Latina Powerhouses Who Have Dominated Screens Since 2015

Over the past ten years, Hollywood has seen a real change in how Latina actresses are represented. They’re now leading roles in major franchises and highly praised TV shows and films. These actresses have broken free from typical stereotypes, starring in everything from big-budget superhero movies to intricate dramas and award-winning biographical films. Their success has not only drawn large audiences but also paved the way for more Latin American storytellers. They’ve proven their talent and lasting popularity by excelling in all kinds of genres, from horror to comedy.

Jenna Ortega

Jenna Ortega quickly became a worldwide star after playing Wednesday Addams in the popular series of the same name. Before that, she was a child actor, and her work in both ‘Wednesday’ and the ‘Scream’ movies has established her as a leading actress in the horror genre. Ortega is known for bringing a special mix of dark comedy and genuine emotion to her roles, which appeals to audiences around the globe. She consistently takes on varied and challenging projects, proving her versatility as an actress.

Anya Taylor-Joy

Anya Taylor-Joy quickly became a fan favorite with her impressive performance in ‘The Queen’s Gambit,’ earning her a Golden Globe and widespread acclaim. She consistently picks interesting and creative roles in films like ‘The Menu’ and ‘The Northman,’ proving she can excel in any type of movie. Her latest role in ‘Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga’ solidifies her status as a major action star who can lead a big-budget film. Taylor-Joy’s unique talent and commitment to her work make her one of the most in-demand actors today.

Ana de Armas

Ana de Armas first gained widespread recognition for her role in the mystery film ‘Knives Out’, where she impressed audiences alongside a cast of established stars. She’s since proven her versatility, successfully transitioning into action roles with ‘No Time to Die’ and delivering a powerful performance as Marilyn Monroe in ‘Blonde’. Directors and fans appreciate her ability to move seamlessly between intense action and emotionally challenging dramatic parts. Ana de Armas remains a prominent and in-demand actress in Hollywood, consistently taking on significant projects.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldaña has appeared in four of the biggest blockbuster movies ever made, thanks to her work in the ‘Avatar’ and ‘Avengers’ series. She’s known for bringing both strength and emotion to her roles, particularly as Gamora in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Beyond action and sci-fi, Saldaña has also impressed audiences with her performances in romantic dramas like ‘From Scratch’ and the thriller ‘Special Ops: Lioness’. She continues to be a major box office draw, consistently delivering strong performances in large-scale films.

Sofía Vergara

Sofia Vergara is known for playing Gloria on ‘Modern Family’, a role that made her one of the highest-earning actresses on TV. She recently surprised audiences by taking on a very different role – a tough drug lord – in the drama ‘Griselda’, and critics have praised her for convincingly portraying such a complex character. Beyond acting, Vergara has built a successful business, and she continues to support stories that represent the Latinx community. This shift from comedy to drama proves how talented and adaptable she is.

Salma Hayek Pinault

Salma Hayek remains a major star in Hollywood, appearing in recent hits like ‘Eternals’ and ‘House of Gucci’. She consistently delivers powerful and skilled performances, often captivating audiences more than her fellow actors. Beyond acting, Hayek uses her production company to showcase stories and talent from Mexico. Her long and successful career proves her ability to stay relevant and flourish in the competitive film industry.

Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez recently reminded everyone of her talent as an actress with the highly praised film ‘Hustlers,’ which many thought would earn her an Oscar nomination. She’s continued to star in popular movies like ‘The Mother’ and ‘Shotgun Wedding,’ showing she’s a successful lead actress in both action and comedy. Lopez skillfully manages her acting work alongside her music and business, remaining a well-known figure in popular culture. Her recent roles demonstrate her commitment to portraying strong, complex women who are in charge of their own lives.

America Ferrera

America Ferrera gained widespread recognition for a powerful monologue in the blockbuster film ‘Barbie,’ which earned her an Oscar nomination. Before that, she was the star and a producer on the popular comedy series ‘Superstore’ for six seasons. Throughout her career, Ferrera has consistently championed realistic portrayals and stories that connect with everyday families. Her successful move from television to leading roles in major films demonstrates her significant and enduring influence in the entertainment industry.

