Who Will Be Nominated for Best Actress at the 2025 Oscars? A Look at the Top Contenders

1. Margot Robbie: A Revolutionary Role in “Barbie and Beyond”

Margot Robbie has been a constant presence in awards conversations for the past few years, and 2025 is no exception. While Barbie (2023) may have already established her as one of Hollywood’s most versatile actresses, her latest performance in The Fall of the Curtain has elevated her reputation to new heights. Directed by a visionary filmmaker and set in 19th-century Paris, Robbie plays a struggling stage actress caught in the throes of societal expectations and personal ambition.

Robbie’s ability to fully embody the character’s emotional complexity has been widely praised by critics, with some calling it her most transformative role to date. The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival, earning her a standing ovation that lasted nearly ten minutes. This kind of reception bodes well for her Oscars campaign, as does her history of delivering powerhouse performances in films like I, Tonya and Bombshell. If Robbie secures a nomination for Best Actress, she could very well take home the coveted gold statuette.

2. Emma Stone: A Bold Performance in “The Light Beyond”

Emma Stone has been no stranger to Oscar attention since her 2017 win for La La Land. In 2025, she finds herself at the forefront of awards discussions once again for her role in The Light Beyond, a dystopian drama about a woman fighting for survival in a future where humanity faces environmental collapse. Stone portrays Clara, a scientist whose quest to save the planet forces her to confront her own mortality and ethical boundaries.

Stone’s performance in The Light Beyond has been described as both raw and haunting, with many praising her ability to convey deep emotional vulnerability while anchoring a narrative with grand, existential stakes. The film, directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Greta Gerwig, has already sparked conversation for its sharp screenplay and visual ambition, but it’s Stone’s layered portrayal of Clara that has captured the most attention. As awards season ramps up, Stone’s name is sure to remain prominent in discussions about the Best Actress race.

3. Fantasia Barrino: A Star Turn in “The Color Purple”

Fantasia Barrino’s performance in the upcoming musical adaptation of The Color Purple has already been hailed as a revelation. Playing Celie, a role made iconic by Whoopi Goldberg in the 1985 film, Barrino delivers a performance that is both powerful and deeply moving. The film, directed by Blitz Bazawule and produced by Oprah Winfrey and Steven Spielberg, promises to bring a fresh perspective to Alice Walker’s beloved novel.

Early screenings of The Color Purple have led to glowing reviews, with critics singling out Barrino’s singing and acting as standout elements. Her ability to capture Celie’s journey of resilience and self-discovery has resonated with audiences, and many are already calling her a lock for a Best Actress nomination. If she makes the cut, Barrino could join the growing list of musical performers who have successfully crossed over into the Oscars race, following in the footsteps of stars like Jennifer Hudson and Lady Gaga.

4. Carey Mulligan: A Tour de Force in “Maestro”

Carey Mulligan is no stranger to critical acclaim, and her role in Maestro has solidified her status as one of Hollywood’s finest actresses. In this biographical drama about legendary conductor and composer Leonard Bernstein, Mulligan plays Felicia Montealegre, Bernstein’s wife and a key figure in his life. The film, directed by and starring Bradley Cooper, offers an intimate look at their tumultuous relationship and the sacrifices made in the name of art.

Mulligan’s performance has been described as “electrifying” by critics, who have praised her ability to convey Felicia’s strength and vulnerability in equal measure. Her chemistry with Cooper is another highlight, adding emotional depth to the film’s exploration of love, ambition, and betrayal. With a track record that includes Oscar-nominated roles in An Education and Promising Young Woman, Mulligan is no stranger to awards recognition, and Maestro could very well earn her another nomination—or perhaps even her first win.

5. Natalie Portman: A Complex Role in “May December”

Natalie Portman has long been considered one of the finest actresses of her generation, and her role in Todd Haynes’ May December is being hailed as one of her best yet. The film tells the story of an actress (Portman) who travels to meet the subject of her latest film, a woman at the center of a decades-old scandal. What unfolds is a tense, layered exploration of identity, morality, and the blurred lines between life and art.

Portman’s performance has been described as both chilling and mesmerizing, with critics noting her ability to capture the psychological intricacies of her character. Her work in May December has already earned her accolades at major film festivals, and industry insiders believe she is a strong contender for the Best Actress category. Having previously won for her role in Black Swan and received nominations for Closer and Jackie, Portman’s return to awards season is highly anticipated.

From: Customteesensation