In the glimmering world of Hollywood, certain actors have transcended the ordinary to become cultural icons. The following list explores the top 100 actors of all time, a celebration of talent, versatility, and enduring impact on the film industry and beyond. Each entry includes links to their notable works, snippets from their illustrious careers, and why they hold a place in cinematic history.
1. Marlon Brando
Notable Films: The Godfather, On the Waterfront, A Streetcar Named Desire
Awards: 2 Academy Awards
Legacy: Brando revolutionized acting with his method style, influencing countless actors.
2. Robert De Niro
Notable Films: Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, The Godfather Part II
Awards: 2 Academy Awards
Legacy: Known for his intense character studies, De Niro has become a symbol of cinematic authenticity.
Discover Robert De Niro’s filmography
3. Al Pacino
Notable Films: Scarface, The Godfather, Scent of a Woman
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Pacino’s commanding presence and brilliant dramatic range have made him a Hollywood heavyweight.
4. Humphrey Bogart
Notable Films: Casablanca, The Maltese Falcon, The African Queen
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Bogart defined the film noir genre and is celebrated for his iconic roles and tough-guy persona.
Check out Humphrey Bogart’s works
5. James Stewart
Notable Films: It’s a Wonderful Life, Rear Window, Vertigo
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Stewart’s everyman charm and dramatic depth have left an indelible mark on cinema.
Explore James Stewart’s filmography
6. Audrey Hepburn
Notable Films: Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Roman Holiday, My Fair Lady
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Hepburn is celebrated not just for her beauty but also for her humanitarian work and iconic roles.
Discover Audrey Hepburn’s legacy
7. Katharine Hepburn
Notable Films: Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, The Philadelphia Story, On Golden Pond
Awards: 4 Academy Awards
Legacy: Known for her fierce independence, Hepburn’s career spanned over six decades.
See Katharine Hepburn’s movies
8. Jack Nicholson
Notable Films: One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, The Shining, As Good as It Gets
Awards: 3 Academy Awards
Legacy: Nicholson’s ability to switch between the charming and the terrifying is legendary.
Explore Jack Nicholson’s filmography
9. Daniel Day-Lewis
Notable Films: There Will Be Blood, Lincoln, My Left Foot
Awards: 3 Academy Awards
Legacy: Renowned for his immersive method acting, Day-Lewis is considered one of the greatest actors of his generation.
Check out Daniel Day-Lewis’s works
10. Denzel Washington
Notable Films: Training Day, Fences, Malcolm X
Awards: 2 Academy Awards
Legacy: Washington’s powerful performances and charisma have made him a box office draw and critical darling.
Discover Denzel Washington’s filmography
11. Nicole Kidman
Notable Films: Moulin Rouge!, The Hours, Big Little Lies
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Kidman’s versatility ranges from musicals to dramatic performances, making her one of the most respected actresses.
Explore Nicole Kidman’s movies
12. Leonardo DiCaprio
Notable Films: Titanic, The Revenant, Inception
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: DiCaprio is known for his commitment to roles and environmental activism, becoming an iconic presence on screen and off.
Check out Leonardo DiCaprio’s filmography
13. Bette Davis
Notable Films: All About Eve, What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?, Jezebel
Awards: 2 Academy Awards
Legacy: Davis is known for her intense performances and as a pioneer for women in the film industry.
14. Morgan Freeman
Notable Films: The Shawshank Redemption, Se7en, Driving Miss Daisy
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: With his distinctive voice and commanding presence, Freeman is a beloved figure in Hollywood and beyond.
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15. Judi Dench
Notable Films: Shakespeare in Love, Philomena, Skyfall
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: A titan of stage and screen, Dench has captivated audiences for decades with her remarkable talent.
16. Robin Williams
Notable Films: Good Will Hunting, Dead Poets Society, Mrs. Doubtfire
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Williams was known for his comedic genius and heartfelt performances, deeply regarded as one of the greats.
17. Marilyn Monroe
Notable Films: Some Like It Hot, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, The Seven Year Itch
Legacy: Monroe’s persona and allure have made her a symbol of beauty and glamour in Hollywood history.
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18. Clint Eastwood
Notable Films: Unforgiven, Gran Torino, Million Dollar Baby
Awards: 2 Academy Awards
Legacy: Eastwood’s impact as both an actor and director has made him a significant figure in film history.
