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The Best (Male) Actors Working Today

Buster McDermott

Updated April 16, 2024 1.6M views

Ranked By

2.1M votes

141.4K voters

146 reranks

Voting Rules

Working male actors who have starred in major films or TV series in the last ~5 years

The best actors working today include Hollywood legends, Academy Award winners and many of the top up and coming actors in the world right now. These talented and beautiful men grace the big and small screen with brilliant performances in our favorite movies and TV shows and do it really, really well. It's likely that many of these actors will long be remembered among the best actors of all time.

For many of these best male actors, being part of Hollywood's elite is nothing new. The likes of George Clooney, Morgan Freeman, Anthony Hopkins, Al Pacino, and Christopher Walken, among other popular actors, have been around for decades and lost little of that spark that made them favorites.

Moving into a slightly younger crowd, many of the best current actors are quickly becoming legendary. Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, Leonardo DiCaprio, Christian Bale, Ryan Gosling, Aaron Paul, Michael Fassbender, Chris Hemswoth, Henry Cavill and Johnny Depp are not just all hot, but among the best Hollywood has to offer today.

How do you compare the newcomers and the veterans to the greatest actors of all time? However you rank them, do so below on this list of the best actors working today!

Most divisive: Kevin Spacey

Over 141.4K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Actors Working Now

