Bad Surge's Actors To Watch The Next Years To Come
A few actors to whom I believe are worthy of paying attention.
I'm generally aiming for younger actors for this list, namely because I expect to see their careers evolve over a long period of time.
If there's a talented actor I've done the disservice of leaving off, then comment on the board.
The actors are in no order.
I'm generally aiming for younger actors for this list, namely because I expect to see their careers evolve over a long period of time.
If there's a talented actor I've done the disservice of leaving off, then comment on the board.
The actors are in no order.
Log in to copy items to your own lists.
1.
Ezra Miller
Actor, We Need to Talk About Kevin
Ezra Matthew Miller was born in Wyckoff, New Jersey, to Marta (Koch), a modern dancer, and Robert S. Miller, who has worked at Workman Publishing and as former senior VP for Hyperion Books. He has two older sisters. Ezra is of Ashkenazi Jewish (father) and German-Dutch (mother) ancestry; he has described himself as Jewish and "spiritual"...
“ Saw this kids first film at the Nashville Film Festival a few years back, and although the movie made me uncomfortable, I absolutely loved his performance and I'm excited to see where this actors career will go. If you've never heard of him, go watch "Afterschool". But prepare to cringe more than once. ” - BadSurge
2.
Donald Glover
Actor, The Martian
Donald McKinley Glover was born at the Edwards Air Force Base, California, and was raised in Stone Mountain, Georgia. His mother, Beverly (Smith), ran a daycare center, and his father, Donald Glover, was a postal worker. He is, despite rumors, not related to actor Danny Glover. Donald graduated from New York University with a degree in Dramatic Writing in 2006...
“ Childish Gambino. Man, is this guy funny, and if you like "30 Rock", he's one of the writers and I believe the driving force of Tracy Morgan. I've watched all that this kid has to offer and he just gets funnier and better at acting as time goes by. I'm for serious, keep watching this guy. Can use his ability to conjure up tears instantly to make you laugh or cry. This is one talented dude. ” - BadSurge
3.
Kieran Culkin
Actor, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World
Kieran Kyle Culkin was born September 30, 1982 in New York City, New York. He is the son of Christopher Culkin, a former stage and child actor, and Patricia Brentrup. He is the brother of Shane Culkin, Dakota Culkin, Macaulay Culkin, Quinn Culkin, Christian Culkin, and Rory Culkin. His mother...
“ Igby Slocumb, I thought you'd be doing more. I've yet to see the most talented Culkin in a great role since "Igby Goes Down", and I'm ever so patiently waiting for the film that gives this kid a solid foothold. Don't throw him in the box with Macaulay. This kid can actually act. Think Elisabeth Olsen. ” - BadSurge
4.
“ He shows up everywhere, this Martin Freeman guy. He was the original "Jim" from "The Office" (the limeys called him "Tim"), he was the lead in "The Hitchhikers Guide To The Galaxy", and we'll being seeing him in "The Hobbit", donning he role of "Bilbo Baggins". I've been waiting for years for American audiences to take him seriously, and I guess we'll find out if they do here soon. ” - BadSurge
5.
Craig Roberts
Actor, Submarine
“ Thanks to Richard Ayode for bringing this one to my attention. Clever kid, charming, and gave a great performance in Submarine. I've seen him in a few BBC roles, and he's got a range. Hope to see him fully cross over here. ” - BadSurge
6.
Emma Stone
Actress, The Help
Emily Jean "Emma" Stone was born in Scottsdale, Arizona, to Krista (Yeager), a homemaker, and Jeffrey Charles Stone, a contracting company founder and CEO. She is of Swedish (from her paternal grandfather), English, German, Scottish, and Irish descent. Stone began acting as a child as a member of the Valley Youth Theatre in Phoenix...
“ Man, this beautiful bitch surprised the hell outta me. I thought, at first, that she was the one cutlet they could get to be in "Superbad". That still may be true, but it's not because she's a hottie with no taste/talent. In fact, it's quite the opposite. The starlet's got both in spades. Can't wait to watch her get more beautiful and talented, and to pick more ridiculous movies like "Superbad", "Zombieland", and "Easy A". And "The Amazing Spiderman". ” - BadSurge
7.
Chris Pine
Actor, Star Trek
Chris Pine was born in Los Angeles. His parents are actors Robert Pine and Gwynne Gilford, and his maternal grandparents were Max M. Gilford, a president of the Hollywood Bar Association, and actress Anne Gwynne. His sister, Katherine Pine, has also acted. Chris's ancestry is Russian Jewish (from his maternal grandfather)...
“ This bastard was a better Kirk than Kirk. Let him get all of the sellout action/romantic comedy *beep* out of the way, then stay tuned. We'll be supporting him in the "Star Trek" sequel soon enough, and beyond. ” - BadSurge
8.
Chris O'Dowd
Actor, Calvary
Christopher "Chris" O'Dowd born 9 October 1979 is an Irish actor and comedian best known for his role as Roy Trenneman in the Channel 4 comedy The IT Crowd. O'Dowd created and is starring in the Sky 1 television series Moone Boy. He had a recurring role on the drama series Girls and starred in the television series Family Tree...
“ Watch IT Crowd and Family Tree. This guy is truly a genius with a lot to offer. Thank God he's transitioning to the movies now. ” - BadSurge
9.
