by: Bee Delores
Last Updated: December 3, 2024
6 min read
6 min read
By continuing to use this website you agree to our terms and conditions . If you don't agree with our terms and conditions, you are not permitted to continue using this website.
Hollywood wasn’t always this redefined, what you see on screens today is a result of some of the best icons’ hard work. From performing classic roles to taking on ground-breaking characters, these stars did it all.
They pushed boundaries, broke stereotypes, and left a mark on the industry that is celebrated to this day. Keep reading to find out who these stars are.
A mix of bold, independent, and witty personalities, Katharine Hepburn paved the way for women in Hollywood. Katherine wasn’t the one to conform to traditional expectations, she didn’t shy away from showing her true talent, and that’s what made her different.
Hepburn’s career spanned over six decades, during which time she earned four Academy Awards for Best Actress. These awards were for her performances in Morning Glory, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, The Lion in Winter, and On Golden Pond.
The star of GodFatheMarlon Brando, the star of The Godfather , revolutionized Hollywood with method acting, emphasizing emotional depth and psychological realism.
His breakthrough role as Stanley Kowalski in A Streetcar Named Desire (1951) showcased his unmatched talent, setting a new standard for acting and marking his place as a cinematic legend.
Breaking racial barriers in Hollywood, Sidney Poitier was the first Black actor to win the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in Lilies of the Field (1963). He was also seen in movies with meaningful themes, such as those that shed light on racism, equality, and dignity.
Poitier used his platform for the good, inspiring generations to take a stand and speak up for their rights. His legacy is still celebrated to this day.
We’ve all seen Devil Wears Prada, right? The iconic Meryl Streep won the hearts of millions with her role in the 2006 film.
But her brilliance doesn’t stop there. Her unforgettable performances in Out of Africa, Mamma Mia!, The Post and Julie & Julia prove why she’s Hollywood’s ultimate queen of versatility.
The actress over time has earned Cannes Best Actress Award, BAFTA Award, Academy Award for Best Actress in Leading Role, and AFI Life Achievement Award.
Robert De Niro is one of those actors who deeply immerse into the role they’re given, and that’s what makes his craft and acting the best among the crowd. His most iconic performances were in Taxi Driver (1976), Raging Bull (1980), the Godfather Part II (1974), and Goodfellas (1990).
Robert is said to change with his character, embodying the same physique, mannerisms, and acting style. He has definitely influenced a generation of actors.
A master of portraying complex, eccentric, and morally confused characters, Jack Nicholson is one of Hollywood’s greatest actors. He won his first Academy Award (Best Actor) for his role as Randle McMurphy in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975).
Nicholson also slayed the role of Jack Torrance in The Shining (1980). With three Academy Award wins and 12 nominations, Jack Nicholson’s career is marked by box office success.
How can we leave out this blue-eyed talent? Paul Newman was a man of many talents, especially recognized for his remarkable acting and philanthropic efforts. His place as a leading man in the industry was solidified after his role in The Hustler (1961).
The actor’s humanitarian efforts included Newman’s Own, a food company that donates 100% of its profits to charity. His legacy left a recognizable mark not only on both the film industry and society.
Elizabeth Taylor first rose to fame during her childhood days for her role in National Velvet (1944). As the star got older, she performed in classics like Cleopatra (1963), Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966), and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958).
She won two Academy Awards for her iconic role in Virginia Woolf and Butterfield. Her efforts are recognized beyond the silver screen, with the actress shedding light on important matters.
An epitome of elegance both on-screen and off-screen, Grace Kelly is known for her strong presence in some of the most beloved Hollywood films. Leave it up to Grace Kelly to mix suspense and charm as she did in Rear Window (1954).
Kelly worked with Alfred Hitchcock for most of her career. She also earned the Academy Award (Best Actress) for her role in The Country Girl (1954).
Cate Blanchett is a woman of incredible range and executes powerful performances. Both an actress and a producer, Cate does it all.
One of her most iconic performances was her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth I in Elizabeth (1998). Cate Blanchett throughout her career has taken on challenging roles, making her a versatile actress.
Humphrey Bogart redefined what it meant to be a leading man in Hollywood. Humphrey was a significant figure in Hollywood, taking on the roles of anti-detectives and anti-heroes.
Playing the role of Rick Blaine, Humphrey received unanimous praise for his performance in Casablanca (1942). The sensitivity with which he played the characters made him a director’s favorite.
Bette Davis was known to be one of the most “fearless” and “uncompromising” actresses in the entire Hollywood history and that speaks volumes about her. Davis throughout her career was one of the few who pushed through the conventional roles of the time for something more complex.
Her most celebrated performances include All About Eve (1950), Jezebel (1938), and The Nanny (1965). Davis’s unapologetic approach without a doubt led her to the peak of fame.
Al Pacino has left a lasting impact on film with his layered performances and intense acting. His ability to showcase deep emotional conflict and transformation as he did in The Godfather (1972) is still to this day unmatched.
His work in Surface (1983) made him an icon of intensity. It wasn’t long before the actor became a symbol of talent and excess in American cinema.
Morgan Freeman always takes on roles that exude deep charm, wisdom, and emotional depth. His performance in The Shawshank Redemption (1994) is considered one of his finest.
Morgan Freeman throughout his career has earned plenty of Golden Globes, Academy Awards, and AFI Life Achievement Awards. Just like we’ve got iconic film stars, there are country singers out there too who redefined the music genre.
Check out Influential Male Country Singers From the 1960s to get a look at who these singers are.
Denzel Washington seems to only be getting better and better as he progresses with age. From his notable performance in Glory (1989) to his recent role in the Gladiator II, Denzel Washington is committed to portraying nuanced characters.
Talking about Denzel Washington, did you know about his recent awkward red carpet moment? Check out “ Washington & Pascal’s Awkward Red Carpet Moment ” to get more insight.
Read More:
Lover of hiking, biking, horror movies, cats and camping. Writer at Wide Open Country, Holler and Nashville Gab.
We appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback about this page with us.
Whether it's praise for something good, or ideas to improve something that
isn't quite right, we're excited to hear from you.
Lucky you! This thread is empty,
which means you've got dibs on the first comment.
Go for it!