Most Successful Actresses of all time: In Hollywood, women often earn less money than men, and this has been a known issue for a long time. Not only that, but women also don’t perform as well as men at the box office. Among the top ten most successful actors, there is only one woman, who is the number one among the most successful actresses ever.
Most Successful Actresses of All Time
We have compiled a list of the 20 most successful women in the film industry and explained why they are on our list.
1. Zoe Saldana
- Total revenue: $15.533 billion
Zoe Saldana has acted in some of the biggest money-making movies ever, like Avatar, Avengers: Endgame, and Guardians of the Galaxy. Her acting in these super successful films really boosted their overall earnings.
What’s more, she’s not just a great actress, but she’s also liked by people all around the world. Her movies appeal to audiences globally. She’s been in all sorts of movies and has done an amazing job in different kinds of roles. That’s why we call her the most successful actress of all time.
In total, Saldana’s 47 films have made a whopping $15.533 billion at the box office. On average, each of her movies has earned about $330 million.
2. Scarlett Johansson
- Total revenue: $13.663 billion
Anyone lucky enough to land a role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) was set for success in Hollywood. Scarlett Johansson played the superhero Black Widow in several MCU movies, including “Iron Man 2,” “Marvel’s The Avengers,” “The Return of the First Avenger,” “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” “The First Avenger: Civil War,” “Avengers: Infinity War,” and “Avengers: Endgame.” “Avengers: Endgame” was her most successful film, making a whopping $2.788 billion worldwide.
Before her MCU fame, Johansson had a leading role in “The Horse Whisperer,” but her big international breakthrough came five years later with the movie “Lost in Translation,” where she starred alongside Bill Murray.
In total, Scarlett Johansson has acted in 52 films, and they have earned a total of $15.418 billion at the global box office. On average, each of her movies has made around $296 million.
3. Cate Blanchett
- Total revenue: $11.880 billion
Cate Blanchett is another talented actress who played a memorable role in the MCU as Hela in “Thor: Ragnarok.” However, her third-place ranking isn’t solely because of her Marvel role. Her significant contribution came from starring in all six parts of Peter Jackson’s adaptations of Tolkien’s works, including “The Hobbit” trilogy and “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy.
Her most financially successful film is “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King,” which earned a staggering $1.12 billion globally. Blanchett, a two-time Oscar winner for her roles in “Aviator” and “Blue Jasmine,” has been part of 57 films in total. Combined, these movies have earned $11.880 billion worldwide. On average, each of her films has made approximately $208 million.
4. Gwyneth Paltrow
- Total revenue: $11.873 billion
Being part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) almost guarantees a spot on the list of the most successful actresses. It’s no surprise that Gwyneth Paltrow, who played Iron Man’s love interest Pepper Potts, is among the top 20 most successful actresses. “Avengers: Endgame” alone made over $2.7 billion worldwide, contributing significantly to her success.
Paltrow gained worldwide fame after her role in “Shakespeare in Love” following her appearance in “Seven.” In total, she has acted in 46 movies, earning a combined total of $11.873 billion at the box office. On average, each of her films made around $258 million. In addition to her commercial success, Paltrow has also received both a Golden Globe and an Oscar.
5. Michelle Rodriguez
- Total revenue: $10.845 billion
Michelle Rodríguez, known for her role in Lost, might be an unexpected addition to the top 10 list, but her impressive filmography of 36 movies includes blockbusters like the Fast and the Furious series and Avatar, some of the most successful films ever made. Combined, her movies have earned a remarkable $10.845 billion worldwide.
What’s even more surprising is her success, considering her past struggles; she faced legal issues due to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and even spent time in prison. On average, each of her films made around $301 million globally.
4. Karen Gillan
- Total revenue: $10.368 billion
Karen Sheila Gillan, a Scottish actress and director, gained fame as Amy Pond in the BBC One series Doctor Who (2010-2013). She became internationally recognized for her role as Nebula in Marvel Cinematic Universe films such as Guardians of the Galaxy (2014), Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017), Avengers: Infinity War (2018), and Avengers: Endgame (2019).
Additionally, she starred in Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017) and Jumanji: The Next Level (2019).
Gillan’s 25 films have collectively earned an impressive $10.368 billion at the box office. On average, each of her movies has made around $414 million, showcasing her significant impact in the film industry.
7. Sigourney Weaver
- Total revenue: $10.252 billion
Sigourney Weaver is a renowned actress who has appeared in some of the most influential and successful films, including the Alien series and Avatar. Her iconic portrayal of characters like Ellen Ripley in Alien has made her a legendary figure in film history. Her roles in these blockbuster movies have significantly contributed to her impressive box office sales.
