Hollywood is full of bold and talented actresses who are not afraid to take risks. These women are breaking down barriers and challenging the status quo, both on and off-screen. Here, we spotlight the top 5 boldest actresses in Hollywood and explore why they stand out.
1. Jennifer Lawrence
Jennifer Lawrence is one of the most popular and successful actresses in Hollywood today. Known for her fearless attitude and outspoken nature, Lawrence has never shied away from discussing significant issues such as body image, sexism, and equal pay.
In 2015, Lawrence made headlines with her essay for Lena Dunham’s newsletter, Lenny Letter, where she tackled the gender pay gap in Hollywood. She revealed that she had been paid less than her male co-stars, despite doing the same amount of work. Her candidness sparked a national conversation about pay disparity and heightened awareness of the gender pay gap, marking a pivotal moment in Hollywood’s history.
2. Emma Watson
Emma Watson, best known for her iconic role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter series, is another actress who has used her platform to champion critical social issues. Watson is a vocal advocate for women’s rights and gender equality, significantly impacting both the entertainment industry and global discussions on these topics.
In 2014, Watson was appointed a UN Women Global Goodwill Ambassador. In this role, she launched the HeForShe campaign, encouraging men to advocate for gender equality. Watson has also been a strong voice against sexual harassment and assault, making her a role model for young women worldwide and an inspiration for many.
3. Viola Davis
Viola Davis is one of the most acclaimed actresses in Hollywood today, with an impressive array of awards, including an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, and a Primetime Emmy. Known for her powerful and emotional performances, Davis also stands out for her outspokenness on pressing issues.
In 2015, during her Emmy acceptance speech, Davis highlighted the lack of diversity in Hollywood. She boldly stated, “You cannot win an Emmy for roles that are simply not there,” emphasizing the need for more roles for women of color. Her speech was a significant moment in Hollywood, bringing attention to diversity issues and inspiring other actors and actresses to speak out.
4. Meryl Streep
Meryl Streep, often regarded as one of the greatest actresses of all time, has been nominated for a record-breaking 21 Academy Awards, winning three. Streep is celebrated for her versatility and dedication to her craft, as well as her unwavering commitment to social justice.
In 2017, Streep used her Golden Globe acceptance speech to criticize then-President Donald Trump, highlighting his behavior towards a disabled reporter and calling out the normalization of hatred. Her speech was a bold and crucial moment in Hollywood, underscoring the importance of speaking truth to power and inspiring others to use their platforms for advocacy.
5. Scarlett Johansson
Scarlett Johansson is one of the most recognizable actresses in Hollywood, known for her roles in blockbuster films, including those in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Beyond her on-screen success, Johansson is also noted for her outspokenness on vital issues.
In 2018, Johansson penned an essay for The Huffington Post, where she opened up about her experiences with sexual harassment and assault in the workplace. Her powerful words contributed to the broader #MeToo movement, encouraging other women to share their stories and stand up against harassment and abuse.
Conclusion
These bold actresses are not just stars on the silver screen; they are trailblazers who use their influence to challenge the status quo and advocate for critical social issues. From gender equality to diversity and beyond, Jennifer Lawrence, Emma Watson, Viola Davis, Meryl Streep, and Scarlett Johansson have made significant strides in breaking down barriers. Their courage and dedication make them role models for many, inspiring the next generation to continue pushing for positive change in Hollywood and beyond.