1
Leonardo DiCaprio
Age: 49
41,020 votes
This Titanic superstar finally clinched an Oscar for his bone-chilling performance in The Revenant, after years of chased clout. Well-known for his collaborations with Martin Scorsese, he's also used his platform for environmental activism, packing a punch both on-screen and off. Leo's continually evolving acting has made him a true tour de force in Hollywood, leaving audiences pining for his every performance.
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2
Morgan Freeman
Age: 86
37,814 votes
Freeman's voice is as legendary as his knack for dramatic roles, putting him on the map with performances in top-tier films like The Shawshank Redemption and Million Dollar Baby, for which he bagged an Oscar. His unrivaled narration skills were icing on the cake in documentaries like March of the Penguins. The man's versatility and gravitas have made him a Hollywood mainstay, always bringing an extra layer of depth to the roles he embodies.
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3
Robert Downey Jr.
Age: 59
37,960 votes
From Iron Man to Sherlock Holmes, Downey's charisma and magnetic performances have left audiences spellbound. He hit paydirt with his role as Tony Stark in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, becoming the poster boy for superhero flicks. Despite facing personal upheavals, he clawed his way back to stardom and his ongoing charm offensive has made him a box office goldmine.
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4
Johnny Depp
Age: 60
37,166 votes
Despite a rollercoaster career, Johnny Depp's performances in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise solidified his status as a massive box office draw. His collaborations with director Tim Burton have given us some truly unique characters, showcasing Depp's incredible versatility. No matter the controversy, Depp's allure and magnetism ensure he remains a Hollywood staple, always ready to bounce back.
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5
Denzel Washington
Age: 69
28,846 votes
An Academy Award darling, Washington has earned his stripes with unforgettable roles in films like Training Day and Glory. He's shown a magic touch when it comes to choosing roles that showcase his acting prowess, hitting the ball out of the park every time. Washington consistently tops the game, delivering performances that reverberate, dropping anchor in our hearts and minds.
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6
Brad Pitt
Age: 60
28,734 votes
Brad Pitt's superstar status was sealed with hits like Fight Club and Ocean's Eleven, but it's his more recent role in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood that snagged him an Oscar. He's a smooth operator, juggling acting with successful production projects under his company, Plan B Entertainment. Pitt's chameleonic abilities have endowed him with a career that packs a wallop, making him a Hollywood linchpin.
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7
Hugh Jackman
Age: 55
27,038 votes
Australia's crown jewel, Jackman's performance as Wolverine in the X-Men franchise has turned him into a household name. His Oscar-nominated turn in Les Misérables only went on to reinforce his A-list status. Whether he's singing, dancing, or slicing through baddies, Jackman consistently hits the high notes, making him a star who's as versatile as they come.
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8
Gary Oldman
Age: 66
23,485 votes
Oldman, heralded for his transformative performances, struck gold with his Oscar-winning portrayal of Winston Churchill in Darkest Hour. From Sirius Black to Commissioner Gordon, his chameleon-like talent makes it feel as if there's no role he can't tackle. Oldman's performances are like a fine wine - they just get better with time.
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9
Samuel L. Jackson
Age: 75
26,367 votes
Samuel L. Jackson: With a discography that's more loaded than a Christmas turkey, Samuel L. Jackson's performances in hits like Pulp Fiction have made him a Hollywood titan. His role as Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe has left a significant footprint, tying together multiple films with his singular presence. Jackson's distinctive style and legendary enunciation make him an integral piece of the Hollywood puzzle, a pure cinematic dynamo.
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10
Matt Damon
Age: 53
24,163 votes
From Good Will Hunting to The Martian, Damon's knack for choosing meaty roles and delivering powerful performances has cemented his star status. He's not just a one-trick pony, though; Damon's writing chops have also been recognized, snagging him an Oscar for his Good Will Hunting screenplay. Whether he's outsmarting geniuses or stranded on Mars, Damon has proven time and again he's playing with a full deck.
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11
Robert De Niro
Age: 80
28,486 votes
With an armload of Oscars and starring roles in classics like The Godfather Part II and Raging Bull, De Niro requires no introduction. A true legend of the silver screen, his roles in Scorsese films have seen him deliver performances that cut through the noise. Regardless of the industry's ebbs and flows, De Niro always stays afloat, gleaning respect from every corner.
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12
Anthony Hopkins
Age: 86
27,031 votes
A thespian of the royal order, Hopkins achieved legendary status for his chilling portrayal of Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs. His recent Emmy-winning performance in Westworld solidified his position as a jewel in the acting world's crown, adept at delivering a masterclass in every role. Hopkins shows no signs of slowing down and continues to send ripples across the industry with each new performance.
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13
Tom Hardy
Age: 46
20,648 votes
Hardy has proved himself as a character chameleon, from the gruff title role in Mad Max: Fury Road to the hulking Bane in The Dark Knight Rises. His intense performances have put him on the radar as a powerhouse actor capable of tackling even the most challenging roles. Hardy's raw and primal acting have him always teetering on the edge of greatness, never failing to thrill audiences.
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14
Benedict Cumberbatch
Age: 47
20,292 votes
Cumberbatch's uncanny ability to portray unusual characters, like Sherlock Holmes or Doctor Strange, has seen him rise to the top. His Emmy-winning performance in Sherlock showcased his ability to merge eccentricity and intelligence in a captivating package. From the eccentric to the extraordinary, Benedict remains an actor whose performances always pack a punch.
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15
Ryan Reynolds
Age: 47
17,888 votes
Best known for his quippy and irreverent performance in Deadpool, Reynolds' charm and wit have made him a Hollywood favorite. His self-aware humor on and off the screen keeps audiences entertained and his slick performances make every film a joyride. Reynolds runs the gamut from action to romance, catapulting him to headliner status, and showcasing his immense versatility and star power.
16
Harrison Ford
Age: 81
20,354 votes
