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Stars Who Made Their Acting Debut in 2025
Every year, new talent emerges to redefine the entertainment industry — but 2025 stands out as one of the most exciting years for acting debuts. From popular K-pop idols testing their skills in dramas to Hollywood fresh faces captivating audiences, these stars are proving that the future of film and television is bright, bold, and full of promise.
Here’s a look at the top 15 stars who made their acting debut (or marked their breakout performance) in 2025.
1. Yuna (ITZY) — Miss Undercover Boss
K-pop’s ITZY member Yuna made her acting debut in Miss Undercover Boss alongside Park Shin-hye and Go Kyung-pyo. Known for her charming visuals and charisma, Yuna is now showing audiences her emotional depth and acting versatility.
Why Watch: Fans are eager to see if her natural stage confidence translates into screen presence.
2. Hanni (NewJeans) — Love Algorithm
The beloved NewJeans member took on her first acting challenge in the romantic comedy Love Algorithm, playing a young coder who creates a dating app — only to get caught in her own love triangle.
Why Watch: Her sweet image perfectly fits the role, and early fan reactions hint at solid acting potential.
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3. YeonJun (TXT) — Residents Playbook
TXT’s YeonJun impressed fans by starring in Residents Playbook, a medical slice-of-life drama. His mature look and calm aura made him a great fit for the role of a young intern doctor.
Why Watch: His ability to balance emotion and professionalism makes this debut one to remember.
4. SooBin (TXT) — Residents Playbook
SooBin also joined Residents Playbook, portraying a contrasting personality to YeonJun’s character — more lighthearted but equally ambitious.
Why Watch: Fans love seeing their on-screen chemistry as co-actors, not just bandmates.
5. JeongYeon (TWICE) — New Recruit: The Movie
Known for her stage confidence and strong aura, JeongYeon surprised fans with a dramatic turn in the thriller New Recruit: The Movie.
Why Watch: Her performance in a serious genre like thriller proves she’s more than just an idol face.
6. Cha JunHo (DRIPPIN) — First Love
Cha JunHo debuted in the web drama First Love, portraying a Japanese exchange student. He even learned Japanese for authenticity.
Why Watch: His dedication shows promise for a bright future in acting.
7. EunChan (TEMPEST) — First Love
Sharing the screen with JunHo, EunChan brought freshness and relatability to the youth-centered drama.
Why Watch: A natural on camera, EunChan could easily become the next-gen idol-actor to watch.
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8. Owen Cooper — Adolescence (Netflix)
The young British actor Owen Cooper stunned critics in his debut role as Jamie Miller, a 13-year-old accused of murder in Netflix’s dark mini-series Adolescence.
Why Watch: His raw, emotional performance is being hailed as one of the strongest debuts of the decade.
9. Alfie Williams — 28 Years Later
Another British newcomer, Alfie Williams, debuted in the horror-thriller 28 Years Later, the sequel to the iconic 28 Days Later.
Why Watch: His gripping performance shows maturity well beyond his years.
10. McKinzie J. Scott — Manhood & Caught Stealing
Model-turned-actor McKinzie J. Scott had a breakout year with both Manhood and Caught Stealing.
Why Watch: His commanding presence and nuanced acting made him one of Hollywood’s most talked-about new names.
11. Anna Lee — The Painter’s Promise
Korean-American actress Anna Lee made her debut in this historical Netflix drama set in 18th-century Korea.
Why Watch: Her performance as a brave artist caught in political turmoil showcases depth and elegance.
12. Rina Sawayama — Shadow District
Pop singer Rina Sawayama, after shining in John Wick: Chapter 4, officially took her first leading role in Shadow District (2025), a neo-noir action film.
Why Watch: Her martial arts training and fierce attitude make her a natural action star.
13. Noah Beck — Campus Crush
Social media personality Noah Beck transitioned to acting with the Netflix rom-com Campus Crush.
Why Watch: The film received mixed reviews, but Noah’s charisma and comic timing stood out.
14. Ayo Edebiri — The Infinite Playlist
Although known for The Bear, Ayo made her film debut as a lead in The Infinite Playlist, a 2025 romantic dramedy.
Why Watch: She brings authenticity and humor to every role, establishing herself as a new powerhouse.
15. Hoyeon Jung — Runaway Diaries
After global fame from Squid Game, Hoyeon Jung officially headlined her first Hollywood film in 2025 — Runaway Diaries, opposite Timothée Chalamet.
Why Watch: Her effortless screen presence bridges K-drama grace with Hollywood style.
FAQs
Q1: Who had the most talked-about debut in 2025?
A: Owen Cooper’s haunting performance in Adolescence drew widespread critical acclaim, earning him international attention.
Q2: Which K-pop idol made the strongest debut this year?
A: Yuna (ITZY) and YeonJun (TXT) are leading the conversation thanks to their emotional acting and natural presence.
Q3: Are idol-actors becoming more accepted now?
A: Yes. With better training and more natural performances, audiences now appreciate idols transitioning into serious roles.
Q4: Which Hollywood newcomer is one to watch?
A: McKinzie J. Scott’s dual debut has made him one of the most promising young talents in Hollywood.
Q5: Will these stars continue acting in 2026?
A: Definitely. Many are already linked to follow-up dramas or films for next year.
Conclusion
2025 has proven that acting debuts can come from anywhere — a K-pop stage, a YouTube screen, or a modeling runway. These fifteen rising stars have not only stepped into acting but are reshaping what it means to debut in today’s globalized entertainment world. Whether in Korea or Hollywood, each name on this list represents a bold new chapter in cinematic storytelling.
