The film industry is buzzing about the best young actors making waves in 2024. These rising stars are not just talented; they bring fresh perspectives and unique performances that captivate audiences. From powerful dramas to enchanting comedies, these young actors are redefining what it means to be a star in today’s entertainment landscape.

Let’s discover the top ten young actors to watch this year when these talents showcase their skills remarkably, proving they are worth our attention and the future of film and television.

List of Best Young Actors

1. Jaden Smith

Date of Birth: July 8, 1998, Malibu, California, U.S.

Best Works:

• The Pursuit of Happyness
• The Karate Kid
• After Earth

Awards:

• Teen Choice Award
• MTV Movie Award
• BET Award
• Young Artist Award
• 2 NAACP Image Awards
• Empire Award
• Grammy Award nomination

Jaden Smith, an American actor and rapper, entered the limelight as the son of Hollywood legends Will and Jada Pinkett Smith. His entry into acting was marked by a remarkable debut alongside his father in The Pursuit of Happiness, where he showcased a natural talent that set him apart.

Smith’s approach to acting is both intuitive and bold, often taking on roles that challenge societal norms. Beyond acting, Jaden has made significant contributions to music and fashion, further establishing himself as a versatile and influential figure in the entertainment industry.

2: Isaac Hempstead Wright

Date of Birth: April 9, 1999, Surrey, England

Best Works:

• Game of Thrones
• The Boxtrolls
• Closed Circuit
• The Awakening

Awards:

• TiBS Sci Fi Awards for Best Young Actor

Isaac Hempstead Wright began his acting journey at the age of 11, initially joining drama clubs. His role as Bran Stark in Game of Thrones (2011–2019) brought him significant acclaim. His continuous presence in Game of Thrones over its nine seasons cemented his reputation as a talented young actor with a promising future.

Hempstead Wright’s acting style has depth and nuance, particularly in his portrayal of Bran’s evolving character. Furthermore, his involvement in projects like The Boxtrolls and The Awakening further showcased his versatility, blending voice work with live-action roles.

3: Aramis Knight

Date of Birth: October 3, 1999, Los Angeles, California, U.S.

Best Works:

• Ender’s Game
• Into the Badlands
• Ms. Marvel

Aramis Knight began acting at age four when his mother enrolled him in an acting workshop. He quickly transitioned from commercials to minor roles on TV shows like Boston Legal and Dexter.

Knight’s breakthrough came with his role as Bean in Ender’s Game and continued with his prominent part as M.K. in Into the Badlands. His versatility extends to voice acting, with roles in Shrek Forever After and Happy Feet Two. Knight’s unique blend of martial arts and acting skills, honed during the Into the Badlands series, sets him apart and highlights his distinctiveness as one of the best young actors.

4: Gavin Casalegno

Date of Birth: September 2, 1999, Dallas, Texas, U.S.

Best Works:

• The Summer I Turned Pretty
• Noah
• The Vampire Diaries

Gavin Casalegno’s acting career began at a young age when he was discovered for modeling through a family connection. His early exposure led to roles in various commercials and print campaigns. However, his breakthrough came with his role as young Shem in Darren Aronofsky’s Noah. He gained further recognition, portraying young Damon Salvatore in The Vampire Diaries and Trevor Strand in Walker.

Casalegno’s most notable role is Jeremiah Fisher in The Summer I Turned Pretty, which highlighted his emotional range and acting prowess. His dedication to his craft and ability to transition seamlessly between different roles and genres have cemented his place among the best young actors.

5: Quinn Lord

Date of Birth: February 19, 1999, British Columbia, Canada

Best Works:

• Trick ‘r Treat (2007)
• Imaginaerum (2012)
• The Man in the High Castle (2015–2019)
• Iké Boys (2021)

Awards:

• Young Entertainer Award for Best Recurring Young Actor (14-21) – Television Series

Quinn Edmond Julian Lord, professionally known as Quinn Lord, is a Canadian actor known for his acting prowess. He began his acting career at the age of five. Initially, he garnered attention through modeling and TV commercials.

