Actresses Everyone Wants To Work With

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Hollywood thrives on talented actors and the captivating presence of stars, which keeps audiences coming back to both movie theaters and streaming services. Directors and producers are always looking for performers who are both skilled and versatile. The actresses on this list are at the top of their game, able to make any movie better simply by being in it. They’re famous not just for how popular they are, but also for the quality and artistry they bring to their roles.

Meryl Streep

Meryl Streep is considered the most outstanding actor of her generation, known for her incredible range and ability to convincingly perform in any accent. She’s been nominated for more Academy Awards than any other actor, winning three times for her performances in films like ‘Kramer vs. Kramer,’ ‘Sophie’s Choice,’ and ‘The Iron Lady.’ Directors consistently highlight her dedication to her craft and her talent for fully transforming into her characters. From serious dramas to fun musicals like ‘Mamma Mia!’, she excels in every type of film. Because of her legendary reputation and willingness to collaborate, she remains a highly sought-after actress among industry professionals.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis is a remarkably talented actress who has achieved EGOT status – winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award. She’s known for deeply moving performances in films like ‘The Help’ and ‘Fences,’ and for her compelling lead role in the TV series ‘How to Get Away with Murder.’ Those who work with her describe her as incredibly powerful and authentic, bringing a unique intensity to everything she does. Directors consistently seek her out because she delivers genuine and believable performances.

Cate Blanchett

Cate Blanchett is celebrated for her captivating presence and remarkable range as an actress, seamlessly embodying diverse roles in both theater and film. She’s won Academy Awards for performances in ‘The Aviator’ and ‘Blue Jasmine,’ showcasing her skill in both period pieces and modern stories. Directors like Todd Field have even written roles specifically for her, as seen in the highly praised film ‘Tár.’ Known for her willingness to take on challenging roles and delve into complex characters, she’s a favorite among visionary filmmakers. Blanchett consistently pushes her boundaries, taking on everything from small independent films to large-scale blockbusters like ‘Thor: Ragnarok’.

Margot Robbie

Margot Robbie has become one of Hollywood’s biggest stars thanks to her talent and smart decisions about the projects she chooses. She first gained widespread recognition in ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ and then became known for playing Harley Quinn in ‘Suicide Squad’. Through her production company, LuckyChap Entertainment, she supports films with strong female leads, including the blockbuster ‘Barbie’. Directors appreciate her energetic performances and dedication to physically challenging roles. Robbie consistently achieves both popular and critical success, as seen in films like ‘I, Tonya’ and ‘Babylon’.

Florence Pugh

Florence Pugh is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about young actors working today, thanks to a series of impressive roles. She first gained widespread attention for her powerful performance in the horror film ‘Midsommar,’ where she brilliantly portrayed the character’s emotional journey. Pugh easily moves between different types of films, from historical dramas like ‘Little Women’ to big-action movies like ‘Black Widow.’ Filmmakers love her ability to show deep feelings through small expressions and a natural, believable style. Because of her growing popularity and consistently strong work, she’s currently in high demand for many upcoming projects.

Zendaya

Zendaya quickly moved from being a popular star on Disney Channel to a critically acclaimed actress and style icon. She made history as the youngest person to win an Emmy for her leading role in the drama series ‘Euphoria’. She’s also appeared in blockbuster films like ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ and ‘Dune’. Directors, including Denis Villeneuve, have highlighted her captivating presence on screen and her ability to convey emotion without saying a word. Having Zendaya involved in a project almost ensures it will appeal to both younger audiences and film critics.

Emma Stone

Emma Stone is a remarkably talented actress known for her unique voice and ability to convey emotion through her eyes. She’s proven herself in both funny and serious roles, winning an Academy Award for ‘La La Land’ and recently another for ‘Poor Things’. Directors appreciate her courage and willingness to take on challenging, original characters. Her strong on-screen connection with actors like Ryan Gosling makes her perfect for both romantic and dramatic stories. She consistently ranks high on directors’ lists when they need an actress who can combine humor with genuine emotional depth.

