The Best Supporting Actor Roles in 2025

Wow, 2025 was an amazing year for supporting actors! I was consistently blown away by the depth and impact they brought to everything – from huge blockbusters to smaller, more personal stories. Whether it was a familiar face returning to a beloved series or someone new really shining in an ensemble, the quality of acting was just consistently top-notch. Each of these performances genuinely made the movie or show better, either by feeling incredibly real or by completely transforming into their character. They really helped tell these stories!

Mark Ruffalo – ‘Mickey 17’ (2025)

Mark Ruffalo plays a powerful commander in the sci-fi thriller ‘Mickey 17,’ directed by Bong Joon Ho. The movie centers around a worker who is sent on a risky mission to settle a dangerous, icy planet. Ruffalo delivers a strong and often strict performance as he oversees the mission’s survival, creating significant tension for the main character. He skillfully combines the script’s dark humor with a believable sense of cold, official control.

Harrison Ford – ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ (2025)

Harrison Ford plays Thaddeus Ross, who is now the President of the United States. He has a complex relationship with Sam Wilson as they face a new global threat. Ford brings a sense of seriousness to the film’s political and action-packed scenes. His character’s transformation into the Red Hulk is one of the most discussed changes in any movie this year. Ford’s performance grounds the film, highlighting both the burdens of leading the world and his character’s personal drive.

Giancarlo Esposito – ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ (2025)

Giancarlo Esposito plays Seth Voelker, the dangerous leader of the Serpent Society, who serves as the main villain. He presents a serious and deadly challenge to the new Captain America in several intense battles. Esposito brings his trademark calm and powerful energy to the role, making Voelker a believable and threatening character. His performance adds a sense of realism and organized crime to the superhero story, and he expertly conveys power and control with few words and strong body language.

Nicholas Hoult – ‘Superman’ (2025)

Okay, so Nicholas Hoult is fantastic as Lex Luthor in the new ‘Man of Steel’ reboot. He doesn’t play him as just a raving maniac, but as a genuinely brilliant, calculating guy who believes aliens are a roadblock to humanity’s evolution. What I really appreciated was how Hoult focused on the ideas that drive the conflict between Luthor and Superman – it’s a really smart, modern take on the character. He’s sophisticated, yes, but underneath it all, there’s this simmering resentment of anyone with power, and it’s incredibly compelling. Honestly, his performance feels like a solid building block for some really exciting conflicts down the line in this universe.

David Harbour – ‘Thunderbolts*’ (2025)

David Harbour reprises his role as Red Guardian, the Russian version of Captain America. He brings both heart and humor to the team of flawed heroes at the center of the story, which follows a group of former bad guys and government agents on a top-secret mission. Harbour delves into the character’s wish to make amends for his past and his often clumsy efforts to mentor his fellow teammates. His performance skillfully mixes physical comedy with touching moments of honesty and self-reflection.

Mahershala Ali – ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ (2025)

In the newest Jurassic Park film, Mahershala Ali stars as the leader of an elite security team. He’s responsible for keeping a group of scientists safe while they search for important genetic data in isolated areas. Ali portrays his character with a cool confidence and a sense of urgency, especially when the team faces dangerous situations. He also serves as the voice of reason, questioning decisions made by the company when profits seem to be prioritized over the team’s well-being. Ali’s realistic performance keeps the story tense and believable, even with dinosaurs threatening at every turn.

Javier Bardem – ‘F1’ (2025)

In the fast-paced drama ‘F1’, Javier Bardem plays a team owner dedicated to winning. He takes a chance on a seasoned driver, pairing him with a promising newcomer as a mentor. Through tense scenes both in the office and on the racetrack, Bardem powerfully shows the immense pressure and financial stakes of professional racing. His performance highlights the all-consuming drive needed to reach the top of the sport, and he anchors the film with a strong, strategic presence.

