Hollywood has long been a hub for global talent, and one group that continues to make a significant impact on the big screen is Latina actresses. These women, with their incredible talent, drive, and determination, have carved out careers that inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide. From groundbreaking performances to influential leadership behind the camera, Latina actresses are reshaping the entertainment industry and leaving their mark on Hollywood.
In this article, we celebrate the success stories of 35 Latina actresses who are changing the game, both in front of and behind the camera. Whether it’s their unforgettable roles in iconic movies and TV shows, their work as producers and directors, or their advocacy for social issues, these women prove that their influence is far-reaching.
Introduction to Latina Actresses in Hollywood
The entertainment industry has a long history of underrepresentation when it comes to people of color, especially women. However, Latina actresses have consistently defied expectations, breaking barriers and showcasing their talents on both small and large screens. Their work not only brings important cultural narratives to the forefront but also demonstrates the diverse range of stories and perspectives that Hollywood is capable of telling.
Latinas have been instrumental in bringing visibility to the Latinx community in Hollywood. Their portrayal of strong, multifaceted characters has shattered stereotypes and redefined what it means to be a Latina in the entertainment industry. These actresses are not just playing supporting roles but are leading major films and TV shows, proving that their voices matter and that Hollywood is a better place with their contributions.
Despite their undeniable presence, Latina actresses still face challenges when it comes to equal representation and opportunities in Hollywood. According to UCLA’s 2024 Hollywood Diversity Report, the Latinx community makes up just 8.9% of overall casting diversity. This statistic highlights the ongoing need for greater inclusivity and representation in the industry. Yet, the achievements of these 35 actresses are a testament to the resilience and talent of Latina performers.
The Top Latina Actresses Who Are Shaping Hollywood
Selena Gomez
Selena Gomez is a multi-talented actress, singer, producer, and entrepreneur who has captivated millions with her charm and talent. From her early days as a child star in Barney & Friends to her breakout role in Wizards of Waverly Place, Selena’s career has been nothing short of impressive. In recent years, she has expanded her repertoire to include producing and advocating for mental health through her platform. As the founder of Rare Beauty, Selena is also changing the beauty industry, making it more inclusive for people of all backgrounds.
Aubrey Plaza
Known for her deadpan humor and unique performances, Aubrey Plaza has become a fan favorite in Hollywood. After making her mark in Parks and Recreation, she starred in the hit series White Lotus, where her portrayal of Harper was praised for its wit and complexity. Aubrey continues to challenge expectations with her roles and was recently named one of Time’s 100 Most Influential People in 2023. With her distinct comedic style and daring roles, Aubrey Plaza is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with.
Liza Colón-Zayas
Liza Colón-Zayas is a talented actress best known for her standout role in The Bear, where she portrayed Tina Marrero, a role that earned her critical acclaim. A veteran of the stage and screen, Liza’s career began off-Broadway before she moved into TV and film. With roles in The Good Wife and Hulu’s The Act, Liza continues to demonstrate her range and skill, proving that she is a versatile and essential talent in Hollywood.
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Eva Mendes
Eva Mendes is a dynamic actress, model, and creative director who has had a long and successful career in Hollywood. Known for her roles in films such as 2 Fast 2 Furious and Hitch, Eva has proven her ability to shine in both comedic and dramatic roles. Outside of acting, she has also established herself as a successful businesswoman, with her own fashion line and a reputation as a creative powerhouse.
Rosario Dawson
Rosario Dawson’s career began in her teens with a role in the movie Kids, and since then, she has become one of Hollywood’s most respected actresses. With roles in iconic films like Rent and Seven Pounds as well as major TV appearances in Ahsoka and The Mandalorian, Rosario has solidified herself as a versatile performer who can tackle a wide range of genres. Her career continues to soar, and she remains a key figure in both film and television.
America Ferrera
America Ferrera is best known for her roles in Ugly Betty and Real Women Have Curves, but her career has continued to evolve in exciting new ways. Recently, she made waves in Barbie, one of the most anticipated films of 2023, and continues to use her platform to address social justice issues. As a producer and advocate, America’s influence extends beyond the screen, as she fights for more representation and opportunity for Latinx talent in Hollywood.