Jennifer Lawrence

Jennifer Lawrence rose to international fame as the star of ‘The Hunger Games’ films, proving she was also a talented dramatic actress. She’s received critical acclaim, including an Oscar for ‘Silver Linings Playbook,’ and has demonstrated her comedic skills in films like ‘No Hard Feelings’. Known for being genuine and approachable, she’s a popular colleague on set. Directors appreciate her realistic acting and her ability to deeply connect with viewers. She consistently seeks out roles that challenge her and allow her to showcase her range.

Saoirse Ronan

Saoirse Ronan is a remarkably talented actress who has been captivating audiences since she was young, earning multiple Academy Award nominations for her work. She’s known for both historical dramas like ‘Atonement’ and ‘Brooklyn,’ and relatable coming-of-age films such as ‘Lady Bird.’ Directors like Greta Gerwig consistently choose her for complex, character-focused roles because of her ability to convincingly portray different accents and deeply felt emotions, as well as her professionalism and maturity. She consistently elevates any project she’s a part of.

Jessica Chastain

Jessica Chastain is celebrated for playing powerful, smart women in films that often explore significant social issues. She won an Oscar for her incredible performance as Tammy Faye Bakker in ‘The Eyes of Tammy Faye’. Known for intense roles in movies like ‘Zero Dark Thirty’ and ‘Molly’s Game’, she has a captivating presence in every scene. Film producers value her dedication and strong voice in fighting for equal pay in Hollywood. She’s committed to deeply understanding her characters, which always enhances her work.

Emily Blunt

Emily Blunt is a remarkably talented actress who excels in all kinds of movies, from scary thrillers to upbeat musicals and action-packed adventures. She’s known for her powerful, wordless performance in ‘A Quiet Place’ and her funny, no-nonsense role in ‘The Devil Wears Prada’. More recently, she impressed audiences in ‘Oppenheimer’, standing out amongst a cast of incredibly skilled actors. Directors appreciate her intelligence and her ability to make even tough characters relatable. Many consider her one of the most dependable and charming actors working in film today.

Scarlett Johansson

Scarlett Johansson has built a remarkably consistent career by successfully moving between critically acclaimed independent films and huge blockbuster movies. Best known for her role as Black Widow in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, she’s also received Academy Award nominations for her performances in ‘Marriage Story’ and ‘Jojo Rabbit.’ She even proved her acting range with a compelling voice performance in ‘Her,’ creating a memorable character without being seen. Directors appreciate her captivating presence and know she reliably attracts audiences, making her one of the highest-earning actors in film history.

Charlize Theron

Charlize Theron is a remarkably talented and dedicated actress, famous for dramatically changing her appearance for roles and excelling in action films. She won an Oscar for her chilling portrayal of a serial killer in ‘Monster,’ and her performance in ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ cemented her reputation as a leading action star. Filmmakers praise her willingness to do her own stunts and her skill at playing complicated, flawed characters. Theron also produces her own films, giving her the opportunity to create roles that go beyond typical female stereotypes.

Nicole Kidman

Nicole Kidman is known for her bold choices and willingness to collaborate with innovative directors. She’s an Academy Award winner for her role in ‘The Hours’ and has given standout performances in shows like ‘Big Little Lies’. She consistently takes on challenging roles, as seen in critically praised but often divisive films like ‘The Killing of a Sacred Deer’. Directors appreciate her honesty and dedication to portraying complex and sometimes difficult aspects of the human condition. She continues to be a prominent figure in both high-quality TV and film.

Olivia Colman

Olivia Colman is a remarkably versatile actress, equally skilled at making people laugh and moving them to tears. She won an Oscar for her role as Queen Anne in ‘The Favourite,’ and her performance alongside Anthony Hopkins in ‘The Father’ beautifully showed her ability to portray sadness and disorientation. Directors appreciate her genuine nature and how quickly she can shift between different emotions. Audiences and critics alike are drawn to the warmth and honesty she brings to every role.

