The Best Hispanic & Latina Actresses
Photo: Desperado / Sony Pictures Releasing

The Best Hispanic & Latina Actresses

Ranker Film
Updated March 22, 2024 343.6K views 89 items
Ranked By
58.8K votes
6.6K voters
17 reranks
Voting Rules
Vote up your favorite Latina and Hispanic actresses based on their English-language work

This list spotlights the best Latina actresses who have made a significant impact in Hollywood and English-language films. This curated selection is powered by your input, allowing fans to influence the ranks and bring attention to the most impressive Latina and Hispanic talents on screen. From dramatic roles that tug at the heartstrings to comedic performances that keep audiences laughing, these actresses have proven their versatility and range across various film genres, with some even clinching the industry's highest honors.

Latina celebrities like Jessica Alba can boast performances that span from the visually stunning world of Sin City to the playful family dynamics of Little Fockers. Jennifer Lopez is another luminary on the list, earning wide praise for her portrayal of the iconic Mexican-American singer in Selena, then effortlessly transitioning to romantic comedies such as The Wedding Planner.

Rita Moreno's Oscar-winning contribution to West Side Story remains a high watermark for Hispanic actresses in Hollywood. Joining her are renowned names like Rosario Dawson, who brings complexity to diverse roles, and the trailblazing Pam Grier, who embodies strength and charisma on film.

This list is where Latina actresses and stars from the Hispanic community shine, and your votes help to highlight the famous Hispanic actresses who resonate the most with audiences, from actresses just starting in their career, Latina actresses in their 30s, to more distinguished actresses with years of the craft under their belts. Share your thoughts and help us rank the best Latina actresses, whose performances have left an indelible mark on the film industry. By participating, you become a part of a larger conversation, established veterans, and every exceptional talent in between. 

Cast your vote and contribute to the ever-evolving narrative of Latinx actresses in cinema.

Most divisive: Alexis Bledel
Over 6.6K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Hispanic & Latina Actresses
  • Salma Hayek
    1

    Salma Hayek

    Age: 57
    2,918 votes

    Salma Hayek dazzled audiences as a fiery Mexican actress who transitioned seamlessly into Hollywood. Her iconic role in Frida showcased her capacity to channel intense emotion and complexity, while her versatility shone through in films like Desperado and comedies such as Grown Ups. Hayek's allure extends beyond acting, with her work as a producer on Ugly Betty reflecting a dedication to diverse storytelling.

    Regarded as one of Hollywood's finest, Hayek is celebrated for her relentless advocacy for Latina representation and her nuanced performances that defy stereotypes. Her ability to command the screen with grace and authenticity has earned her a reputation as a trailblazing figure among Latina actresses, making her a consistent favorite in discussions about compelling and influential talent in the industry.

    More Salma HayekRight Arrow
  • Penélope Cruz
    2

    Penélope Cruz

    Age: 50
    2,038 votes

    Penelope Cruz stands out as a Spanish actress whose international allure was cemented with entrancing roles in films like Volver and Vanilla Sky. Her collaboration with acclaimed director Pedro Almodóvar has been particularly fruitful, showcasing her as a muse capable of delivering powerful and emotionally charged performances. Cruz's range is evident across genres, earning her critical acclaim and a strong following.

    Acknowledge as one of Hollywood's premier Latina actresses, Cruz's skilled portrayal of complex characters has garnered her an Academy Award, making her the first Spanish actress to win an Oscar. Her seamless transition between Spanish and English-speaking roles, along with her unwavering commitment to authenticity and depth in her performances, places her among the best in an industry rich with talent.

    More Penélope CruzRight Arrow
  • Sofía Vergara
    3

    Sofía Vergara

    Age: 51
    2,081 votes

    Sofia Vergara is instantly recognizable for her role as the vivacious Gloria Delgado-Pritchett on the hit sitcom Modern Family. Her performance earned her multiple nominations and solidified her status as a prime-time favorite, capturing audiences with her impeccable comic timing and charismatic presence.

    Acknowledged as one of the best Latina actresses, Vergara has not only achieved success on-screen but has also been a formidable force in promoting Latina talent. Her crossover appeal and ability to bring warmth and humor to her roles have broken barriers in Hollywood, showcasing the multifaceted prowess of Latina actresses in an industry that clamors for more diversity.

