits include the sci-fi movie ‘Gattaca’ (1997) and the comedy ‘The Producers’ (2005).

28. Gwyneth Paltrow

Gwyneth Paltrow established herself as a leading lady in the 1990s with her grace and sophisticated charm. She became known for her roles in period dramas and romantic comedies, earning one of the industry’s highest honors early in her career. In recent years, she has also become a prominent and sometimes controversial figure in the wellness industry.

Paltrow won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance in ‘Shakespeare in Love’ (1998). She is also widely known for her role as Pepper Potts in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, appearing in multiple films including the ‘Iron Man’ trilogy (2008-2013). Her other significant films include the thriller ‘Se7en’ (1995) and ‘The Royal Tenenbaums’ (2001).

27. Cameron Diaz

Cameron Diaz burst onto the Hollywood scene with a dazzling smile and infectious energy that made her an instant star. She quickly became one of the most sought-after actresses of the 1990s and 2000s, known for her comedic timing and girl-next-door charm. After a successful career, she took a long hiatus from acting before recently announcing her return.

Diaz made a memorable film debut in the comedy ‘The Mask’ (1994). She went on to star in a string of hits, including the romantic comedy ‘My Best Friend’s Wedding’ (1997) and the Farrelly brothers’ classic ‘There’s Something About Mary’ (1998). She also voiced Princess Fiona in the hugely successful ‘Shrek’ animated film franchise.

26. Drew Barrymore

Drew Barrymore grew up in the public eye, charming audiences as a child star before successfully navigating the transition to adult roles. Her warm and bubbly personality has made her a beloved figure in Hollywood. In addition to acting, she has found success as a producer and, more recently, as the host of her own popular daytime talk show.

Her breakout role as a child was in Steven Spielberg’s ‘E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial’ (1982). As an adult, she starred in romantic comedies like ‘The Wedding Singer’ (1998) and ‘50 First Dates’ (2004), both opposite Adam Sandler. She also showcased her action skills in the ‘Charlie’s Angels’ films (2000, 2003) and starred in the Netflix series ‘Santa Clarita Diet’ (2017-2019).

25. Eva Longoria

Eva Longoria became a household name with her star-making role in a smash-hit television series. Her charisma and comedic timing made her a standout on the show and launched her into international stardom. Beyond acting, she is a dedicated philanthropist, producer, and director, using her platform to advocate for various causes.

Longoria is best known for her portrayal of Gabrielle Solis in the popular ABC television series ‘Desperate Housewives’ (2004-2012). Her performance earned her numerous accolades and established her as a prominent television actress. She has also appeared in films such as ‘The Sentinel’ (2006) and ‘Overboard’ (2018), and has stepped behind the camera to direct.

24. Regina King

Regina King is a critically acclaimed actress and director who has demonstrated incredible range and talent throughout her career. Starting as a child actress, she has built an impressive body of work across both film and television, earning numerous awards for her powerful performances. Her transition to directing has also been met with widespread praise.

King won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the film ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ (2018). She has also won multiple Emmy Awards for her work in television, including for the series ‘American Crime’ (2015-2017) and the limited series ‘Watchmen’ (2019). Her directorial debut film, ‘One Night in Miami…’ (2020), received critical acclaim.

23. Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington is an actress known for her elegance, intelligence, and powerful performances. She broke barriers and became a leading figure in television with her iconic role in a hit political thriller. Washington is also a dedicated activist, using her influence to support political and social causes.

Washington gained widespread recognition and acclaim for her leading role as crisis manager Olivia Pope in the ABC drama series ‘Scandal’ (2012-2018). The role made her a household name and earned her multiple award nominations. She has also starred in films like ‘Ray’ (2004), ‘The Last King of Scotland’ (2006), and Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Django Unchained’ (2012).

22. Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson is a dynamic and charismatic actress known for her bold and unforgettable characters. She has a magnetic screen presence that commands attention in every role she plays. Her portrayal of a fierce and fashionable matriarch in a hit television series cemented her status as a powerhouse in the industry.

Henson is celebrated for her iconic role as Cookie Lyon in the musical drama series ‘Empire’ (2015-2020), which earned her a Golden Globe Award. She also received an Academy Award nomination for her performance in the film ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ (2008). Another of her acclaimed roles was as mathematician Katherine Johnson in the biographical drama ‘Hidden Figures’ (2016).

21. Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union is an actress and author known for her engaging performances and her outspoken advocacy for social issues. She first gained attention in the 1990s with roles in teen comedies and has since built a career marked by versatility and strength. She is admired for her honesty and for using her voice to speak out on important topics.