Ben Foster
Actor, 3:10 to Yuma
Ben Foster was born October 29, 1980 in Boston, Massachusetts, to Gillian Kirwan and Steven Foster, restaurant owners. His younger brother is actor Jon Foster. His paternal grandparents were from Russian Jewish families that immigrated to Massachusetts (his grandfather became a prominent judge in Boston), while his mother's family is from Maryland...
“ Ever since "3:10 To Yuma" I've been telling people to watch out for this bastard. Was one of four likable things in "30 Days Of Night", and held his own with Woody Harrelson in "The Messenger". He's a hell of an actor and when he gets a character to really develop, Oscar nomination for sure. ” - BadSurge
10.
Elle Fanning
Actress, Maleficent
Mary Elle Fanning was born on the 9th of April 1998 in Conyers, Georgia, USA, to Heather Joy (Arrington) and Steven J. Fanning. Her mother played professional tennis, and her father, now an electronics salesman, played minor league baseball. She is of German, Irish, English, French, and Channel Islander descent...
“ This little angel took my breath away in "Super 8". I've yet to watch "Somewhere" but I'm sure her convincing emotion breaks and remarks will charm me to no avail, yet again. I prefer this powerful little actress to her now promiscuous older sister. ” - BadSurge
11.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson
Actor, Kick-Ass
Aaron Taylor-Johnson is an English stage, television, and film actor. He was born Aaron Perry Johnson in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, to Sarah and Robert Johnson, a civil engineer. He has a sister, Gemma Johnson, who had a small role in his movie Tom & Thomas. Aaron is of English-Russian Jewish background...
“ This kid is an actor, true and true. He does a great impression of John Lennon, and I loved his Jay Baruchel voice he did for "Kick Ass". I hope he doesn't do a string of independent, whisper-talky movies that will make Americans give less of a *beep* about him. Because, frankly, he's one of the definitive actors of his generation. ” - BadSurge
12.
Paul Dano
Actor, Little Miss Sunshine
“ Speaking of Definitive Actors. Paul Dano has been stealing movies as far back as I can remember him. He was screwed out of a nomination for "There Will Be Blood", and I can only hope he lands another big one like that. When he does, expect to be blown away. ” - BadSurge
13.
Taissa Farmiga
Actress, The Final Girls
Taissa is the youngest of seven children and is the younger sister of Vera Farmiga, who is 21 years her senior. Unlike her sister, Taissa had no interest in becoming an actor. However, Vera managed to persuade Taissa to make her acting debut in Vera's directorial-debut Higher Ground. Also playing the lead in the film...
14.
AnnaSophia Robb
Actress, Bridge to Terabithia
AnnaSophia Robb was born on the 8th December 1993 in Denver, Colorado, USA, to Janet, an interior designer, and Dave Robb, an architect. She has Danish, English, Irish, Scottish, and Swedish ancestry. Robb started off life with a dream to act, and began by performing on a church stage in her home town in front of 500 people when she was just 5 years old...
15.
Tom Hardy
Actor, Mad Max: Fury Road
With his breakthrough performance as Eames in Christopher Nolan's science fiction thriller Inception, English actor Tom Hardy has been brought to the attention of mainstream audiences worldwide. But the versatile actor has been steadily working on both stage and screen since his television debut in the mini-series Band of Brothers...
“ The actor who can't be recognized unless he wants to be. Ever since I saw "Bronson" and "RocknRolla" I've been calling him the new Christian Bale. How ironic that he should get the lead antagonist's role in "The Dark Knight Rises". I can only hope he signs back onto the new "Mad Max" installment. ” - BadSurge
16.
Chloë Grace Moretz
Actress, Kick-Ass
Chloë Grace Moretz was born in Atlanta, Georgia, to Teri (Duke), a nurse, and McCoy Lee Moretz, a plastic surgeon. She has four brothers, all older. Her ancestry is mostly German and English. Chloë's first two appearances were as Violet in two episodes of the series The Guardian. Her first movie role was as Molly in Heart of the Beholder...
“ Not only will she be gorgeous when she gets older, but she's already displayed major acting chops. Love to see what kind of films she dominates when she's old enough to be top billed. And God almighty, this little bitch is funny. Be it in "Kick Ass" or "500 Days Of Summer", I'm laughing at everything coming out of her mouth. ” - BadSurge
17.
Jay Baruchel
Actor, How to Train Your Dragon
Jay Baruchel was born in Ottawa, Ontario, and was raised in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. He is the son of Robyne (Ropell), a freelance writer, and Serge Victor Baruchel, an antiques dealer. He has a younger sister who also acts. He started acting in 1995 when he made his first of three appearances on the hit show Are You Afraid of the Dark?...
“ This rotten piece of acting power just makes me sick. Sick because he's already displayed MAJOR acting chops ("Million Dollar Baby", idiots?) and has the rare talent of making crap movies bearable to watch, but doesn't get the work I feel he deserves.
Oscar nomination coming soon (Slap bet if you doubt it). ” - BadSurge
Oscar nomination coming soon (Slap bet if you doubt it). ” - BadSurge
18.