Selena Gomez

Selena Gomez has become a successful comedic actress and producer thanks to the hit show ‘Only Murders in the Building’. Her dry wit and great on-screen connection with Steve Martin and Martin Short have earned her praise and award recognition. She’s also used her platform to produce important work, like the documentary series ‘Living Undocumented,’ which focuses on crucial social topics. Gomez is constantly growing as an artist, skillfully managing her acting career alongside her thriving music career.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza has become a standout actress in Hollywood, thanks to roles in shows like ‘The White Lotus’ and the critically acclaimed film ‘Emily the Criminal’. She’s particularly skilled at portraying complex characters and conveying deep emotions with just a look. Plaza consistently chooses projects with unusual storylines that let her delve into darker and more thought-provoking subjects. This willingness to take risks and her unique approach to acting make her one of the most compelling performers working today.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is well-known for her eight seasons playing the strong and serious Detective Rosa Diaz on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. She also showed off her singing ability by voicing Mirabel, the main character in Disney’s ‘Encanto’. Beatriz was also in the movie version of ‘In the Heights’, where she proudly shared her Latin American background through music and dance. She’s a versatile actress, able to convincingly portray both tough, reserved characters and cheerful, hopeful ones.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose won an Oscar for her energetic performance as Anita in Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story,’ launching her into the spotlight. She’s a talented singer, dancer, and actress who’s quickly become a major star in both musicals and films, recently appearing in action movies like ‘Argylle’ and voicing a princess in Disney’s ‘Wish’. DeBose is a versatile performer helping to bring movie musicals back to life for modern audiences.

Rachel Zegler

Rachel Zegler quickly became a star after playing Maria in Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story,’ a performance that earned her a Golden Globe. She continued her success with the hit movie ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes.’ Despite being new to the industry, Zegler has a strong voice and appears completely comfortable on screen, suggesting she’ll have a long and successful career in both musicals and dramas.

Eiza González

Eiza González is quickly becoming known for her exciting work in action movies, with roles in popular films like ‘Baby Driver’, ‘Hobbs & Shaw’, and ‘Ambulance’. She recently showed her range in the sci-fi series ‘3 Body Problem’, tackling a complicated storyline with skill. González consistently delivers captivating and powerful performances, helping her stand out even when working with a large cast. Her career is clearly focused on big-budget, international films that allow her to showcase her action talents.

Melissa Barrera

Melissa Barrera quickly became a prominent actress after appearing in ‘In the Heights’ and the ‘Scream’ movies. She’s known for bringing a realistic and powerful energy to her roles, whether she’s battling a killer or portraying everyday life. Barrera is expanding her work in suspenseful films like ‘Abigail’, showing she excels in the horror and thriller genres. Her experience in Mexican telenovelas has helped her develop a strong and captivating screen presence.

Gina Rodriguez

Gina Rodriguez became well-known for her leading role in ‘Jane the Virgin,’ which earned her a Golden Globe and lasted until 2019. Since then, she’s appeared in the sitcom ‘Not Dead Yet’ and the action film ‘Miss Bala,’ demonstrating her versatility as an actress. Beyond performing, Rodriguez also directs and produces, and is committed to supporting Latinx creators in the industry. Her projects often explore themes of family, finding oneself, and overcoming challenges.

Camila Mendes

Camila Mendes is well-known for her seven seasons as Veronica Lodge on the popular show ‘Riverdale’. More recently, she demonstrated her talent for comedy and leading roles in the Netflix film ‘Do Revenge’. Mendes has also been vocal about important topics like body image and the need for better representation in media, and she’s now choosing roles that push her beyond the glamorous image she first became known for.

Alexa Demie

Alexa Demie quickly became a style icon and well-known actress thanks to her role as Maddy Perez in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. Critics loved her powerful and honest performance, which realistically portrayed the challenges of being a teenager today. Demie is careful about the projects she chooses, preferring those with a clear artistic vision and a unique look. She’s become a trendsetter, influencing not only acting but also fashion and makeup.

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson has brilliantly brought the popular animated character Ahsoka Tano into the live-action world of ‘Star Wars.’ Fans have praised her portrayal of the wise Jedi warrior in both ‘Ahsoka’ and ‘The Mandalorian.’ Beyond sci-fi, Dawson also gave a compelling performance in the drama ‘Dopesick,’ which explored the opioid crisis. She’s a remarkably adaptable actress, equally comfortable in fantastical stories and impactful social dramas.