    More Sofía VergaraRight Arrow
  • Eva Mendes
    4

    Eva Mendes

    Age: 50
    1,743 votes

    Eva Mendes gained prominence with her captivating roles in films like Training Day and Hitch. With her sultry persona and undeniable on-screen chemistry with co-stars, she navigated effortlessly through roles that ranged from action-packed dramas to romantic comedies, making her a versatile and memorable figure in modern cinema.

    Mendes is praised as one of Hollywood’s top Latina actresses for her ability to bring depth and strength to her characters. Her performances are marked by an innate confidence and a nuanced understanding of the complexities of her roles, helping to pave the way for broader Latina representation in the film industry.

    More Eva MendesRight Arrow
  • Jessica Alba
    5

    Jessica Alba

    Age: 43
    2,040 votes

    Jessica Alba first captured audience's attention as the lead in the television series Dark Angel before making a mark on the silver screen with her performances in Sin City and Fantastic Four. Her striking looks coupled with an ability to tackle action-packed roles helped to solidify her place in Hollywood.

    Her status as one of the industry's top Latina actresses is attributed to her blend of tenacity and vulnerability on-screen. Alba's commitment to diverse character portrayals and her participation in projects celebrating Latina heritage cement her reputation as an influential figure championing the visibility of Latina talent in an ever-evolving cinematic landscape.

    More Jessica AlbaRight Arrow
  • Zoe Saldaña
    6

    Zoe Saldaña

    Age: 45
    1,834 votes

    Zoe Saldaña has made a name for herself with her standout roles in some of Hollywood's highest-grossing films, including Avatar, the Star Trek reboot series, and as Gamora in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Her action hero roles have defied the typical expectations for Latina actresses, showcasing her versatility and broad appeal.

    Saldaña is revered as one of the best Latina actresses for her ability to carry major film franchises while bringing a sense of depth and authenticity to every character she portrays. Her prominence in sci-fi and action genres has broken new ground and inspired a generation of diverse actresses looking to make their mark in the industry.

    More Zoe SaldañaRight Arrow
  • Eva Longoria
    7

    Eva Longoria

    Age: 49
    1,506 votes

    Eva Longoria became a household name through her portrayal of the savvy and glamorous Gabrielle Solis on the smash-hit series Desperate Housewives. Her performance earned her critical acclaim and solidified her place on the small screen, while her subsequent roles in films like Over Her Dead Body and The Sentinel rounded out her acting repertoire.

    Celebrated as one of Hollywood's leading Latina actresses, Longoria's impact extends beyond her on-screen work. Her active role as a producer and director, as well as her advocacy for Latino representation and women's rights, underscores her commitment to empowering Latina voices and exemplifies why she's held in such high regard in the entertainment industry.

    More Eva LongoriaRight Arrow
  • Jennifer Lopez
    8

    Jennifer Lopez

    Age: 54
    1,946 votes

    Jennifer Lopez rose to prominence first as a dancer and singer before her breakthrough acting role in Selena, which captured the heart and soul of the beloved Tejano singer. Her versatile career continued to flourish with romantic comedies like Maid in Manhattan and thrillers such as Enough, showcasing her wide-ranging talent and appeal.

    Regarded as one of Hollywood’s most influential Latina actresses, Lopez's persistent boundary-breaking both on and off-screen has redefined Latina presence in the entertainment industry. Her dynamic performances, coupled with her trailblazing impact as a producer and cultural icon, solidify her status among the best, inspiring Latina artists to follow in her formidable footsteps.

    More Jennifer LopezRight Arrow
  • Ana de Armas
    9

    Ana de Armas

    Age: 36
    305 votes

    Ana de Armas gained international recognition with her breakout role in the critically acclaimed film Knives Out, where she delivered a captivating performance as the sincere and morally upright nurse, Marta Cabrera. She went on to star alongside Daniel Craig once again in No Time to Die, bringing depth and complexity to her character in the James Bond saga.

    De Armas is considered one of the best Latina actresses in Hollywood for her meteoric rise and the nuanced portrayals she brings to each role. Her ability to transition smoothly between English and Spanish-language films showcases her versatility and secures her spot as a rising star with a promising future ahead in the industry.