Greta Gerwig
Actress, Frances Ha
Greta Celeste Gerwig is an American actress and filmmaker. She was born in Sacramento, California, to Christine Gerwig (nee Sauer), a nurse, and Gordon Gerwig, a financial consultant and computer programmer. She has German, Irish, and English ancestry. Gerwig was raised as a Unitarian Universalist...
“ Who doesn't love Greta Gerwig?
With that smile, her talent, and career choices, I find it damn near impossible not to be in love with this girl. ” - BadSurge
With that smile, her talent, and career choices, I find it damn near impossible not to be in love with this girl. ” - BadSurge
19.
Logan Lerman
Logan was born in Beverly Hills, to a Jewish family. His parents are Lisa (Goldman), who works as his manager, and Larry Lerman, an orthotist and businessman. He has two siblings, Lindsey and Lucas, both older. His relatives operate the orthotics and prosthetics company Lerman & Son, which was founded by his great-grandfather, Jacob Lerman...
“ Another actor I've watched since his first film. He's young as all hell and he's already at the tail end of his selling out phase. A good sign for the years to come. ” - BadSurge
20.
Brie Larson
Actress, Room
Brie Larson has built an impressive career as an acclaimed television actress, rising feature film star and emerging recording artist. A native of Sacramento, Brie started studying drama at the early age of 6, as the youngest student ever to attend the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco...
21.
Samantha Barks
Actress, Les Misérables
Samantha Barks was born in Laxey, Isle of Man (British Isles) in 1990. She is a British actress best known for the role of Éponine in Les Misérables. In 2008, Samantha competed in I'd Do Anything in which she was one of the finalists in a search for a new, unknown lead to play Nancy in a West End revival of the British musical Oliver!...
22.
Clark Duke
Actor, Hot Tub Time Machine
Clark Duke was born in Glenwood, Arkansas. His parents are Angela and Ronnie Duke. Along with best friend Michael Cera, Duke created, wrote, directed, and produced the web series Clark and Michael in which he plays a fictional version of himself. The pilot episode was directed by Duke as his college thesis film at Loyola Marymount University...
“ Man, here's another funny *beep* I can't understand the boatloads of people who hate him (and "Hot Tub Time Machine") despite the hilarious performances we've gotten from him. Unappreciative pricks. Let him finish selling out, then get ready to laugh. ” - BadSurge
23.
Brandon T. Jackson
Actor, Tropic Thunder
Jackson was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Beverly Yvonne (Bozeman) and Wayne Timothy Jackson. His parents are both pastors, and his maternal grandfather was a Pentecostal child preacher. He credits his sense of humor to both his father and his life straddling the fence between suburbia and the inner city...
“ Alpa Chino, baby. This kid isn't going anywhere. He held his own with the countless seasoned actors in "Tropic Thunder", and when (once again) he's done selling out to make money, Whoo! Look out! ” - BadSurge
24.
Hayden Panettiere
Actress, Racing Stripes
Hayden Leslie Panettiere was born on 21st August 1989 in Palisades, New York, to actress Lesley Vogel and fire department captain Skip Panettiere. Her younger brother is actor Jansen Panettiere. She has Italian, and some English and German, ancestry. Her mother got her started in the business by doing commercials when she was just 11 months old...
25.
Nicholas Hoult
Actor, Mad Max: Fury Road
“ From screen to TV to screen, this kid's been around the block. And if you think the years of acting he's done won't enable him to land a solid role, one he'll develop and blow the critics away with, then you're psychotic. ” - BadSurge
26.
Josh Hutcherson
Joshua Ryan Hutcherson was born on October 12, 1992 in Union, Kentucky to Michelle Fightmaster Hutcherson, who worked for Delta Air Lines, and Chris Hutcherson, an EPA analyst. He has one younger brother, Connor Hutcherson. From the age of four, Josh knew that he wanted to be an actor. In order to pursue his goal, Josh and his family moved to Los Angeles when he was nine-years-old...
“ Solid actor since his childhood, was a major pillar in the lackluster "The Kids Are Alright", and is already on the road to make his money then make his significant films. ” - BadSurge
27.
“ He isn't billed to be in anything too great coming out, but don't let that fool you. He'll be showing up more and more as he gets into college, and all of these years of experience will come through in a big way. ” - BadSurge
28.
Joel Courtney
Actor, Super 8
Joel was born in Monterey, California, and raised in Moscow, Idaho. His parents are both school teachers. He is the youngest of four children and has two older brothers (Caleb and Josh) and an older sister (Chantelle). At age 14, Joel went to visit his brother, Caleb, during summer vacation. His brother was pursuing an acting career in Los Angeles...
“ It was hard for this kid to shine next to Elle Fanning in "Super 8", but I'll be damned if the rugrat didn't hold his own. I can only hope he gets a few more decent roles before he has to sell out to the mindless crowd, but considering how young he is, he may still have some time. ” - BadSurge
29.
Sam Rockwell
Actor, Moon
Sam Rockwell was born on November 5, 1968, in San Mateo, California, the child of two actors, Pete Rockwell and Penny Hess. The family moved to New York when he was two years old, living first in the Bronx and later in Manhattan. When Sam was five years old, his parents split up, at which point he and his father moved to San Francisco...
“ If you don't know this name you have a few options: A. Japanese ritual suicide; B. Delete your IMDb account; C. Spend the day watching "The Green Mile", "Choke", "The Hitchhiker's Guide...", and "Moon"; D. All of the above. The choice is yours. ” - BadSurge
30.
