Determining the “top” actors globally can vary based on criteria such as critical acclaim, box office success, earnings, and popularity. Here are some actors who have recently stood out in various aspects:
Highest-Paid Actors (2024):
- Adam Sandler: Topped the earnings list with $73 million, primarily due to a four-movie deal with Netflix.
- Margot Robbie: Earned $59 million, largely from her role and production work in the 2023 hit film “Barbie.”
- Jennifer Aniston: Also featured among the top earners, making her one of the highest-paid actresses alongside Margot Robbie.
Highest-Grossing Actors (as of December 2024):
- Samuel L. Jackson: Leads with a cumulative box office gross of over $30.6 billion across 50 films, with “Avengers: Endgame” being his top-grossing film.
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- Leonardo DiCaprio: Recognized for his versatility and performances in films like “Inception,” “The Revenant,” and “Titanic.”
- Denzel Washington: Acclaimed for roles in “Training Day,” “Malcolm X,” and “Fences.”
- Meryl Streep: Celebrated for her performances in “Sophie’s Choice,” “The Devil Wears Prada,” and “Kramer vs. Kramer.”
Robert Downey Jr.: Accumulated over $15.7 billion in box office revenue from 60 films, with “Avengers: Endgame” as his highest earner.
Critically Acclaimed Actors:
Popular Actors (Based on Audience Polls):
- Tom Hanks: Known for his roles in “Forrest Gump,” “Saving Private Ryan,” and “Cast Away.”
- Morgan Freeman: Recognized for performances in “The Shawshank Redemption,” “Driving Miss Daisy,” and “Million Dollar Baby.”
These distinctions highlight the diverse metrics by which actors are evaluated and celebrated in the entertainment industry.