    More Ana de ArmasRight Arrow
  • Rosario Dawson
    10

    Rosario Dawson

    Age: 45
    1,436 votes

    Rosario Dawson's eclectic filmography showcases her range, with memorable roles in edgy films like Kids and Sin City, and her versatility in dramas such as Seven Pounds. Her performances are further complemented by her work in comic book adaptations like Daredevil and Luke Cage, where she brought gravitas as Claire Temple, a character that strings the Marvel TV universe together.

    Dawson is celebrated as one of Hollywood's top Latina actresses for her dedication to authentic storytelling and her ability to resonate with audiences in every character she embodies. Her activism and advocacy off-screen further amplify her impact as a role model and leading figure for Latina representation in the entertainment space.

    More Rosario DawsonRight Arrow
  • Rita Hayworth
    11

    Rita Hayworth

    Dec. at 68 (1918-1987)
    828 votes
    Rita Hayworth, born as Margarita Carmen Cansino on October 17, 1918, was an American actress and dancer who achieved fame during the 1940s as one of the era's top stars. Born into a family of dancers, Hayworth's early exposure to the performing arts paved the way for her future success. Her father, Eduardo Cansino, was a renowned Spanish classical dancer, and under his tutelage, Hayworth honed her dancing skills, which later became a distinguishing feature of her film career. Hayworth's cinematic journey began in the 1930s with minor roles in several films. However, it was her role in the film Only Angels Have Wings in 1939 that marked her rise to prominence. She went on to star in a string of successful films including You'll Never Get Rich, Gilda, and The Lady from Shanghai, showcasing her acting prowess and magnetic screen presence. Her portrayal of the title character in Gilda (1946) became particularly iconic, turning Hayworth into a cultural icon and one of Hollywood's most desired leading ladies. Beyond her captivating performances, Hayworth's personal life also made headlines. She was married five times, most notably to director Orson Welles and Prince Aly Khan. Despite her professional successes, her personal life was fraught with difficulties, including struggles with alcoholism and Alzheimer's disease. Rita Hayworth passed away on May 14, 1987, but her legacy continues to inspire generations of performers. Her contribution to the film industry earned her a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and in 1999, the American Film Institute named her one of the greatest female stars of Classic Hollywood cinema.
    More Rita HayworthRight Arrow
  • Jordana Brewster
    12

    Jordana Brewster

    Age: 44
    377 votes
    Jordana Brewster, a dazzling light of the Hollywood entertainment industry, was born on April 26, 1980 in Panama City, Panama. Of Brazilian and American descent, she showcases a vibrant blend of cultures that shines through her captivating performances. Her mother, Maria João, was a former swimsuit model from Brazil while her father, Alden Brewster, was an investment banker hailing from the United States. This distinct background effectively influenced Jordana's rich artistic flair. Her journey into acting began at an early age, marking her television debut in an episode of All My Children in 1995. However, it was her role as Nikki Munson in the daytime soap opera As the World Turns that brought her initial fame. Over time, she bloomed into a prolific actress, landing roles in both film and television. The turning point in her career came with her portrayal of Mia Toretto in the globally acclaimed Fast & Furious franchise, which catapulted her to international fame. This role allowed her to showcase her versatility as an actress, demonstrating her ability to portray dynamic characters in action-packed thrillers. Brewster's talents are not limited to acting alone. She has also made her mark in the modeling industry, working with prestigious brands like Gap. She was listed among Maxim magazine's Hot 100 in 2002, highlighting her prominence in the fashion world. Despite her success, Brewster remains grounded, balancing her personal and professional life with grace.
    More Jordana BrewsterRight Arrow
  • Rita Moreno
    13

    Rita Moreno

    Age: 92
    976 votes
    Rita Moreno is an illustrious figure in the entertainment industry. Born on December 11, 1931, in Humacao, Puerto Rico, as Rosa Dolores Alverío Marcano, she moved to New York City at a tender age of five. Her journey from a young immigrant girl to a global icon is a testament to her resilience and determination. Moreno's early interest in dance led her to take lessons, which eventually paved the way for her Broadway debut at just 13 years old. Moreno's career spans more than seven decades, encompassing theater, television, film, and music. She is one of the few artists to have won all four major American entertainment awards: an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony, also known as the coveted EGOT. Moreno's breakthrough came with her Oscar-winning performance in the 1961 film West Side Story. Despite facing typecasting and discrimination in Hollywood due to her Puerto Rican heritage, Moreno persevered, breaking barriers for Latino actors. Off-screen, Moreno has been equally impactful. She has been a vocal advocate for civil rights and has used her platform to address issues such as racial and gender inequality. In 2004, Moreno was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, in recognition of her contributions to the arts and her service to the community. Rita Moreno's enduring legacy continues to inspire generations of performers and activists alike.
    More Rita MorenoRight Arrow
  • Raquel Welch
    14