Karen Gillan
Actress, Guardians of the Galaxy
Karen was born and raised in Inverness, Scotland, the daughter of Marie (Paterson) and John Gillan, who is a singer and recording artist. She developed a love for acting very early on, attending several youth theatre groups and taking part in a wide range of productions at her school, Charleston Academy...
31.
Chris Marquette
Actor, The Girl Next Door
Christopher Marquette was born in Stuart, Florida, on October 3, 1984. He began modeling at the age of four in Dallas, Texas. He landed his screen acting debut at the age of eight, starring as the son of Mira Sorvino in Sweet Nothing. He played a lead in The Tic Code with the legendary Gregory Hines and on Broadway as Tiny Tim...
“ I miss this guy. He practically stole "The Girl Next Door", if it wasn't for the irreplaceable Timothy Olyphant. I've seen him here and there since then ("Fanboys", which was excellent; "The Rite", which was not). But not nearly enough. Hollywood! Stop the bull *beep* and cast this kid in another great role already. ” - BadSurge
32.
Rory Culkin
Actor, Signs
Rory Culkin was born in New York City, New York. He is the youngest son of Christopher Culkin, a former stage and child actor, and Patricia Brentrup. He is the brother of Shane Culkin, Dakota Culkin, Macaulay Culkin, Kieran Culkin, Quinn Culkin, and Christian Culkin. His mother, who is from North Dakota...
“ Don't base your judgement of him off of "Scream 4". Go back and watch Lymelife, he personally fueled that film more than any of the much more seasoned actors in the film. I call his older brother the most talented of the Culkin's, but time will tell if I misjudged little Rory. ” - BadSurge
33.
Zachary Quinto
Actor, Star Trek
Zachary Quinto was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Margaret J. (McArdle), an Irish-American office worker, and Joseph John Quinto, an Italian-American barber. Zachary graduated from Central Catholic High School in Pittsburgh, with the class of 1995, where he won Pittsburgh's Gene Kelly Award...
“ Truly a phenomenal actor, although I haven't really watched Heroes, I loved his adaptation of Spock in the new Star Trek and I'm more than jubilant about the sequel. I'm just praying he won't be type casted. ” - BadSurge
34.
Dev Patel
Actor, Slumdog Millionaire
Dev Patel was born in Harrow, London, to Anita, a caregiver, and Raj Patel, who works in IT. His parents, originally from Nairobi, Kenya, are both of Gujarati Indian descent. His first role was in the UK TV series Skins. His breakout role was in the Oscar winning film Slumdog Millionaire. In March 2015...
“ Don't judge him solely on "Slumdog Millionaire", although I could, and go back to watch his TV shows and film (though NOT "The Last Airbender"). This kid hasn't been casted well since SM, but that's soon to change. ” - BadSurge
35.
Charlie Day
Actor, Pacific Rim
Charles Peckham Day was born in New York City, NY, and raised in Middletown, Rhode Island. His parents are both music teachers - his mother, Mary (Peckham), is a piano teacher, and his father, Dr. Thomas Charles Day, is a professor of Undergraduate Performing Arts at Salve Regina University in Newport...
“ People think Charlie Day is a one note comedian. People are fickle and stupid. He may be monopolizing on the type of humor that got him fame, but it's not by far all he has to offer. ” - BadSurge
37.
Joseph Gordon-Levitt
Actor, Inception
Joseph Leonard Gordon-Levitt was born February 17, 1981 in Los Angeles, California, to Jane Gordon and Dennis Levitt. Joseph was raised in a Jewish family with his late older brother, Dan Gordon-Levitt, who passed away in October 2010. His parents worked for the Pacifica Radio station KPFK-FM and his maternal grandfather...
“ The kid we all know and love, but always from different places oddly enough. Some of you will know him from "3rd Rock From The Sun", some will know him from "Angels In The Outfield", and the awesome will know him from "Brick" and "500 Days Of Summer". He keeps bringing new characters to life, which I didn't even know he could do (If you're thinking "Inception", watch "Hesher"). He'll be nominated soon enough, betta beliee dat. ” - BadSurge
38.
“ For an actor his age, this kid brought a performance to the cinema that out shined actors much older than him. He was captivating and convincing in "Where The Wild Things Are", and luckily (for him, and for us) he's young enough that we can relish in the long career he'll hopefully have as an actor. I hope he doesn't pull a "Matilda". ” - BadSurge
39.
Joel Edgerton
Actor, Warrior
Joel Edgerton was born on June 23, 1974 in Blacktown, New South Wales, Australia, to Marianne and Michael Edgerton, who is a solicitor and property developer. His brother is filmmaker Nash Edgerton. He went to Hills Grammar School in the Western Suburbs of Sydney, and after leaving, he attended Nepean Drama School in 1994...
“ This guy is a move making sumbitch. He heads a short film company that produces excellent Aussie shorts. Had a powerful role in "Animal Kingdom" that I've used to turn people on to the guy. He is enjoyable even in the crappiest of films (which The Thing taught me) and I can't wait to see what he'll do when he has the money to choose freely. ” - BadSurge
40.