Ralph Fiennes – ’28 Years Later’ (2025)

Ralph Fiennes plays a doctor who’s dedicated to helping a community rebuild after a devastating virus. He works tirelessly to provide medical care and keep the peace, even though the threat of infection is always present. Fiennes portrays the doctor with a sense of exhaustion but also unwavering determination, showing the emotional strain of long-term survival. Through his relationships with other survivors, the film explores how society has changed decades after the initial disaster. Fiennes gives a subtle and powerful performance, emphasizing how easily hope can be lost in a broken world.

Keanu Reeves – ‘Ballerina’ (2025)

Keanu Reeves returns as John Wick in the new film ‘Ballerina’ to support the story’s main character. He plays a mentor and respected figure within a secret world of assassins, guiding her as she seeks revenge for her family. Even with limited screen time, Reeves delivers the intense action and precise physicality fans expect. His appearance connects ‘Ballerina’ to the previous John Wick films, launching this new story. Reeves portrays the weight of John Wick’s life with a subtle and understated performance.

Antonio Banderas – ‘Paddington in Peru’ (2025)

Antonio Banderas stars as Hunter Cabot, a charming riverboat captain who helps the Brown family navigate the Amazon rainforest. He guides them as they search for Paddington’s Aunt Lucy, bringing a playful and exciting energy to the movie that fits perfectly with the series’ lighthearted style. Cabot offers both direction and a touch of intrigue on their jungle adventure, and Banderas gives a lively and enjoyable performance that everyone will love.

Joseph Quinn – ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ (2025)

As a huge movie fan, I’m really excited about Joseph Quinn’s take on Johnny Storm, the Human Torch. He plays him as this incredibly lively and spontaneous guy, bringing a lot of energy and humor to the team. What I love is that Quinn really digs into Johnny’s desire to be the center of attention, but also shows how he grows into someone who genuinely wants to protect others. There’s a fantastic connection between him and the other actors, and you really feel like they’re a family. He perfectly captures that thrill of being a superhero, all while set against this cool, retro 1960s vibe.

Ebon Moss-Bachrach – ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ (2025)

Ebon Moss-Bachrach plays Ben Grimm, who transforms into the rocky superhero known as The Thing. He gives a compelling performance, focusing on the emotional pain and isolation that come with his dramatic physical change. Despite a lot of visual effects, Moss-Bachrach uses his voice and facial expressions to show deep feelings. As the team’s strongest member, The Thing is also a source of emotional support for his close friend, Reed Richards. Moss-Bachrach brilliantly brings humanity to a character often defined by how he looks.

Evan Peters – ‘Tron: Ares’ (2025)

In the new sci-fi film ‘Tron: Ares,’ Evan Peters plays Julian Dillinger, a villain who brings programs from the digital world into our own. His character has a personal connection to the older computer systems featured in past ‘Tron’ movies and is driven by a desire to control new, powerful technology. Peters portrays Dillinger as sharp, calculating, and explores the themes of human ambition versus artificial intelligence, offering a relatable human element within the film’s futuristic digital setting.

Frank Grillo – ‘Superman’ (2025)

Frank Grillo plays Rick Flag Sr. in the first movie launching the new DC Universe. He’s the leader of an elite military team that crosses paths with the main hero in Metropolis. Grillo portrays a tough, practical soldier dealing with unbelievable events. His character helps connect the realistic military side of the story with the more fantastical superhero elements. Grillo’s performance highlights the conflict between what the government wants and the actions of independent heroes.

Ed Harris – ‘F1’ (2025)

Ed Harris portrays a seasoned racing expert who offers guidance and historical context to a modern racing team. He serves as an advisor and trusted friend to the team owner, helping them overcome both technical difficulties and personal issues throughout the season. Harris delivers a performance filled with subtle power and credibility, enhancing the dramatic moments surrounding the team. His role emphasizes the lasting effect the sport has on those who commit their lives to it, and his performance feels genuinely rooted in the world of professional racing.