Check out Clint Eastwood’s filmography
19. Christian Bale
Notable Films: American Psycho, The Dark Knight, The Fighter
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Bale’s intense transformations and dedication to roles are well-known throughout the film industry.
20. Viola Davis
Notable Films: Fences, The Help, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Davis is celebrated for her powerful performances and advocacy for minority representation in film.
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21. Cate Blanchett
Notable Films: Blue Jasmine, Elizabeth, The Aviator
Awards: 2 Academy Awards
Legacy: Blanchett’s exceptional range and ability to embody diverse characters make her one of the finest actresses of her generation.
Explore Cate Blanchett’s films
22. Sean Penn
Notable Films: Mystic River, Milk, 21 Grams
Awards: 2 Academy Awards
Legacy: Penn’s dedication to acting and humanitarian efforts have solidified his status in Hollywood.
Check out Sean Penn’s filmography
23. George Clooney
Notable Films: Ocean’s Eleven, Syriana, The Descendants
Awards: 2 Academy Awards
Legacy: Clooney is known for his charm, versatility, and commitment to humanitarian causes.
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24. Sidney Poitier
Notable Films: Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, Lilies of the Field, To Sir, with Love
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Poitier broke racial barriers in Hollywood, paving the way for future generations of actors.
Explore Sidney Poitier’s works
25. Sally Field
Notable Films: Norma Rae, Steel Magnolias, Forrest Gump
Awards: 2 Academy Awards
Legacy: Field is known for her emotional performances and strong female roles in cinema.
Check out Sally Field’s movies
26. Paul Newman
Notable Films: Cool Hand Luke, The Hustler, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Newman was an actor and philanthropist known for his striking looks and exceptional talent.
Discover Paul Newman’s filmography
27. Ben Kingsley
Notable Films: Gandhi, Schindler’s List, House of Sand and Fog
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Kingsley’s ability to transform into a variety of characters has earned him widespread acclaim.
28. Anne Hathaway
Notable Films: Les Misérables, The Devil Wears Prada, Interstellar
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Hathaway’s charm and talent have established her as a versatile actress in modern cinema.
Check out Anne Hathaway’s films
29. Gary Oldman
Notable Films: Darkest Hour, The Dark Knight, Léon: The Professional
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Oldman’s ability to fully transform for roles is unmatched, making him a celebrated powerhouse in Hollywood.
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30. Reese Witherspoon
Notable Films: Legally Blonde, Walk the Line, Wild
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Witherspoon’s charisma and talent extend from acting to producing, and her influence in Hollywood grows.
Explore Reese Witherspoon’s films
31. Julianne Moore
Notable Films: Still Alice, Boogie Nights, Magnolia
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Moore is acclaimed for her depth and range in portraying complex characters.
Check out Julianne Moore’s filmography
32. Emma Stone
Notable Films: La La Land, Easy A, The Favourite
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Stone’s charm and versatility have made her a leading lady in contemporary cinema.
33. Frances McDormand
Notable Films: Fargo, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, Nomadland
Awards: 3 Academy Awards
Legacy: McDormand is known for her strong performances and advocacy for female empowerment in Hollywood.
Explore Frances McDormand’s filmography
34. Tilda Swinton
Notable Films: Michael Clayton, The Grand Budapest Hotel, We Need to Talk About Kevin
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Swinton’s unique presence and diverse roles have made her a standout actress.
Check out Tilda Swinton’s movies
35. Matthew McConaughey
Notable Films: Dallas Buyers Club, Interstellar, True Detective
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: McConaughey’s career resurgence with dramatic roles has made him a beloved star and cultural icon.
Explore Matthew McConaughey’s films
36. Natalie Portman
Notable Films: Black Swan, V for Vendetta, Jackie
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Portman is admired for her intellectual roles and her dedication to various social causes.
Check out Natalie Portman’s filmography
37. Russell Crowe
Notable Films: Gladiator, A Beautiful Mind, The Insider
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Crowe’s powerful performances have established him as a versatile actor within the industry.
38. Jennifer Lawrence
Notable Films: Silver Linings Playbook, The Hunger Games, American Hustle
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Lawrence is celebrated for her talent, box office appeal, and commitment to complex characters.
Discover Jennifer Lawrence’s filmography
39. Michelle Williams
Notable Films: Brokeback Mountain, My Week with Marilyn, Manchester by the Sea
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Williams’s ability to convey deep emotion has earned her critical acclaim throughout her career.