Frances McDormand

Frances McDormand is a highly respected actress celebrated for her authentic and natural performances. She’s won three Academy Awards for Best Actress, recognizing her work in films like ‘Fargo,’ ‘Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,’ and ‘Nomadland.’ Her frequent work with the Coen brothers has resulted in some of cinema’s most memorable characters. Directors admire her dedication to her art and her rejection of typical Hollywood expectations. McDormand brings a unique, down-to-earth realism to her roles that is rarely seen in other actors.

Amy Adams

Amy Adams is celebrated for portraying characters who are both vulnerable and incredibly strong-willed. She’s been nominated for an Academy Award six times for her roles in films like ‘Arrival’ and ‘American Hustle,’ and demonstrated her range with a particularly complex performance in the series ‘Sharp Objects.’ Filmmakers frequently choose her for her ability to make even fantastical stories feel relatable and emotionally honest. Many consider her one of the most talented actors currently working, despite not yet having won an Oscar.

Natalie Portman

I’ve been a fan of Natalie Portman forever – she really hit the ground running as a kid and just keeps getting better. That Oscar she won for ‘Black Swan’? Totally deserved – it was a seriously demanding role, both physically and emotionally. And ‘Jackie’? Wow. She became Jackie Kennedy, it was incredibly accurate and just heartbreaking to watch. Everyone in the industry seems to agree she’s brilliant and brings such focus to everything she does. What’s really cool is she’s not just an actress, she’s also directing and producing, showing she really gets all sides of filmmaking.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o quickly became a Hollywood star, winning an Oscar for her very first film, ’12 Years a Slave.’ She proved her range by successfully leading the horror film ‘Us,’ and showcased her versatility through motion capture work as Maz Kanata in ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens.’ Directors appreciate her ability to convey deep emotion and her strong presence on screen. Because she chooses her roles carefully, each new project she takes on generates a lot of excitement.

Michelle Yeoh

Michelle Yeoh, a celebrated martial arts star, earned widespread recognition with her incredible performance in ‘Everything Everywhere All At Once’. This role made history when she became the first Asian woman to win the Best Actress Oscar. Throughout her career, she’s delivered memorable performances in films like ‘Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon’ and ‘Tomorrow Never Dies’. Directors appreciate her dedication to physical training and her ability to combine grace and power in action films. Yeoh is a true pioneer, paving the way for more Asian representation in Hollywood.

Brie Larson

Brie Larson first gained widespread acclaim for her Oscar-winning role in the powerful drama ‘Room’. She then proved her versatility by becoming Captain Marvel in the popular Marvel Cinematic Universe. Beyond acting, Larson showcased her creative side with her directorial debut, ‘Unicorn Store’, which highlighted her imaginative and artistic vision. Filmmakers admire her ability to portray both strength and emotional depth. Furthermore, she actively champions greater diversity within the film industry, solidifying her position as an influential figure.

Anne Hathaway

Anne Hathaway is a remarkably adaptable actress, successfully moving between lighthearted comedies like ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ and dramatic musicals such as ‘Les Misérables’. She won an Oscar for her powerful performance as Fantine in ‘Les Misérables’, notably performing the songs live during filming. Her latest role in ‘Eileen’ signals a move towards more intense and psychologically driven thrillers. Directors appreciate her strong acting background and her skill at delivering lines with both accuracy and charisma. She consistently draws large audiences, making her a reliable and valuable star.

Sandra Bullock

Sandra Bullock has been a consistent success in Hollywood for over thirty years. She’s known for both dramatic roles, like the Oscar-winning performance in ‘The Blind Side’ and a nomination for ‘Gravity,’ and her incredible comedic talent, showcased in films like ‘The Proposal’ and ‘Miss Congeniality.’ Directors appreciate how easily audiences connect with her. In addition to acting, she also produces films, often choosing stories about overcoming challenges and finding hope.

Julia Roberts

Julia Roberts became a defining star of romantic comedies with beloved films like ‘Pretty Woman’ and ‘Notting Hill’. She also showed her serious acting skills, winning an Oscar for her role in ‘Erin Brockovich’. Her recent return to romantic comedy with ‘Ticket to Paradise’ demonstrated that she still captivates audiences. Directors love working with her, drawn to her famous smile and her ability to bring energy to any scene. She adds both a touch of classic Hollywood glamour and a sense of familiarity to every film she’s in.

