In the film industry, male actors often dominate box office earnings, but several leading female stars have also established themselves as major box office draws globally. This article highlights the highest-grossing actresses in world cinema, from Scarlett Johansson to Emma Watson. Let’s dive into the top names!
Scarlett Johansson
Scarlett Johansson, active since 1994, tops the list as the highest-grossing actress of all time. Known for her iconic role as Black Widow in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Scarlett has received multiple accolades, including Golden Globe nominations, British Academy Awards, a Tony Award, and Academy Award nods. Her performances in films like Jojo Rabbit and Marriage Story have been widely acclaimed. With a global box office total of USD 14.56 billion, she ranks second overall, just behind Samuel L. Jackson.
Zoe Saldana
Zoe Saldana holds the second spot, thanks to her work in blockbuster sci-fi films like Avatar and Avengers: Endgame. Known for playing Gamora in Guardians of the Galaxy, Zoe’s films have grossed a staggering USD 14.25 billion, making her the fourth highest-grossing actor overall, surpassing stars like Tom Cruise and Vin Diesel.
Emma Watson
Best known for portraying Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter series, Emma Watson ranks third. She’s also earned acclaim for films like Beauty and the Beast and Little Women. Her filmography has brought in USD 9.22 billion at the box office.
Karen Gillan
Scottish actress Karen Gillan gained fame in Doctor Who before transitioning to Hollywood. She’s known for her roles in Jumanji and as Nebula in the MCU. Karen’s films have earned USD 8.47 billion globally, placing her fourth on the list.
Elizabeth Olsen
Elizabeth Olsen, with a 10-year career, has quickly climbed the ranks, largely due to her roles in Marvel films. She’s starred in hits like Avengers: Endgame and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. Her movies have grossed USD 8.38 billion, securing her fifth place.
Letitia Wright
Letitia Wright, famous for playing Shuri in Black Panther and other MCU films, has seen her films earn USD 7.51 billion worldwide. In just a decade, she has become the sixth highest-grossing actress of all time.
Danai Gurira
Danai Gurira, who portrays Okoye in the Black Panther films, is also a celebrated playwright. Her films have grossed USD 6.98 billion, making her the seventh highest-grossing actress worldwide.
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Highest-Grossing Actresses of All Time:
| Rank | Actresses | WW Total Box Office |
| 1 | Scarlett Johansson | USD 14.56 Billion |
| 2 | Zoe Saldana | USD 14.25 Billion |
| 3 | Emma Watson | USD 9.22 Billion |
| 4 | Karen Gillan | USD 8.47 Billion |
| 5 | Elizabeth Olsen | USD 8.38 Billion |
| 6 | Letitia Wright | USD 7.51 Billion |
| 7 | Danai Gurira | USD 6.98 Billion |
Other notable actresses who have made an impact at the box office include Pom Klementieff, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Lawrence, and Natalie Portman.
Note: The box office numbers are based on various sources and research. While approximate, they are indicative of each actress’s box office success.