Check out Michelle Williams’s works
40. Johnny Depp
Notable Films: Pirates of the Caribbean, Edward Scissorhands, Sweeney Todd
Awards: 0 Academy Awards
Legacy: Depp’s unique characters and commitment to unconventional roles have made him a significant figure in movies.
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41. Glenn Close
Notable Films: Fatal Attraction, Dangerous Liaisons, The Wife
Awards: 0 Academy Awards
Legacy: Close is known for her complex performances and has become a powerful voice in Hollywood.
42. John Boyega
Notable Films: Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Detroit, Pacific Rim: Uprising
Legacy: Boyega has quickly established himself as a leading talent with his dynamic roles and advocacy for representation.
Check out John Boyega’s filmography
43. Kristen Stewart
Notable Films: Twilight, Clouds of Sils Maria, Personal Shopper
Legacy: Stewart’s evolution from teen star to acclaimed actress showcases her dynamic range.
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44. Jared Leto
Notable Films: Dallas Buyers Club, Blade Runner 2049, Suicide Squad
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Known for his transformative roles and musical talent, Leto continues to make waves in both industries.
Explore Jared Leto’s filmography
45. Christoph Waltz
Notable Films: Inglourious Basterds, Django Unchained, Spectre
Awards: 2 Academy Awards
Legacy: Waltz’s ability to portray complex villains has made him a highly respected actor.
Check out Christoph Waltz’s works
46. Timothée Chalamet
Notable Films: Call Me by Your Name, Little Women, Dune
Legacy: Chalamet has quickly risen to fame with his talent and magnetic screen presence.
Discover Timothée Chalamet’s filmography
47. Jodie Foster
Notable Films: The Silence of the Lambs, Contact, Taxi Driver
Awards: 2 Academy Awards
Legacy: Foster’s intelligence and dedication to her craft have earned her recognition and admiration in Hollywood.
48. Rob Lowe
Notable Films: St. Elmo’s Fire, The Outsiders, Wayne’s World
Legacy: Lowe’s journey from teen heartthrob to accomplished actor showcases his versatility.
Check out Rob Lowe’s filmography
49. Bill Murray
Notable Films: Lost in Translation, Groundhog Day, Ghostbusters
Legacy: Murray’s unique comedic style and charm have made him a beloved figure in the industry.
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50. Tessa Thompson
Notable Films: Creed, Thor: Ragnarok, Sorry to Bother You
Legacy: Thompson is recognized for her groundbreaking roles and contributions to diverse storytelling.
Check out Tessa Thompson’s films
51. Anne Bancroft
Notable Films: The Graduate, The Miracle Worker, The Pumpkin Eater
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Bancroft is remembered for her powerful performances and striking presence on screen.
52. Angela Bassett
Notable Films: What’s Love Got to Do with It, Black Panther, Waiting to Exhale
Legacy: Bassett’s extraordinary performances and commitment to her craft have garnered her a lasting legacy.
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53. Richard Gere
Notable Films: Pretty Woman, Chicago, The Jackal
Legacy: Gere’s charm and versatility have made him an enduring figure in romantic and dramatic cinema.
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54. Jessica Chastain
Notable Films: Zero Dark Thirty, The Help, Interstellar
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Chastain is praised for her talent and has become an advocate for gender equality in the film industry.
Explore Jessica Chastain’s filmography
55. Willem Dafoe
Notable Films: Platoon, Spider-Man, The Florida Project
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Dafoe’s distinctive performances and dedication to varied roles are renowned.
Check out Willem Dafoe’s works
56. Charlie Chaplin
Notable Films: City Lights, Modern Times, The Great Dictator
Legacy: Chaplin was a pioneer of comedy and silent films, known for his innovative storytelling.
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57. Ben Affleck
Notable Films: Good Will Hunting, Argo, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice
Awards: 2 Academy Awards
Legacy: Affleck is known for both his acting and directing, gaining acclaim in multiple facets of filmmaking.
Explore Ben Affleck’s filmography
58. Jena Malone
Notable Films: Saved!, The Hunger Games, Into the Wild
Legacy: Malone’s diverse roles and contributions to film showcase her unique talent.
59. Kevin Spacey
Notable Films: American Beauty, The Usual Suspects, House of Cards
Awards: 2 Academy Awards
Legacy: Spacey’s skills in drama and complex characters had made him a revered figure in Hollywood.
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60. Michelle Pfeiffer
Notable Films: Scarface, Batman Returns, The Fabulous Baker Boys
Legacy: Pfeiffer’s stunning performances across genres have cemented her status as a Hollywood icon.
