The Best Supporting Actor Roles in 2025

The year 2025 has delivered a wide range of powerful performances from supporting actors across major blockbusters and intimate dramas. These roles have provided the necessary depth and conflict to some of the most anticipated films and television series of the season. From veteran stars returning to familiar franchises to fresh faces making a significant impact in ensemble casts, the quality of acting remained high throughout the calendar year. Each performance on this list contributed to the narrative success of its respective project by offering grounded or transformative character work.

Mark Ruffalo – ‘Mickey 17’ (2025)

Mark Ruffalo portrays a high ranking commander in the science fiction thriller ‘Mickey 17’ directed by Bong Joon Ho. The film focuses on an expendable employee sent to colonize a dangerous ice planet. Ruffalo brings an intense and often authoritarian presence to the screen as he manages the survival of the mission. His performance serves as a primary source of tension for the protagonist throughout the hazardous journey. The actor successfully balances the dark humor of the script with a genuine sense of bureaucratic menace.

Harrison Ford – ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ (2025)

Harrison Ford steps into the role of Thaddeus Ross who has now ascended to the position of President of the United States. He shares a complicated dynamic with Sam Wilson as they navigate a new international crisis. The veteran actor brings a gravitas to the political thriller elements of the film while participating in significant action sequences. His character transition into the Red Hulk provides one of the most talked about physical transformations of the year. Ford anchors the movie with a performance that emphasizes the weight of global leadership and personal ambition.

Giancarlo Esposito – ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ (2025)

Giancarlo Esposito appears as the formidable antagonist Seth Voelker who is also known as the leader of the Serpent Society. He provides a tactical and lethal threat to the new Captain America during a series of high stakes confrontations. The actor utilizes his signature calm intensity to create a character that feels both grounded and dangerous. His involvement in the film adds a layer of organized crime and mercenary grit to the superhero narrative. This role allows Esposito to showcase his ability to command a scene through minimal dialogue and sharp physical presence.

Nicholas Hoult – ‘Superman’ (2025)

Nicholas Hoult takes on the iconic role of Lex Luthor in the 2025 reboot of the Man of Steel story. He portrays the billionaire as a highly intellectual and calculated rival who views the presence of aliens as a threat to human progress. The actor focuses on the philosophical differences between his character and the titular hero to create a modern interpretation of the classic villain. Hoult delivers a performance that is both sophisticated and deeply resentful of the power held by others. His portrayal establishes a strong foundation for future conflicts in the expanding cinematic universe.

David Harbour – ‘Thunderbolts*’ (2025)

David Harbour returns as Alexei Shostakov who is the Russian counterpart to Captain America known as Red Guardian. He provides much of the emotional heart and comedic relief for the ensemble of antiheroes. The story follows a group of former villains and government operatives sent on a secret mission. Harbour explores the character’s desire for redemption and his awkward attempts at fatherly guidance for his teammates. His performance balances broad physical comedy with moments of genuine vulnerability and reflection on his past.

Mahershala Ali – ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ (2025)

Mahershala Ali plays a skilled leader of a specialized security team in the latest installment of the dinosaur franchise. He is tasked with protecting a group of scientists as they search for vital genetic material in remote locations. The actor brings a sense of calm competence and urgency to the high pressure survival situations. His character often acts as the moral compass for the expedition when corporate interests begin to clash with safety. Ali delivers a grounded performance that helps maintain the stakes in a world filled with prehistoric predators.

Javier Bardem – ‘F1’ (2025)

Javier Bardem portrays a determined team owner in the high speed drama ‘F1’ which explores the competitive world of professional racing. He is responsible for bringing a veteran driver back into the fold to mentor a rising young star. Bardem captures the intense pressure and financial risks associated with the sport through a series of dramatic boardroom and trackside scenes. His performance emphasizes the obsession required to succeed at the highest level of international competition. The actor provides a commanding presence that serves as the strategic backbone of the film.