Simon Pegg
Actor, Shaun of the Dead
English actor, writer and comedian Simon Pegg was born Simon John Beckingham in Brockworth, Gloucestershire, to Gillian Rosemary (Smith), a civil servant, and John Henry Beckingham, a jazz musician. His parents divorced when Pegg was seven. He later took his stepfather's surname, "Pegg". He was educated...
“ I feel I do not need to elaborate, but I will. Simon Pegg's artistic range and pure love for cinema has been a source of much joy for the television and movie watching public. He's an actor who has the honor of being in the company of Steve Buscemi, John C. Reilly, and Harvey Keitel, in that he has never given a bad performance. He's done a bit more in Hollywood recently, and hopefully by the end of the year he (and perhaps his cohort Nick Frost) will have another hilarious film. ” - BadSurge
41.
Idris Elba
Actor, Prometheus
An only child, Idris Elba was born and raised in Hackney, London, England. His father, Winston, is from Sierra Leone and worked at a Ford motor factory. His mother, Eve, is from Ghana and had a clerical duty. Idris went to school in Canning Town, where he first became involved in acting. He gained a place in the National Youth Music Theatre - thanks to a £1,500 Prince's Trust grant...
“ Idris Elba doesn't stop giving. He's been in every kind of film, and hasn't stopped exploring the depths of the "genre films". I can only hope the opportunities continue to line up for this guy, as I've never been disappointed by him. Don't let some of the bad films in his resume fool you, he's top notch. Just keep watching. ” - BadSurge
42.
Armie Hammer
Actor, The Man from U.N.C.L.E.
Armand Douglas Hammer was born in Los Angeles, California, to Dru Ann (Mobley) and Michael Armand Hammer, a businessman. His great-grandfather, Armand Hammer, was a prominent tycoon and philanthropist who ran the company Occidental Petroleum for many decades. Armie's recent ancestry includes Russian-Jewish...
“ I honestly believed there were two men rowing that boat in "The Social Network". And it wasn't just David Fincher's brilliant directing. Hammer's phenomenal performance as the Winklevoss twins was captivating enough to convince us, beyond camera trickery, that there were two actors in the room. He gotten close to a lot of Hollywood's major players, and we now have "The Lone Ranger" to respond to emotionally, so we'll see what this kid has to offer. ” - BadSurge
43.
Richard Ayoade
Writer, Submarine
Richard Ellef Ayoade was born in Hammersmith, and grew up in Suffolk, in England, the son of a Norwegian mother, Dagny Amalie (Baassuik), and a Nigerian father, Layide Ade Laditi Ayoade. He studied Law at Cambridge university, and followed in the footsteps of British Comedy legends like Monty Python's Eric Idle...
44.
“ I normally don't think of other actors while watching one I've never seen, but this kid showed such depth in his leading role in "Attack The Block" that my mind kept going to Denzel Washington. Please, Hollywood, cast this kid in something. He'll be coming from the UK with a lot of potential. ” - BadSurge
45.
Giovanni Ribisi
Actor, Avatar
Antonino Giovanni Ribisi is an American actor who was born in Los Angeles, California. His parents both have careers in the entertainment industry. His mother, Gay Ribisi (née Landrum), is a talent manager for actors and writers, and his father, Albert Anthony Ribisi, is a musician. He has a twin sister...
“ What the hell. This guy is good in everything he's in, even if the movie or TV show is garbage. And he's not in enough, in my opinion. He just recently gave an excellent performance in "The Rum Diary", one consistent with the talent he displayed in "Saving Private Ryan". It won't be long, hopefully, until we see him nominated for another one of his excellent performances. ” - BadSurge
46.
“ No matter where he shows up, Tyler Labine never disappoints. His comedic timing in "Reaper" is outstanding, his chemistry with comedic genius Alan Tudyk in "Tucker And Dale Vs. Evil" was delightful, and his performance in "Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes" was what I'm hoping is a precursor to an active career in Hollywood feature films. ” - BadSurge
47.
Garrett Hedlund
Actor, TRON: Legacy
Born in Roseau, Minnesota, Garrett John Hedlund is the son of Kristi Anne (Yanish) and Robert Martin Hedlund. He has two older siblings, Nathaniel and Amanda. His father is of Swedish descent and his mother is of German and Norwegian ancestry. Garrett spent his early years growing up on a farm in a small town...
48.
David Oyelowo
Actor, Interstellar
David Oyetokunbo Oyelowo (pronounced "oh-yeh-lo-wo"), a classically trained stage actor, has quickly become one of Hollywood's most sought-after talents. He was born in Oxford, England, to Nigerian parents; his father, Stephen, worked for an airline company and his mother for the railway. Oyelowo graduated from the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA)...
49.
Emma Watson
Emma Charlotte Duerre Watson was born in Paris, France, to English parents, Jacqueline Luesby and Chris Watson, both lawyers. She moved to Oxfordshire when she was five, where she attended the Dragon School. From the age of six, Emma knew that she wanted to be an actress and, for a number of years, she trained at the Oxford branch of Stagecoach Theatre Arts...
“ It's about time that "Potter" franchise ended. Not because I strongly dislike them, but I'm ready as a viewer to see the beautiful and talented Emma Watson throw her thespian seed around. I'm hoping she likes it in Hollywood, and Hollywood loves her, because she has an artistic sensitivity as exceptional as her beauty. We need to cultivate her talent. ” - BadSurge
50.