    Raquel Welch

    Dec. at 82 (1940-2023)
    1,052 votes
    Born Jo Raquel Tejada on September 5, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois, Raquel Welch is an iconic American actress and singer known for her enduring charm and remarkable talent. With her distinct style and timeless beauty, Welch made a name for herself in the entertainment industry, becoming one of the leading sex symbols of the 1960s and 1970s. Her breakthrough role was in the 1966 science fiction film One Million Years B.C., where she wore a now-iconic fur bikini that cemented her status as a Hollywood sex symbol. Welch's career spans over five decades, showcasing her versatility across various genres from drama to comedy. Some of her notable performances include roles in films like Fantastic Voyage (1966), Bandolero! (1968), and The Three Musketeers (1973), for which she won a Golden Globe Award. Apart from her film career, Welch also made significant strides on stage, starring in Broadway productions such as Woman of the Year (1982) and Victor/Victoria (1995). In addition to her acting prowess, Welch is also celebrated for her singing ability. She released her debut album, This Girl's Back in Town, in 1987, demonstrating her artistic range. Moreover, she authored a number of fitness books, making significant contributions to health and fitness culture of the time. Recognizing her impact on the entertainment industry, the Golden Globe-winning actress was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1994. Despite her fame and success, Welch remains a humble and passionate artist, embodying a unique blend of beauty, talent, and tenacity that continues to inspire generations.
    More Raquel WelchRight Arrow
  • Michelle Rodriguez
    15

    Michelle Rodriguez

    Age: 45
    1,487 votes
    Michelle Rodriguez, born Mayte Michelle Rodriguez on July 12, 1978, is a renowned American actress widely recognized for her strong, independent roles in high-octane action films. She was born in San Antonio, Texas, but lived in various locations including Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic during her early life. With her roots in both the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, Rodriguez's diverse background has contributed significantly to her versatile acting career. Rodriguez first burst onto the Hollywood scene in 2000 with her electrifying performance in Karyn Kusama's critically acclaimed film Girlfight. The role, which won her several awards, including an Independent Spirit Award, catapulted Rodriguez into the spotlight and established her reputation as a prominent figure in action cinema. This led to significant roles in blockbuster franchises such as The Fast and the Furious and Resident Evil, where she continued to demonstrate her skill in portraying resilient, tough characters. Beyond her acting career, Rodriguez is also known for her dedication to environmental causes. She has been an active supporter of numerous charities and organizations aimed at protecting the environment and promoting sustainable practices. Furthermore, her philanthropic efforts extend to advocating for social justice and equality, demonstrating her commitment to making a positive impact off-screen.
    More Michelle RodriguezRight Arrow
  • Melissa Fumero
    16

    Melissa Fumero

    Age: 41
    880 votes
    Melissa Fumero (née Gallo; born August 19, 1982) is an American actress and director. She is known for portraying Amy Santiago on Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Adriana Cramer on One Life to Live.
    More Melissa FumeroRight Arrow
  • Jenna Ortega
    17

    Jenna Ortega

    401 votes
    Jenna Marie Ortega (born September 27, 2002) is an American actress. She is known for her roles in Jane the Virgin on The CW and Stuck in the Middle on Disney Channel. She is also the voice of Princess Isabel in the Disney Channel animated television series Elena of Avalor. In March 2018 Ortega joined the cast of the ABC television pilot Man of the House, playing the role of Elena who is described as a "a beautiful and mean spirited only child, who doesn't adjust well to living with her cousins.
    More Jenna OrtegaRight Arrow
  • Aubrey Plaza
    18

