The Highest-Paid Actresses of 2025

The entertainment landscape in 2025 has been defined by unprecedented salaries and groundbreaking backend deals for Hollywood’s leading ladies. From streaming giants like Apple TV and Netflix paying top dollar for prestige talent to blockbuster sequels shattering box office expectations, these actresses have leveraged their star power into massive financial gains. Many performers have transitioned into powerful producer roles that allow them to claim a percentage of project profits alongside their upfront fees. This shift toward ownership has created a new class of female moguls who dominate both the creative and business sides of the industry. The following list highlights the top earning actresses who have set new benchmarks for professional success throughout the current year.

Hunter Schafer

The young actress has seen a significant increase in her earning potential following her high profile roles in major franchise installments. Her performance in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’ established her as a bankable lead for studio projects. In 2025 she continues to command impressive fees for her work in both independent cinema and luxury fashion campaigns. Her presence in the television industry remains strong as she balances prestige drama with commercial ventures. She has successfully translated her unique style and acting range into a lucrative career across multiple entertainment platforms.

Ayo Edebiri

The actress has enjoyed a meteoric rise in her professional standing thanks to the continued critical and commercial success of ‘The Bear’. Her move into voice acting for major animated features has added a substantial new stream of revenue to her portfolio. During the current year she has signed several major endorsement deals with global lifestyle brands that value her relatability and wit. Edebiri has also started taking on more significant roles in feature films that offer both competitive upfront salaries and backend potential. Her status as a sought after talent in both comedy and drama has made her one of the most consistent earners of the year.

Maya Hawke

The performer benefits from a diverse career that spans across hit television series and major motion pictures. Her long standing role in ‘Stranger Things’ remains a cornerstone of her annual income as the series enters its final stages. She has expanded her financial reach by taking on leading parts in genre films that appeal to a broad younger demographic. Hawke also earns significant revenue from her musical career and high end sponsorships with fashion retailers. Her ability to navigate different creative sectors allows her to maintain a steady and impressive income stream.

Mia Goth

The actress has become the primary face of modern horror through her acclaimed collaborations on several successful genre films. Her dual roles as both performer and producer on projects like ‘Maxxxine’ have allowed her to secure a larger share of the profits. In 2025 she continues to headline psychological thrillers that attract a dedicated global audience at the box office. Goth has also become a favorite for high fashion brands that seek her distinctive look for international advertising campaigns. Her commitment to character driven roles has not hindered her ability to command top tier salaries in the independent film market.

Jodie Comer

The British actress has successfully parlayed her television fame into a lucrative career on both the stage and the big screen. Her work in ‘The Bikeriders’ and other recent cinematic releases has demonstrated her ability to draw audiences to theaters. She continues to receive substantial paychecks for her participation in prestige limited series for major streaming networks. Comer has also capitalized on her critical acclaim by securing long term partnerships with luxury beauty and skincare companies. Her professional choices reflect a focus on high quality projects that offer significant financial rewards.

Vanessa Kirby

The performer has established herself as a versatile talent capable of leading both intimate dramas and massive action franchises. Her recurring presence in the ‘Mission: Impossible’ series provides a reliable and substantial source of income through base pay and residuals. In 2025 she has taken on high profile roles in the superhero genre which often come with multi film contracts and merchandise bonuses. Kirby also maintains a strong relationship with major fashion houses for global endorsements that supplement her acting fees. Her reputation for intense and disciplined performances makes her a top choice for directors and studios alike.

Hailee Steinfeld

The actress and singer continues to be a dominant force in the industry by balancing franchise commitments with solo projects. Her involvement in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Kate Bishop ensures a high level of visibility and a steady stream of income. She also voices major characters in record breaking animated films like ‘Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ which offer lucrative backend participation. Steinfeld has several active brand partnerships that capitalize on her influence within the music and film industries. Her multi faceted career path provides her with numerous opportunities for wealth accumulation across different media.