Union is well known for her role in the teen cheerleading film ‘Bring It On’ (2000), which has become a cult classic. She has starred in numerous films, including ‘Bad Boys II’ (2003) and ‘The Birth of a Nation’ (2016). In television, she led the popular BET drama series ‘Being Mary Jane’ (2013-2019), for which she received critical acclaim.

20. Naomi Watts

Naomi Watts is a British actress who has earned a reputation for her fearless and emotionally raw performances. She is known for taking on challenging and often dark roles that showcase her incredible range. Her breakthrough in Hollywood came after years of work, and she has since become one of the most respected actresses of her generation.

Watts gained international acclaim for her dual role in David Lynch’s enigmatic film ‘Mulholland Drive’ (2001). She received Academy Award nominations for her performances in the drama ‘21 Grams’ (2003) and the disaster film ‘The Impossible’ (2012). She also starred in the hit horror film ‘The Ring’ (2002), which was a major box office success.

19. Rachel Weisz

Rachel Weisz is an English actress known for her intelligence, sophistication, and captivating performances. She has successfully balanced roles in big-budget blockbusters with work in smaller, critically acclaimed independent films. Her talent and versatility have earned her some of the industry’s most prestigious awards.

Weisz gained international fame with her role as Evelyn Carnahan in the action-adventure films ‘The Mummy’ (1999) and ‘The Mummy Returns’ (2001). She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in the thriller ‘The Constant Gardener’ (2005). More recently, she earned another Oscar nomination for her role in the historical black comedy ‘The Favourite’ (2018).

18. Amy Adams

Amy Adams is a highly acclaimed actress known for her remarkable versatility and ability to disappear into her characters. She has portrayed a wide range of roles, from wide-eyed innocents to complex and troubled women, earning numerous accolades for her work. She is considered one of the most talented actresses of her generation, with multiple Academy Award nominations to her name.

Adams first gained widespread recognition for her role in the independent film ‘Junebug’ (2005). She has since starred in films like the Disney musical ‘Enchanted’ (2007), the drama ‘The Fighter’ (2010), and the sci-fi film ‘Arrival’ (2016). She also portrays Lois Lane in the DC Extended Universe films, starting with ‘Man of Steel’ (2013).

17. Jessica Chastain

Jessica Chastain is a powerhouse actress known for her intense dedication and transformative performances. She had a major breakthrough year in 2011, appearing in several acclaimed films that showcased her incredible range. A champion of gender equality in Hollywood, she often chooses roles that feature strong, complex female characters.

Chastain won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Tammy Faye Bakker in ‘The Eyes of Tammy Faye’ (2021). She has also received nominations for her roles in the drama ‘The Help’ (2011) and the thriller ‘Zero Dark Thirty’ (2012). Her other notable films include the science fiction epic ‘Interstellar’ (2014) and the horror film ‘It Chapter Two’ (2019).

16. Cate Blanchett

Cate Blanchett is an Australian actress widely regarded as one of the greatest performers of her generation. She is known for her incredible versatility and her chameleon-like ability to embody a vast range of characters. With numerous awards to her name, including two Academy Awards, she has proven her talent in both mainstream and independent films.

Blanchett won her first Oscar for her portrayal of Katharine Hepburn in ‘The Aviator’ (2004) and her second for the lead role in Woody Allen’s ‘Blue Jasmine’ (2013). She is also beloved by fantasy fans for her role as the elf queen Galadriel in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy (2001-2003). Her other iconic roles include the title character in ‘Elizabeth’ (1998) and the villain Hela in ‘Thor Ragnarok’ (2017).

15. Jennifer Aniston

Jennifer Aniston became one of the world’s most recognizable and beloved actresses through her role in a legendary television sitcom. Her signature hairstyle and comedic timing made her a 1990s icon, and she has since built a successful career in film. Her down-to-earth personality and timeless appeal have contributed to her enduring popularity.

Aniston is, of course, best known for playing Rachel Green on the immensely popular sitcom ‘Friends’ (1994-2004). After the show ended, she transitioned to a successful film career, starring in comedies and romantic comedies like ‘Bruce Almighty’ (2003), ‘The Break-Up’ (2006), and ‘Horrible Bosses’ (2011). More recently, she returned to television with the acclaimed drama series ‘The Morning Show’ (2019-present).