From swashbuckling adventurer Indiana Jones to space rogue Han Solo, Ford's iconic roles are imprinted upon the annals of Hollywood history. Despite the inevitable trials of a seasoned acting career, Ford has managed to sail the seven seas of the industry. His potent charisma and knack for choosing influential roles consolidate his legacy, making him one of cinema's eternal shining stars.
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17
Michael Caine
Age: 91
15,206 votes
Sir Michael Caine is an iconic figure in cinema history, captivating audiences with his performances in movies such as The Italian Job and Oscar-winning roles in Hannah and Her Sisters. Though he might seem like an old hat, Caine continues to churn out solid performances proving his worth time and time again. This English behemoth, with a career spanning over six decades, is more than a blip on the radar of Hollywood’s greats.
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18
Matthew McConaughey
Age: 54
21,871 votes
Matthew McConaughey is renowned for his dynamic portrayals, notably his Oscar-winning performance in Dallas Buyers Club. His roles, spanning from romantic leads in rom-coms like How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days to more dramatic characters in True Detective, demonstrate his range and ability to adapt. He has truly become an indomitable force in Hollywood, leaving a distinct imprint on audiences around the globe.
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19
Keanu Reeves
Age: 59
11,844 votes
From The Matrix to John Wick, the strikingly humble Reeves has become synonymous with thrilling action flicks. Despite personal tragedy, he's managed to stay afloat in the industry, remaining a fan favorite with his down-to-earth manner. Keanu's dominance of the action genre and his enduring appeal make this star man impossible to write off.
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20
Al Pacino
Age: 83
20,971 votes
Al Pacino, an irreplaceable figure in Hollywood, clinched his iconic status long ago with legendary performances in The Godfather and Scarface. With an Oscar under his belt and countless nominations, he's been a mega influential figure since his inception into the film industry. Every time this guy steps onto the screen, it’s as if he’s hitting a home run - every bit the seasoned pro and perpetual powerhouse.
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21
Liam Neeson
Age: 71
21,329 votes
Liam Neeson might be a gent in his '70s, but this hasn’t stopped him from becoming a bona fide action star with films like Taken and Non-Stop. A previous Oscar nominee for Schindler's List, Neeson has taken the Hollywood film scene by storm with his ability to mix intense drama with high-octane action. He’s a one-two punch of charisma and strength that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
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22
Joaquin Phoenix
Age: 49
17,518 votes
Joaquin Phoenix, a name synonymous with powerful performances, has had a significant impact in Hollywood. Winning an Oscar for his masterful portrayal in Joker, and leaving a lasting impression as the conflicted Commodus in Gladiator, Phoenix cements himself as an actor who takes his craft seriously. Phoenix’s performances are not just a drop in the bucket; they’re full exhibitions of varied range and emotional insight.
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23
Jake Gyllenhaal
Age: 43
19,106 votes
Jake Gyllenhaal continuously pushes boundaries in Hollywood with his evocative performances in films such as Brokeback Mountain, earning him an Oscar nomination, and Nightcrawler, where he transformed into a chilling sociopath. This enigmatic actor's commitment to character exploration and depth has made him a beacon of versatility and talent. He’s no flash in the pan, continuously elevating the playing field with each performance.
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24
Bradley Cooper
Age: 49
20,050 votes
Bradley Cooper, with an impressive resume ranging from comedies like The Hangover to dramatic films like American Sniper, is a jack-of-all-trades in the Hollywood world. His performance in Silver Linings Playbook landed him an Oscar Nomination, showing his capacity to take the bull by the horns and achieve commendable success. This actor-producer combo isn't one to rest on his laurels, consistently bringing his A-game and changing the landscape of cinema.
25
Tom Hanks
Age: 67
40,707 votes
Tom Hanks, with his boy-next-door charm and extraordinary acting skill, has become a household name due to performances in films like Forrest Gump and Saving Private Ryan, for which he won Oscars. With an impressive knack for making even the simplest of roles memorable, Hanks has proven he is not a flash in the pan. His filmography is as American as apple pie, consistently weaving tales that touch the hearts of millions around the world.
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26
Christian Bale
Age: 50
33,757 votes
Christian Bale is a master of transformation, known for his willingness to physically alter himself for roles in films like The Machinist and The Dark Knight. The Oscar-laden actor is as dependable as a Swiss watch, delivering stunning performances movie after movie. Bale's commitment to his craft feels like that of a dog with a bone, chewing away until he achieves unrivaled success.
27
Clint Eastwood
Age: 93
15,252 votes
Clint Eastwood, often dubbed Hollywood's enduring icon, created ripples with his roles in Westerns like The Good, the Bad and the Ugly and Dirty Harry. Winning two Academy awards for Best Director for Unforgiven and Million Dollar Baby, Eastwood's squinty-eyed, tough-guy persona caused quite a stir in the industry. His enduring influence can be seen not only in his vast filmography, but in the countless actors and directors who have followed in his swashbuckling footsteps.
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28
Ian McKellen
Age: 84
17,290 votes
Ian McKellen, a treasure trove of talent, is best known for his spell-binding performances as Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings series and Magneto in X-Men. Knighthood and multiple Oscar nominations later, McKellen has definitely left an indelible mark on the international film industry. His performances are like lightning in a bottle, capturing the energy and magic that few other actors can channel.
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29
Cillian Murphy
Age: 47
4,939 votes
Cillian Murphy, the Irish actor known for his piercing blue eyes, has proved his mettle in Hollywood. From his role as the tormented Scarecrow in Batman Begins to his riveting performance as the gangster Tommy Shelby in Peaky Blinders, Murphy's performances ring clear as a bell, never ceasing to impress. He’s not just a cog in the machine of Hollywood; he’s a commanding force, leaving everyone on pins and needles.
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30
Christopher Walken
Age: 81
16,331 votes
Christopher Walken, with his unmistakable voice and intimidating presence, has cultivated a far-reaching and influential career. He's embraced a myriad of roles, earning an Oscar for his role in The Deer Hunter, and has become renowned for his masterful performances. Walken’s not just a hard hitter in Hollywood, he’s the whole shebang.
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