Explore Michelle Pfeiffer’s movies
61. Adam Driver
Notable Films: Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Marriage Story, BlacKkKlansman
Legacy: Driver’s remarkable range and commitment to complex roles have quickly made him a leading figure in modern cinema.
62. Viola Davis
Notable Films: Fences, The Help, Eat Pray Love
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Davis is acclaimed for her powerful performances and her activism for diversity in Hollywood.
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63. Josh Brolin
Notable Films: No Country for Old Men, Avengers: Infinity War, Deadpool 2
Legacy: Brolin’s diverse roles and strong performances, make him a prominent figure in contemporary cinema.
64. Emily Blunt
Notable Films: A Quiet Place, The Devil Wears Prada, Sicario
Legacy: Blunt’s talent and charisma have made her one of Hollywood’s most sought-after actresses.
65. Chris Pratt
Notable Films: Guardians of the Galaxy, Jurassic World, The Tomorrow War
Legacy: Pratt’s transition from television to movies exemplifies his versatility and charm.
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66. Hugh Jackman
Notable Films: Les Misérables, Logan, The Greatest Showman
Legacy: Jackman is known for his dynamic performances both in film and as a Broadway star.
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67. Gal Gadot
Notable Films: Wonder Woman, Fast & Furious, Keeping Up with the Joneses
Legacy: Gadot has become a symbol of female empowerment and has redefined the superhero genre.
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68. Melissa McCarthy
Notable Films: Bridesmaids, Ghostbusters, Can You Ever Forgive Me?
Legacy: McCarthy is known for her hilarious performances and has become a major force in comedy.
Check out Melissa McCarthy’s films
69. Hugh Grant
Notable Films: Four Weddings and a Funeral, Notting Hill, The Notebooks
Legacy: Grant’s unique charm and wit have defined the romantic comedy genre.
Explore Hugh Grant’s filmography
70. Sally Hawkins
Notable Films: The Shape of Water, Happy-Go-Lucky, The Shape of Water
Legacy: Hawkins is known for her remarkable ability to convey emotion and depth in her roles.
Check out Sally Hawkins’s films
71. Christoph Waltz
Notable Films: Inglourious Basterds, Django Unchained, The French Dispatch
Awards: 2 Academy Awards
Legacy: Waltz is celebrated for his performances in Tarantino’s films and his capability in varied roles.
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72. Anna Kendrick
Notable Films: Pitch Perfect, Up in the Air, A Simple Favor
Legacy: Kendrick’s talent for both acting and music has made her a bright star in Hollywood’s landscape.
Explore Anna Kendrick’s movies
73. Zach Galifianakis
Notable Films: The Hangover, Birdman, Due Date
Legacy: Galifianakis has carved a niche in comedy, known for his quirky style and offbeat humor.
Check out Zach Galifianakis’s filmography
74. Courteney Cox
Notable Films: Scream, Friends, Cougar Town
Legacy: Cox’s charm and comedic timing have solidified her place in pop culture.
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75. Liam Neeson
Notable Films: Schindler’s List, Taken, Love Actually
Legacy: Neeson’s powerful performances have made him a formidable actor with a devoted fanbase.
Explore Liam Neeson’s filmography
76. John C. Reilly
Notable Films: Step Brothers, Chicago, A Prairie Home Companion
Legacy: Reilly’s unique comedic performance style has endeared him to audiences everywhere.
Check out John C. Reilly’s works
77. Mary J. Blige
Notable Films: Mudbound, Rock of Ages, I Can Do Bad All By Myself
Legacy: Blige’s crossover from music to acting, with powerful performances, reshapes the industry.
Explore Mary J. Blige’s filmography
78. Zoe Saldana
Notable Films: Avatar, Guardians of the Galaxy, Star Trek
Legacy: Saldana has broken barriers as a leading woman in sci-fi and action films.
Check out Zoe Saldana’s movies
79. Peter Dinklage
Notable Films: Game of Thrones, The Station Agent, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri
Legacy: Dinklage has changed perceptions in Hollywood regarding roles for those of short stature.
Explore Peter Dinklage’s filmography
80. Ruth Negga
Notable Films: Loving, Preacher, Ad Astra
Legacy: Negga’s performances highlight her exceptional talent and versatility as an actress.
81. Jason Momoa
Notable Films: Aquaman, Game of Thrones, Dune
Legacy: Momoa’s charismatic presence has redefined leading men in fantasy and action genres.