Moreover, her ability to portray strong and independent female characters has earned her a special place in the film industry. Over several decades, her talent and enduring presence have rightfully earned her the status of one of the most successful actresses of all time. On average, her 68 films have grossed around $150 million worldwide, showcasing her consistent impact in the movie industry.
8. Emma Watson
- Total revenue: $9.853 billion
Emma Watson, best known for her role as Hermione in the Harry Potter series, has outshone her co-stars Daniel Radcliffe and Rupert Grint in terms of box office success. Surprisingly, none of the eight Harry Potter films is her biggest hit in the USA. Instead, it’s the live-action remake of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, which earned $504 million in the USA, surpassing the most successful Harry Potter film, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2,” which made $381 million in the USA.
On a global scale, “Beauty and the Beast” earned $1.264 billion, slightly less than the eighth Harry Potter film’s $1.342 billion. Watson owes much of her high ranking to the immense success of the Harry Potter film series based on J.K. Rowling’s novels. Despite appearing in just 19 feature films, Watson has grossed an impressive $9.853 billion at the box office, averaging around $518 million per film.
Beyond her acting career, Watson is also known for her advocacy work. She serves as a UN ambassador for women’s rights and fair trade, showcasing her commitment to important social causes.
9. Helena Bonham Carter
- Total revenue: $9.817 billion
Helena Bonham Carter, known for her eccentric roles and her long relationship with director Tim Burton, is far from the typical Hollywood star. She gained fame for her unique characters, like Bellatrix Lestrange in the Harry Potter series, especially in the hugely successful film “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2.”
Aside from acting, she showcased her singing talent in movies like “Sweeney Todd – The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” and “Les Misérables.” In her 50 films, she has earned a total of $9.817 billion globally, averaging around $196 million per film.
Bonham Carter has been recognized for her talent with two Oscar nominations: one for Best Actress in “The Wings of the Dove” and another for Best Supporting Actress in “The King’s Speech,” where she portrayed Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, also known as the Queen Mum.
10. Natalie Portman
- Total revenue: $8.995 billion
Natalie Portman has been in the movie industry since she was very young. She appeared in big movies and also played complex roles in independent films, earning her awards including an Oscar and two Golden Globe Awards.
She started acting at just 12 years old in the film “Léon: The Professional” (1994) and gained fame as Padmé Amidala in the Star Wars prequels. In 2004, she received an Academy Award nomination and won a Golden Globe for her role in “Closer,” where she played a mysterious stripper.
Portman starred in notable films like “V for Vendetta” (2006) and won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in “Black Swan” (2010). She also appeared in Marvel movies like “Thor” (2011) and its sequel, establishing her as one of the highest-paid actresses in the world. Later, she earned her third Oscar nomination for the biopic “Jackie” (2016) and starred in the science fiction film “Annihilation” (2018).
In total, her 49 films have earned an average of $183 million at the global box office, showcasing her significant impact in the movie industry.
11. Elizabeth Olsen
- Total revenue: $8.966 billion
Elizabeth Olsen rose to fame in 2011 with her role in the thriller-drama “Martha Marcy May Marlene,” earning nominations for several awards. She continued to shine in leading roles in movies such as “Silent House” (2011), “Oldboy” (2013), “Godzilla” (2014), “Ingrid Goes West” (2017), and “Wind River” (2017).
However, she became internationally recognized for her portrayal of Wanda Maximoff / Scarlet Witch in Marvel Cinematic Universe films like “Avengers: Age of Ultron” (2015), “Captain America: Civil War” (2016), “Avengers: Infinity War” (2018), and “Avengers: Endgame” (2019).
With 19 of her films shown in theaters, Elizabeth Olsen’s movies have collectively earned an impressive total of $8.966 billion. On average, each of her films made around $471 million, showcasing her significant impact in the film industry.
12. Elizabeth Banks
- Total revenue: $8.966 billion
Elizabeth Banks has made her mark in highly successful movies like the “Hunger Games” series and “Pitch Perfect,” both of which earned big money at the box office. Her versatility in roles, spanning from comedies to dramas, has made her a favorite among audiences.
In addition to her acting skills, Banks has also ventured into directing and producing, further enhancing her impact in the film industry.
Across her 55 films, she has grossed an impressive $8.573 billion at the box office, averaging around $155 million per film. Her diverse talents and contributions continue to make her a prominent figure in Hollywood.
13. Lupita Nyong’o
- Total revenue: $8.301 billion
Lupita Nyong’o might surprise you on this list, especially because her most famous role, Maz Kanata in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, doesn’t show her face. Yet, she made a significant impact. “Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens” is her most successful film, grossing over $2 billion worldwide. She also starred in the blockbuster “Black Panther” and the critically acclaimed “12 Years a Slave.”
