The 2026 Movie Star Rankings: 35 Under 35
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In the 2026 '35 Under 35' movie star rankings episode of *The Big Picture*, hosts Sean Fennessy and Amanda Dobbins explore the evolving definition of a movie star in an era dominated by franchises and streaming platforms. They reflect on the cultural significance of star power, emphasizing that while TV success from shows like *Euphoria* and *Stranger Things* serves as a strong launchpad, it doesn't guarantee film stardom. The hosts analyze the criteria for inclusion—50% past achievements, 25% future potential, and 25% intangible 'movie star quality'—and spotlight new entrants like Austin Abrams, McKenna Grace, and Aaron Pierre, while acknowledging tough cuts due to timing and box office impact. The discussion highlights the enduring influence of established stars like Zendaya and Robert Pattinson in driving non-franchise projects, and debates the cinematic potential of ambitious ventures like a Beatles film anthology, underscoring the balance between narrative authenticity and commercial viability. The episode culminates in Timothée Chalamet being ranked #1, celebrated for his box office dominance, strategic role selection, and cultural resonance, with the hosts framing the list as a continuation of cinematic legacy. The season concludes with anticipation for a special episode on the Meryl Streep Hall of Fame, honoring her unparalleled filmography and performance excellence.
Movie stardom in 2026 is defined by a balance between franchise success and character-driven, critically acclaimed work.
TV fame from platforms like HBO and Netflix can launch careers, but doesn't guarantee film stardom—strategic visibility and marketing are crucial.
The 35 Under 35 list uses a 50-25-25 formula: past achievements, future potential, and intangible 'movie star quality'.
Timothée Chalamet is ranked #1 due to his box office dominance, diverse roles, and cultural impact across major franchises and indie projects.
Star power remains essential for selling non-franchise films, with actors like Zendaya and Robert Pattinson serving as key draws.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
The State of Movie Stardom in 2026
“I still think stars matter. I don't know if there's more than one that exists in the way that we had 25 in 1996. There may only be one, and we can discuss whether or not we feel that's true.”
The Rise of the TV Star and the Hollywood Pipeline
The hosts analyze how television shows like *Euphoria* and *Stranger Things* have become critical launchpads for young talent, with stars like Zendaya, Sydney Sweeney, and Jacob Elordi gaining massive visibility. They question whether this TV fame translates into true movie stardom and discuss the challenges of transitioning from series to film.
The 2024 List's Farewell and the 11 Who Aged Out
The hosts review the 11 stars who aged out of the list this year, including Margot Robbie, Jennifer Lawrence, and Taylor Swift. They reflect on the timing of the list and how career momentum, box office performance, and studio decisions impact eligibility, with some cuts being particularly tough.
The Beatles Film Anthology: Casting and Narrative Order
“You have to start with Paul and finish with John. Like, as a list maker, as a person who puts together editorial projects, like, you know that I agree.”
Superhero Stardom and the Superman Legacy
The conversation shifts to the cultural impact of superhero roles, particularly Superman, with a focus on David Coren Sweat’s portrayal and the lack of lasting public recognition despite strong performances. The hosts reflect on the legacy of Christopher Reeve and the challenges of sustaining iconic roles.
“It's not about selling the movie. It's about selling themselves. It's like you really, you need at this point, not just the Nolan, but the Odyssey stamp of approval in order to truly be considered A-list.”
“You have to start with Paul and finish with John. Like, as a list maker, as a person who puts together editorial projects, like, you know that I agree.”
“I still think stars matter. I don't know if there's more than one that exists in the way that we had 25 in 1996. There may only be one, and we can discuss whether or not we feel that's true.”
Hosts
Zendaya
person
Robert Pattinson
person
The Odyssey
media
Sean Fennessy
person
timothy chalamet
person
Euphoria
other
Amanda Dobbins
person
Super Mario Bros. Galaxy
media
The Drama
media
sydney sweeney
person
The Top 10 Movie Plot Twists and ‘The Drama.’ Plus: ‘The Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ Certainly Exists.
The Big Picture • 1h 27m • 4/3/2026
The Meryl Streep Hall of Fame
The Big Picture • 2h 21m • 4/10/2026
The 2026 Summer Movie Preview "Boom or Bust" Game
The Big Picture • 2h 21m • 4/14/2026
The 15 Most Anticipated Movies Out of CinemaCon and Our Trip to the Sphere!
The Big Picture • 1h 58m • 4/17/2026
The 900th-Episode Mega-Voicemailbag!
The Big Picture • 2h 59m • 4/21/2026
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