Ralph Fiennes – ’28 Years Later’ (2025)

Ralph Fiennes appears as a resilient doctor living in a community that has survived the long term effects of a viral outbreak. He works to maintain order and medical care while facing the constant threat of infected individuals. The actor brings a weary but determined energy to a role that examines the psychological toll of prolonged survival. His interactions with other survivors provide a window into the societal structures that have formed decades after the initial collapse. Fiennes delivers a nuanced performance that highlights the fragility of hope in a devastated world.

Keanu Reeves – ‘Ballerina’ (2025)

Keanu Reeves reprises his famous role as John Wick in the spin off film ‘Ballerina’ to provide support for a new protagonist. He appears as a mentor and legend within the secret society of assassins as the main character seeks revenge for her family. The actor delivers the expected high level of stunt work and physical precision in his limited screen time. His presence helps bridge the gap between the original films and this new chapter in the universe. Reeves uses a minimalist acting style to convey the heavy burden of the life he leads.

Antonio Banderas – ‘Paddington in Peru’ (2025)

Antonio Banderas plays the role of Hunter Cabot who is a charismatic riverboat captain assisting the Brown family on their journey. He leads the group through the Amazon rainforest as they search for Paddington’s aunt Lucy. The actor brings a theatrical and adventurous spirit to the family film that complements the whimsical tone of the series. His character provides both guidance and a bit of mystery during the expedition into the jungle. Banderas delivers a fun and energetic performance that appeals to audiences of all ages.

Joseph Quinn – ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ (2025)

Joseph Quinn stars as Johnny Storm who is the energetic and impulsive member of the heroic team known as the Human Torch. He brings a youthful vibrancy and a sense of humor to the group as they deal with their new cosmic abilities. The actor focuses on the character’s love for the spotlight and his transition into a selfless protector. His chemistry with the other team members provides the foundation for the familial dynamic central to the story. Quinn captures the excitement of being a superhero while also navigating the dangers of a 1960s inspired setting.

Ebon Moss-Bachrach – ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ (2025)

Ebon Moss-Bachrach portrays Ben Grimm who becomes the powerful and rock like figure known as The Thing. He delivers a performance that emphasizes the inner struggle and loneliness associated with his physical transformation. The actor uses voice work and facial expressions to convey deep emotion despite the heavy use of visual effects. His character serves as the physical powerhouse of the team and the emotional anchor for his best friend Reed Richards. Moss-Bachrach successfully humanizes a character that is often defined by his appearance.

Evan Peters – ‘Tron: Ares’ (2025)

Evan Peters plays Julian Dillinger in the science fiction sequel ‘Tron: Ares’ which brings digital programs into the physical world. He serves as a corporate antagonist with personal ties to the legacy of the computer systems developed in previous films. The actor brings a sharp and calculated energy to his scenes as he attempts to control the emerging technology. His performance explores the intersection of human ambition and artificial intelligence. Peters provides a contrasting human perspective to the highly stylized digital environment of the film.

Frank Grillo – ‘Superman’ (2025)

Frank Grillo appears as Rick Flag Sr. in the first live action cinematic entry of the new DC universe. He leads a specialized military unit that intersects with the activities of the titular hero in Metropolis. The actor brings a rugged and no nonsense attitude to the role of a career soldier facing extraordinary circumstances. His presence establishes a link between the grounded military elements and the more fantastical superhero aspects of the world. Grillo delivers a disciplined performance that emphasizes the tension between government interests and independent heroes.

Ed Harris – ‘F1’ (2025)

Ed Harris plays a veteran racing figure who provides wisdom and historical perspective to the modern competitive landscape. He acts as a consultant and confidant to the team owner as they navigate the technical and personal challenges of the season. The actor brings a quiet intensity and a sense of authority to the dramatic developments surrounding the racing team. His performance highlights the long term impact of the sport on the people who dedicate their lives to it. Harris anchors several key scenes with a performance that feels authentic to the professional racing community.