Rachel Zegler

The young star has quickly become a mainstay in Hollywood after leading several high budget musical and action features. Her role in ‘Snow White’ and its associated promotional deals have significantly boosted her earnings for the current year. She has demonstrated her value as a performer who can handle the pressures of major studio tentpoles and extensive press tours. Zegler also participates in various branding initiatives that target the next generation of filmgoers. Her upward trajectory in terms of salary reflects her growing influence and the high demand for her vocal and acting talents.

Letitia Wright

The actress maintains a strong financial position through her leading role in the ‘Black Panther’ franchise and its associated projects. She has leveraged her global recognition to secure parts in independent films and television series that offer creative fulfillment alongside competitive pay. In 2025 she has invested in her own production ventures to create more opportunities for diverse storytelling. Wright also benefits from residuals from past box office successes that continue to perform well on streaming platforms. Her strategic career moves have allowed her to remain one of the most prominent and well paid actresses of her generation.

Lily James

The performer has built a successful career by starring in a mix of period dramas and modern blockbusters. Her work in projects like ‘Pam and Tommy’ proved her ability to lead high profile streaming content that generates significant conversation. In 2025 she continues to be a favorite for major fashion and jewelry brands for their international marketing efforts. James has also secured roles in upcoming feature films that offer substantial upfront fees and potential for awards season recognition. Her consistent presence in the public eye ensures that her earning power remains high across various entertainment sectors.

Carey Mulligan

The actress is known for her selective approach to roles which has led to a career filled with critical praise and steady financial growth. Her participation in prestige films for major studios often comes with significant bonuses tied to awards performance. In 2025 she continues to be a top choice for directors who require a performer with deep emotional range and a strong track record. Mulligan also earns income through voice work and infrequent but highly lucrative partnerships with luxury brands. Her status as one of the most respected actresses in the industry allows her to negotiate favorable terms for her projects.

Saoirse Ronan

The four time Academy Award nominee has translated her critical success into a strong position within the Hollywood hierarchy. Her roles in recent historical dramas and contemporary films have established her as a reliable lead for prestige cinema. In 2025 she continues to command high salaries for her work in projects that often perform well with international audiences. Ronan has also begun to explore producing which gives her more control over the financial aspects of her films. Her enduring popularity and reputation for excellence make her a valuable asset for any production.

Florence Pugh

The actress has become one of the busiest and most profitable stars in the industry by appearing in a wide range of genres. Her work in the ‘Dune’ franchise and the Marvel Cinematic Universe provides her with massive paydays and significant cultural influence. In 2025 she has balanced these blockbusters with smaller independent films that showcase her versatility. Pugh also maintains several high profile endorsements with global fashion and beauty brands that contribute to her total earnings. Her ability to connect with audiences across different age groups has made her a top earner this year.

Lupita Nyong’o

The Academy Award winner continues to earn a significant income through her work in major franchises and prestige solo projects. her voice work in animated features and narrations for documentaries provides a consistent and lucrative revenue stream. In 2025 she remains a prominent figure in global cinema with roles that emphasize her unique presence and acting skill. Nyong’o also has a long standing relationship with several luxury beauty brands for their worldwide advertising campaigns. Her influence extends beyond acting as she takes on executive producer roles for stories she is passionate about telling.

Penélope Cruz

The international star remains a powerful force in both Hollywood and European cinema through her diverse choice of roles. Her collaborations with renowned directors continue to result in films that find success at the global box office. In 2025 she maintains a high earning status by balancing acting work with significant endorsement deals for fashion and cosmetics. Cruz has also benefited from residuals from her extensive filmography which includes many iconic and high grossing titles. Her enduring appeal and professional longevity have made her one of the most financially successful actresses in the world.

