Top 10 Breakout Stars of 2024 You Should Keep an Eye On
As we look ahead to the near end of 2024, the entertainment landscape is buzzing with emerging talent poised to make a significant impact. From charismatic actors breaking into blockbuster films to musicians redefining genres, the year promises an exciting array of breakout stars. Keeping an eye on these breakout talents could lead to discovering the next big sensation before they hit the stratosphere of fame.
1. Sabrina Carpenter
In 2024, Sabrina Carpenter has experienced remarkable commercial success, solidifying her status as a main pop star in the music industry. After years of steadily building her career with albums and movies, this year feels like her true mainstream breakthrough. Her album “Short n’ Sweet” has not only topped charts but has also produced several hit singles that resonate with a wide audience, showcasing her growth as an artist. Songs such as “Espresso“, “Please Please Please”, and “Taste” have soared up the charts.
The combination of catchy melodies and relatable lyrics has earned her a dedicated fan base, while her vibrant performances have captivated new listeners. Carpenter’s evolution from a Disney Channel favorite to a chart-topping musician is a testament to her talent and perseverance, and this year marks a pivotal moment where her hard work is finally paying off in a big way. Carpenter will next be seen in a Netflix Holiday Special streaming on December 6.
2. Karla Sofía Gascón
Karla Sofía Gascón has emerged as a standout talent in the film industry, particularly with her acclaimed performance in “Emilia Pérez,” where she plays the titular character. Her portrayal has captivated audiences and critics alike, earning her significant Oscar buzz for its depth and authenticity. Gascón’s ability to bring emotional nuance to the role has not only showcased her impressive range as an actress but has also positioned her as one of the most promising talents to watch in the coming awards season. As she continues to gain recognition, her role in “Emilia Pérez” is undoubtedly a career-defining moment, marking her ascent into the spotlight.
3. Drew Starkey
Drew Starkey has been steadily building his acting career, with his breakout role in the upcoming movie “Queer,” where he stars alongside Daniel Craig, marking a significant milestone in his trajectory. Previously, Starkey gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Rafe Cameron in Netflix’s hit series “Outer Banks,” where his performance showcased his ability to embody complex characters.
4. Chappell Roan
Chappell Roan has experienced tremendous success in 2024, solidifying her position as a rising star in the music industry. With her strong identity and captivating performances, she has garnered critical acclaim and a growing fanbase, making her a strong contender for this year’s Grammy Awards. Adding to the buzz, she is set to be the musical guest on this weekend’s episode of “Saturday Night Live,” which promises to further elevate her profile and showcase her dynamic talent to a wider audience. Her unique sound and vibrant energy make her one of the most exciting artists to watch this year.
5. Paul Mescal
You may have been wondering why Paul Mescal is on this list, as he has been popular for several years now. However, the end of this year, marked by the release of “Gladiator II,” is set to be the biggest moment in his career. While he earned an Oscar nomination for his role in the indie film “Aftersun,” this blockbuster opportunity will undoubtedly allow him to make an even stronger impression on a wider audience. With his talent and growing star power, Mescal is poised to solidify his status as one of the industry’s leading actors, and fans can expect great things from him in the coming months.
6. Ryan Destiny
Ryan Destiny has been steadily carving out a successful acting career, gaining recognition for her compelling performances in projects like the hit series “Star,” where she showcased her musical and acting talents. With her captivating screen presence, she has quickly become a rising star in Hollywood.
Her upcoming role in “The Fire Inside” is poised to be a significant breakthrough for her, as it offers a complex character that will allow her to further demonstrate her range and depth as an actress. As anticipation builds for the film, many are excited to see how this role will elevate Destiny’s career and solidify her place in the industry. “The Fire Inside” is set to premiere on Christmas Day.
7. Fred Hechinger
Fred Hechinger has charmed audiences as the grandson to June Squibb’s titular character in “Thelma,” eliciting laughs when he quips that grandmas must love him. “Thelma” kicked off an exciting year for Hechinger, which includes roles in the epic sequel “Gladiator II,” the acclaimed indie “The Nickel Boys,” the superhero film “Kraven the Hunter,” and the musical biopic “Pavements.”
Fans of his earlier work in “The White Lotus” and “Eighth Grade” may be surprised by his wicked turn in “Gladiator II”. With such a diverse array of roles, Hechinger is set to make a significant mark in the industry.
8. Gracie Abrams
Gracie Abrams has had a breakout year in 2024, achieving remarkable success with her music. Her singles “Close to You” and “That’s So True,” both went viral, showcasing her talent and resonating with fans. Adding to her accomplishments, she had the incredible opportunity to open for Taylor Swift on her tour, which further elevated her profile.
Abrams also sold out shows around the world, including several at the iconic Radio City Music Hall, solidifying her status as a rising star in the music industry. With her emotional lyrics and captivating performances, it’s clear that Abrams is just getting started on her journey to stardom.
9. Josh Rivera
Rivera has received significant acclaim for his portrayal of Aaron Hernandez in “American Sports Story,” where he navigates the complex layers of the troubled sports star. Capturing Hernandez’s struggles with sexuality, childhood abuse, and brain trauma, Rivera approaches the character as a “perception of the person” rather than a direct imitation.
His commitment to the role involved gaining 30 pounds and spending over three hours daily in the makeup chair to achieve a physical transformation, including face prosthetics and tattoos. This dedication has allowed him to convey the depth and nuance of Hernandez’s story, earning praise for his compelling performance in this challenging role. Rivera was last seen in “The Hunger Games: Ballads of Songbirds and Snakes” and “West Side Story”.
10. Eve Hewson
Eve Hewson has emerged as a prominent actress, garnering critical acclaim for her roles in “Bad Sisters” and “The Perfect Couple,” both of which have significantly raised her profile in the industry. Her compelling performances have showcased her versatility and talent, earning her praise from audiences and critics alike.
Following this success, Hewson is in talks to lead Steven Spielberg’s next film, a move that could further solidify her status as a leading actress in Hollywood. With each project, she continues to captivate viewers and demonstrate her potential for even greater achievements in her career.
As 2024 unfolds, the entertainment industry is buzzing with fresh talent and exciting breakthroughs. From rising stars like Karla Sofía Gascón and Drew Starkey to the musical prowess of Gracie Abrams and the compelling performances of Eve Hewson, this year promises to be a pivotal moment for many actors and musicians. With new projects on the horizon and critical acclaim pouring in, these artists are not only making their mark but also reshaping the landscape of film and music. As audiences eagerly anticipate their upcoming works, it’s clear that these breakout stars are just beginning to shine, and we can expect to see much more from them in the future.
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