Zoë Saldaña
Zoë Saldaña is one of the highest-grossing actresses of all time, thanks to her roles in major franchises such as Avatar, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Star Trek. Her impressive filmography is filled with sci-fi blockbusters, but she has also showcased her dramatic chops in films like The Words and Colombiana. Zoë continues to prove that she is a leading lady in every sense of the word, dominating box offices around the world.
Barbie Ferreira
Brazilian actress and model Barbie Ferreira has made a name for herself in Hollywood, particularly with her role as Kat in the critically acclaimed TV series Euphoria. Known for her body-positive message and unapologetic authenticity, Barbie is breaking down barriers for plus-size actresses in Hollywood and paving the way for more inclusive representation on screen.
Melissa Barrera
Melissa Barrera is a rising star in both the U.S. and Mexico, known for her role in Scream VI and the TV series Vida. She has shown incredible versatility, transitioning from telenovelas to Hollywood blockbusters. As a talented singer and actress, Melissa continues to challenge stereotypes and prove that Latina actresses are capable of leading major films and shows.
Annie Gonzalez
Annie Gonzalez, a native of Los Angeles, has quickly become a name to watch in Hollywood. Known for her roles in Shameless and Gentefied, Annie brings a fresh perspective to every character she plays. Whether she is acting, singing, or dancing, Annie showcases the depth of her talent with every performance, making her a promising figure in the entertainment industry.
Jennifer Lopez
Jennifer Lopez, also known as J.Lo, is a global superstar whose career spans music, acting, and business. From her breakout role in Selena to her iconic performances in Maid in Manhattan and The Wedding Planner, Jennifer has solidified herself as one of Hollywood’s leading ladies. Beyond her acting career, she is also a successful entrepreneur and a vocal advocate for social change, making her a true icon of the entertainment industry.
Salma Hayek
Salma Hayek is one of Hollywood’s most respected actresses, known for her powerful performances in films such as Frida, Desperado, and House of Gucci. Her portrayal of artist Frida Kahlo in the biographical film Frida earned her an Academy Award nomination and helped her become a key figure in Hollywood. Over the years, Salma has continued to make her mark with both acting and producing credits.
Rita Moreno
Rita Moreno is a legendary actress who has been a trailblazer for Latinx talent in Hollywood for decades. She is best known for her role in West Side Story, for which she won an Oscar, making her the first Hispanic woman to win the prestigious award. In addition to her Academy Award, Rita has also won an Emmy, Grammy, and Tony, making her an EGOT winner. Her career spans over seven decades, and she remains an inspiration to aspiring artists everywhere.
Constance Marie
Constance Marie has been a mainstay in Hollywood for many years, with notable roles in George Lopez and Switched at Birth. She first gained recognition for her portrayal of Selena Quintanilla’s mother in the 1997 biopic Selena. Constance’s career continues to thrive, with recent appearances in Amazon Prime’s With Love and Netflix’s Undone.
Eva Longoria
Eva Longoria is not only a talented actress but also a director and producer. She gained fame for her role in Desperate Housewives but has since expanded her career behind the camera, with a focus on storytelling that reflects Latinx experiences. She recently directed Flamin’ Hot, a film about the man who created the Flamin’ Hot Cheetos snack. Eva continues to be a driving force for diversity in Hollywood.
Kate del Castillo
Kate del Castillo is a Mexican actress who rose to fame for her iconic role in the hit Telemundo soap opera La Reina del Sur (Queen of the South). This series brought her widespread recognition, and the U.S. version of the show helped solidify her position as an international star. She later starred in Ingobernable, Netflix’s political drama. Kate’s versatility shines through in both her TV and film projects, and she remains a key player in bringing Latinx stories to the global stage. Her career started in theater, and she’s known for portraying complex, strong-willed characters. Kate’s dedication to breaking stereotypes in her roles has made her one of the most prominent Latina actresses in Hollywood.
Jenna Ortega
Jenna Ortega is a rising star whose popularity has skyrocketed in recent years. Best known for her role as Ellie in You, Jenna’s most exciting role to date is as the titular character in Tim Burton’s live-action Addams Family series, Wednesday on Netflix. Born to Mexican and Puerto Rican parents, Jenna is a role model for young Latina actresses everywhere. Her dynamic performances showcase her talent, whether it’s playing in horror franchises like Scream or starring in coming-of-age series. As a prominent young Latina voice in Hollywood, Jenna has quickly become an influential figure who represents the next generation of Latina talent.