Keira Knightley

The actress has built a long and successful career that allows her to be highly selective about the projects she chooses. She continues to be a favorite for period pieces and dramatic thrillers that offer substantial salaries and prestige. In 2025 she has appeared in several high profile streaming projects that provide both significant upfront pay and international reach. Knightley also maintains a decades long partnership with a major French fashion house that is one of the most lucrative in the industry. Her ability to maintain her star power over several decades has solidified her financial independence.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas

The global icon has successfully bridged the gap between different international film markets to create a massive professional empire. Her work in the action series ‘Citadel’ has secured her a position as a top tier earner in the world of streaming. In 2025 she continues to lead major motion pictures and produce content through her own media company. Chopra also earns a substantial portion of her income through brand endorsements and business ventures in the beauty and lifestyle sectors. Her global influence allows her to command top dollar for her appearances and professional collaborations.

Deepika Padukone

The actress is one of the most prominent stars in the world with a career that spans across major international productions. Her role in ‘Project K’ and other high budget features has significantly contributed to her earnings in 2025. She has been a consistent leader at the box office and is a preferred choice for global brands looking to expand their reach. Padukone also manages several business interests including her own skincare line and various investment portfolios. Her status as a fashion icon and philanthropist further enhances her brand value and professional opportunities.

Meryl Streep

The legendary actress remains a top earner in the industry by taking on significant roles in both film and television. Her participation in ‘Only Murders in the Building’ has demonstrated her continued appeal to modern streaming audiences. In 2025 she continues to receive top tier salaries for her work in prestige projects that benefit from her immense talent and reputation. Streep also earns substantial residuals from her unparalleled filmography which includes many of the most successful films in history. Her presence in a project often guarantees a high level of interest from both critics and viewers.

Salma Hayek

The actress and producer has maintained a highly successful career by alternating between major blockbusters and character driven dramas. Her involvement in the ‘Magic Mike’ franchise and other recent hits has provided her with substantial financial rewards. In 2025 she continues to produce content through her production company while starring in diverse international projects. Hayek also benefits from a range of high profile endorsements and a significant presence in the global fashion industry. Her business acumen and star power have allowed her to remain a top earner for many years.

Jessica Chastain

The Academy Award winner has used her critical acclaim to build a strong career as both a leading actress and a producer. Her production company has been involved in several successful projects that have allowed her to earn revenue from both sides of the camera. In 2025 she continues to star in prestige dramas and thrillers for major studios and streaming platforms. Chastain also maintains several lucrative partnerships with luxury jewelry and fashion brands. Her commitment to high quality storytelling has resulted in a professional life that is both artistically and financially rewarding.

Dakota Johnson

The actress has successfully moved beyond her early franchise success to establish herself as a versatile lead in various genres. Her work in ‘Madame Web’ and other recent projects has provided her with major paychecks and increased visibility. In 2025 she continues to produce films through her own company which focuses on unique and independent voices. Johnson also earns significant income from her work as a brand ambassador for luxury fashion houses. Her ability to balance commercial projects with creative ventures has made her one of the most consistent earners in Hollywood.

Ana de Armas

The actress has seen her professional standing rise rapidly following a series of high profile roles in action and dramatic films. Her work in ‘Ballerina’ has established her as a leading lady capable of carrying a major action franchise. In 2025 she continues to be a top choice for directors who seek a performer with global appeal and strong acting credentials. De Armas also benefits from several major endorsements with international beauty and luxury brands. Her career trajectory suggests continued financial success as she takes on more significant roles and producing responsibilities.

Elizabeth Olsen

The performer has become a household name through her iconic portrayal of Wanda Maximoff in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This role has provided her with massive salaries and a permanent place in the world of blockbuster cinema. In 2025 she has expanded her reach by starring in prestige limited series that showcase her dramatic range. Olsen also participates in various branding initiatives that capitalize on her massive following and professional reputation. Her ability to navigate between large scale franchises and intimate dramas has ensured her financial success.