Andrew Garfield
Actor, The Amazing Spider-Man
Andrew Russell Garfield was born in Los Angeles, California, to a British-born mother, Lynn (Hillman), and an American-born father, Richard Garfield. When he was three, he moved to Surrey, U.K., with his parents and older brother. Andrew was raised Jewish. He went to a private school, the City of London Freemen's School...
51.
Ryan Gosling
Actor, Drive
Ryan Gosling was born on November 12, 1980, in London, Ontario. He is the son of Donna, a secretary, and Thomas Ray Gosling, a traveling salesman. Ryan was the second of their two children. His ancestry includes English, French-Canadian, Scottish, and German. The Gosling family moved to Cornwall, Ontario...
“ People write this guy off, for reasons I actually can understand. I, like many others, do not have patience for "The Notebook". I understand the perks, and being forced to watch them (many times) I have found perks of my own (E from "Entourage", Rachel McAdams is really hot, etc.) but I do not (and would never) own this film. However, I have watched this actor give some of the most riveting performances of his generation and am anticipating his next Oscar worthy performance. He could win. ” - BadSurge
52.
Kristen Bell
Actress, Frozen
Kristen Anne Bell (born in 1980) is an American actress and singer. She was born and raised in Huntington Woods, Michigan, and is the daughter of Lorelei (Frygier), a nurse, and Tom Bell, a television news director. Her mother's family is entirely Polish. Bell found her talent in entertainment at an early age...
“ She's exceptionally gorgeous and a very honest actor, so the fact that I don't often see her forces me into a negative state of mind. Get her into something, spandex maybe in a superhero flick. Just something where we can watch her omit emotions in the transfixing, beautiful way that she does. ” - BadSurge
53.
Cillian Murphy
Actor, Inception
Striking Irish actor Cillian Murphy was born in Douglas, the oldest child of Brendan Murphy, who works for the Irish Department of Education, and a mother who is a teacher of French. He has three younger siblings. Murphy was educated at Presentation Brothers College, Cork. He went on to study law at University College Cork...
55.
Columbus Short
Actor, Accepted
Born in Kansas City, Missouri on September 19, 1982, Columbus Keith Short, Jr., started entertaining at the age of three, by putting on shows for his folks' enjoyment. Whether impersonating relatives, dancing or just making people laugh, everyone sensed something special about the boy. Fortunately, his family later relocated to Los Angeles where...
56.
Blake Anderson
Writer, Workaholics
Blake Anderson is a comedian and one of the stars and creators of the Comedy Central show Workaholics. Originally from Concord, California, Anderson studied with The Groundlings and with Upright Citizens Brigade. He formed the sketch-comedy group Mail Order Comedy along with Workaholics costars and co-creators Anders Holm...
57.
James McAvoy
Actor, X-Men: First Class
McAvoy was born on 21 April 1979 in Glasgow, Scotland, to Elizabeth (née Johnstone), a nurse, and James McAvoy senior, a bus driver. He was raised in Drumchapel, Glasgow by his grandparents after his father abandoned his mother when James was 7. He went to St Thomas Aquinas Secondary in Jordanhill, Glasgow, where he did well enough and started 'a little school band with a couple of mates'...
59.
Ellie Kemper
Actress, 21 Jump Street
Ellie Kemper born Elizabeth Claire Kemper, May 2, 1980 is an American actress, comedian, and writer. She is best known for her role as Erin Hannon in the NBC series The Office, as well as her supporting roles in the films Bridesmaids and 21 Jump Street. She plays the title role in the Netflix comedy series Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt...
60.
Bobb'e J. Thompson
Actor, Role Models
Kicking off an impressive career in front of the camera at the tender age of five, Bobb'e J. Thompson rose to fame as a child actor well before his teens, initially with a small but colorful and energetic supporting role as the pint-sized Tupac in My Baby's Daddy (2003). He subsequently appeared in television and film efforts such as "The Tracy Morgan Show" (2004)...
“ This kid is a baller. Or what the kids are calling, a boss. He's a hysterically funny comedic gem, and if we let him fad into obscurity, then shame on us as a moviegoing public. Hs raw comedic ability was excellently captured in "Role Models", and if you haven't seen it, watch it for him. He won't disappoint. ” - BadSurge
61.
Justin Theroux
Actor, American Psycho
Justin was born and raised in Washington, D.C, the son of Phyllis (Grissim), a writer for The Washington Post, and Eugene Theroux, a corporate lawyer. He is a nephew of writer Paul Theroux and a cousin of journalists Louis Theroux and Marcel Theroux. His father is of French-Canadian and Italian descent...
“ I honestly never really noticed this guy, despite all the movies I watched him in, until I watched "Your Highness". I know quite a few viewers don't like that film, but I enjoyed it and loved Theroux's performance as the antagonist. If he brings an energy that strong to another, better, film, then we'll have a comedic performance to be reckoned with. ” - BadSurge
64.
Ewan McGregor
Ewan Gordon McGregor was born on March 31, 1971 in Crieff, Scotland, to Carol Diane (Lawson) and James Charles McGregor, both teachers. His uncle is actor Denis Lawson. At age 16, he left Crieff and Morrison Academy to join the Perth Repertory Theatre. His parents encouraged him to leave school and pursue his acting goals rather than be unhappy...