Peter Capaldi – ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ (2025)

Peter Capaldi stars as Ibrahim who is an intellectual and observant member of a retirement home mystery solving group. He brings a dry wit and a methodical approach to the investigation of a local murder case. The actor explores the character’s sharp mind and the physical limitations of aging with grace and humor. His interactions with the other members of the club provide the heart of the film’s ensemble dynamic. Capaldi delivers a performance that is both charming and intellectually engaging.

Pierce Brosnan – ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ (2025)

Pierce Brosnan portrays Ron who is a former activist and one of the more outspoken members of the retirement community detective group. He brings a rougher and more direct energy to the search for clues compared to his peers. The actor enjoys playing against his suave image by portraying a man who is unapologetically working class and stubborn. His character provides a necessary spark of action and conflict during the slower moments of the mystery. Brosnan demonstrates his versatility in this role by blending humor with moments of genuine grit.

Ben Kingsley – ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ (2025)

Ben Kingsley plays Stephen who is a gentle and somewhat mysterious resident involved in the club’s activities. He provides a more contemplative and emotional perspective on the events unfolding around the retirement village. The actor brings a sense of quiet dignity to a character who is dealing with his own personal transitions while solving crimes. His performance adds a layer of warmth and complexity to the overall ensemble cast. Kingsley captures the subtle nuances of a man who prefers to listen rather than speak.

Jonathan Bailey – ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ (2025)

Jonathan Bailey appears as a dedicated scientist who joins the expedition to find genetic secrets in the wild. He provides the technical expertise and the scientific curiosity that drives the plot forward into dangerous territories. The actor brings a high level of energy and wonder to the discovery of new prehistoric life forms. His character often finds himself caught between the awe of the creatures and the terror of their presence. Bailey delivers a performance that represents the audience’s own sense of discovery within the film.

Rupert Friend – ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ (2025)

Rupert Friend portrays a pharmaceutical representative with hidden motives during the trek into dinosaur territory. He represents the corporate interests that often put the main characters in jeopardy throughout the series. The actor brings a polished and slightly untrustworthy demeanor to his interactions with the security team and scientists. His performance provides a secondary source of conflict that complicates the simple survival narrative. Friend excels at playing a character who is always calculating the potential profit of every situation.

Stephen Graham – ‘Peaky Blinders: The Movie’ (2025)

Stephen Graham reprises his role as Hayden Stagg in the feature film conclusion to the historical crime epic. He brings his intense screen presence back to the world of the Shelby family as they face new threats in the lead up to global conflict. The actor explores the shifting alliances and power dynamics of the working class during a time of immense social change. His performance is marked by a raw and authentic portrayal of a man fighting for his place in a violent world. Graham remains a standout in the ensemble with his ability to convey deep emotion and threat.

Barry Keoghan – ‘Peaky Blinders: The Movie’ (2025)

Barry Keoghan joins the cast of the film as a mysterious new character who challenges the established order in Birmingham. He brings an unpredictable and unsettling energy to the criminal underworld depicted in the movie. The actor utilizes his unique style to create a figure that feels dangerous and modern despite the period setting. His interactions with the lead characters provide some of the most tense moments in the final chapter of the saga. Keoghan continues to prove his ability to steal scenes in high profile ensemble projects.

Matt Smith – ‘Caught Stealing’ (2025)

Matt Smith delivers a captivating performance in the crime thriller ‘Caught Stealing’ directed by Darren Aronofsky. He plays a key supporting figure in the life of a former baseball player who becomes entangled in a violent struggle for survival. The actor brings a manic and dark energy to the gritty 1990s New York setting of the film. His character helps illustrate the dangerous world that the protagonist has accidentally entered. Smith provides a transformative performance that is both terrifying and fascinating to watch.

Vincent D’Onofrio – ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ (2025)

Vincent D’Onofrio returns as Wilson Fisk who is the powerful crime lord also known as Kingpin. He continues his complex rivalry with Matt Murdock as he navigates the political and criminal landscapes of New York City. The actor brings a massive physical presence and a deeply layered psychological depth to the role. His performance explores the character’s desire for legitimacy and the brutal violence he is willing to use to maintain control. D’Onofrio remains a definitive part of the show with his commanding and terrifying portrayal.

