1. Dominique Fishback
Dominique Fishback has been quietly putting in the work for years, but 2025 feels like her moment to fully shine. If you missed her Emmy-nominated performance in Swarm, where she played the chillingly obsessive Dre, go fix that immediately. She completely disappeared into the role, making you forget she’s the same actress who gave a deeply emotional performance in Judas and the Black Messiah. What makes Fishback so exciting is her ability to bring raw vulnerability to every character while still keeping you on edge. She doesn’t just act—she transforms. And Hollywood is finally catching up to her talent. She already proved she can handle complex, psychologically rich roles, but now she’s branching out even further. With Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, she showed she could carry a blockbuster, and you can bet more big franchises are knocking on her door says Variety.
Next up, she’s set to star in The Nickel Boys, based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, which is already generating awards buzz. Fishback thrives in projects with depth, and this one has the potential to be a career-defining moment. Plus, her upcoming Apple TV+ project, The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey, where she starred alongside Samuel L. Jackson, showed that top-tier veterans already recognize her power. She’s an actress who makes you feel everything—pain, joy, fear—all in just a glance. That’s not something you can teach. Expect her to dominate both film and TV in 2025, proving that she’s not just rising—she’s already arrived.
2. Myha’la Herrold
If you’re not already obsessed with Myha’la Herrold, that’s about to change in a big way. She first caught everyone’s attention in HBO’s Industry, where she played the fierce and ambitious Harper Stern. Watching her navigate cutthroat finance bros while holding her own was nothing short of mesmerizing. Then came Bodies, Bodies, Bodies, where she switched gears and gave us a totally different vibe—a mix of humor, fear, and attitude that made her a standout explains the New York Times. But 2023’s Leave the World Behind cemented her as an actress who can handle complex, high-stakes narratives alongside industry giants like Julia Roberts and Mahershala Ali. It’s clear she’s not just picking roles—she’s picking projects that challenge her and make her better.
In 2025, Herrold is stepping into even bigger shoes, starring in the highly anticipated sci-fi thriller Foe alongside Saoirse Ronan and Paul Mescal. That kind of cast means she’s now playing in the big leagues, and from what we’ve seen, she’s more than ready. What makes her special is that she never plays anything safe—she brings an unpredictable energy that keeps audiences glued to the screen. Hollywood is always looking for actors who can be chameleons, and Myha’la has already proven she can shapeshift with the best of them. If you’re looking for the next actress to completely take over prestige TV and indie films alike, keep your eyes on her says ELLE.
3. Damson Idris
Damson Idris is already a fan favorite, but 2025 is when he becomes a household name. He spent six seasons delivering an unforgettable performance as Franklin Saint in Snowfall, proving he could carry a series with intensity, nuance, and charisma. When Snowfall ended, some people wondered what he’d do next—turns out, he’s just getting started. He landed a major role in Apple TV+’s Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, bringing his talent to blockbuster audiences. But the real game-changer? His role in Swarm, where he played a character so wildly different from Franklin that it made everyone do a double take. Idris has range, and he’s about to show just how much says Variety.
In 2025, he’s set to star in a yet-to-be-announced major film that insiders are already calling his biggest project yet. Hollywood has been looking for the next Denzel Washington or Idris Elba, and Damson might just be the guy to take that mantle. His ability to balance charm, danger, and vulnerability makes him one of the most exciting actors working today said MSN. Plus, his social media presence keeps fans engaged, proving that he understands the power of connecting with his audience. Whether he’s in a crime drama, a sci-fi epic, or an intimate indie film, he brings an authenticity that’s impossible to ignore.
4. Ayo Edebiri
Ayo Edebiri is the comedic genius Hollywood has been waiting for. She stole every scene in The Bear, winning awards and critical acclaim for her portrayal of Sydney, a determined young chef in the high-pressure restaurant world. But comedy fans already knew her from Big Mouth, where she brought her sharp wit to animated form. What makes Edebiri special is that she’s not just funny—she’s deeply authentic. Every role she takes on feels lived-in, like she’s not acting but simply existing in the character’s skin. That’s a rare skill, and it’s why directors and showrunners are lining up to work with her.
2025 is shaping up to be her biggest year yet, with multiple projects in the works, including more high-profile collaborations. She’s also getting into producing, which means she’s taking control of her career in a way few actors at her level do. Expect her to keep blending humor with deeply human storytelling, whether it’s in TV, film, or something totally unexpected. She’s got the kind of presence that turns everything she touches into gold. If you’re not already following everything she does, now’s the time to start.
5. Jonathan Majors
Jonathan Majors has been on a steady rise, but 2025 could be the year he fully takes over. After delivering powerhouse performances in Lovecraft Country, Creed III, and Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, he’s proven he can lead both prestige dramas and big-budget franchises. His ability to bring depth to every role makes him one of the most compelling actors of his generation. He’s also got that old-school Hollywood charisma that makes him impossible to look away from.
Next year, he’s stepping into even more ambitious roles, including a highly anticipated biopic and another major studio film. Majors isn’t just a leading man—he’s a transformative performer who immerses himself completely. With his undeniable screen presence and commitment to craft, it’s only a matter of time before he’s at the top of every director’s wishlist.
6. Jodie Turner-Smith
Jodie Turner-Smith has been making waves ever since Queen & Slim, and she’s only gotten better since. Whether it’s historical drama (Anne Boleyn), sci-fi (After Yang), or high-stakes thrillers (The Independent), she brings elegance and intensity to every role. In 2025, she’s set to star in a major new fantasy series that could be her biggest role yet.
Turner-Smith stands out because she chooses roles that challenge industry norms. She’s an actress who refuses to be boxed in, constantly pushing herself into new genres and unexpected characters. If you haven’t been paying attention to her career yet, now’s the time to start.
7. Kelvin Harrison Jr.
Kelvin Harrison Jr. has been quietly building one of the most impressive resumes in Hollywood. From Luce to Waves to Chevalier, he’s shown he can handle everything from psychological thrillers to period dramas. 2025 is shaping up to be his breakout year, with multiple high-profile projects on the way.
What makes Harrison Jr. so compelling is his ability to completely disappear into his characters. He brings a level of precision and emotional depth that makes every performance unforgettable. With his talent and versatility, there’s no doubt he’s on track to become one of the biggest stars of his generation.