Top 10 Actors Who Got Famous on Netflix

For over a decade, Netflix has been more than just a streaming service—it’s been a launchpad for some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. These actors that got famous on Netflix weren’t always household names, but thanks to viral hits, loyal fan bases, and binge-worthy original content, they’re now red carpet regulars and global stars. Whether it’s an emotional teen drama, fantasy franchise, or young adult rom-com, Netflix has a track record of building careers from the ground up. This list highlights the actors who got fame from Netflix—some of the biggest breakout names that continue to shape the streaming landscape.

1. Millie Bobby Brown

No list of actors that started on Netflix is complete without Millie Bobby Brown. As Eleven in Stranger Things, she became a global sensation overnight. At just 12 years old, she captivated audiences with a performance far beyond her years. Today, she’s not only one of the best Netflix actors, but a producer, entrepreneur, and lead in multiple Netflix originals like Enola Holmes and Damsel.

• Breakout role: Stranger Things
  
  
• Continued success through Netflix-backed projects and her beauty brand
  

2. Madelyn Cline

Madelyn Cline became a breakout star after her role as Sarah Cameron in Outer Banks, a Netflix original teen adventure series. With her undeniable screen presence and relatability, she’s now moved on to films and luxury brand deals. As one of the standout actors who got famous on Netflix, Madelyn has proven her staying power both on- and off-screen.

• Breakout role: Outer Banks
  
  
• Cemented her spot as a Netflix fan-favorite with global appeal
  

3. Sofia Carson

Sofia Carson transitioned from Disney Channel fame to Netflix stardom with her lead role in Purple Hearts. Her performance, combined with her real-life musical talent, made her a streaming icon for Gen Z audiences. As one of the most streamed actresses on Netflix in 2022, Sofia Carson is now one of the most recognizable actors who got fame from Netflix—and a mainstay in original movies with both acting and musical reach.

• Breakout Netflix role: Purple Hearts
  
  
• Multi-hyphenate star blending music, acting, and philanthropy
  

4. Jenna Ortega

Already working in television before Netflix, it was Wednesday that launched Jenna Ortega into true stardom. Her deadpan performance as the iconic Addams Family daughter helped Wednesday become one of the most-watched shows in Netflix history. It was also her role on You Season 2 as Ellie Alvis, as Joe Goldberg’s good friend. Now considered one of the best Netflix actors, Ortega has solidified her place in the next generation of Hollywood.

• Breakout Netflix role: Wednesday, You
  
  
• Skyrocketed into global fame through viral scenes and fashion moments
  

5. Jonathan Bailey

Jonathan Bailey gained widespread attention and fandom as Anthony Bridgerton in Bridgerton Season 2. His character arc, chemistry with co-star Simone Ashley, and commanding presence made him a fan favorite. Though he had stage and screen credits before, his role in Bridgerton made him one of the most respected actors who got famous on Netflix in the period drama genre.

• Breakout role: Bridgerton
  
  
• Set to appear in major Hollywood projects following Netflix success
  

6. Drew Starkey

Known for playing Rafe Cameron in Outer Banks, Drew Starkey’s role as the unpredictable and complex antagonist made him impossible to ignore. His layered performance showed range and intensity, building him a loyal fanbase. Starkey has since been cast in several feature films, marking him as one of the most promising actors who started on Netflix.

• Breakout role: Outer Banks
  
  
• Known for portraying intense, morally ambiguous characters
  

7. Noah Schnapp

As Will Byers in Stranger Things, Noah Schnapp helped carry the emotional weight of one of Netflix’s most iconic series. His evolution as a character paralleled his own growth as an actor. Now pursuing business (including a snack brand called “TBH”) and expanding into fashion, Schnapp is one of the most multifaceted actors who got fame from Netflix.

• Breakout role: Stranger Things
  
  
• Building a business-savvy personal brand alongside acting

8. Phoebe Dynevor

Phoebe Dynevor’s performance as Daphne Bridgerton in Bridgerton Season 1 captured the attention of global viewers and the fashion world alike. Her nuanced portrayal of innocence, agency, and growth helped launch one of Netflix’s biggest franchises. Now appearing in critically acclaimed films and collaborations with fashion brands like Vogue, she’s clearly one of the top actors who got famous on Netflix.

• Breakout role: Bridgerton
  
  
• Balances period drama success with rising film career
  

9. HoYeon Jung

HoYeon Jung became a global sensation following her breakout role as Kang Sae-byeok in Netflix’s Squid Game. A top fashion model, she transitioned seamlessly into acting, earning critical acclaim and becoming a fan favorite overnight. Her emotional performance and striking screen presence made her one of the most talked-about actors who got famous on Netflix, especially as Squid Game broke records as one of the most-watched series of all time. She has since landed major roles in feature films and signed global brand deals with Louis Vuitton and other luxury houses.

• Breakout role: Squid Game
  
  
• From model to actress, she became a household name through Netflix's global phenomenon
  

10. Jacob Elordi

While Euphoria aired on HBO, Jacob Elordi first reached teen audiences through Netflix’s The Kissing Booth trilogy. Though critically mixed, the series gave him visibility, leading to high-fashion endorsements and edgier roles. Elordi remains a prime example of how Netflix can act as a gateway to more complex opportunities.

• Breakout Netflix role: The Kissing Booth
  
  
• Now pursuing darker, more mature roles in major film projects
  

The Streaming Star-Maker

Netflix is no longer just a platform—it’s a launchpad. These actors who got famous on Netflix prove that the platform can shape entire careers and cultural movements. Whether it's Sofia Carson leading romantic dramas or Millie Bobby Brown headlining fantasy adventures, the best Netflix actors represent the new definition of global stardom. For fans and brands alike, these are the names that will define the next decade of entertainment.

• Netflix continues to shape Hollywood’s breakout talent pipeline
  
  
• These actors that started on Netflix now lead red carpets, film franchises, and brand campaigns
  

FAQ

Who are the most famous actors who got famous on Netflix?

Millie Bobby Brown, Jenna Ortega, Madelyn Cline, and Sofia Carson are among the biggest stars to rise through Netflix.

What show made Millie Bobby Brown famous?

She became globally recognized after starring as Eleven in Stranger Things.

Did Sofia Carson start on Netflix?

While she had a Disney background, Sofia Carson became a Netflix headliner with Purple Hearts, cementing her as one of the top actors who got fame from Netflix.

Is Jenna Ortega one of the best Netflix actors?

Yes—her performance in Wednesday solidified her as a major Gen Z icon.

What makes Netflix actors so successful?

Global exposure, viral content, loyal fanbases, and consistent original programming turn fresh talent into household names.