Xóchitl Gomez
Xóchitl Gomez’s breakout moment came when she landed a pivotal role in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness as America Chavez, marking her debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Born and raised in Los Angeles to Mexican parents, Xóchitl’s journey from youth musical theater to the Marvel universe reflects her immense talent and determination. Her debut role in the The Baby-Sitters Club TV series on Netflix further established her as a fresh and promising face in Hollywood. Xóchitl’s inclusion in such a groundbreaking franchise is a significant step for representation, as she brings a Latinx perspective to global blockbuster films.
Sofía Vergara
Sofía Vergara is undoubtedly one of Hollywood’s most famous Latina actresses. Known for her role as Gloria Delgado-Pritchett in Modern Family, Sofía has become a household name, earning widespread acclaim for her comedic timing and charm. Born in Barranquilla, Colombia, Sofía’s career spans decades, and she became the first Colombian actress to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2015. She has also starred in films like Chasing Papi and Meet the Browns. Besides acting, Sofía is an influential businesswoman and philanthropist. Her success on the screen and beyond has made her one of the most influential Latina figures in Hollywood.
Cote de Pablo
Cote de Pablo made a name for herself with her role as Ziva David in the long-running TV series NCIS. Born in Santiago, Chile, Cote moved to Miami at the age of 10, where she started pursuing acting. Her strong portrayal of Ziva made her one of the standout characters in NCIS, a role that earned her a loyal fanbase. Cote’s career has since included roles in The 33 and M-3: The Watcher. Cote’s captivating performances continue to draw attention to Latina actresses in Hollywood, and her versatile acting ability proves her immense talent and staying power in the industry.
Anya Taylor-Joy
Anya Taylor-Joy, while born in Miami, is widely recognized for her connection to Latin American heritage, having spent much of her childhood in Argentina. Her breakout role came with The Witch, but it was her performance in The Queen’s Gambit on Netflix that solidified her place as a major star. As a Golden Globe winner, Anya’s unique look and acting prowess have made her one of the most sought-after actresses in Hollywood. Her roles in Emma and Peaky Blinders have further demonstrated her range, making Anya a leading example of how diverse backgrounds can influence and enrich Hollywood storytelling.
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Christian Serratos
Christian Serratos is best known for her portrayal of Selena Quintanilla in the Netflix biographical drama Selena: The Series. Her passion for the role came from her own admiration for the legendary Tejano singer, and her performance was praised for its authenticity and emotional depth. Christian, of Mexican and Italian descent, has also had notable roles in The Walking Dead and Twilight. She has successfully made the transition from TV to film, showing her versatility as an actress. Christian’s journey proves that Latina actresses can not only play iconic roles but can also become icons in their own right.
Eiza González
Eiza González is a Mexican actress and singer who first gained fame in her home country before transitioning to Hollywood. She starred in telenovelas such as Lola: Érase una vez and Sueña conmigo, and soon made her mark in English-speaking roles with From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series. Her Hollywood breakthrough came with Baby Driver, followed by Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw. Eiza’s strong screen presence, paired with her musical talent, has made her one of the most exciting Latinx talents in Hollywood. Her rise in both the music and film industries shows how versatile and ambitious Latina women can be.
Gina Torres
Gina Torres, an Afro-Latina actress, has had a successful career in both television and film. She is best known for her roles in Firefly and Suits, where she portrayed powerful, complex characters. Gina’s ability to bring strength and nuance to her roles has made her an icon in the world of science fiction and legal drama. Born in New York to Cuban-American parents, she has also appeared in shows like Westworld and 24. Gina is celebrated for her ability to portray strong female characters while embracing her Afro-Latina roots, making her an important figure in the entertainment industry.
Heather Hemmens
Heather Hemmens is an actress and producer best known for her role in the teen series Hellcats and her portrayal of the character Maria in Roswell, New Mexico. Born to a Costa Rican mother and a Black father, Heather has carved a niche for herself in Hollywood by bringing her unique perspective and energy to her roles. She has also appeared in shows like The Vampire Diaries and Grey’s Anatomy. Heather’s background in theater and dance further informs her performances, making her one of the most versatile actresses of her generation.