65.
Emilie de Ravin
Actress, The Hills Have Eyes
Emilie was born on 27th December 1981, and grew up in Mount Eliza, Victoria, Australia. When she was 15, she was accepted at the highly selective Australian Ballet School in Melbourne. However, after only a year, she dropped out and undertook acting courses. Her first starring role was on the fantasy drama...
66.
Patrick Fugit
Actor, Gone Girl
Patrick Fugit was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Jan Clark-Fugit, a dance teacher, and Bruce Fugit, an electrical engineer. He has two siblings. He began acting in a summer Theater program through the University of Utah at eleven. He continued on through high school and regional productions. He enjoys biking and skating...
“ I'm truly surprised we haven't seen this kid in much, but I assume he wants to maintain playing a certain type of character. He's showed a great talent for emoting genuine emotion, and if he's given the right character, maybe one with a very fragile mind, he would be outstanding and generate a lot of attention towards the film. So... cast him. ” - BadSurge
67.
Lee Thompson Young
Actor, Friday Night Lights
Lee Thompson Young was born as the son of Velma Love and Tommy Scott Young. When he was in second grade his parents split up and he went to live with his mother. At age ten, he portrayed Dr. Martin Luther King in a play called "A Night of Stars and Dreams". That's when Lee decided he wanted to be an actor...
68.
Sara Paxton
Actress, The Innkeepers
Sara Paxton was born in Woodland Hills, California. At a young age she began acting in television commercials. She was cast in her first film at the age of 8 as a child at school and at the party in Liar Liar. Her first major television series role was on the WB's Greetings from Tucson. She filmed Sleepover in fall 2003 (released July 9...
70.
Tom Felton
Tom Felton was born in Epsom, Surrey, to Sharon and Peter Felton. He has been acting since he was 8 years old at the suggestion of an actress friend of his family who recognized Felton's theatrical qualities. Felton met with an agent, and two weeks later, after auditioning with over 400 other children, he landed an international commercial campaign and went abroad to work...
71.
Matthew Gray Gubler
Actor, (500) Days of Summer
Matthew Gray Gubler is an Emmy award winning actor, director, producer, painter, and voice over actor from Las Vegas Nevada. While studying film directing at NYU he interned for Wes Anderson who gave him his first feature film role as Bill Murray's loyal intern "Nico" in The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou. For the past eleven years Gubler has starred as the lovable genius Dr...
72.
Sean Astin
Sean Astin is well known for his film debut portraying Mikey in Steven Spielberg's The Goonies, for playing the title role in the critically acclaimed Rudy, and for his role as the beloved Sam Gamgee in the Academy Award winning trilogy, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, and The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King...
“ Can we nominate him already? "Rudy"? "The Lord Of The Rings: The Return Of The King"? I mean, homoerotic undertones notwithstanding, Sean Astin's performance as "Samwise" by the third film has developed into a true marvel. He'd crossed the board completely throughout the three films, jumping from dynamic to dynamic. It was a truly unbeliveable performance for someone his age, and I can only hope he lands another big fish. ” - BadSurge
73.
“ One of the most talented character actors I have ever watched. I think he is extremely underused in Hollywood, and until they bring back "The Boondocks", "Boston Legal", or "Reno 911!" (or "Undercover Brother", in some fashion) he should be featured more in movies. He's got a lot of comedy to give. ” - BadSurge
74.
Rupert Grint
Rupert Alexander Lloyd Grint was born in Harlow, Essex, England, the elder son of Joanne (Parsons) and Nigel Grint, who dealt in memorabilia. The first of 5 children, Rupert has one brother and 3 sisters. His brother James was born when Rupert was a year old, Georgina and Samantha were born in 1993 and 1996 respectively, and last, but not least, Charlotte, who was born in 1999...
“ Bang your mother if you think I'm full of it here. This kid has not only been funnier but outacted his co-stars in all of the JK Rowling movies. Now that the franchise is over, look out for this kid's new films. You wont be let down. ” - BadSurge
75.
Jareb Dauplaise
Jareb Dauplaise is from a small town where he was raised with his two brothers Adam and Daniel Dauplaise by his mother Myla Bunner-Eckert and step-father Rusty Eckert. Jareb always wanted to be an actor but wasn't sure how to do it. With help from his family including his grandma Patricia Lytton and mostly God he finished school and moved to Hollywood by himself...
“ This fat bastard has been randomly popping up in different movies and shows for like 10 *beep* years. And he's absolutely hilarious, so completely underrated and unknown. Learn that weird ass name and watch his performances, dammit. ” - BadSurge
76.
Michael Jai White
Actor, The Dark Knight
Michael Jai White is an American actor and martial artist who has appeared in numerous films and television series. He is the first African American to portray a major comic book superhero in a major motion picture, having starred as Al Simmons, the protagonist in the 1997 film Spawn. White portrayed Jax Briggs in Mortal Kombat: Legacy...
“ Spawn. Gambol. Black mother *beep* Dynamite. This guy has been on my Top 10 Underrated Actors list since I was a child old enough to understand that word (no, not actors). He's doing what he can now, and I can only hope we'll see him again in another credible film. Shouldn't be too long now. ” - BadSurge
77.
