20 Most Beautiful Jewish Actresses in Hollywood

As a movie lover, I’ve always been amazed by the incredible range of talent in Hollywood, and so many Jewish actresses have truly shaped the landscape of film and television. I’ve put together a spotlight on twenty of these amazing women – from those who’ve lit up independent films to stars of huge blockbusters and critically acclaimed TV shows. I’ll share a little about their backgrounds, the roles that made them famous, and some of the work they’ve done both on and off screen.

Natalie Portman

Natalie Portman is an Academy Award-winning actress and Harvard University graduate who was born in Jerusalem and grew up in the United States. She first gained attention in the film ‘Léon: The Professional’ and became internationally known for ‘Black Swan.’ She’s also starred in major blockbuster franchises like ‘Star Wars’ and the Marvel ‘Thor’ movies. Beyond acting, Portman directs and produces films through her own production company, supporting projects she believes in.

Scarlett Johansson

Scarlett Johansson’s mother is Jewish, with family roots in the Bronx. Johansson first gained widespread recognition with the film ‘Lost in Translation’ and later became known for playing Black Widow in the Marvel movies. She’s a versatile actress, proving her range with roles in films like ‘Her,’ ‘Marriage Story,’ and ‘Jojo Rabbit.’ Beyond film, she’s also performed on stage and consistently delivers box-office hits.

Gal Gadot

Gal Gadot is an Israeli actress who first gained recognition after winning Miss Israel and serving as a combat instructor in the IDF. She became a worldwide star playing Wonder Woman and also appeared in several ‘Fast & Furious’ movies. Beyond acting, Gadot runs her own production company, focusing on creating films and shows with strong female characters. She also works with many well-known brands and directors.

Mila Kunis

Mila Kunis was born in Ukraine to a Jewish family and immigrated to Los Angeles when she was young. She started her acting career with early TV appearances, becoming well-known as the voice of Meg on ‘Family Guy’ and through her role on ‘That ’70s Show’. She’s since starred in a variety of films, from comedies like ‘Bad Moms’ to the thriller ‘Black Swan’. Beyond acting, Kunis invests in new consumer businesses and actively supports organizations that help refugees.

Rachel Weisz

I’ve always been a big fan of Rachel Weisz! It’s amazing to think she was born in London to parents who came from Central Europe. She’s seriously talented – winning an Oscar for ‘The Constant Gardener’ was so well-deserved, and I loved her in ‘The Favourite’. Of course, a lot of people probably first discovered her in fun movies like ‘The Mummy’ and ‘Constantine’. But she’s not just an actress; she also produces and has even been on stage in both London and New York, which is really impressive!

Winona Ryder

Winona Ryder’s family history includes Jewish roots in Eastern Europe, and she was raised in a home that encouraged artistic expression. She became a major star in the 1990s thanks to films like ‘Edward Scissorhands’, ‘Reality Bites’, and ‘Heathers’. More recently, she gained renewed recognition for her role in ‘Stranger Things’. Throughout her career, Ryder has been nominated for numerous awards for both her work in movies and on television.

Emmy Rossum

Emmy Rossum grew up in New York City, raised by her Jewish mother, and received vocal training with the Metropolitan Opera Children’s Chorus. She’s best known for her leading role in the hit show ‘Shameless’ and for appearing in films such as ‘The Phantom of the Opera.’ Beyond acting, Rossum is a writer and director, having directed episodes of acclaimed television series. She’s also a musician and actively supports charitable causes.

Shira Haas

Shira Haas is an Israeli actress who gained worldwide recognition for her role in the series ‘Unorthodox’. She’s also well-known in Israel for her work in popular shows like ‘Shtisel’ and continues to appear in both Israeli and American television and film projects. Her performances have been celebrated at film festivals and have earned her numerous award nominations.

Alison Brie

Alison Brie grew up in the Los Angeles area with a Jewish mother. She first gained recognition on television shows like ‘Community’ and ‘Mad Men,’ and later starred in ‘GLOW.’ Beyond acting, Brie has also written and produced independent films, including ‘Horse Girl,’ and often works with well-known directors in both comedy and drama.

Isla Fisher

I’ve always been so impressed by Isla Fisher! Not only is she a wonderfully talented actress – I loved her in everything from hilarious comedies like ‘Wedding Crashers’ to darker roles in films like ‘Nocturnal Animals’ – but she’s also incredibly dedicated to her faith, having converted to Judaism and actively participating in the community. And it doesn’t stop there! She’s a gifted voice actress, bringing characters to life in animated movies like ‘Rango,’ plus she’s a writer and producer, creating stories for both kids and adults. She truly does it all!