Jon Bernthal – ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ (2025)

Jon Bernthal reprises his role as Frank Castle who is the ruthless vigilante known as the Punisher. He brings a visceral and uncompromising energy to the series as he pursues his own brand of justice. The actor explores the trauma and the unwavering focus that drives the character through dangerous confrontations. His presence adds a dark and gritty perspective on the nature of heroism and violence in the city. Bernthal delivers a physically demanding performance that resonates with fans of the character.

Jeffrey Wright – ‘The Last of Us’ (2025)

Jeffrey Wright joins the second season of the acclaimed series as Isaac who is the leader of a powerful militia group. He brings a sense of hardened authority and strategic brilliance to a world devastated by a fungal pandemic. The actor portrays a man who has made difficult choices to ensure the survival and growth of his community. His performance provides a significant challenge to the main characters as they navigate a landscape filled with human and infected threats. Wright delivers a grounded and intimidating performance that fits the bleak tone of the show.

Gabriel Luna – ‘The Last of Us’ (2025)

Gabriel Luna returns as Tommy who is the brother of the protagonist and a leader in a surviving settlement. He explores the character’s attempts to build a stable life while dealing with the shadows of his violent past. The actor brings a sense of warmth and reliability to a show that is often defined by loss and struggle. His performance highlights the emotional connections that still exist between people in a crumbling world. Luna provides a strong supporting presence that grounds the more action oriented sequences of the season.

Kieran Culkin – ‘A Real Pain’ (2025)

Kieran Culkin stars as Benji in the comedy drama ‘A Real Pain’ which explores the relationship between two cousins on a tour of Poland. He brings a chaotic and charismatic energy to a character who is struggling with personal loss and family history. The actor balances sharp humor with moments of deep emotional pain as he visits significant sites from the past. His performance has been noted for its authenticity and the way it captures the complexity of modern family bonds. Culkin delivers one of the most acclaimed supporting turns of the year in this intimate film.

Jon Hamm – ‘The Morning Show’ (2025)

Jon Hamm continues his role as Paul Marks in the fourth season of the high stakes media drama. He brings a sleek and corporate confidence to the screen as he deals with the shifting power dynamics of a major television network. The actor explores the intersection of technology and journalism through his character’s ambitious business moves. His interactions with the lead anchors provide a source of constant professional and personal tension. Hamm maintains a commanding presence that fits the fast paced and often cutthroat world of the series.

Mark Hamill – ‘The Life of Chuck’ (2025)

Mark Hamill appears in the genre blending film ‘The Life of Chuck’ which is based on a story by Stephen King. He plays Albie who is a grandfatherly figure providing wisdom and perspective during a world ending event. The actor brings a gentle and reflective energy to a role that focuses on the value of life and memory. His performance serves as a thematic anchor for the story as it moves through different periods of time. Hamill demonstrates his ability to deliver a poignant and understated performance in a complex narrative.

Chiwetel Ejiofor – ‘The Life of Chuck’ (2025)

Chiwetel Ejiofor portrays Marty in the film ‘The Life of Chuck’ as a man trying to find meaning in a world that is literally falling apart. He brings a sense of intellectual curiosity and emotional depth to the unfolding apocalypse. The actor captures the confusion and the determination of someone witnessing the end of civilization. His performance helps ground the more fantastical elements of the story in a recognizable human experience. Ejiofor provides a sophisticated and moving portrayal of survival and acceptance.

Jacob Tremblay – ‘The Life of Chuck’ (2025)

Jacob Tremblay plays the young version of the titular character Chuck in the film’s earlier timelines. He brings a sense of innocence and wonder to the role as he discovers a love for dance and life. The actor captures the formative moments that define the man the character will eventually become. His performance is a vital part of the film’s structural exploration of a single life told in reverse. Tremblay continues to show his maturity as an actor through this expressive and joyful performance.