Michelle Yeoh

The Academy Award winner has seen a massive surge in her earning power following the historic success of ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’. In 2025 she continues to lead major franchise projects including upcoming installments of the ‘Avatar’ series. Her global recognition has allowed her to secure top tier salaries for her work in both Hollywood and international cinema. Yeoh also maintains several lucrative partnerships with luxury brands that value her elegance and professional achievements. Her career remains at an all time high as she continues to break barriers for actresses in the industry.

Brie Larson

The actress remains a top earner through her leading role as Captain Marvel and her work in other major film franchises. Her involvement in the ‘Fast and Furious’ series has added another reliable source of income to her impressive portfolio. In 2025 she has also taken on significant roles in prestige television projects that offer high salaries and critical visibility. Larson is an active producer who develops content that aligns with her professional and personal interests. Her status as a blockbuster lead and an award winning performer ensures her continued financial prosperity.

Gwyneth Paltrow

The actress and entrepreneur has created a unique business model that combines occasional acting roles with a massive lifestyle empire. While her screen appearances have become less frequent she still commands high fees for her work in major franchises. Her company continues to generate hundreds of millions in revenue providing her with a level of wealth that few in the industry can match. In 2025 she remains a powerful figure in the wellness and fashion sectors through her various brand initiatives. Her ability to leverage her celebrity into a successful business venture has made her a pioneer for other actresses.

Anne Hathaway

The Academy Award winner has maintained a consistent career by starring in a mix of commercial hits and critical favorites. Her work in ‘The Idea of You’ and other recent projects has demonstrated her enduring appeal to audiences across all platforms. In 2025 she continues to receive substantial paychecks for her work in both film and high end advertising. Hathaway also serves as an executive producer on many of her projects which allows her to have a greater stake in their success. Her professional longevity and talent have made her one of the most reliable and well paid stars in the world.

Cate Blanchett

The actress is widely regarded as one of the finest performers of her generation and her salary reflects her esteemed status. Her work in prestige films and major studio productions continues to garner critical acclaim and financial rewards. In 2025 she has taken on significant roles in both film and television while also serving as a producer for several projects. Blanchett also maintains long term relationships with luxury fashion and beauty brands that contribute to her annual income. Her ability to consistently deliver high quality performances has made her a top choice for any major production.

Charlize Theron

The performer and producer has built a professional life around high stakes action roles and complex dramatic characters. Her production company has been responsible for several successful films that have significantly boosted her total earnings. In 2025 she remains a major force in the industry through her involvement in blockbuster franchises and prestige projects. Theron also earns a substantial amount through her long standing partnership with a major international perfume brand. Her business savvy and dedication to her craft have made her one of the most successful women in entertainment.

Melissa McCarthy

The actress and producer continues to be one of the most profitable stars in comedy with a career that spans across multiple media formats. Her work in major studio comedies and dramatic roles has provided her with a diverse and lucrative income stream. In 2025 she continues to produce content through her own company which often results in high ratings and box office success. McCarthy also has several active business interests in the fashion industry that cater to a wide audience. Her relatability and comedic timing have made her a favorite for both studios and viewers.

Cameron Diaz

The actress has made a highly publicized return to the industry after a long hiatus and has immediately reclaimed her status as a top earner. Her comeback projects for major streaming platforms have been met with significant interest and high upfront salaries. In 2025 she continues to balance her acting work with her successful business ventures in the organic wine industry. Diaz also benefits from residuals from her extensive career which includes some of the most successful comedies of all time. Her return to the screen has been a financial and professional success for the star.

Sandra Bullock

The Academy Award winner remains one of the most popular and bankable actresses in the world with a career that continues to thrive. Her ability to lead both romantic comedies and intense thrillers has made her a valuable asset for any studio. In 2025 she continues to receive top tier paydays for her work in major motion pictures and streaming content. Bullock also serves as a producer on many of her projects ensuring that she shares in the profits of her successful films. Her enduring appeal and professional reliability have made her one of the most financially successful stars in history.