Amanda Peet

Amanda Peet, whose father is Jewish, became an actress after graduating from Columbia University. She’s known for her roles in films like ‘The Whole Nine Yards’ and ‘Something’s Gotta Give,’ and more recently co-created the TV series ‘The Chair.’ In addition to her work on screen, Peet performs on stage, including several Broadway appearances, and also works behind the scenes as a television writer and producer.

Lizzy Caplan

Lizzy Caplan, who was raised Jewish in Los Angeles and trained at a high school for the performing arts, first became well-known for her role in ‘Mean Girls.’ She later starred in the series ‘Masters of Sex’ and has since appeared in popular thrillers like ‘Fatal Attraction’ and the sci-fi film ‘Cloverfield.’ Caplan consistently works across movies, television shows, and limited series.

Rashida Jones

Rashida Jones, the daughter of musician Quincy Jones and actress Peggy Lipton, is best known for her roles in popular TV shows like ‘Parks and Recreation’ and ‘The Office’. Beyond acting, she’s a writer and producer, having worked on projects like the documentary ‘Quincy’. Jones skillfully balances comedic, dramatic, and voice acting roles across different types of projects.

Dianna Agron

Dianna Agron grew up in a Jewish family and loved performing, taking dance and theater classes as a child. She first became well-known for her role in the TV show ‘Glee,’ and has since worked primarily on independent and international films. Her work often includes dramas that are shown at film festivals and artistic, unique movies. In addition to acting, Agron also directs music videos and short films.

Zoey Deutch

Zoey Deutch comes from a creative family – her father is Jewish filmmaker Howard Deutch and her mother is actress Lea Thompson. She’s known for her roles in movies and TV shows like ‘Set It Up’, ‘Before I Fall’, and ‘The Politician’. Beyond acting, Zoey often takes a leadership role behind the scenes, helping with things like casting and developing projects. She also works with fashion brands and supports various charitable causes.

Hailee Steinfeld

Hailee Steinfeld, who comes from a Jewish family on her father’s side, started acting when she was young. She first gained recognition for her role in the movie ‘True Grit’ and later appeared in ‘Bumblebee’. On TV, she’s known for starring in ‘Dickinson’ and for her role in the Marvel series ‘Hawkeye’. In addition to acting, Steinfeld is also a singer with several successful songs.

Kat Dennings

I’ve been following Kat Dennings for a while now, and she’s really proven herself as a versatile actress. Growing up Jewish in Pennsylvania, she made the leap to Los Angeles to pursue her acting dreams, and it clearly paid off. Most people probably know her from the hilarious ‘2 Broke Girls,’ but she’s also made a significant impact in the blockbuster world with roles in the ‘Thor’ movies and the Disney+ series ‘WandaVision.’ What I really appreciate is how she effortlessly moves between big genre pieces, lighthearted comedies, and smaller, more independent films. Plus, she’s fantastic at connecting with fans online, always sharing interesting creative projects and using her platform to speak out on issues she cares about.

Maggie Gyllenhaal

Maggie Gyllenhaal, whose father is a filmmaker and whose family has Jewish roots, is a successful actor and director working in film, television, and theater. She’s known for her performances in films like ‘Secretary’ and the TV series ‘The Deuce’. Recently, she directed her first film, ‘The Lost Daughter’, and continues to be involved in bringing stories from books to the screen, often working with highly respected writers and actors.

Sarah Michelle Gellar

Sarah Michelle Gellar grew up in New York City with a Jewish mother and began her career in commercials and TV shows. She became famous for her role in ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer,’ becoming a pop-culture icon. Gellar has starred in films like ‘Cruel Intentions’ and other popular movies, gaining a dedicated following. More recently, she’s returned to television with both on-screen roles and voice acting work.

Gwyneth Paltrow

Gwyneth Paltrow feels connected to her Jewish background through her father, filmmaker Bruce Paltrow. She’s known for winning an Oscar for ‘Shakespeare in Love’ and continues to act in both critically acclaimed films and movies within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Beyond acting, Paltrow created a successful lifestyle company that now includes media and a variety of products. She still works behind the scenes as a producer and occasionally appears on screen.

Share your favorites and any names we missed in the comments so we can keep the conversation going.

2025-11-09 05:46