The entertainment industry is a perpetual motion machine, constantly spinning new stars into orbit while others gracefully (or sometimes not-so-gracefully) descend. As we navigate the buzzing landscape of 2025, the question on everyone's lips is: Who will be the next big star of 2026?
Predicting the future of Hollywood, music, and pop culture is notoriously tricky. It's a blend of raw talent, strategic career moves, public sentiment, and sometimes, just plain luck. However, by observing the significant buzz, critical acclaim, and project pipelines heating up this year, we can make some educated guesses about the emerging talents poised to dominate headlines and capture hearts by becoming the next big stars.
This isn't just about fleeting moments; it's about identifying those with the genuine spark and the right opportunities to cement their place as household names. Let's delve into our predictions for the next big star of 2026!
The Cinematic Powerhouses: Next Big Stars Including Actors on the Cusp
In the world of film and television, a few names are consistently generating serious momentum, thanks to pivotal roles and undeniable screen presence.
- David Corenswet: This one feels almost inevitable. As the next Superman in James Gunn's highly anticipated DC Universe reboot, Corenswet is stepping into one of the most iconic roles in cinematic history. His previous work in The Politician and Hollywood (both Ryan Murphy productions) showcased his charisma and leading-man potential. The sheer scale of the Superman film, set to anchor the new DCU, guarantees unparalleled exposure. If the film lands, Corenswet won't just be a star; he'll be a global phenomenon on par with the MCU's biggest names. This is arguably the safest bet for the next big star.
- Sydney Chandler: Daughter of acclaimed actor Kyle Chandler, Sydney is set to headline the new Alien: Earth series, a major television event on FX. The Alien franchise has a proven track record of launching strong female leads (Sigourney Weaver, Cailee Spaeny). Chandler's role as a young woman whose ship crash-lands on Earth promises a demanding performance that could solidify her as the next big star and a great sci-fi action heroine. Keep an eye on her; this is a prime breakout role.
- Peter Claffey: From professional rugby player to a potential global star – that's the trajectory for Peter Claffey. He's playing the titular role of Ser Duncan the Tall in HBO's A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, the next Game of Thrones universe spinoff. Given the franchise's history of catapulting actors to international fame (Peter Dinklage, Emilia Clarke, etc.), Claffey has an enormous platform. His unique background and physical presence could make him a fan favorite and a major Hollywood newcomer to watch.
- Damson Idris: Already a critical darling for his role in FX's Snowfall, Damson Idris is poised for a major leap to feature film stardom. He's starring opposite Brad Pitt in F1, Joseph Kosinski's (director of Top Gun: Maverick) hotly anticipated Formula One racing film. Sharing the screen with Pitt in a high-octane blockbuster is a surefire way to boost his profile and make him a household name. This will be his major mainstream breakout.
- Rachel Sennott: A comedic force to be reckoned with, Rachel Sennott has already stolen scenes in films like Bodies Bodies Bodies and Bottoms. With a new half-hour comedy series expected in 2025 where she's a lead, Sennott is set to become a defining comedic voice of her generation, following in the footsteps of stars like Lena Dunham and Issa Rae. Her sharp wit and unique delivery make her a definite rising comedic talent.
- Angourie Rice: At just 23, Angourie Rice already boasts an impressive resume, including roles in Mare of Easttown and the Spider-Man franchise. She's consistently chosen intriguing projects and delivers nuanced performances. With several more anticipated projects in the pipeline for late 2025 and 2026, she's quietly building a body of work that will inevitably push her into the upper echelon of young Hollywood stars.
The Sonic Sensation: Musicians Ready to Explode
The music industry is equally dynamic, with new artists constantly emerging. Here are some who've been building significant buzz and are primed for widespread acclaim.
- JADE (from Little Mix): After the hiatus of Little Mix, JADE has been carefully building her solo career. With a debut album and solo tour “That's Showbiz Baby” kicking off in October 2025, she's poised for a massive impact. Her established fanbase from Little Mix combined with her unique artistic vision could see her become a major pop force.
- Damiano David (from Måneskin): The charismatic frontman of Eurovision-winning Italian rock band Måneskin, Damiano David is on the brink of releasing his solo debut album and embarking on a nearly sold-out 2025 world tour. His raw energy, fashion-forward style, and undeniable stage presence suggest a successful transition into a solo rock icon, making him a compelling music industry breakout.
- Amaarae: The American-Ghanian singer has already opened for major acts like Childish Gambino and Sabrina Carpenter. Her sophomore album, Fountain Baby, received critical acclaim in 2023, blending pop, R&B, punk, alt-rock, and Afrobeats. With a strong unique sound and growing international recognition, 2026 could see her truly explode into mainstream consciousness as a genre-bending global artist.
- d4vd: At just 19, d4vd (pronounced David) has already racked up impressive accolades, performing for Valentino and releasing successful EPs. With a highly anticipated debut album incoming, his unique sound and rapid rise through the industry position him as a Gen Z music sensation ready for widespread acclaim.
The Wildcards & Multi-Hyphenates
Beyond traditional acting and music, the definition of a “star” is expanding.
- Ayo Edebiri & Jeremy Allen White: While already widely recognized from The Bear, their continued critical acclaim and upcoming film projects (like Edebiri in After the Hunt and White in the Bruce Springsteen doc) position them for potential Oscar buzz in 2026. A win or even a nomination would elevate them to a new tier of Hollywood's elite.
- The Next Big Digital Creator: The landscape of digital celebrities is ever-shifting. While hard to pinpoint specific names without knowing the next viral phenomenon, keep an eye on creators who can seamlessly transition their TikTok or YouTube fame into mainstream projects – whether it's a TV show, a major brand collaboration, or even a chart-topping single. The authenticity and direct connection they offer Gen Z audiences are invaluable.
Conclusion: The Ever-Evolving Constellation of Fame
Predicting the next big star is like gazing into a constantly shifting constellation. However, based on the buzz of 2025, the strategic projects, and the sheer talent on display, individuals like David Corenswet, Sydney Chandler, Peter Claffey, Damson Idris, Rachel Sennott, JADE, Damiano David, Amaarae, and d4vd are exceptionally well-positioned to become the household names of 2026.
Their journeys represent the diverse pathways to stardom today – from inheriting iconic roles to dominating niche genres and leveraging global music movements. As the entertainment world continues to evolve, one thing remains constant: the thrill of discovering that next compelling voice, that magnetic screen presence, or that unforgettable sound. Get ready, because 2026 is poised to introduce us to a whole new galaxy of superstars!