Kate Winslet

Kate Winslet is known for taking on challenging roles and avoiding predictable characters, especially those limited to romance. While she became famous with ‘Titanic’, she’s built a respected career playing complex characters in films like ‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’. She’s won an Oscar for ‘The Reader’ and recently received praise for her work in ‘Mare of Easttown’. Directors appreciate her honesty and willingness to portray characters with real flaws. Many consider her a true actor’s actor, someone who inspires better performances from those she works with.

Julianne Moore

Julianne Moore is celebrated for her powerful and vulnerable performances, often playing women facing intense personal struggles. She earned an Oscar for her moving portrayal of a woman dealing with early Alzheimer’s in ‘Still Alice’. Throughout her career, she’s appeared in both beloved cult classics like ‘The Big Lebowski’ and huge blockbuster franchises like ‘The Hunger Games’. Directors value her willingness to take on challenging roles and her incredible versatility, having worked in everything from daytime TV to independent films. Moore consistently gives subtle, memorable performances that stay with viewers long after the credits roll.

Helen Mirren

I’ve always been captivated by Helen Mirren. She just has this incredible presence, a natural authority that makes her perfect for any role. Seeing her win an Oscar for playing Queen Elizabeth II felt so deserved, but honestly, her talent extends far beyond that one iconic performance. It’s been amazing to watch her reinvent herself with action roles in films like ‘Fast & Furious’ and ‘Red’ – she’s truly fearless! Everyone who works with her talks about her regal composure and quick, intelligent humor. Whether she’s in a historical drama or a contemporary thriller, she brings such weight and dignity to everything she does. She’s a phenomenal actress, and I admire her so much.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett is celebrated for her powerful and physically demanding performances, as well as her strong, distinctive voice. She earned an Oscar nomination for her incredible portrayal of Tina Turner in ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’, and recently made history as the first actor nominated for an Academy Award for a role in a Marvel film, ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. Directors often cast her when they need an actor to portray characters with strength and a commanding presence. She consistently enhances any cast she’s a part of, bringing a sense of grace and importance to the narrative.

Penélope Cruz

Penelope Cruz is a favorite of director Pedro Almodóvar and is celebrated for her work in Spanish films. She’s won an Oscar for ‘Vicky Cristina Barcelona’ and received another nomination for ‘Parallel Mothers’. Known for her powerful and emotionally complex performances, Cruz captivates audiences with her expressive eyes and skill at moving between humorous and dramatic roles. She continues to be a leading international actress in Hollywood.

Ana de Armas

Since her memorable performance in ‘Knives Out’, Ana de Armas has quickly become a highly requested actress. She proved her skills in action films like ‘No Time to Die’ and bravely portrayed Marilyn Monroe in ‘Blonde’, a role that earned her an Academy Award nomination, even though the film sparked a lot of debate. Directors appreciate her natural charm and how easily she connects with other actors on screen. She’s part of the new generation of talented actors landing leading roles in big movie franchises.

Anya Taylor-Joy

Anya Taylor-Joy is known for her striking appearance and powerful performances. She gained widespread recognition with the hit series ‘The Queen’s Gambit’ and has since become a sought-after actress in films like ‘The Witch’ and ‘The Menu,’ where she often excels in psychological horror and dark comedy roles. Directors, including George Miller who cast her in ‘Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga,’ praise her ability to command the screen. Taylor-Joy consistently brings a unique and captivating quality to her characters, making them truly memorable.

Jenna Ortega

Jenna Ortega has quickly become the go-to scream queen for Gen Z, starring in movies like ‘Scream’ and ‘X’. She gained huge popularity playing Wednesday Addams in the Netflix series, known for her cool, understated performance. Many have compared her subtle acting style to Christina Ricci. Directors appreciate her professional work ethic and her knack for connecting with younger viewers. Ortega is rapidly becoming a major talent in both TV and film.