Despite appearing in only 15 films, Nyong’o has earned an impressive $8.301 billion at the box office, averaging around $553 million per film. Her unique roles and talent have certainly made her a standout actress in Hollywood.
14. Gal Gadot
- Total revenue: $7.536 billion
Gal Gadot has made a significant mark in the film industry, notably through her portrayal of Wonder Woman in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU). Her role as Wonder Woman in the successful films, alongside her appearances in the “Fast & Furious” series, has contributed immensely to her success.
With 21 films, Gadot has grossed a total of $7.536 billion at the box office, averaging around $358 million per film. Her strong portrayal of powerful female characters has earned her admiration and support from audiences worldwide, solidifying her status as one of the most successful actresses in Hollywood.
15. Cameron Diaz
- Total revenue: $7.482 billion
Cameron Diaz made a name for herself early in her career as the typical blonde beauty in many comedies. She first starred in “The Mask” and later gained fame in romantic comedies like “My Best Friend’s Wedding” and “There’s Something About Mary.” Diaz also ventured into action with movies like “Charlie’s Angels,” and took on more serious roles in films like “Gangs of New York” and “Minority Report.”
Interestingly, her most commercially successful film, “Shrek 2,” featured her voice as Fiona. The animated film grossed a whopping $919.8 million worldwide. Overall, Diaz appeared in 40 films, earning a total of $7.482 billion globally. On average, each of her films made around $187 million, showcasing her significant impact in the movie industry.
16. Angelina Jolie
- Total revenue: $6.900 billion
Angelina Jolie is widely known as one of the most famous actresses in the world, and her versatility and charisma in various blockbusters have made her one of the most successful actresses of all time. Movies like “Maleficent,” “Mr. & Mrs. Smith,” and the “Tomb Raider” series have not only achieved high box office sales but also solidified her position in the film industry.
Jolie’s ability to shine in both action and drama roles has made her a highly sought-after actress. Her global recognition and consistent performances in commercially successful films have contributed to her high box office earnings. In total, her 43 films have grossed an average of $160 million worldwide, showcasing her enduring impact in the movie industry.
17. Kate Winslet
- Total revenue: $6.788 billion
Kate Winslet has become a prominent figure in Hollywood due to her roles in both blockbuster hits and critically acclaimed dramas. Her breakthrough role in “Titanic,” one of the most successful films ever, propelled her career. She’s also appeared in other hits like “The Holiday” and “Divergent,” earning her significant recognition and income.
Winslet’s ability to portray strong and complex characters has won her numerous fans and industry respect. Her combination of successful movies and outstanding acting skills has established her as one of the most successful actresses in the film industry. In total, her 46 films have grossed $6.788 billion at the box office, averaging around $147 million per film, showcasing her lasting impact in the movie world.
18. Julia Roberts
- Total revenue: $6.544 billion
Julia Roberts is known for her captivating smile, which is her trademark in Hollywood. She gained fame in romantic comedies like “Pretty Woman,” “My Best Friend’s Wedding,” “Notting Hill,” and “The Bride Who Dares.” Later, she proved her talent as a serious character actress and won an Oscar for her role in “Erin Brockovich.”
Throughout her career, Roberts has appeared in 50 films, earning a total of $6.544 billion, averaging around $130 million per film. Her most commercially successful movie was “Ocean’s Eleven,” which made $450.7 million worldwide. Interestingly, acting talent runs in her family, with siblings Eric Roberts and Lisa Roberts Gillan, and her niece Emma Roberts, all being actors as well.
19. Jennifer Lawrence
- Total revenue: $6.054 billion
Jennifer Lawrence is a very successful actress. She has acted in 29 movies and made a lot of money – $6.054 billion to be exact. That’s an average of $285 million per film! She became famous for playing the main characters in two big movie series: The Hunger Games and X-Men. In The Hunger Games, the second part called Catching Fire earned a whopping $865 million worldwide.
Jennifer Lawrence also won an Oscar, which is a big award in the movie industry. But when she went up to get the award, she tripped on her long dress, and it made the audience laugh.
20. Meryl Streep
- Total revenue: $5.491 billion
Meryl Streep is a really famous actress. She has won three Oscars and has been nominated for the award 21 times – more than anyone else! People often call her the Queen of Hollywood. She has acted in 74 movies, making a total of $5.491 billion. On average, each of her movies made over $74 million.
Her most successful movie was “Mamma Mia!” which is based on Abba’s music. Meryl Streep started her career in theater and became well-known in the late 1970s. She became famous for her roles in the TV series “Holocaust” and the movies “Manhattan”, “Kramer vs. Kramer”, and “The Ones Going Through Hell”.
Meryl Streep won her Oscars for her roles in the movies “Kramer vs. Kramer”, “Sophie’s Choice”, and “The Iron Lady”, where she played the role of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.