Julia Roberts

The legendary actress continues to command some of the highest salaries in the industry for her work in film and television. Her participation in prestige projects for major streaming networks has provided her with significant financial gains in recent years. In 2025 she remains a global icon who is a top choice for major brand endorsements and high profile roles. Roberts also benefits from the ongoing success of her many classic films which continue to generate revenue through various platforms. Her status as a Hollywood superstar remains unchanged after several decades in the spotlight.

Viola Davis

The EGOT winner has used her immense talent to build a career that is as financially successful as it is critically acclaimed. Her leading roles in historical dramas and action films have demonstrated her versatility and drawing power. In 2025 she continues to produce content through her own production company which focuses on telling impactful and diverse stories. Davis also maintains several high profile endorsements with global beauty brands that value her authenticity and strength. Her commitment to excellence has made her one of the most respected and well paid actresses in the industry.

Nicole Kidman

The actress is known for her incredible work ethic and her ability to lead multiple high profile projects simultaneously. Her participation in several hit streaming series has provided her with a massive and consistent source of income. In 2025 she continues to star in prestige dramas for major networks while also appearing in major studio films. Kidman is a prolific producer who has a hand in many of the year’s most talked about television projects. Her ability to consistently find and create successful content has solidified her financial standing.

Emily Blunt

The performer has established herself as a top tier leading lady through her roles in successful franchises and award winning dramas. Her work in ‘Oppenheimer’ and other major features has significantly increased her professional value and earning potential. In 2025 she continues to headline blockbuster films that often come with substantial backend deals and performance bonuses. Blunt also participates in high end brand partnerships that capitalize on her sophisticated and approachable image. Her reputation for delivering high quality performances in any genre has made her a favorite for studios.

Anya Taylor-Joy

The actress has become one of the most recognizable faces in the industry following her breakout success in ‘The Queen’s Gambit’. Her leading role in ‘Furiosa’ and other major features has provided her with some of the largest paychecks of her career to date. In 2025 she continues to be a top choice for directors who seek a performer with a unique screen presence and massive global appeal. Taylor-Joy also maintains several lucrative endorsements with luxury fashion and beauty houses. Her rapid rise to stardom has resulted in a significant and growing financial portfolio.

Natalie Portman

The Academy Award winner continues to balance her work in major franchises with challenging roles in independent cinema. Her involvement in the ‘Thor’ series and other high budget projects has provided her with substantial upfront pay and residuals. In 2025 she remains a prominent figure in the industry through her acting and producing work for major studios. Portman also has a long standing relationship with a luxury French fashion brand that is one of the most successful in the world. Her commitment to her craft and her business interests has ensured her continued financial success.

Sydney Sweeney

The actress has quickly risen to become one of the highest earners in her age group through her work on hit television series and successful films. Her performance in ‘Euphoria’ and ‘Anyone But You’ has demonstrated her ability to drive viewership and box office numbers. In 2025 she continues to produce projects through her own company which has several high profile films in development. Sweeney also has a massive presence in the world of brand endorsements with partnerships spanning across beauty, fashion, and technology. Her entrepreneurial spirit and talent have made her a dominant force in the industry.

Emma Stone

The two time Academy Award winner has seen her earning power reach new heights following the historic success of ‘Poor Things’. Her roles in major studio projects and her work as a producer have provided her with massive financial rewards in 2025. She continues to be one of the most sought after actresses for both commercial hits and prestige cinema. Stone also maintains a lucrative partnership with a luxury fashion house for their global advertising campaigns. Her ability to combine critical success with commercial viability has made her one of the top earners of the year.

Sofía Vergara

The actress and businesswoman remains at the top of the earning charts thanks to her diverse career in television and retail. Her role as a judge on a popular talent show provides her with a consistent and massive salary each year. In 2025 she has also earned critical praise and significant pay for her dramatic turn in limited series for major streaming platforms. Vergara has built a massive business empire with successful lines in fashion, furniture, and beauty products. Her brand is one of the most recognizable and profitable in the world of entertainment.

