Before the Spotlight: 18 Actresses Whose First Looks Might Surprise You

Before they became red carpet regulars and box-office stars, these famous actresses were just starting out, facing auditions and small roles with fresh faces and big dreams. Here’s a look back at how they appeared at the very beginning of their careers, capturing a moment in time before the world knew their names.

Priyanka Chopra — What’s Your Raashee?, 2009

Eva Longoria — Beverly Hills, 90210, 1990

Jessica Chastain — Agatha Christie’s Poirot, 2010

Emily Blunt — Boudica, 2003

Helena Bonham Carter — A Room with a View, 1985

Kate Beckinsale — Shooting Fish, 1997

Nicole Kidman — BMX Bandits, 1983

Sandra Bullock — Love Potion No. 9, 1992

Scarlett Johansson — North, 1994

Zendaya — Shake It Up, 2010

Elizabeth Hurley — Passenger 57, 1992

Meryl Streep — Evil Angels, 1988

Jennifer Lawrence — The Bill Engvall Show, 2007

Winona Ryder — Great Balls of Fire!, 1989

Jennifer Garner — Alias, 2001 — 2006

Emma Stone — Ghosts of Girlfriends Past, 2009

Margot Robbie — City Homicide, 2007-2011

Jennifer Aniston — Camp Cucamonga, 1990

Seeing these early photos is a reminder that even the biggest stars started somewhere, growing and evolving into the icons they are today. Their journeys from fresh-faced newcomers to beloved actresses show the beauty of time, hard work, and transformation.