Nathan Fillion
Actor, Serenity
For his role as the title character Richard Castle in ABC's hit television series, "Castle," which is going into its 8th season and has aired more than 150 episodes, Nathan Fillion won three People's Choice Awards for Favorite Dramatic TV Actor, most recently as 2015. Fillion also starred as Dogberry...
78.
Nora Zehetner
Actress, Brick
Nora Angela was born and grew up in El Paso, Texas. She spent several years attending elementary school in Richardson, Texas, a suburb of Dallas, before moving back to El Paso. When she was 14 she moved to Dallas where she attended the McKinney High School for several years. She attended the Texas Academy of Mathematics and Science for one year...
83.
Annalise Basso
Actress, Oculus
Annalise Basso (born December 2, 1998) is an American film and television actress and model. Her older siblings, Alexandria and Gabriel Basso, are also actors. She has starred in the films Bedtime Stories (2008), Love Takes Wing (2009), Standing Up (2013), and Oculus (2014). From 2014 until 2015, she starred in the television series The Red Road...
84.
Mae Whitman
Actress, Independence Day
Mae was born in Los Angeles, California to Pat Musick, a voice artist, and Jeffrey Whitman, a personal manager and set construction coordinator. She began her career with a voice-over for a Tyson Chicken commercial. Whitman attended Ribét Academy, a private preparatory school in Los Angeles. She was later transferred to Whitefish Bay High School, where she graduated...
86.
James Corden
Actor, Begin Again
Describing himself as the "chunky unit", James Kimberley Corden was born in Hillingdon, London and raised in Buckinghamshire, the son of Margaret (Collins), a social worker, and Malcolm Corden, a musician. He studied drama at the Jackie Palmer Stage School before going on to Holmer Green Senior School...
87.
Mekenna Melvin
Actress, Amber Lake
Born and raised in Saratoga, CA, Mekenna Melvin spent most of her childhood in her mother's drama classes and rehearsals. Thus, Mekenna gives her mom, a drama teacher and director, credit for igniting Mekenna's interest in acting. After high school, Mekenna moved to New York City and studied at the...
88.
Caitlin Stasey
Actress, Tomorrow, When the War Began
Caitlin Jean Stasey is an Australian actress who is well known for her roles as Francesca Thomas in The Sleepover Club, Rachel Kinski in Neighbours and Ellie Linton in the film adaptation of John Marsden's best seller 'Tomorrow When the War Began' Caitlin is from Victoria, Australia, She began taking an interest in acting/performing when she was about six years of age...
91.
Antoinette Kalaj
Antoinette Kalaj was born and raised in the Bronx, New York, the eldest of four children to Albanian immigrant parents. At 11 years old, her dad's construction business moved the family to Detroit, Michigan, where she first discovered her passion for performing. She was classically trained in Opera, and also has a strong passion for music...
94.
Meredith Prunty
Actress, Exeter
Meredith Prunty was first introduced to the world of acting in her role as "Abigail" in a theater production of "Huckleberry Finn" and was so determined after that experience to become an actress that she convinced her mother to let her pursue her dream. Acting in every opportunity that came her way including movies...
95.
Izabela Vidovic
Actress, Homefront
Izabela Vidovic is the daughter of Mario Vidovic and actress Elizabeta Vidovic. She performed in stage productions of Mary Poppins, Camp Rock, and Annie starting as early as 7 years old. She then moved onto film and television series in 2011. Izabela can speak, read and write fluently in English, Bosnian, Serbian and Croatian.
96.
Scott Mechlowicz
Actor, EuroTrip
Scott David Mechlowicz was born in New York City, to Susan (Lehrman) and Morris Mechlowicz. He was raised in Plano, Texas. He graduated from Plano Senior High School and after one semester of university in Texas, he studied at and graduated from UCLA in 2003. His career began with Neverland, a short film...
97.
Dianna Agron
Actress, I Am Number Four
Dianna Elise Agron was born in Savannah, Georgia, to parents Ronald and Mary Agron. She grew up in a middle class family, in Savannah, before moving to Texas, and later, San Francisco, California, due to her father's career as a general manager for Hyatt. Dianna and her brother, Jason, were raised Jewish, and she graduated from Burlingame High School with honors...
98.
Imogen Poots
Actress, Need for Speed
British actress Imogen Poots is the daughter of English-born Fiona (Goodall), a journalist, and Trevor Poots, a Northern Ireland-born television producer. She was educated at Bute House Preparatory School for Girls, Queen's Gate School for Girls and Latymer Upper School, all in London. When she was a teenager she began attending the Youngblood Theatre Company, and developed a love of acting...
99.
Dakota Johnson
Actress, Fifty Shades of Grey
Dakota Mayi Johnson is an American actress and fashion model. She was born in Austin, Texas, and is the daughter of actors Don Johnson and Melanie Griffith. Her maternal grandmother is actress Tippi Hedren. In 1999, she made her film debut in Crazy in Alabama, where she and her half-sister, Stella Banderas...
100.
Olivia Wilde
Actress, Rush
Actress and activist Olivia Wilde is a modern-day renaissance woman. Starring in films and popular television shows, Wilde shares the screen with renowned actors while simultaneously giving back to the community. Olivia Wilde was born Olivia Jane Cockburn in New York City, to journalists Leslie Cockburn (née Leslie Corkill Redlich) and Andrew Cockburn...
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