Michelle Rodriguez

Michelle Rodriguez is famous for her role as Letty Ortiz in the ‘Fast & Furious’ movies, solidifying her status as a leading action star. She recently showed her versatility in ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves,’ bringing both action and humor to the fantasy genre. Rodriguez is a prominent Latina actress in action films, and is well-known for doing many of her own stunts. Throughout her career, she’s become known for portraying strong, self-reliant female characters.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson is a well-known actress who’s become a key player in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, playing Valkyrie in movies like ‘Thor’ and ‘Avengers’. She also has a leading role in the ‘Creed’ films, adding a lot of heart to the boxing story. Thompson is celebrated for her versatility – she effortlessly transforms for different roles, whether it’s a big sci-fi movie or a smaller, more personal film like ‘Passing’. Through her work, she often breaks down stereotypes and delves into complicated characters.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o has captivated audiences with powerful roles in films like Jordan Peele’s ‘Us’ and as Nakia in ‘Black Panther’. Known for her dedication to both the physical and emotional demands of her characters, she consistently delivers compelling performances across all genres. Nyong’o recently returned to horror with ‘A Quiet Place: Day One’, proving her continued popularity with moviegoers. She is widely considered one of the most talented and respected actresses in the world.

Eva Longoria

Eva Longoria is now a successful director and producer, having recently directed the film ‘Flamin’ Hot’, after establishing herself as an actress. She also returned to acting in the series ‘Land of Women’, showcasing her great comedic skills. Longoria is dedicated to using her position to help other Latino artists and share stories that celebrate her community. Her career shift shows she’s committed to making real changes in Hollywood, especially by creating opportunities behind the scenes.

Adria Arjona

Adria Arjona is quickly becoming a well-known actress thanks to memorable roles in shows like ‘Andor’ and the movie ‘Hit Man’. Her performance in ‘Andor,’ a ‘Star Wars’ series, was particularly praised for its realistic and emotionally powerful portrayal of a rebel. Arjona has a natural ability to bring charm and intensity to her characters, making her an actress on the rise. She’s consistently landing parts in both big-budget franchises and highly-rated films.

Isabela Merced

Isabela Merced started her career as a child actor and has successfully moved into more adult roles, appearing in films like ‘Sicario: Day of the Soldado’ and ‘Instant Family’. She’s now expanding into new genres, with parts in the superhero movie ‘Madame Web’ and the next season of the popular show ‘The Last of Us’. In addition to acting, Merced is a skilled singer and often includes her musical talent in her work. This makes her a versatile performer capable of playing a wide range of characters, from action stars to dramatic leads.

Xochitl Gomez

Xochitl Gomez quickly became a fan favorite after joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe as America Chavez in ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.’ She brought a fresh, energetic perspective and important representation to the superhero world. Before Marvel, she was known for her charming and funny performance in ‘The Baby-Sitters Club.’ Gomez is a rising Latina star who’s taking on leading roles in big-budget films.

Rita Moreno

Rita Moreno is a shining example of timeless talent. Decades after winning an Oscar for the original ‘West Side Story,’ she gave a moving performance in Steven Spielberg’s remake. She’s also charmed audiences in the comedy ’80 for Brady’ and the sitcom ‘One Day at a Time’ with her lively personality and energy. As one of the rare few to achieve EGOT status, Moreno continues to work steadily in film and television, inspiring others with her long-lasting success and dedication to her craft.

Rosie Perez

Rosie Perez impressed audiences with her role as Renee Montoya in the movie ‘Birds of Prey,’ and she gained critical acclaim for her performance in the series ‘The Flight Attendant,’ where she played a woman caught up in international spying. Known for her vibrant personality and no-nonsense attitude, Perez continues to stand out in Hollywood, consistently adding depth and energy to every project she’s a part of. She’s a consistently engaging performer who makes every film or show better.

Alice Braga

Alice Braga starred as the lead in the crime series ‘Queen of the South’ for five seasons, delivering a nuanced portrayal of a woman’s ascent within a dangerous drug cartel. She’s also been in popular films like ‘The Suicide Squad,’ proving she excels in action roles. Braga consistently brings a subtle power and intelligence to her characters, making her performances compelling to watch. She successfully connects the world of Brazilian film with large-scale Hollywood productions.