14. Reese Witherspoon

Reese Witherspoon is an actress and producer who has become one of the most influential women in Hollywood. She first gained fame for her charming and determined characters in a series of hit films. Not content to just act, she later founded her own production company focused on creating female-driven stories, leading to some of the most talked-about television shows in recent years.

Witherspoon won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of June Carter Cash in the Johnny Cash biopic ‘Walk the Line’ (2005). Her breakout role was as the determined Elle Woods in the comedy ‘Legally Blonde’ (2001). Through her company, she has produced and starred in acclaimed series like ‘Big Little Lies’ (2017-2019) and ‘The Morning Show’ (2019-present).

13. Viola Davis

Viola Davis is a powerhouse actress who is widely considered one of the best of her generation. She is one of the few performers to have achieved the ‘Triple Crown of Acting’, having won an Academy Award, an Emmy Award, and a Tony Award. Known for her deeply moving and powerful performances, she brings a profound sense of gravity and humanity to every role.

Davis won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the film adaptation of the play ‘Fences’ (2016). She is also celebrated for her lead role as the complex defense attorney Annalise Keating in the television series ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ (2014-2020), for which she became the first Black woman to win the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.

12. Sandra Bullock

Sandra Bullock earned the title of ‘America’s Sweetheart’ with her girl-next-door charm and exceptional comedic timing. She rose to fame in the 1990s and has remained one of Hollywood’s most popular and bankable stars. She has proven her versatility by successfully tackling roles in romantic comedies, thrillers, and dramas, earning top industry accolades.

Bullock became a major star after the action thriller ‘Speed’ (1994). She has starred in numerous hit films, including the romantic comedy ‘Miss Congeniality’ (2000). She won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance in the biographical drama ‘The Blind Side’ (2009) and was nominated again for the science fiction thriller ‘Gravity’ (2013).

11. Julia Roberts

Julia Roberts possesses one of the most famous smiles in the world, which helped make her a global superstar. Her charisma and talent for romantic comedies made her the queen of the genre in the 1990s. Over the years, she has also taken on serious dramatic roles, proving her range and earning the industry’s highest honors.

Roberts shot to superstardom as Vivian Ward in the classic romantic comedy ‘Pretty Woman’ (1990). She went on to star in a string of successful films like ‘My Best Friend’s Wedding’ (1997) and ‘Notting Hill’ (1999). She won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her powerful portrayal of the real-life activist in ‘Erin Brockovich’ (2000).

10. Nicole Kidman

Nicole Kidman is an Australian actress known for her elegance, versatility, and daring choice of roles. A dominant force in Hollywood for decades, she has consistently delivered captivating performances in a wide variety of genres, from musicals to psychological thrillers. Her willingness to transform herself for her characters has earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards.

Kidman won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Virginia Woolf in ‘The Hours’ (2002). Her other memorable film roles include the musical ‘Moulin Rouge!’ (2001) and the horror film ‘The Others’ (2001). In recent years, she has also had great success in television, starring in and producing the hit series ‘Big Little Lies’ (2017-2019).

9. Halle Berry

Halle Berry made history with her talent and beauty, breaking down barriers for actresses of color in Hollywood. A former beauty queen, she quickly proved she was a serious actress with a series of challenging roles. Her groundbreaking Academy Award win remains a significant moment in Oscar history.

Berry is the first and only Black woman to have won the Academy Award for Best Actress, which she received for her performance in the drama ‘Monster’s Ball’ (2001). She is also known for playing the powerful mutant Storm in the ‘X-Men’ film series (2000-2014) and for her role as a Bond girl, Jinx Johnson, in ‘Die Another Day’ (2002).

8. Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie is one of the most famous women in the world, known for her striking looks, her extensive humanitarian work, and her powerful screen presence. She has taken on a variety of roles, from action heroes to complex dramatic characters, and has also stepped behind the camera to direct. Her off-screen work as a Special Envoy for the UN Refugee Agency has also defined her public image.

Jolie won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the film ‘Girl, Interrupted’ (1999). She is also known for her action roles, including playing the title character in the ‘Lara Croft Tomb Raider’ films (2001, 2003) and starring in ‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’ (2005). She also voiced Tigress in the ‘Kung Fu Panda’ film series and starred as the titular villain in ‘Maleficent’ (2014).

7. Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez is a true global icon, a multi-talented force who has achieved massive success in music, film, and dance. Known for her incredible work ethic and show-stopping performances, ‘J.Lo’ has built a massive entertainment empire. She broke ground as a Latina actress in Hollywood and continues to be a major star.