Nathan Fillion – ‘Superman’ (2025)

Nathan Fillion takes on the role of Guy Gardner who is a member of the Green Lantern Corps with a distinct personality. He brings a cocky and slightly arrogant attitude to the screen as he interacts with other heroes in the city. The actor utilizes his comedic timing and screen presence to make the character stand out in an ensemble cast. His portrayal adds a layer of intergalactic politics and colorful heroics to the grounded story of Clark Kent. Fillion provides a fun and energetic performance that expands the scope of the new cinematic world.

Anthony Carrigan – ‘Superman’ (2025)

Anthony Carrigan plays Rex Mason who is the hero known as Metamorpho in the 2025 blockbuster. He brings a unique physical and emotional quality to a character who can transform his body into different elements. The actor explores the character’s struggle with his non human appearance while trying to do good in a world that fears him. His performance provides a more sympathetic and tragic perspective on the life of a superhuman. Carrigan utilizes his distinct acting style to create a memorable and visually striking character.

Alan Tudyk – ‘Superman’ (2025)

Alan Tudyk appears in a secret role in the ‘Superman’ film that has intrigued audiences since the project was announced. He brings his signature versatility and voice talent to a character that bridges the gap between different parts of the narrative. The actor is known for his ability to play both comedic and serious roles with equal skill. His presence in the film adds to the sense of a fully realized world populated by diverse and interesting figures. Tudyk remains a reliable performer who enhances every scene he inhabits.

Wendell Pierce – ‘Superman’ (2025)

Wendell Pierce portrays the iconic editor Perry White at the Daily Planet in the new version of the Superman story. He brings a sense of journalistic integrity and tough love to the newsroom where Clark Kent and Lois Lane work. The actor captures the pressure of modern media while maintaining the core values of the classic character. His performance provides a necessary human connection to the world of the film outside of the superhero battles. Pierce anchors the office scenes with a grounded and authoritative presence.

Wyatt Russell – ‘Thunderbolts*’ (2025)

Wyatt Russell returns as John Walker who is the government operative also known as U.S. Agent. He continues to explore the character’s struggle with the legacy of the shield and his own volatile nature. The actor brings a sense of desperate ambition and conflicted morality to the ensemble of antiheroes. His performance highlights the tension between following orders and doing what he believes is right. Russell provides a complex and often uncomfortable portrayal of a man trying to find his place in a hero filled world.

Laurence Fishburne – ‘The Witcher’ (2025)

Laurence Fishburne joins the cast of ‘The Witcher’ in its fourth season as the fan favorite character Regis. He plays a wise and sophisticated vampire who becomes an unlikely ally to the protagonist Geralt. The actor brings a calm and intellectual energy to the dark fantasy world of the series. His performance explores the philosophical aspects of immortality and friendship in a violent land. Fishburne adds a significant layer of gravitas to the show with his commanding voice and presence.

Sterling K. Brown – ‘Paradise’ (2025)

Sterling K. Brown stars in the high concept series ‘Paradise’ as a dedicated security specialist for a former president. He brings a sharp and disciplined focus to a role that involves protecting secrets in a secluded community. The actor explores the personal and professional burdens of a man caught in a web of political intrigue. His performance is marked by a quiet intensity and a deep sense of loyalty to his mission. Brown delivers a captivating and grounded performance in this mysterious television drama.

Walton Goggins – ‘The White Lotus’ (2025)

Walton Goggins joins the third season of the hit anthology series ‘The White Lotus’ which is set in Thailand. He brings his unique charisma and unpredictable energy to a new group of wealthy guests at the luxury resort. The actor explores the social tensions and personal flaws that define the show’s dark comedic tone. His performance adds a layer of Southern charm and potential danger to the tropical setting. Goggins remains a standout performer who can transition between humor and menace with ease.