Morena Baccarin

Morena Baccarin is best known for playing Vanessa in the popular ‘Deadpool’ movies. She’s also appeared in the TV show ‘Gotham,’ offering a complex take on a well-known comic book character. Baccarin consistently delivers charming and clever performances, skillfully blending the excitement of superhero stories with genuine emotion. Thanks to her work in science fiction and comic book projects, she’s become a beloved figure in geek culture.

Justina Machado

Justina Machado became a fan favorite for her role as Penelope Alvarez, the mother in the updated sitcom ‘One Day at a Time’. Critics loved her honest portrayal of a military veteran and single mom navigating challenges with her mental health and family. Later, she showed off her acting versatility in the darkly funny series ‘The Horror of Dolores Roach’, demonstrating she’s much more than just a sitcom star. Machado is also a strong voice for stories that are genuine and reflect the realities of everyday life.

Karla Souza

Karla Souza first gained recognition for her role as the intricate law student Laurel Castillo in the hit series ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. More recently, she starred in and produced the film ‘La Caída’, a sports drama that explores the issue of abuse within the world of diving. Souza is celebrated for taking on challenging roles and skillfully portraying characters with complex emotions. Her work frequently focuses on important social issues and the strength of women.

Christian Serratos

Christian Serratos is known for taking on challenging roles, including portraying the iconic Selena Quintanilla in ‘Selena: The Series’ and surviving the zombie apocalypse as Rosita Espinosa in ‘The Walking Dead’. She’s demonstrated her ability to handle both physically demanding action scenes and the emotional depth required for biographical roles. These performances have earned her a dedicated following and praise from critics.

Cierra Ramirez

Cierra Ramirez starred in and helped create the show ‘Good Trouble,’ which ran for five seasons and was very popular. She played Mariana Adams Foster, a young woman figuring out life and working in the tech industry in Los Angeles. Ramirez has developed from a young actress into a powerful creative voice, actively influencing the stories she tells. She’s part of a new generation of performers who are taking control of their careers and making their own opportunities.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming the first transgender actress to win a Golden Globe, recognized for her powerful portrayal of Blanca in the series ‘Pose’. Her performance served as the heart of the show, inspiring and empowering the LGBTQ+ community. Since then, she’s appeared in the comedy ‘Loot’ and lent her voice to ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’. Rodriguez is a pioneer who is using her talent and increased visibility to create positive change in the entertainment industry.

Melissa Fumero

Melissa Fumero is famous for playing Amy Santiago on the popular comedy ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. Her character, a very organized detective, provided a great contrast to the show’s craziness and became an inspiration for people who love to stay organized. She recently appeared in the comedy ‘Blockbuster’, continuing her work in the sitcom world. Fumero is known for her excellent comedic timing and how much audiences enjoy watching her.

Yalitza Aparicio

Yalitza Aparicio gained international recognition with her role in Alfonso Cuarón’s acclaimed film ‘Roma’, becoming the first Indigenous American woman to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress. Since then, she’s become a voice for Indigenous communities and has appeared in the Apple TV+ series ‘Midnight Family’. Aparicio carefully selects projects that aim to challenge expectations and highlight the stories of people often overlooked. Her work is helping to create a more inclusive Hollywood.

Rosa Salazar

Rosa Salazar has become a fan favorite thanks to her incredible performance as the lead character in ‘Alita: Battle Angel’, using motion-capture technology. She’s also earned praise from critics for ‘Undone’, a unique animated series that deals with complex topics like mental health and time travel. Salazar is particularly known for her ability to communicate strong emotions – even when playing characters created with digital effects – and consistently seeks out projects that are visually creative and push boundaries.

Diane Guerrero

Diane Guerrero is a well-known actress, famous for her roles in shows like ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and ‘Doom Patrol’. She also lent her voice to the character Isabela in the popular movie ‘Encanto’. Beyond acting, Guerrero is a strong advocate for immigration reform, sharing her family’s story in her writing. Many of the characters she plays explore difficult themes like trauma and finding one’s identity.

Dascha Polanco

Dascha Polanco first became well-known for her role in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and has since appeared in popular films like ‘In the Heights’. Recently, she impressed audiences with her performance in the mystery series ‘Poker Face’, acting alongside established stars. Polanco is known for bringing a lively and genuine quality to her characters, often portraying women who are confident and true to themselves. She’s continuing to take on a variety of roles in both film and television, showcasing her versatility as an actress.

Please discuss which performance from this list made the biggest impact on you in the comments.

2026-01-30 05:19