Lopez first gained critical acclaim for her breakout role in the biopic ‘Selena’ (1997). She has starred in numerous successful romantic comedies, including ‘The Wedding Planner’ (2001) and ‘Maid in Manhattan’ (2002). In 2019, her performance in the crime drama ‘Hustlers’ (2019) was highly praised and earned her several award nominations.

6. Eva Mendes

Eva Mendes brought a unique blend of beauty and talent to the screen, becoming a popular leading lady in the 2000s. She is known for her roles in action films and comedies, where her charisma and strong presence always shine through. In recent years, she has taken a step back from acting to focus on her family and business ventures.

Mendes gained significant attention for her role in the critically acclaimed crime thriller ‘Training Day’ (2001). She went on to star in a number of popular films, including ‘2 Fast 2 Furious’ (2003), the action-comedy ‘Hitch’ (2005) opposite Will Smith, and the fantasy film ‘Ghost Rider’ (2007). One of her last major roles before her hiatus was in ‘The Place Beyond the Pines’ (2012).

5. Sofía Vergara

Sofía Vergara’s vivacious personality and comedic talent made her one of the highest-paid actresses on television. The Colombian-American actress became a household name with her scene-stealing role in a massively popular sitcom. Her distinctive accent and flair for comedy have made her a beloved and recognizable star around the world.

Vergara is best known for her iconic portrayal of Gloria Delgado-Pritchett on the hit ABC sitcom ‘Modern Family’ (2009-2020), a role that earned her four Golden Globe and four Emmy nominations. She has also appeared in films such as ‘Hot Pursuit’ (2015) with Reese Witherspoon and has served as a judge on the reality competition show ‘America’s Got Talent’.

4. Kate Beckinsale

Kate Beckinsale is an English actress who seamlessly transitioned from roles in classic literature adaptations to becoming a bona fide action hero. She is renowned for her sophisticated beauty and her ability to perform intense, physically demanding stunts. Her lead role in a popular supernatural action franchise cemented her status as a star in the genre.

Beckinsale is most famous for her portrayal of the vampire warrior Selene in the ‘Underworld’ film series, which began in 2003. Before her action stardom, she appeared in films like the war epic ‘Pearl Harbor’ (2001) and the romantic comedy ‘Serendipity’ (2001). She continues to demonstrate her range in various film and television projects.

3. Penélope Cruz

Penélope Cruz is a Spanish actress who has captivated audiences in both her native Spain and Hollywood with her passionate performances and stunning beauty. A frequent collaborator with acclaimed director Pedro Almodóvar, she has built a career playing fiery, complex women. Her talent has been recognized with numerous international awards, including an Academy Award.

Cruz won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the Woody Allen film ‘Vicky Cristina Barcelona’ (2008), becoming the first Spanish actress to win an Oscar. She is also known for her roles in Almodóvar’s films, such as ‘Volver’ (2006), for which she received a Best Actress nomination. She also starred in the blockbuster ‘Pirates of the Caribbean On Stranger Tides’ (2011).

2. Salma Hayek

Salma Hayek is a Mexican and American actress and producer who broke barriers in Hollywood and became one of its leading stars. She is celebrated for her talent, her striking beauty, and for championing more diverse stories and roles. Her passion project, a biopic of a famous artist, finally brought her the critical recognition she had long deserved.

Hayek earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her portrayal of artist Frida Kahlo in the film ‘Frida’ (2002), which she also produced. She has starred in a wide range of films, from Robert Rodriguez’s ‘Desperado’ (1995) and ‘From Dusk Till Dawn’ (1996) to comedies like ‘Grown Ups’ (2010). More recently, she joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in ‘Eternals’ (2021).

1. Charlize Theron

Charlize Theron is a South African and American actress and producer known for her incredible versatility and willingness to physically transform for her roles. She is not just a glamorous star but a true character actress, capable of disappearing into gritty, complex portrayals that have earned her the industry’s highest accolades. Her move into producing and headlining major action films has further solidified her status as a Hollywood powerhouse.

Theron won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her stunning transformation into serial killer Aileen Wuornos in the film ‘Monster’ (2003). She is also celebrated for her role as the formidable Imperator Furiosa in ‘Mad Max Fury Road’ (2015). Her other notable work includes the action-thriller ‘Atomic Blonde’ (2017) and the drama ‘Bombshell’ (2019), for which she received another Oscar nomination.

Which of these incredible actresses is your favorite, or is there someone else you believe deserves a spot on this list? Share your thoughts in the comments below