    Aubrey Plaza

    Age: 39
    993 votes
    Aubrey Plaza, renowned for her distinctive comedic flair, has etched her mark in the entertainment industry as both a talented actress and producer. Born on June 26, 1984, in Wilmington, Delaware, she was drawn to performing arts from a young age, attending Ursuline Academy for high school and later pursuing a degree in film at New York University's prestigious Tisch School of the Arts. Plaza's rise to fame came with her breakthrough role as the sardonic April Ludgate in the hit television series Parks and Recreation. This role not only showcased her unique brand of humor but also earned her critical acclaim and a loyal following. Not confined to the small screen, Plaza has excelled in film as well; notable roles include her performances in Safety Not Guaranteed, The To Do List, and Ingrid Goes West. Her prowess extends beyond acting, as demonstrated by her work as a producer on the latter film. Not one to be pigeonholed, Plaza has also lent her voice to animation, with credits including Monsters University and The Legend of Korra. She has made appearances on popular talk shows, hosted award ceremonies, and even ventured into the world of improv during her time with the Upright Citizens Brigade, proving her versatility in the industry. Aubrey Plaza, with her unconventional approach to comedy and commitment to her craft, continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
    More Aubrey PlazaRight Arrow
  • Gina Rodriguez
    19

    Gina Rodriguez

    Age: 38
    1,106 votes
    Gina Alexis Rodriguez (born July 30, 1984) is an American actress, model, writer, producer, and director. She began her career the stage, she made her screen debut in an episode of Law & Order. Her breakthrough came in 2012, in the independent musical-drama film Filly Brown. In 2014, Rodriguez began starring as Jane Villanueva in The CW comedy-drama series Jane the Virgin, for which she has been nominated for three Golden Globe Awards for Best Actress in a Television Series Musical or Comedy, winning once in 2015. She has gone on to star in the disaster film Deepwater Horizon (2016) and science fiction horror film Annihilation (2018). Rodriguez made her screen debut appearing in an episode of Law & Order in 2004. She later has appeared on Eleventh Hour, Army Wives and The Mentalist. On October 19, 2011, Rodriguez landed the recurring role, Beverly, in the soap opera series The Bold and the Beautiful. She received a role in the musical film Go for It!, for which she received a 2011 Imagen Awards nomination.
    More Gina RodriguezRight Arrow
  • Morena Baccarin
    20

    Morena Baccarin

    Age: 44
    369 votes
    Born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Morena Baccarin is a compelling actress whose versatile performances have resonated with international audiences across television, film, and theatre. She was born on June 2, 1979, to actress Vera Setta and journalist Fernando Baccarin. Raised in a household that encouraged artistic expression, Morena's passion for performance was nurtured from an early age. At the age of 10, her family relocated to New York City, where she later attended the prestigious Juilliard School. Morena Baccarin's career skyrocketed after landing her first major role in Joss Whedon's cult classic series Firefly in 2002. Her portrayal of the character Inara Serra, a sophisticated companion, garnered critical acclaim, establishing her as a dynamic talent in the industry. This was followed by a string of successful roles in other acclaimed television series such as V and Homeland, for which she received an Emmy nomination. In the realm of film, she is perhaps best known for her role as Vanessa Carlysle in the blockbuster Deadpool series. Despite her on-screen success, Morena has never shied away from her theatrical roots. She has graced the stage in various productions, including the Central Park production of The Seagull, where she played the role of Nina. Off the screen and stage, Morena devotes time to philanthropic endeavors, particularly those related to women's rights and child welfare. A multifaceted performer with an undeniable presence, Morena Baccarin continues to captivate audiences with her talent, proving herself to be an enduring figure in the world of entertainment.
    More Morena BaccarinRight Arrow
  • Roselyn Sánchez
    21

    Roselyn Sánchez

    Age: 51
    1,004 votes
    Roselyn Sánchez is a multitalented Puerto Rican artist. She was born on April 2, 1973 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. From a young age, she demonstrated her passion for the arts through dancing and acting. Her initial fame arose from her crowning as Miss Puerto Rico Petite in 1993 and Miss American Petite in 1994, paving the way for her future journey in show business. Sánchez's acting career soared to prominence in the late 1990s with key roles in acclaimed films and television series. She played pivotal characters in movies like Rush Hour 2 and The Game Plan, cementing her status as a versatile actress. On television, she is best known for her performance in the hit series Without a Trace for which she received several award nominations. Her portrayal of Carmen Luna in the popular show Devious Maids further highlighted her talent and versatility. Apart from acting, Sánchez is also recognized for her singing prowess. She launched her music career in 2003 with the release of her debut album Borinqueña. The album was well-received and spawned the hit single "Amor Amor". A testament to her multifaceted persona, Sánchez has also dabbled in writing, co-authoring the children's book Sebi and the Land of Cha Cha Cha.
    More Roselyn SánchezRight Arrow
  • Victoria Justice
    22