Peter Capaldi – ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ (2025)

Peter Capaldi plays Ibrahim, a clever and perceptive resident of a retirement home who joins a group to solve mysteries. He tackles a local murder with a sharp wit and careful, step-by-step approach. Capaldi beautifully portrays the character’s intelligence alongside the challenges of getting older, blending humor and sensitivity. The connections Ibrahim forms with his fellow investigators are central to the film’s heartwarming story. Capaldi’s performance is both delightful and thought-provoking.

Pierce Brosnan – ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ (2025)

Pierce Brosnan plays Ron, a retired activist who’s a particularly vocal member of the community’s detective club. He approaches investigations with a more forceful and straightforward style than the others. Brosnan relishes the chance to play against his typical sophisticated persona, portraying a man who is proudly working-class and doesn’t back down. Ron adds much-needed energy and tension to the mystery, especially during quieter scenes. Brosnan showcases his range as an actor, skillfully mixing humor with moments of real toughness.

Ben Kingsley – ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ (2025)

Ben Kingsley portrays Stephen, a quiet and intriguing member of the club who offers a thoughtful and emotional viewpoint on the happenings in the retirement village. Kingsley imbues the character with a dignified calm as he navigates personal changes alongside solving mysteries. His performance brings warmth and depth to the cast, subtly portraying a man of few words and a keen observer.

Jonathan Bailey – ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ (2025)

Jonathan Bailey plays a committed scientist who joins the expedition to uncover the genetic mysteries of the wilderness. He’s the technical expert and curious mind that pushes the story into increasingly dangerous areas. Bailey infuses the role with energy and excitement as he discovers new prehistoric creatures. His character is often torn between being amazed by these beings and frightened by them. Ultimately, Bailey’s performance captures the feeling of discovery that the audience experiences while watching the film.

Rupert Friend – ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ (2025)

Rupert Friend plays a pharmaceutical rep who’s not quite what he seems as the group ventures into dinosaur country. He embodies the corporate forces that frequently create problems for the main characters in the series. Friend delivers a smooth but subtly suspicious performance, making his interactions with the security team and scientists feel uneasy. His character adds another layer of conflict beyond just surviving, and Friend is particularly good at showing how his character constantly weighs potential gains in every situation.

Stephen Graham – ‘Peaky Blinders: The Movie’ (2025)

Stephen Graham returns as Hayden Stagg in the final film of this sweeping crime saga. He powerfully portrays the character as the Shelby family confronts new dangers on the brink of a global war. The film delves into the changing relationships and power struggles of working-class people during a period of significant social upheaval. Graham delivers a realistic and compelling performance as a man determined to survive in a brutal environment, and remains a highlight of the entire cast, expertly conveying both vulnerability and menace.

Barry Keoghan – ‘Peaky Blinders: The Movie’ (2025)

Barry Keoghan is joining the cast, playing a new and enigmatic character who disrupts the power dynamics in Birmingham. He brings a volatile and disturbing presence to the film’s criminal world, creating a dangerous and contemporary figure within the historical setting. His scenes with the main characters are particularly gripping and add to the tension of this final installment. Keoghan once again demonstrates his talent for captivating audiences even alongside a large cast.

Matt Smith – ‘Caught Stealing’ (2025)

Matt Smith gives a compelling performance in Darren Aronofsky’s crime thriller, ‘Caught Stealing.’ He plays an important supporting role as someone connected to a former baseball player caught up in a brutal fight for his life. Smith brings a frenzied and unsettling energy to the film’s harsh 1990s New York backdrop. His character highlights the perilous new world the main character has stumbled into, and Smith’s performance is both frightening and captivating to watch.

Vincent D’Onofrio – ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ (2025)

Vincent D’Onofrio is back as Wilson Fisk, the formidable crime boss known as Kingpin. He continues his intense conflict with Matt Murdock while maneuvering through New York City’s political and criminal worlds. D’Onofrio delivers a powerful performance, bringing both physical strength and complex emotions to the role. He expertly portrays Kingpin’s ambition to be seen as a legitimate figure and the ruthless lengths he’ll go to in order to stay in power. D’Onofrio’s portrayal remains central to the show, making Kingpin a truly commanding and frightening villain.

