actresses

An actress is a performer who acts in theatre, film, television, radio, or other media, presenting a character to an audience through spoken dialogue, movement, and expression. Acting involves interpreting scripts, researching roles, and collaborating with directors, writers, and fellow performers to convey stories and emotions.

The term actress is gendered, and many contemporary contexts use the gender-neutral term actor for performers of any gender. Usage varies by region, industry, and individual preference; some traditions retain the word actress for female performers.

Actresses work across multiple media and genres, including stage plays, feature films, television series, radio dramas, voice work for animation or commercials, and motion capture. Career paths often combine formal training in drama or film schools with practical experience in student or community productions, regional theatre, or independent projects. Professional actors typically seek representation by agents or managers and participate in auditions and casting calls to obtain roles.

Recognition in the field is awarded by organizations such as the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (Academy Awards), the television industry’s Emmys, the theatre world’s Tonys, and the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTAs). Industry guilds and critics’ circles also honor performances, versatility, and impact across genres and media.

Public discourse about actresses includes discussions of representation, diversity, and pay equity, as well as career longevity and the shifting opportunities provided by streaming platforms and international co-productions. Notable practitioners include actors such as Meryl Streep, Katharine Hepburn, Ingrid Bergman, Viola Davis, and Cate Blanchett, among many others who have shaped the craft over decades.