Elizabeth Olsen

I’ve been consistently impressed watching Elizabeth Olsen really come into her own as an actress, breaking free from the shadow of her sisters and establishing herself as a true talent. Early on, she made smart choices, building indie cred with a standout performance in ‘Martha Marcy May Marlene.’ But it’s her work in ‘WandaVision’ that truly cemented her status, earning her well-deserved Emmy and Golden Globe nods. What directors – and audiences – clearly appreciate is her ability to portray incredibly complex psychological states, often within the fantastic worlds of sci-fi and fantasy. She doesn’t just play the Scarlet Witch, she becomes her, bringing a real, relatable humanity to the character that’s captivated fans globally.

Rachel McAdams

Rachel McAdams is a talented and adaptable actress known for her roles in beloved films like ‘Mean Girls’ and ‘The Notebook’. She’s earned critical acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination for her powerful performance in ‘Spotlight’. Her recent work in ‘Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret.’ highlighted her ability to portray warmth and a motherly presence. Directors appreciate her genuine charm and her skill at playing a wide variety of characters, from villains to romantic interests. She consistently chooses roles that allow her to demonstrate her impressive range as an actress.

Carey Mulligan

Carey Mulligan is celebrated for choosing roles that allow her to truly transform, whether in historical films or modern stories. She’s received Academy Award nominations for her work in ‘An Education’ and ‘Promising Young Woman.’ Critics admire her ability to portray complicated characters, even when they aren’t always easy to like. Directors value her intelligence and the delicate way she delivers lines in scripts with a lot of dialogue. She frequently collaborates with visionary filmmakers who give her the opportunity to tackle challenging themes.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer is a well-loved actress known for bringing a sense of fun and heart to her characters. She won an Oscar for her supporting role in ‘The Help’ and has since become a leading actress in films like ‘Ma’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. Directors and audiences appreciate her knack for stealing scenes with her excellent comedic timing and expressive performances. Beyond acting, she’s also a successful producer dedicated to supporting diverse voices and stories.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson is a powerful and engaging actress, celebrated for her energetic performances and ability to portray a wide range of emotions. She’s known for roles in critically acclaimed films like ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ (which earned her an Oscar nomination) and ‘Hidden Figures’, where she played Katherine Johnson. However, she became a household name as Cookie Lyon in the hit TV series ‘Empire’. Filmmakers admire her bold choices and how she naturally draws the audience’s focus in every scene. She brings a genuine and captivating intensity to all her characters.

Halle Berry

As a huge fan, I’ll never forget when Halle Berry won the Best Actress Oscar for ‘Monster’s Ball’ – it was a truly historic moment as she was the first Black woman to ever receive that award! And she’s not just an Oscar winner, she’s been amazing in so many big films like ‘X-Men’ and ‘John Wick’. I was really impressed when she directed ‘Bruised’ too – you could tell she really threw herself into the action and fight scenes. Everyone in the industry seems to admire how long she’s lasted and that she’s never afraid to take on challenging, even gritty, roles. She’s honestly an icon, constantly breaking down barriers and proving what a talented actress she is.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster successfully moved from being a child actor to a highly respected figure as both an actress and director. She’s won two Academy Awards for her performances in ‘The Accused’ and ‘The Silence of the Lambs,’ and recently received another Oscar nomination for ‘Nyad,’ demonstrating her continued skill. Directors appreciate her sharp mind and her thorough knowledge of filmmaking, gained from working on both sides of the camera. She consistently brings a powerful intelligence and strength to all her roles.

Laura Dern

As a movie lover, I’ve always been a huge fan of Laura Dern – she’s practically Hollywood royalty! It’s been amazing to watch her career take off again recently. Her performance in ‘Marriage Story’ was incredible, and rightfully earned her an Oscar. And let’s not forget her work with David Lynch – some of the most unforgettable and artistic films ever made! Everyone says she’s a dream to work with, totally improvisational and fearless when it comes to playing quirky, interesting characters. She just brings this really special, creative energy to every set.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is known for her incredible ability to transform into different characters, becoming a central figure in Ryan Murphy’s television shows. She earned an Emmy for playing Marcia Clark in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story,’ and her work on ‘American Horror Story’ showcased her range by letting her play many different roles within the same show. Directors appreciate her dependability and skill at portraying intense emotions. Many consider her one of the most versatile character actresses on television today.

