The Greatest Film Actors Of The 2010s

Jules Burke
Updated May 1, 2024 38.8K views 114 items
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65.4K votes
5.5K voters
Voting Rules
Vote up the actors whose 2010s performances will be remembered forever.

Who were the best actors of the 2010s? This list will highlight 2010s actors, from Oscar regulars like Bradley Cooper and Christian Bale to new faces who took the last 10 years by storm, such as Timothée Chalamet. But are they the top 10 actors of 2010s?

As far as film goes, Mark Ruffalo, Daniel Day-Lewis, and Joaquin Phoenix were some of the best actors of the decade. But if you disagree, feel free to vote them down and/or vote up who you think were the greatest actors of the 2010s. Do you think the top 10 actors of the 2010s on this list are accurate? You can also add in your picks for the 2010s best actors. 

Robert De Niro, Edward Norton, and Denzel Washington were also arguably top actors of 2010s. The best male actors 2010s starred in award-winning dramas like 12 Years a Slave, and genre-defying hits like Get Out. Christoph Waltz and Steve Carrell are some famous actors of 2010s. But the jury is still out for who are the most famous actors of 2010s. 

Whether you’re a fan of Colin Firth, Matthew McConaughey or someone else entirely, don’t hesitate to make your voice heard regarding the best actors 2010s. Vote up who you believe deserves the title of best 2010s actor.

Most divisive: Jude Law
Over 5.5K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Greatest Film Actors Of The 2010s
  • Leonardo DiCaprio
    1
    1,273 votes

    2019: Rick Dalton in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood

    2015: Hugh Glass in The Revenant (WON for Best Actor)

    2013: Jordan Belfort in The Wolf of Wall Street (Nominated for Best Actor)

    2013: Jay Gatsby in The Great Gatsby

    2012: Calvin Candy in Django Unchained 

  • Christian Bale
    2
    1,291 votes

    Transforming himself both physically and mentally for his roles, Christian Bale is recognized for his dedication to the craft of acting. His portrayal of Patrick Bateman in American Psycho brought him to prominence, and he later took on iconic characters like Batman in Christopher Nolan's The Dark Knight trilogy and Dick Cheney in Vice. Bale boasts an Oscar, a Golden Globe, and a Critics' Choice Award for his impressive resume.

  • Morgan Freeman
    3
    749 votes

    With a voice that is both soothing and authoritative, Morgan Freeman has been captivating audiences for over 50 years. Known for his roles in films like The Shawshank RedemptionMillion Dollar Baby, and Driving Miss Daisy, this Academy Award-winning actor has demonstrated his versatility and skill time and time again. Off-screen, Freeman is an active philanthropist and aviation enthusiast.

  • Gary Oldman
    4
    799 votes

    British actor Gary Oldman excels at disappearing into his roles, often portraying real-life figures with remarkable accuracy. His career highlights include playing Sirius Black in the Harry Potter series, Commissioner Gordon in The Dark Knight trilogy, and Winston Churchill in Darkest Hour, for which he earned an Academy Award. Oldman's chameleonic abilities have made him one of Hollywood's most respected actors.

  • Denzel Washington
    5
    545 votes

    A powerhouse performer, Denzel Washington is often praised for his magnetic on-screen presence. His distinguished career encompasses roles in iconic films like GloryMalcolm XTraining Day, and Fences, earning him two Oscars and three Golden Globe Awards. Washington is also an accomplished director and producer, exemplifying his passion for the art of storytelling.

  • Joaquin Phoenix
    6
    1,056 votes

    Never one to shy away from complex and challenging roles, Joaquin Phoenix has demonstrated exceptional range throughout his career. His performances as Johnny Cash in Walk the Line, Theodore Twombly in Her, and Arthur Fleck in Joker earned him numerous accolades, including an Oscar and three Golden Globe Awards. Phoenix is also known for his animal rights activism and environmentalism.

  • Michael Caine
    7
    368 votes

    With a career spanning over six decades, British actor Michael Caine has become a stalwart of the film industry. Iconic roles in movies like AlfieThe Italian JobHannah and Her Sisters, and Christopher Nolan's Dark Knight trilogy showcase his incredible acting range. Caine has won two Academy Awards and three Golden Globe Awards, solidifying him as a true legend.

  • Tom Hardy
    8
    Age: 46
    929 votes

    Adept at portraying strong and intense characters, Tom Hardy has become one of the most sought-after actors in Hollywood. Memorable roles in films such as InceptionMad Max: Fury Road, and Venom showcase his versatility and commitment to his craft. In addition to his acting career, Hardy is an ambassador for the Prince's Trust, which supports disadvantaged young people.

  • Hugh Jackman
    9
    925 votes

    Charming and charismatic, Hugh Jackman is celebrated for his performances both on stage and screen. He gained international fame as Wolverine in the X-Men series and showcased his musical talents in Les Misérables and The Greatest Showman. A consummate performer, Jackman has earned accolades such as a Golden Globe Award and a Tony Award for his versatile abilities.

