The talents on Variety’s Power of Young Hollywood Impact Report rep the future of the entertainment business. They are all between the ages of 18-28 and cross all media platforms and look to a worldwide audience. “Across the globe, people are more alike than we think — bound by simple deeply human themes,” says “Anora” star Mark Eydelshteyn. Musician Jessie Murph can’t wait for the rest of 2025 and her tour. “I am so excited to go out and see people again. Connecting with fans and hearing their stories of how they’ve resonated with the music is the most special experience.”
Although their careers are on the upswing, they still recognize the hurdles in the biz. “Every day can be a challenge. In terms of my life as an actor, one of the lucky things we get to do (if we choose to) is seek out difficult things, and hopefully use them as opportunities to learn and grow as people,” says “Gen V” star Asa Germann.
As for any wisdom they’ve gleaned along the way, “Adults” star Owen Thiele references a character from the mind of another talent who hit it big while in their twenties, “Honestly everything Hannah Horvath ever said … it’s both advice you shouldn’t take and should also live by.”
The Rise of a New Era in Entertainment
Every decade, Hollywood undergoes a glow-up — new faces, new stories, and fresh voices. In 2025, a powerful new wave of young talent is steering the spotlight in unexpected and exciting directions. From seasoned breakout stars like Milly Alcock to Olympian-turned-icon Simone Biles, and new names like Sombr and Miles Caton, these young creatives are rewriting the rules of fame. So, who’s making waves in the industry this year — and why should you care?
The Future Is Now: Who’s Leading Young Hollywood?
Milly Alcock: From Westeros to Worldwide Stardom
Milly Alcock became a household name after House of the Dragon, but 2025 proves she’s not a one-hit wonder. With critically acclaimed indie films, fashion campaigns, and rumored blockbuster roles, she’s got the range.
Why she matters: Milly is Gen Z’s answer to versatile stardom — both commercial and artistic.
Simone Biles: More Than Gold Medals
You might think of Simone Biles as the greatest gymnast of all time — and you’d be right. But in 2025, she’s also a media mogul, mental health advocate, and entertainment producer. She’s redefining what it means to be an athlete in Hollywood.
Why she matters: Simone is proof that talent plus authenticity equals lasting influence.
Sombr: Music’s Mysterious New Face
Few artists have created as much buzz in so little time as Sombr. With moody visuals, viral tracks, and an anti-celebrity image, Sombr is shaking up the music industry.
Why he matters: He brings edge and unpredictability to a scene craving authenticity.
Miles Caton: Gen-Z’s Leading Man in the Making
Handsome, talented, and grounded — Miles Caton is showing up everywhere from Netflix dramas to award-winning indie films. He’s not your average teen heartthrob; he’s got serious acting chops and a serious fanbase to match.
Why he matters: He’s balancing commercial success with critical respect.
How This Generation Is Changing Hollywood
They’re Blurring the Lines Between Actor, Activist, and Influencer
Gone are the days when stars stayed in their lanes. Today’s talent wears multiple hats — and does it effortlessly.
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Milly Alcock produces.
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Simone Biles speaks out on mental health.
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Sombr directs his own music videos.
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Miles Caton uses social media to support social justice causes.
This new generation refuses to be boxed in.
They’re Breaking Barriers — Not Just Records
Simone Biles openly discussed mental health long before it was trendy. Milly Alcock takes on complex roles that subvert gender norms. Miles Caton turned down traditional Hollywood scripts to work with indie Black filmmakers.
These stars are showing that representation isn’t a buzzword — it’s their mission.
Fresh Voices, Bold Stories
The New Storytelling Wave in Film and TV
Young Hollywood isn’t just in front of the camera — they’re behind it. Whether it’s pitching original scripts or serving as executive producers, they’re telling stories that reflect their realities.
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Milly’s rumored next project? A dark comedy about Gen Z fame.
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Miles is set to produce a docuseries on urban youth activism.
Music’s Shift: Sombr and the Soundtrack of 2025
Sombr’s lo-fi, genre-defying sound is being called “the voice of a disconnected generation.” He doesn’t just make music — he curates emotion. Spotify, YouTube, and TikTok are filled with Sombr-inspired edits, and fans can’t get enough.
Social Media: The Real Stage
Influence Beyond the Screen
Simone Biles doesn’t need a red carpet to go viral. Her casual Instagram Live chats reach millions. Milly Alcock’s TikToks show a goofy, relatable side fans adore. Miles Caton drops behind-the-scenes vlogs on YouTube.
They’re not playing celebrities — they’re being human, and the audience loves it.
Fan Engagement = Power
This generation knows the power of fanbases:
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Sombr’s cult-like Discord group leaks teasers weekly.
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Simone’s followers push causes she supports into trending topics.
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Milly’s fans helped revive an entire cancelled series.
They’re not just stars — they’re community leaders.
Not Just Pretty Faces: Brains & Business
Young Stars as Entrepreneurs
Simone Biles launched her own production company. Milly Alcock invested in a sustainable fashion brand. Miles Caton co-founded a film school scholarship fund. These young stars aren’t just cashing checks — they’re writing them.
Turning Fame Into Legacy
What do they all have in common? Vision. They’re looking beyond the now and building futures on their own terms.
This isn’t just about fame. It’s about impact.
Young Hollywood by the Numbers
| Name | Age | Main Industry | Notable Work | 2025 Impact Rank |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milly Alcock | 25 | Film/TV | House of the Dragon, Indie projects | #1 Rising Star |
| Simone Biles | 28 | Sports/Media | Gymnastics, TV Producer | #1 Cultural Icon |
| Sombr | 21 | Music | Debut Album, Viral TikToks | #1 Music Disruptor |
| Miles Caton | 23 | Acting/Activism | Netflix Originals, Indie Films | #1 Breakout Actor |
What Sets Them Apart
Authenticity Over Perfection
They don’t pretend to be flawless. They talk about anxiety, burnout, rejection — things most celebrities avoid. That vulnerability is a superpower.
Relatability Is Currency
In 2025, fans want real. These stars give them just that. From Milly’s messy makeup tutorials to Simone’s open letters — the connection is raw, not manufactured.
Fearless Trailblazing
Each of these stars is carving their own path. Not following formulas. Not afraid to flop. Just bold moves — and even bolder payoffs.
Global Influence: Not Just an American Thing
Simone’s reach spans continents. Milly has a massive European and Australian fanbase. Sombr is dominating Asian streaming charts. Miles Caton recently did a French indie film.
Young Hollywood in 2025 isn’t just Hollywood — it’s global.
Conclusion: The New Faces of Fame Are Here to Stay
2025 marks a powerful shift in who holds influence in showbiz. It’s not just about fame — it’s about authenticity, representation, and drive. Milly Alcock, Simone Biles, Sombr, Miles Caton, and their peers aren’t just riding the wave — they are the wave.
Hollywood’s future looks fearless, fresh, and wildly more fun.