Toni Collette

Toni Collette is a remarkably versatile actress who can seamlessly move between terrifying and charming roles. Many believe she was unfairly overlooked by the Academy Awards for her chilling performance in the horror film ‘Hereditary.’ She first became well-known for the beloved Australian film ‘Muriel’s Wedding’ and then achieved success in Hollywood. Directors praise her dedication and how expressive she is, often noting that she transforms so fully into her characters that she’s almost unrecognisable.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart has transitioned from starring in big-budget films to becoming a favorite in the independent film scene. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role as Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’ and made history as the first American actress to win a Cesar Award for her work with director Olivier Assayas on ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’. Directors appreciate her subtle acting and her willingness to break from typical celebrity norms. She consistently brings a fresh, modern energy to her projects, resonating with contemporary viewers.

Regina King

Regina King started her career in comedy but has become a highly respected and influential dramatic actress and director. She won an Oscar for her role in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ and received a lot of praise and awards for her work in the series ‘Watchmen’. Directors appreciate the powerful yet subtle presence she brings to her characters, and she’s known for commanding respect on set and consistently delivering strong, realistic performances.

Michelle Williams

Michelle Williams is celebrated for her deeply moving and realistic performances, especially in independent films. She’s been nominated for an Academy Award five times, for roles in movies like ‘Brokeback Mountain’ and ‘Blue Valentine’. In ‘The Fabelmans’, she brilliantly played a complex and challenging character, proving her range. Filmmakers often choose Michelle when they need an actress who can powerfully portray emotional struggles with subtlety and authenticity. Many consider her to be one of the best actresses working today.

Glenn Close

Glenn Close has been nominated for an Academy Award more times than any other actor without actually winning one. She’s famous for her unforgettable role as Alex Forrest in ‘Fatal Attraction,’ a film that truly shaped the thriller genre. She’s also a huge success on stage, having won several Tony Awards. Directors and producers value her commitment and her skill at convincingly portraying both villains and heroes. She continues to be a major presence in the entertainment world, always pushing her own boundaries.

Sigourney Weaver

Sigourney Weaver broke new ground for women in action movies with her iconic role as Ellen Ripley in the ‘Alien’ films. She’s also proven her comedic skills in movies like ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘Galaxy Quest.’ More recently, she’s continued to star in huge blockbuster films like the ‘Avatar’ series. Directors appreciate her presence and the intelligence she brings to her characters, and she consistently portrays a sense of strength and capability in everything she does.

Winona Ryder

Winona Ryder became a defining actress of the 1990s thanks to memorable roles in films like ‘Heathers’ and ‘Edward Scissorhands’. More recently, she experienced a career resurgence with her starring role in the popular series ‘Stranger Things’. Ryder is known for her ability to portray both delicate vulnerability and quirky eccentricity, making her a natural fit for genre films. Directors appreciate the nostalgic appeal she brings, as well as her skill at showing characters grappling with anxiety and inner strength. She continues to be a cherished actress who resonates with viewers across different generations.

Rosamund Pike

Rosamund Pike is known for her captivating and often chilling performances, like the one that earned her an Oscar nomination in ‘Gone Girl’. She’s shown she can excel in both comedy and drama, most recently in the thriller ‘I Care a Lot’. Few actors can portray cold, calculating characters as convincingly as Pike. Filmmakers appreciate her precise acting and her talent for subtly hinting at darker intentions beneath a polished surface. She consistently brings a clever, intense energy to her roles, keeping audiences guessing.

Rebecca Ferguson

Rebecca Ferguson is now a familiar face in big action movies like ‘Mission: Impossible’ and ‘Dune’. She’s particularly known for her role as Ilsa Faust, which brought a fresh take to female characters in spy films. Ferguson has a timeless, classic look, but she’s also incredibly capable physically. Directors love her natural charisma and how well she connects with co-stars like Tom Cruise. Even in movies full of special effects, her performances always shine.

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2025-12-17 14:22