Explore Jason Momoa’s filmography
82. Morena Baccarin
Notable Films: Deadpool, Firefly, The Flash
Legacy: Baccarin’s captivating performances have earned her a devoted fanbase in sci-fi.
Check out Morena Baccarin’s works
83. Anya Taylor-Joy
Notable Films: The Queen’s Gambit, Emma, Split
Legacy: Taylor-Joy’s unique charm and talent have quickly established her as a major actress.
Explore Anya Taylor-Joy’s filmography
84. Cillian Murphy
Notable Films: Inception, Peaky Blinders, 28 Days Later
Legacy: Murphy’s deep talent and versatility shine through in every role he takes.
Check out Cillian Murphy’s films
85. Jodie Comer
Notable Films: Killing Eve, Free Guy, The Last Duel
Legacy: Comer has gained recognition for her masterful portrayals in compelling television and film roles.
Explore Jodie Comer’s filmography
86. Adam Sandler
Notable Films: Happy Gilmore, Uncut Gems, Billy Madison
Legacy: Sandler’s blend of comedy and drama showcases his versatility and unique style.
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87. Kristen Wiig
Notable Films: Bridesmaids, The Martian, Ghostbusters
Legacy: Wiig’s comedic genius and depth in roles have made her a standout talent.
Check out Kristen Wiig’s works
88. Ben Stiller
Notable Films: Zoolander, Meet the Parents, Tropic Thunder
Legacy: Stiller’s contributions to comedy and film production have garnered him widespread recognition.
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89. John Krasinski
Notable Films: A Quiet Place, Jack Ryan, The Hollars
Legacy: Krasinski has transitioned from comedy to thriller, gaining critical acclaim for his work.
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90. Salma Hayek
Notable Films: Frida, From Dusk Till Dawn, Desperado
Legacy: Hayek has been a powerful figure in Hollywood, known for her activism and talent.
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91. Rami Malek
Notable Films: Bohemian Rhapsody, Mr. Robot, Night at the Museum
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Malek’s breakout role as Freddie Mercury propelled him to stardom and critical acclaim.
92.John Malkovich
Notable Films: Being John Malkovich, Dangerous Liaisons, In the Line of Fire
Legacy: Malkovich is known for his unique roles and has become a cult figure in cinema.
Explore John Malkovich’s filmography
93. Gwendoline Christie
Notable Films: Game of Thrones, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Top of the Lake
Legacy: Christie has become an emblem of strong female representation in fantasy and sci-fi.
Check out Gwendoline Christie’s movies
94. Kit Harington
Notable Films: Game of Thrones, Pompeii, How to Train Your Dragon
Legacy: Harington’s portrayal of Jon Snow has made him a household name in the fantasy genre.
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95. Olivia Colman
Notable Films: The Favourite, The Crown, Broadchurch
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Colman has emerged as a leading actress known for her comedy and drama skills.
Check out Olivia Colman’s films
96. Ken Watanabe
Notable Films: Inception, The Last Samurai, Godzilla
Legacy: Watanabe is notable for bringing Japanese culture to Hollywood while breaking barriers.
Explore Ken Watanabe’s filmography
97. Donnie Yen
Notable Films: Ip Man, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Triple Threat
Legacy: Yen is recognized as a leading figure in martial arts cinema, with a massive international fanbase.
98. Michelle Yeoh
Notable Films: Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Crazy Rich Asians, Everything Everywhere All at Once
Legacy: Yeoh has become a groundbreaking actress and advocate for Asian representation in Hollywood.
99. Henry Cavill
Notable Films: Man of Steel, Mission: Impossible – Fallout, Enola Holmes
Legacy: Cavill’s portrayal of Superman has made him an iconic figure in modern superhero cinema.
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100. Rita Moreno
Notable Films: West Side Story, The King and I, One Day at a Time
Awards: 1 Academy Award
Legacy: Moreno is a trailblazer and role model for Latina actresses, known for her extensive contributions to film and television.
Conclusion
This list of the top 100 actors of all time showcases the rich tapestry of talent that Hollywood has offered. Each actor on this list has made substantial contributions to the film industry, earning their place in history through memorable performances and lasting legacies. From the iconic legends of the past to the rising stars of today, these individuals demonstrate the diversity and excellence of cinematic artistry.
As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, these actors will remain a part of our cultural narrative—forever inspiring generations to come.