    Victoria Justice

    Age: 31
    1,134 votes
    Victoria Justice, an American actress and singer, has carved a niche for herself in the entertainment industry. Born on February 19, 1993, in Hollywood, Florida, she moved to Hollywood, California, at the age of ten to pursue her dream of acting. Her journey began with small roles in television series such as Gilmore Girls and The Suite Life of Zack & Cody, but her breakthrough came from Nickelodeon's Zoey 101, where she played Lola Martinez. Justice's rise to prominence continued with her leading role in another Nickelodeon series, Victorious, where she played the character Tori Vega, a teenage girl studying at a performing arts high school. The show was wildly successful during its run from 2010 to 2013, and it helped cement Victoria's place in teen pop culture. In addition to showcasing her acting capabilities, Victorious also offered Justice a platform to display her vocal skills. She performed several songs for the show, some of which were released as singles and became quite popular. Beyond her Nickelodeon days, Justice has kept busy with various film and television projects. She starred in the MTV thriller series Eye Candy and made appearances in films like The Outcasts and Bigger. As a singer, she has performed several songs for soundtracks and has released a handful of singles. Despite her early start, Victoria Justice continues to evolve as an entertainer, leaving a lasting impression on her audience with her versatile talents.
    More Victoria JusticeRight Arrow
  • Cote de Pablo
    23

    Cote de Pablo

    Age: 44
    935 votes
    María José de Pablo Fernández, known professionally as Cote de Pablo (born November 12, 1979), is a Chilean-American actress and singer. Born in Santiago, Chile, at the age of ten she moved to the United States, where she studied acting. De Pablo co-hosted episodes of the Latin-American talk show Control with former Entertainment Tonight host, Carlos Ponce, at the age of 15 before attending Carnegie Mellon University to study music and theatre. After appearing in a number of television roles, she was cast to portray main character Ziva David in the CBS television series NCIS in 2005 and won an ALMA Award for the role in 2011. She performed a portion of Tom Waits' song "Temptation" for a 2008 episode of NCIS. Outside the series, she has sung on Roberto Pitre's Vivo En Vida CD.
    More Cote de PabloRight Arrow
  • Natalie Martinez
    24

    Natalie Martinez

    Age: 39
    689 votes
    Natalie Martinez (born July 12, 1984) is an American actress and model. She may be best known for her role in the 2008 film Death Race, her appearances in several music videos between 2003 and 2011, and two short-lived telenovelas in 2006 and 2007. Martinez starred in the single season of crime drama Detroit 1-8-7, had a recurring role for one season of CSI: NY, and starred in one season of the DirecTV drama series Kingdom. She has an upcoming role as Chase in the Netflix science fiction miniseries The I-Land.
    More Natalie MartinezRight Arrow
  • Patricia Velásquez
    25

    Patricia Velásquez

    Age: 53
    319 votes
    Patricia Velásquez, a Venezuelan actress and model of Wayuu heritage, possessed an innate ability to captivate audiences with her natural beauty and exceptional talent. Born on January 31, 1971, in Zulia, Venezuela, she was raised in Paris, France, where she pursued a career in modeling. Patricia swiftly rose to prominence, gracing the runways for revered fashion houses such as Chanel, Gucci, and Versace, among others. With her striking features, she successfully turned heads in the fashion world and secured her place as the first Latina supermodel. In the midst of building her successful modeling career, Patricia exhibited a deep-seated passion for acting. Her big break came in 1999 when she played Anck-su-Namun in the blockbuster film The Mummy and its subsequent sequel. This role cemented her status in Hollywood and led to notable appearances in television series like Arrested Development, American Family, and CSI: Miami. Patricia's dynamic acting abilities, coupled with her unique cultural background, allowed her to bring a level of depth and authenticity to her roles that was both refreshing and compelling. Outside of her thriving entertainment career, Patricia Velásquez has always been deeply committed to philanthropy. She founded the Wayúu Tayá Foundation in 2002, with a focus on improving the lives of Latin American indigenous communities. Through this foundation, she has made significant contributions towards education, health, and infrastructure development, reflecting her unwavering commitment to her roots.
    More Patricia VelásquezRight Arrow
  • Anya Taylor-Joy
    26
    Anya Taylor-Joy (born April 16, 1996) is an American-born Argentine-British actress. Her breakthrough role was Thomasin in the horror film The Witch. She was nominated for the BAFTA Rising Star Award in 2017. She has also starred in Glass (2019), Thoroughbreds (2017), and Split (2016).
    More Anya Taylor-JoyRight Arrow
  • Naya Rivera
    27