Quinn shone with his role as Sam in Trick ‘r Treat, where his portrayal of a mysterious trick-or-treater showcased his knack for combining depth with intrigue. His versatility includes dramatic and fantastical elements, as seen in Imaginaerum and The Man in the High Castle.

Quinn Lord’s ability to capture complex emotions and character dynamics is truly intriguing. His versatility has allowed him to carve a niche in both independent films and mainstream television, leaving the audience eager to see more of his work.

6: Dylan Schmid

Date of Birth: March 6, 1999, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

Best Works:

• Once Upon a Time
• Horns
• Shut Eye

Dylan Schmid’s acting journey began at age six when he was inspired by his mother’s comment about movies. He pursued acting through various classes and contests, which laid the foundation for his skills.

Dylan’s acting skills included affirming and intense performances. Furthermore, his role as Baelfire in Once Upon a Time showcases his ability to connect emotionally with audiences. His versatility spans drama, horror, and comedy, demonstrated in his Horns and Shut Eye roles.

Dylan is also working on a short film, reflecting his dedication to storytelling and growth as an artist. His continuous evolution as an actor marks him as one of the best young actors in the industry today.

7: Cameron Ocasio

Date of Birth: September 7, 1999, New York, USA

Best Works:

• Sam & Cat
• Sinister
• Law & Order: Special Victims Unit

Cameron Ocasio began acting with roles in television and film, but he gained widespread recognition for his role as Dice in Sam & Cat. His performance in this series showcased his ability to bring humor and charisma to the screen, making him a standout young actor. Ocasio’s martial arts background has also contributed to his dynamic acting style, blending physical prowess with emotional depth.

As a model signed through the International Modeling and Talent Association, Ocasio continues to expand his career across different entertainment fields.

8: Tristan Lake Leabu

Date of Birth: August 19, 1999, Los Angeles, California, U.S.

Best Works:

• Superman Returns
• The Young and the Restless
• All American Christmas Carol

Awards:

• Young Artist Award for Best Performance

Tristan Lake Leabu’s journey into acting began at age five, inspired by his idol Johnny Depp. He quickly landed his first role as Jason White in Superman Returns, which highlighted his natural talent. Leabu’s performance style is characterized by authenticity and emotional depth, making him a relatable figure in film and television and one of the best young actors.

Leabu’s notable tenure on “The Young and the Restless” as Reed Hellstrom solidified his status in the industry. Beyond acting, Leabu is also a musician in the alternative rock band Balto, reflecting his diverse artistic interests. His contributions to film and television, alongside his music career, highlight his multifaceted talents and passion for the arts.

9: Matthew Glen Johnson

Date of Birth: August 13, 1999, USA

Best Works:

• Four Christmases
• The Butterfly Room
• Systolic

Matthew Glen Johnson’s path into acting began in his youth, driven by a passion for storytelling and performance. Known for his engaging presence and versatility, Johnson brings a unique style to his roles, effortlessly switching between drama and comedy.

Furthermore, Johnson’s contributions have not only entertained viewers but also highlighted the importance of youthful talent in the industry.

10: Nolan Gould

Date of Birth: October 28, 1998, New York City, U.S.

Best Works:

• Modern Family
• The To Do List
• Friends with Benefits

Awards:

• Young Artist Award
• Best Young Ensemble Performance in a TV Series (Modern Family)
• Gold Derby Awards
• Ensemble of the Year
• Bergen International Film Festival

Nolan Gould’s journey into acting began at a tender age, appearing in commercials by age three. He showcased his talent with an early role in the short film The McPassion and gained recognition for portraying Luke Dunphy in Modern Family, where his comedic timing and relatability captured audiences.

Gould’s style blends humor with sincerity, making him a standout among young actors. His intellectual prowess, highlighted by a Mensa membership and an impressive IQ, complements his acting abilities, making him one of the best young actors.