  • Robert Downey Jr.
    10
    1,067 votes

    Overcoming personal challenges and emerging stronger than ever, Robert Downey Jr. has made an indelible mark on Hollywood. As the charismatic and brilliant Tony Stark/Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, he helped launch a global phenomenon. With standout roles in Tropic Thunder and Sherlock Holmes, Downey Jr. has demonstrated his undeniable talent and charm, earning numerous awards along the way.

  • Matthew McConaughey
    11
    853 votes

    An accomplished actor with an unmistakable charisma, Matthew McConaughey has endeared himself to audiences worldwide. He rose to fame in the 1990s with films like Dazed and Confused and A Time to Kill, and later earned critical acclaim for his performances in Dallas Buyers Club and Interstellar. McConaughey won an Oscar and a Golden Globe Award for his role in Dallas Buyers Club.

  • Cillian Murphy
    12
    228 votes

    Irish actor Cillian Murphy is celebrated for his piercing blue eyes and exceptional acting range. He gained widespread recognition for his roles in 28 Days Later and Christopher Nolan's Batman Begins, before garnering critical acclaim as Tommy Shelby in the television series Peaky Blinders. Murphy's captivating performances have earned him numerous awards and nominations, including a Golden Globe nomination.

    Cillian Murphy (born 25 May 1976) is an Irish actor. He made his professional debut in Enda Walsh's 1996 play Disco Pigs, a role he later reprised in the 2001 screen adaptation. His early film credits include the horror film 28 Days Later (2002), the dark comedy Intermission (2003), the thriller Red Eye (2005), the Irish war drama The Wind That Shakes the Barley (2006), and the science fiction thriller Sunshine (2007). He played a transgender Irish woman in the comedy-drama Breakfast on Pluto (2005), which earned him a Golden Globe Award nomination.
  • Ryan Reynolds
    13
    760 votes

    Effortlessly blending humor and heart, Ryan Reynolds has become a beloved Hollywood star. Best known for playing the wisecracking, fourth-wall-breaking Deadpool, he has also captivated audiences in romantic comedies like Definitely, Maybe and The Proposal. Reynolds is also a successful entrepreneur, founding the companies Mint Mobile and Aviation Gin.

  • Samuel L. Jackson
    14
    512 votes

    Known for his distinctive voice and commanding presence, Samuel L. Jackson has been a mainstay in Hollywood for over four decades. His collaborations with director Quentin Tarantino, particularly in Pulp Fiction, have become legendary, and he brings a unique energy to roles in films like Jurassic ParkUnbreakable, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Nick Fury. Jackson is also active in charitable endeavors and social justice causes.

  • James McAvoy
    15
    571 votes

    Scottish actor James McAvoy has shown remarkable range and dedication to his craft, beginning with his breakthrough role in The Last King of Scotland. His performances as Professor X in the X-Men films and Kevin Wendell Crumb in Split demonstrate his incredible versatility. McAvoy's talents have earned him a Golden Globe nomination and enthusiastic critical acclaim.

  • Brad Pitt
    16
    Age: 60
    504 votes

    One of Hollywood's ultimate leading men, Brad Pitt has been a constant presence on screen since the late 1980s. He has starred in memorable films like Thelma & LouiseFight ClubThe Curious Case of Benjamin Button, and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. His superb acting abilities and good looks have earned him an Oscar, two Golden Globe Awards, and a long-lasting career as a film producer.

  • Benedict Cumberbatch
    17
    928 votes

    Boasting a distinctive voice and undeniable presence, Benedict Cumberbatch is a versatile actor who excels on both stage and screen. His portrayal of Sherlock Holmes on the BBC series Sherlock catapulted him to international stardom, and he has since taken on challenging roles in films like "The Imitation Game" and Doctor Strange. Cumberbatch's talent has earned him numerous awards and nominations, including an Emmy Award and an Olivier Award.

  • Peter Dinklage
    18
    521 votes

    A trailblazer for actors with dwarfism, Peter Dinklage is known for challenging stereotypes and pushing boundaries in the industry. He gained worldwide recognition for his portrayal of Tyrion Lannister in HBO's Game of Thrones, earning four Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe. Dinklage has also appeared in films like The Station Agent and Elf, showcasing his exceptional talent.

  • Tom Hiddleston
    19
    462 votes

    British actor Tom Hiddleston, known for his intellect and charm, has delighted audiences with his versatile acting skills. His standout role as Loki in the Marvel Cinematic Universe has made him a household name, while his performances in Crimson Peak and the television series The Night Manager showcase his dramatic abilities. Hiddleston is also an accomplished stage actor, having earned an Olivier Award for his role in Cymbeline.

  • Steve Carell
    20
    324 votes

    Known for his impeccable comedic timing and relatability, Steve Carell has enjoyed a successful career both in television and film. As the bumbling but lovable Michael Scott on The Office, he became a television icon, and later demonstrated his acting range in films like Little Miss Sunshine and Foxcatcher. Carell's multifaceted talent has garnered him numerous awards and nominations, including a Golden Globe Award.