    Naya Rivera

    Dec. at 33 (1987-2020)
    763 votes
    Naya Marie Rivera (January 12, 1987 - July 13, 2020) was an American actress and singer. She began her career as a child actress and model, appearing in national television commercials before landing the role of Hillary Winston on the short-lived CBS sitcom The Royal Family at the age of 4 (1991–1992), for which she received a nomination for a Young Artist Award. After a series of recurring television roles and guest spots as a teenager, Rivera received her breakthrough role as an adult as Santana Lopez on the Fox television series Glee (2009–2015), for which she received nominations for numerous accolades. Rivera made her feature film debut as Vera in the horror film At the Devil's Door (2014), and recurred as Blanca on the third season of the Lifetime television series Devious Maids in 2015. In 2016, she published a memoir with TarcherPerigee, Sorry Not Sorry: Dreams, Mistakes, and Growing Up.
    More Naya RiveraRight Arrow
  • America Ferrera
    28

    America Ferrera

    Age: 40
    825 votes
    America Georgine Ferrera (; born April 18, 1984) is an American actress, voice actress, and producer. Born in Los Angeles, California, to Honduran parents, Ferrera developed an interest in acting at a young age, performing in several stage productions at her school. She made her feature film debut in 2002 with the comedy drama Real Women Have Curves, winning praise for her performance. Ferrera is the recipient of numerous accolades including an Emmy Award, a Golden Globe Award, and a Screen Actors Guild Award among others. Ferrera garnered modest success early in her career with roles in films like the Disney original Gotta Kick It Up! (2002) and the drama The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005); the latter earned her the Imagen Award Best Actress and her first nomination at the ALMA Awards. She ventured into television roles and landed the leading part on the ABC comedy drama Ugly Betty (2006–2010). Ferrera garnered critical acclaim for playing the protagonist of the series Betty Suarez, and won the Best Actress Awards at various award ceremonies in 2007 including the Golden Globe Awards, the Screen Actors Guild Awards, and the Primetime Emmy Award, the first for a Latin woman in the category. Ferrera's other notable film roles include the drama The Dry Land (2010), the romantic comedy Our Family Wedding (2010), and the crime drama End of Watch (2012). She provided the voice of Astrid Hofferson in the How to Train Your Dragon franchise, including the three films and the television series Dreamworks Dragons. She co-produces and stars as Amy Dubanowski in the NBC comedy series Superstore (2015–present). Ferrera garnered wide recognition for Ugly Betty. Time magazine named her one of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2007.
    More America FerreraRight Arrow
  • Paula Patton
    29

    Paula Patton

    Age: 48
    669 votes
    Paula Patton, an American actress hailing from Los Angeles, California, has carved a niche for herself in the world of cinema with her notable performances and dynamic acting skills. Born on December 5, 1975, to a school teacher mother and a lawyer father, Patton's diverse cultural background, with African-American, German, and English ancestry, shaped her early life and later influenced her approach to her roles. Patton's journey into the entertainment industry began with a unique blend of determination and serendipity. After earning a degree in critical film studies from the University of Southern California's School of Cinematic Arts, she started her career behind the camera, working on documentaries for PBS. Her transition to on-screen work came after a successful audition for the 2005 film, Hitch, which marked her debut. Since then, Patton displayed her versatility by portraying a wide range of characters in various film genres, including comedy, drama, and action. Some of her most memorable performances include roles in Precious, Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol, and 2 Guns. Despite facing several personal and professional challenges, Patton continued to rise, proving her mettle time and again. She has not only achieved success as an actress but also ventured into producing movies, thus extending her influence within the film industry.
    More Paula PattonRight Arrow
  • Constance Marie
    30

    Constance Marie

    Age: 58
    553 votes
    Constance Marie Lopez (born September 9, 1965) known professionally as Constance Marie, is an American actress of Mexican origin. She is known for her role as Angie Lopez in George Lopez (2002–2007) and her role as Marcela Quintanilla (mother of Selena) in the film Selena (1997). She portrayed Regina Vasquez in the ABC Family/Freeform drama series Switched at Birth (2011–2017).