Jenna Ortega

The young star has seen an unprecedented rise in her professional value following the global phenomenon of ‘Wednesday’. Her leading role in the series and its associated merchandise have provided her with a significant income stream. In 2025 she continues to headline major horror and fantasy features that attract a massive audience at the box office. Ortega has also signed several high profile endorsements with global brands that target her large and dedicated fan base. Her status as a rising icon has allowed her to negotiate some of the most competitive salaries for her age group.

Lady Gaga

The global superstar continues to earn massive sums through her successful transition into a leading actress for major films. Her role in ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’ has provided her with one of the largest upfront salaries of any actress this year. In 2025 she continues to balance her film work with her highly successful music career and residency performances. Gaga also manages a major beauty brand that generates hundreds of millions in annual revenue. Her multi disciplinary approach to entertainment has made her one of the wealthiest women in the world.

Gal Gadot

The actress remains a top tier earner through her leading roles in major action franchises and significant streaming deals. Her work in ‘Heart of Stone’ and other recent projects has provided her with record breaking paydays for the streaming era. In 2025 she continues to develop and produce content through her own company for major international audiences. Gadot also benefits from a wide range of brand endorsements that capitalize on her global fame and positive public image. Her ability to headline massive blockbusters ensures her continued financial dominance in Hollywood.

Jennifer Lawrence

The Academy Award winner has reclaimed her spot at the top of the earning lists through her work in both comedies and high budget dramas. Her roles in recent films like ‘No Hard Feelings’ have demonstrated her enduring power as a box office draw. In 2025 she remains one of the few actresses who can command a massive upfront fee and a significant percentage of the backend profits. Lawrence also maintains a long term and highly lucrative partnership with a luxury fashion brand for their worldwide campaigns. Her talent and star power remain some of the most valuable assets in the industry.

Reese Witherspoon

The actress and producer has built a massive professional empire through her work on screen and her media company. Her starring roles in hit television series for Apple TV and other platforms come with some of the highest salaries in the history of the medium. In 2025 she continues to produce a steady stream of female driven content that consistently finds critical and commercial success. Witherspoon has also successfully invested in various digital and lifestyle ventures that contribute to her substantial annual income. Her business acumen has made her one of the most powerful and wealthy women in Hollywood.

Jennifer Aniston

The global icon remains one of the highest paid actresses in the world due to her continued success in television and her massive brand value. Her role in ‘The Morning Show’ provides her with a salary that sets the benchmark for the streaming industry. In 2025 she continues to earn millions each year through residuals from her past work on iconic sitcoms that remain popular worldwide. Aniston also has a range of highly successful brand partnerships and her own beauty company which adds significantly to her wealth. Her enduring popularity and professional status ensure her continued place at the top of the industry.

Zendaya

The actress and fashion icon has reached a new level of stardom with her roles in major film franchises and critically acclaimed television series. Her work in ‘Dune: Part Two’ and the upcoming seasons of ‘Euphoria’ has provided her with some of the most substantial paydays in recent history. In 2025 she continues to be a primary choice for luxury brands that seek her influence and unique style for their global marketing. Zendaya has also taken on more producing responsibilities which allow her to have a greater share in the success of her projects. Her massive cultural impact and professional success have made her one of the top earners of the year.

Margot Robbie

The actress and producer stands at the absolute pinnacle of the entertainment industry following the historic success of ‘Barbie’. Her earnings for the current year reflect her massive backend deals and the ongoing profitability of her production company. In 2025 she continues to lead high profile projects that benefit from her star power and her strategic approach to filmmaking. Robbie also maintains several of the most lucrative brand partnerships in the world with luxury fashion and beauty houses. Her ability to create and star in global cultural phenomena has solidified her status as the highest paid actress of the year.

Please share your thoughts and tell us who your favorite top earning star is in the comments.