As the awards season draws near, all eyes are on the fresh faces that are taking Hollywood by storm. These rising stars have captured the attention of audiences and critics alike with their exceptional talent, compelling performances, and undeniable charisma. From breakthrough roles in indie films to standout performances in blockbuster hits, these actors and filmmakers are poised to make a significant impact this year.

1. Florence Pugh

Florence Pugh has been steadily building an impressive resume, but this year she’s truly come into her own as one of Hollywood’s most versatile young actresses. Her recent roles have showcased her incredible range, from the intense psychological horror of Midsommar to the nuanced drama of Little Women, for which she received her first Academy Award nomination. This awards season, all eyes will be on Pugh as she continues to captivate with her dynamic performances.

2. Timothée Chalamet

Timothée Chalamet is no stranger to critical acclaim, having already been nominated for an Academy Award for his role in Call Me by Your Name. However, this season, he’s set to solidify his status as a leading man with his performances in Dune and Wonka. Chalamet’s ability to convey deep emotion and vulnerability makes him a favorite for nominations across multiple categories.

3. Anya Taylor-Joy

Anya Taylor-Joy has quickly become one of the most exciting young talents in Hollywood. Following her success in The Queen’s Gambit, which earned her a Golden Globe, Taylor-Joy has continued to take on challenging roles that showcase her unique ability to blend intensity with fragility. Her upcoming projects, including Furiosa, a prequel to Mad Max: Fury Road, are already generating buzz, and she’s expected to be a strong contender this awards season.

4. Jonathan Majors

Jonathan Majors has emerged as one of the most compelling actors of his generation, delivering powerful performances in films like The Last Black Man in San Francisco and Da 5 Bloods. His role in the upcoming film Magazine Dreams is already earning early awards buzz, with critics praising his ability to bring depth and complexity to his characters. Majors is definitely one to watch as the nominations start rolling in.

5. Zendaya

Zendaya has proven time and again that she is much more than just a former Disney star. Her Emmy-winning performance in Euphoria showcased her dramatic chops, and she has continued to impress with her roles in Malcolm & Marie and Dune. With more high-profile projects on the horizon, Zendaya is poised to dominate this awards season, both as a leading actress and a style icon on the red carpet.

6. Daniel Kaluuya

Having already won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Judas and the Black Messiah, Daniel Kaluuya is showing no signs of slowing down. His powerful performances have consistently garnered praise, and his latest projects are sure to keep him in the awards conversation. Kaluuya’s ability to fully inhabit his characters makes him a standout in any film, and this season will likely be no different.

7. Rachel Zegler

Rachel Zegler is a newcomer to the Hollywood scene, but she’s already making waves with her breakout role as Maria in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story. Her performance has been lauded for its emotional depth and vocal prowess, positioning her as a serious contender for Best Actress this season. Zegler’s star is rising quickly, and this is just the beginning of what promises to be an illustrious career.

8. Lakeith Stanfield

Lakeith Stanfield is one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors, seamlessly moving between genres and roles. From his chilling performance in Get Out to his more recent work in Judas and the Black Messiah, Stanfield has proven he can handle anything thrown his way. His role in the upcoming film The Harder They Fall is already generating buzz, and he’s expected to be a strong presence this awards season.

9. Alana Haim

Best known as a member of the band HAIM, Alana Haim made a stunning transition to acting with her debut in Paul Thomas Anderson’s Licorice Pizza. Her performance has been praised for its authenticity and charm, earning her critical acclaim and positioning her as a frontrunner for Best Actress nominations. Haim’s natural talent and magnetic screen presence make her a standout in a crowded field of rising stars.

10. Simu Liu

Simu Liu made history as Marvel’s first Asian superhero in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. His performance was both charismatic and heartfelt, earning him widespread acclaim and making him a household name. Liu’s breakthrough role has opened the door to more leading roles in Hollywood, and he’s expected to be a major player this awards season, particularly in the action and blockbuster categories.

This awards season promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with a fresh crop of talent poised to take the industry by storm. These rising stars represent the future of Hollywood, bringing new perspectives, diverse backgrounds, and exceptional talent to the forefront. Whether they’re winning awards or simply earning their place in the spotlight, these actors and filmmakers are the ones to watch as they continue to shape the future of the entertainment industry.