Jeanine Mason
Jeanine Mason’s career began as a dancer, and she won So You Think You Can Dance in 2009, which helped launch her acting career. Her breakthrough role came with her portrayal of Dr. Sam Bello in Grey’s Anatomy, and she later became a regular on Roswell, New Mexico. As a Cuban-American actress, Jeanine’s work highlights the importance of representation, and she continues to show her range through both dramatic and light-hearted roles.
Julissa Calderon
Julissa Calderon, known for her role in Netflix’s Gentefied, brought much-needed visibility to the struggles of the Latinx community in America, particularly in relation to gentrification. Born in New York and raised in Miami, Julissa’s Dominican heritage influences her creative output, which is reflected in her work both as an actress and a video producer for Buzzfeed. She continues to raise awareness on important social issues while breaking barriers for Latinx women in Hollywood.
Justina Machado
Justina Machado is a seasoned actress with a diverse body of work, including notable roles in Six Feet Under and One Day at a Time. Born and raised in Chicago to Puerto Rican parents, Justina’s career reflects her ability to take on complex characters across both comedy and drama. Her work in Jane the Virgin and Ugly Betty has also earned her critical praise, cementing her place as one of the most talented Latina actresses in Hollywood.
Michelle Veintimilla
Michelle Veintimilla, a New York native of Ecuadorian descent, has steadily built a reputation for her strong performances in both film and television. She gained recognition for her role in Gotham and has appeared in popular series like Blue Bloods and NCIS: New Orleans. Michelle’s versatility is demonstrated through her roles in crime dramas and romantic comedies, making her one of Hollywood’s emerging Latina stars.
Mishel Prada
Mishel Prada, a Dominican-Puerto Rican actress, has quickly made her mark in Hollywood. After a spontaneous audition landed her a role in Fear the Walking Dead: Passage, she went on to secure the lead role in Vida, where she played Emma. Her career trajectory proves that talent and perseverance can lead to unexpected success, and Mishel is an advocate for Latinx representation in the entertainment industry.
Nathalie Kelley
Nathalie Kelley’s background is as diverse as her career. Born in Peru to a Peruvian mother and Argentine father, she moved to Australia at a young age. Nathalie’s role in The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift was her Hollywood debut, and she has since starred in Dynasty and The Baker and the Beauty. Nathalie’s multicultural background allows her to bring authenticity to the roles she plays, making her one of the most unique voices in Hollywood today.
Roselyn Sánchez
Roselyn Sánchez is an actress, singer, and producer best known for her roles in Rush Hour 2 and Devious Maids. A Puerto Rican native, Roselyn has been a staple in both TV and film for many years, starring in shows like Without a Trace and Grand Hotel. Her ability to move between different genres and her passion for bringing Latinx culture to mainstream audiences have made her one of Hollywood’s most beloved Latina actresses.
Rosie Pérez
Rosie Pérez is a true Hollywood veteran with a career that spans acting, dancing, and producing. After landing her first major role in Do the Right Thing, she became a breakout star and earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in Fearless. Rosie has starred in films such as Pineapple Express and Pitch Perfect 2, and her recent work in The Flight Attendant showcased her ability to tackle both dramatic and comedic roles.
Sofia Carson
Sofia Carson, best known for her role in the Descendants franchise, has transitioned from Disney star to a rising talent in Hollywood. Her roles in Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists and Songbird have shown her versatility, and Sofia continues to release music, adding a musical layer to her career. As a Colombian-American actress, Sofia’s work highlights the importance of Latinx representation in entertainment.
Stephanie Beatriz
Stephanie Beatriz gained widespread recognition for her role as Detective Rosa Diaz on Brooklyn Nine-Nine. Known for her tough exterior and comedic timing, Stephanie has become an LGBTQ+ icon while continuing to work on a range of projects. Her roles in In the Heights and Encanto showcased her musical talents, further solidifying her place in the entertainment world.
Conclusion
The impact of Latina actresses in Hollywood is undeniable. From groundbreaking performances to their advocacy for greater representation, these women are making history and shaping the future of the entertainment industry. As we continue to see more Latina talent rise to prominence, it’s clear that Hollywood is a richer, more inclusive place thanks to the contributions of these 35 incredible actresses. Their stories are a testament to the power of perseverance, representation, and the importance of giving diverse voices a platform in the entertainment world.