Patrick Schwarzenegger – ‘The White Lotus’ (2025)

Patrick Schwarzenegger appears as one of the affluent guests navigating the complexities of luxury travel and social status. He brings a youthful and slightly entitled energy to the ensemble cast in the Thailand set season. The actor explores the character’s personal insecurities and relationships through a series of awkward and revealing interactions. His performance contributes to the show’s ongoing critique of wealth and privilege in exotic locations. Schwarzenegger proves his ability to hold his own in a talented and diverse cast.

Jason Isaacs – ‘The White Lotus’ (2025)

Jason Isaacs portrays a sophisticated and perhaps manipulative guest during the third season of the acclaimed show. He brings a refined and intimidating presence to the resort as he interacts with both the staff and other travelers. The actor excels at playing characters with hidden depths and questionable motives in high pressure social environments. His performance adds a sense of mystery and gravitas to the unfolding drama at the hotel. Isaacs delivers a polished and engaging performance that fits perfectly within the series.

Paul Walter Hauser – ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ (2025)

Paul Walter Hauser appears in an undisclosed but significant supporting role in the Marvel cinematic reboot. He brings his characteristic wit and relatable energy to the 1960s inspired superhero world. The actor is known for creating memorable characters that often provide the emotional or comedic grounding for larger stories. His involvement in the film has been a point of interest for fans due to his recent string of acclaimed performances. Hauser continues to be a versatile and scene stealing presence in major studio projects.

John Malkovich – ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ (2025)

John Malkovich joins the superhero genre in a role that utilizes his unique and eccentric acting style. He brings a sense of intellectual threat or quirkiness to the retro futuristic setting of the film. The actor has a long history of playing complex figures that challenge the protagonists in unexpected ways. His presence adds a layer of prestige and unpredictability to the ensemble cast of the blockbuster. Malkovich remains one of the most interesting and distinctive performers working today.

Lewis Pullman – ‘Thunderbolts*’ (2025)

Lewis Pullman plays the mysterious character known as Bob who becomes a central part of the antihero team’s mission. He brings a quiet and vulnerable energy that contrasts with the more aggressive personalities of his teammates. The actor explores the burden of immense power and the desire for a normal life in a world of superhumans. His performance is a key part of the film’s emotional stakes as the group discovers the truth about their mission. Pullman delivers a nuanced and sympathetic performance that resonates with the audience.

Jack Champion – ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ (2025)

Jack Champion returns as Spider in the third installment of the epic science fiction saga directed by James Cameron. He continues to navigate his place between the human world and the Na’vi culture on Pandora. The actor explores the shifting loyalties and the emotional conflict of a young man who does not fully belong to either group. His performance involves significant physical work and interaction with highly detailed digital environments. Champion brings a grounded and human perspective to the massive visual spectacle of the film.

Cliff Curtis – ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ (2025)

Cliff Curtis reprises his role as Tonowari who is the leader of the water dwelling Metkayina clan. He brings a regal and authoritative presence back to the screen as his people face new environmental and external threats. The actor explores the responsibilities of leadership and the importance of family in a world under siege. His performance is marked by a deep sense of dignity and physical grace in the underwater sequences. Curtis continues to provide a strong and wise supporting presence in the expanding franchise.

Beck Bennett – ‘Superman’ (2025)

Beck Bennett appears as Steve Lombard who is the boisterous and sports obsessed reporter at the Daily Planet. He brings a much needed comedic energy to the office scenes in the superhero blockbuster. The actor utilizes his background in sketch comedy to create a character that is both annoying and entertaining to his colleagues. His performance helps define the workplace culture of the newspaper where the protagonist hides his secret identity. Bennett delivers a fun and lighthearted turn in a film filled with epic stakes.

Peter Sarsgaard – ‘The Bride!’ (2025)

Peter Sarsgaard delivers a compelling performance in the horror drama ‘The Bride!’ directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal. He plays a key figure in the life of the central character as she discovers her own identity and power. The actor brings a sophisticated and slightly unsettling energy to the 1930s Chicago setting of the film. His performance explores themes of obsession and control within the framework of a classic monster story. Sarsgaard provides a strong dramatic anchor for the film’s unique and stylized narrative.

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