Jon Bernthal – ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ (2025)

Jon Bernthal returns as Frank Castle, also known as the Punisher, a relentless and unforgiving vigilante. He brings intense energy to the role, portraying a man driven by trauma and a single-minded pursuit of justice. Through dangerous encounters, Bernthal delves into what motivates the character and offers a dark, realistic take on heroism and violence. His powerful and physically challenging performance consistently connects with Punisher fans.

Jeffrey Wright – ‘The Last of Us’ (2025)

Jeffrey Wright will appear in the second season of the popular series, playing Isaac, the commanding leader of a strong militia. He brings a tough, intelligent presence to the show’s post-apocalyptic world, ravaged by a fungal outbreak. Wright’s character is a man who’s made tough decisions to protect and expand his community. His performance adds a compelling new obstacle for the main characters as they face dangers from both people and the infected. Wright delivers a realistic and imposing performance that perfectly matches the show’s dark atmosphere.

Gabriel Luna – ‘The Last of Us’ (2025)

Gabriel Luna reprises his role as Tommy, the protagonist’s brother and a key figure in a community of survivors. He portrays Tommy’s efforts to create a normal life despite being haunted by his past. Luna brings a comforting and dependable energy to the often-bleak show, emphasizing the enduring bonds between people even as the world falls apart. His performance offers a solid, emotional anchor, balancing out the season’s more intense action.

Kieran Culkin – ‘A Real Pain’ (2025)

Kieran Culkin shines as Benji in ‘A Real Pain,’ a funny and touching film about two cousins traveling through Poland. He plays a character dealing with grief and family secrets with a lively, yet vulnerable, energy. Culkin skillfully mixes humor with heartfelt emotion as he revisits important places from the past. Critics are praising his realistic performance and how well it portrays the often-complicated dynamics of modern families. Many consider this to be one of his best supporting roles of the year in this personal and moving film.

Jon Hamm – ‘The Morning Show’ (2025)

Jon Hamm returns as Paul Marks in the fourth season of this intense drama about the media world. He portrays a confident and polished executive navigating the changing power struggles within a large television network. Through his character, Hamm examines how technology and journalism collide as Paul pursues his ambitious goals. His relationships with the network’s main news anchors create ongoing friction, both professionally and personally. Hamm delivers a strong and authoritative performance, perfectly suited to the series’ fast-paced and competitive environment.

Mark Hamill – ‘The Life of Chuck’ (2025)

Mark Hamill stars in ‘The Life of Chuck,’ a unique film inspired by a Stephen King story. He plays Albie, a wise and kind grandfather figure who offers guidance as the world faces disaster. Hamill brings a calm and thoughtful presence to the role, highlighting the importance of life and memories. His performance is central to the film’s themes and helps connect its different timelines. He skillfully delivers a moving and subtle performance within a complicated story.

Chiwetel Ejiofor – ‘The Life of Chuck’ (2025)

In ‘The Life of Chuck,’ Chiwetel Ejiofor plays Marty, a man searching for purpose as the world crumbles around him. He brings intelligence and deep emotion to his role in this apocalyptic story, convincingly portraying both the confusion and resilience of someone facing the end of everything. Ejiofor’s performance makes the film’s more imaginative parts feel relatable and human, delivering a nuanced and touching depiction of how someone might cope with survival and ultimately, acceptance.

Jacob Tremblay – ‘The Life of Chuck’ (2025)

I was really blown away by Jacob Tremblay’s performance as young Chuck! He perfectly captured that sense of childhood innocence and wonder as he first fell in love with dancing and just…life. You really see the beginnings of the man Chuck will become, and it’s so well done. It’s a really interesting way the film is structured – telling his life backwards – and Tremblay’s performance is key to making that work. He’s such a mature actor for his age, and this role really lets him shine with a joyful and expressive performance.