  • Paul Rudd
    21
    Age: 55
    427 votes

    Equally skilled in comedy and drama, Paul Rudd possesses a natural charisma that has made him a fan favorite for over 25 years. Memorable roles in films like CluelessAnchorman, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Ant-Man exemplify his acting range. In addition to his on-screen work, Rudd is active in charitable causes, including the annual Big Slick fundraiser for pediatric cancer research.

  • Adam Driver
    22
    629 votes

    Rising from obscurity to become an acclaimed leading man, Adam Driver has demonstrated impressive acting range throughout his career. He captivated audiences as the villainous Kylo Ren in the Star Wars sequel trilogy and garnered critical acclaim for his roles in BlacKkKlansman and Marriage Story. For his exceptional work, Driver has been nominated for two Academy Awards and three Golden Globe Awards.

  • Ewan McGregor
    23
    347 votes

    From his unforgettable role as Renton in Trainspotting to his charming portrayal of Obi-Wan Kenobi in the Star Wars prequels, Ewan McGregor has showcased extraordinary talent throughout his career. He has also displayed his musical prowess in films like Moulin Rouge! and Beauty and the Beast. For his work, McGregor has earned numerous awards and nominations, including a Golden Globe Award.

  • Matt Damon
    24
    Age: 53
    446 votes

    Hailing from Cambridge, Massachusetts, Matt Damon has become one of the most accomplished and influential actors in Hollywood. He gained critical acclaim for his breakout role in Good Will Hunting, which he co-wrote with Ben Affleck and later collected an Oscar for. Damon's impressive body of work includes Saving Private RyanThe Bourne Identity, and The Martian, earning him numerous awards and nominations.

  • Harrison Ford
    25
    243 votes

    A living legend in the film industry, Harrison Ford has portrayed some of the most iconic characters in cinematic history. As Han Solo in Star Wars and Indiana Jones in the eponymous film series, he solidified his status as an A-list actor. Ford has been recognized for his achievements with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Film Institute.

    Harrison Ford, an iconic figure in Hollywood, carved a niche for himself through his remarkable acting abilities. Born on July 13, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, Ford's journey to stardom was not immediate. He initially worked as a carpenter to support his passion for acting. His breakthrough came when he was cast as Han Solo in Star Wars (1977) by George Lucas, which catapulted him to international fame. Ford's embodiment of the adventurous archaeologist Indiana Jones in Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981), and its subsequent sequels, further solidified his status as a leading man. His ability to balance action-packed roles with dramatic performances was demonstrated in films like Witness (1985), for which he received an Academy Award nomination, and The Fugitive (1993). His portrayal of various characters across genres showcased his versatility and established him as a household name. Beyond his acting career, Ford is a licensed pilot and dedicated environmentalist. He has used his influence to promote conservation efforts, particularly through his association with Conservation International, where he served as Vice Chair. Despite facing several setbacks, including a near-fatal plane crash in 2015, Ford's resilience and commitment to his craft and causes are testament to his enduring appeal and distinction in the entertainment industry.
  • J.K. Simmons
    26
    353 votes

    An actor with a commanding presence and versatile skill set, J.K. Simmons has appeared in a variety of genres throughout his extensive career. His memorable roles include J. Jonah Jameson in Sam Raimi's Spider-Man trilogy and Fletcher in Whiplash, earning him an Academy Award for the latter. Simmons is also well-known for his voice work in animated films and television shows.

  • Woody Harrelson
    27
    735 votes

    A versatile performer with a natural talent for comedy and drama, Woody Harrelson has entertained audiences for nearly four decades. He first gained fame as Woody Boyd on the television series "Cheers," before transitioning to films like White Men Can't Jump, Natural Born Killers, and Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri. Harrelson is also a dedicated environmental activist and animal rights advocate.

  • Jeff Bridges
    28
    301 votes

    With a decades-long career marked by memorable roles and an unmistakable charm, Jeff Bridges has established himself as a Hollywood icon. He has starred in films like The Big LebowskiCrazy Heart, and The Contender, earning several awards and nominations along the way. In addition to his acting career, Bridges is an accomplished musician and a passionate advocate for ending hunger.

  • Jake Gyllenhaal
    29
    834 votes

    From his breakthrough role in Donnie Darko to his gripping performance in Nightcrawler, Jake Gyllenhaal continuously pushes boundaries as an actor. He captivates audiences with his remarkable range, evidenced by his roles in films like Brokeback Mountain and Zodiac. Gyllenhaal has earned several awards and nominations, including a BAFTA Award and a Golden Globe nomination.

  • Chris Hemsworth
    30
    521 votes

    Australian actor Chris Hemsworth rose to international fame as the powerful and charismatic Norse god Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His performances in films like Rush, The Cabin in the Woods, and Blackhat demonstrate his impressive acting abilities. Outside of acting, Hemsworth is a devoted family man and an advocate for environmental conservation.