Nathan Fillion – ‘Superman’ (2025)

Nathan Fillion plays Guy Gardner, a Green Lantern with a lot of personality. He portrays Gardner as confident and a bit cocky, bringing a humorous energy to his interactions with other heroes. Fillion’s comedic skills and strong presence help him shine, even alongside a large cast. His performance adds exciting intergalactic elements and colorful action to the story, while also enriching the world established around Clark Kent. Overall, Fillion delivers a lively and engaging performance that broadens the possibilities of this cinematic universe.

Anthony Carrigan – ‘Superman’ (2025)

In the upcoming 2025 film, Anthony Carrigan portrays Rex Mason, also known as the hero Metamorpho. He brings a compelling mix of physicality and emotion to the role of a character who can change his body into any element. Carrigan delves into the character’s internal conflict – dealing with his unusual appearance while striving to be a force for good in a world that often fears him. His performance offers a poignant and heartbreaking look at the life of someone with superhuman abilities, and he uses his unique acting style to create a character that is both unforgettable and visually impressive.

Alan Tudyk – ‘Superman’ (2025)

Alan Tudyk has a hidden role in the new ‘Superman’ movie that’s been generating a lot of buzz. He’s known for being a talented and flexible actor – equally comfortable with funny and dramatic parts – and he brings that skill to a character who connects different storylines. His involvement helps make the film’s world feel richer and more complete, and he consistently elevates every scene he’s in.

Wendell Pierce – ‘Superman’ (2025)

In the latest Superman film, Wendell Pierce plays Perry White, the editor at the Daily Planet. He brings both a strong sense of ethics and a demanding personality to the newsroom where Clark Kent and Lois Lane work. Pierce skillfully portrays the challenges facing today’s media while staying true to the original character. His performance adds a relatable human element to the story, balancing the fantastical superhero action. He confidently leads the scenes set in the Daily Planet’s office, creating a believable and powerful presence.

Wyatt Russell – ‘Thunderbolts*’ (2025)

I’m really fascinated by Wyatt Russell’s take on John Walker, now known as U.S. Agent. He’s digging deep into what it means to carry the weight of that shield and wrestle with his own inner demons. What I love is how Russell portrays this desperate, ambitious guy who’s clearly conflicted about what’s right and wrong. He really shows the struggle of someone trying to fit into a world of heroes while constantly battling his own impulses. It’s a complicated, and honestly, sometimes unsettling performance, but it makes the character so compelling.

Laurence Fishburne – ‘The Witcher’ (2025)

Laurence Fishburne will be joining season four of ‘The Witcher’ as Regis, a popular character among fans. He plays a thoughtful and refined vampire who unexpectedly becomes an ally to the main character, Geralt. Fishburne brings a sense of calm and intelligence to the show’s dark fantasy setting, and his performance delves into the themes of immortality and friendship amidst a brutal world. He’ll add a powerful and commanding presence to the series.

Sterling K. Brown – ‘Paradise’ (2025)

Sterling K. Brown plays a security expert in the new series ‘Paradise,’ tasked with protecting a former president. He portrays the character with a focused and determined approach, highlighting the challenges of keeping secrets within a private community. The show delves into the personal and professional struggles of a man entangled in political secrets, and Brown delivers a compelling and realistic performance, filled with quiet intensity and unwavering dedication to his job. It’s a captivating drama full of mystery.

Walton Goggins – ‘The White Lotus’ (2025)

Walton Goggins is joining season three of the popular series ‘The White Lotus,’ which is filming in Thailand. He’ll be bringing his signature charm and unpredictable style to the show, playing one of the wealthy guests at the luxurious resort. Goggins will delve into the social issues and character flaws that define the show’s darkly funny atmosphere, adding a touch of Southern hospitality and a hint of danger to the beautiful tropical location. He’s known for seamlessly shifting between comedic and intimidating roles, and is sure to be a highlight of the new season.

Patrick Schwarzenegger – ‘The White Lotus’ (2025)

Patrick Schwarzenegger plays a wealthy traveler in Thailand, adding a youthful and somewhat spoiled dynamic to the show. Throughout the season, his character deals with personal doubts and complicated relationships, often revealed in uncomfortable moments. Schwarzenegger’s performance helps the show examine themes of wealth and privilege while showcasing his ability to act alongside a talented group of performers.

Jason Isaacs – ‘The White Lotus’ (2025)

Jason Isaacs joins the show’s third season as a guest who is both charming and potentially scheming. He brings a powerful and slightly unsettling energy to the resort, captivating and intimidating those around him. Known for playing complex characters with secrets, Isaacs excels in this high-stakes setting, adding layers of intrigue and weight to the hotel’s unfolding story. His performance is polished, compelling, and a perfect fit for the series.

Paul Walter Hauser – ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ (2025)

Paul Walter Hauser has joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in a currently secret, but important, supporting role. He’s bringing his signature humor and down-to-earth personality to this superhero world set in the 1960s. Hauser is well-known for creating memorable characters who often provide heart or comedic relief in bigger stories. Fans are excited about his involvement, especially given his recent critically acclaimed work. He consistently delivers captivating performances in major films and is a standout actor.

John Malkovich – ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ (2025)

John Malkovich is bringing his signature, offbeat talent to the superhero world. He plays a character who feels both smart and unusual within the film’s vintage-future style. Known for portraying complicated characters who give heroes a run for their money, Malkovich elevates the movie’s cast with his star power and unpredictable performance. He continues to be one of the most compelling and original actors working in film today.

Lewis Pullman – ‘Thunderbolts*’ (2025)

Lewis Pullman plays Bob, an enigmatic character who quickly becomes essential to the team’s mission. He portrays Bob with a gentle vulnerability, offering a contrast to the bolder personalities around him. Pullman’s performance delves into what it’s like to have incredible power but still long for a simple life, especially in a world filled with superhumans. His nuanced and relatable portrayal adds significant emotional weight to the story as the team uncovers the truth behind their mission, making him a standout in the film.

Jack Champion – ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ (2025)

Jack Champion is back as Spider in the latest installment of James Cameron’s epic sci-fi series. He plays a character caught between two worlds – the human world and the Na’vi culture of Pandora. The film focuses on Spider’s struggle to find his place and deal with conflicting loyalties, as he doesn’t quite fit in with either group. Champion’s role is physically demanding, requiring him to perform alongside incredibly detailed computer-generated settings. He brings a relatable and authentic performance to this large-scale, visually stunning movie.

Cliff Curtis – ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ (2025)

Cliff Curtis returns as Tonowari, the proud leader of the Metkayina, a clan who live in the water. He powerfully portrays a leader facing new dangers to his people and their environment. Curtis delves into the challenges of leadership and the value of family when everything is at risk. He brings both dignity and impressive physicality to the underwater scenes, continuing to be a strong and insightful presence in the Avatar story.

Beck Bennett – ‘Superman’ (2025)

Beck Bennett plays Steve Lombard, a loud and sports-crazy reporter for the Daily Planet. He adds a welcome dose of humor to the movie’s office scenes. Bennett’s experience in sketch comedy allows him to create a character who is both irritating and amusing to those around him. His performance is key to establishing the lively and relatable atmosphere of the newspaper where the main character keeps his identity a secret. In a film with huge, serious moments, Bennett provides a fun and lighthearted presence.

Peter Sarsgaard – ‘The Bride!’ (2025)

I was really captivated by Peter Sarsgaard in ‘The Bride’! Maggie Gyllenhaal did a fantastic job directing, and Sarsgaard is just brilliant as a really important person in the main character’s life – someone who impacts how she finds herself and her strength. He brings this really interesting, almost unnerving energy to the film, especially with it being set in 1930s Chicago. It’s a classic monster story, but he really digs into the themes of obsession and control, and grounds the whole thing. He’s a strong presence in a movie that’s visually striking and tells its story in a really unique way.

Share your thoughts on these performances in the comments.

2025-12-24 07:28