Mel Brooks is a comedic legend and one of the rare entertainers to achieve EGOT status. He created a string of wildly influential films, masterfully using satire and absurdity to push boundaries. His groundbreaking work as a writer, director, and actor continues to inspire comedians and filmmakers today. | © MGM
Daniel Radcliffe brilliantly transitioned from a global icon as the boy wizard to an actor known for his daring and eclectic role choices. He has consistently challenged himself with risky stage productions and uniquely offbeat film projects. Alongside his acting, he is a strong supporter of literacy and health charities. | © Warner Bros. Pictures
Mila Kunis first won over audiences as a teenager on a hit TV sitcom, quickly becoming a familiar face in American homes. She further showcased her range by voicing a long-running character on a popular animated series and starring in major films. Beyond acting, she has built a career as a producer and remains dedicated to her philanthropic work. | © Universal Pictures
Jake Gyllenhaal is known for his intense commitment to complex and often physically demanding roles. He effortlessly moves between major studio films and powerful stage performances, showcasing his impressive range. As a producer with his own company, he also actively shapes the stories he brings to the screen. | © Focus Features
Ben Stiller has built a remarkable career that seamlessly bridges acting, directing, and producing. He is known for his iconic comedic roles, but has also earned respect for his sharp work behind the camera on acclaimed television projects. His dedication extends to his humanitarian work, where he actively supports refugee and disaster relief efforts. | © 20th Century Fox
Adam Sandler has crafted a unique career that effortlessly swings from broad comedy hits to praised dramatic performances. He got his start on Saturday Night Live before founding his own production company to control his projects. A hallmark of his work is his loyal collaboration with a close-knit group of friends and creatives, film after film. | © A24
Dustin Hoffman redefined what a leading man could be with his deeply human and transformative character portrayals. His career is marked by two iconic Academy Award wins for Best Actor, cementing his status as a master of his craft. He has demonstrated incredible range, moving seamlessly from intense drama to brilliant comedy on both the screen and the stage. | © Warner Bros. Pictures
Natalie Portman, who was born in Jerusalem, has consistently balanced her intense acting career with a deep commitment to her education. She delivered an Oscar-winning performance in Black Swan, showcasing the fierce dedication she brings to complex roles. A true intellectual, Portman has also stepped behind the camera to direct and is fluent in several languages. | © Netflix
Jerry Seinfeld co-created and starred in the iconic sitcom Seinfeld, a show that permanently reshaped television comedy with its unique take on everyday life. His sharp observational stand-up remains the core of his work, extending into projects like Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee. He continues to tour globally and develop new comedy specials, maintaining his status as a master of the craft. | © Netflix
Barbra Streisand is a singular talent who has conquered every facet of entertainment, from winning Oscars and Grammys to becoming a box office force. She broke new ground by directing, producing, and starring in major films like Yentl, asserting her creative control. Her powerful voice extends beyond the stage through her dedicated philanthropy, supporting causes like education and civil rights. | © Warner Bros. Pictures
Michael Douglas has achieved a rare dual-throne in Hollywood, winning an Oscar for his acting in Wall Street and another as a producer for One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. His career spans from charming adventures like 'Romancing the Stone' to tense thrillers and modern blockbusters. Proud of his Jewish heritage, he has been honored with the Genesis Prize for his contributions to the community and is a dedicated advocate for nuclear disarmament. | © Walt Disney Pictures
Scarlett Johansson effortlessly transitions between intimate indie dramas, such as Lost in Translation, and blockbuster franchises like the Marvel universe. Her talent is underscored by the rare feat of earning Oscar nominations for both Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress in the same year. She has further shaped her career by working behind the scenes as a dedicated producer. | © Marvel Studios
Sacha Baron Cohen is a master of satirical disguise, creating unforgettable characters like Borat and Ali G who hilariously expose societal prejudices. He often co-writes and produces his own projects to ensure his bold, improvisational comedy hits its mark. While best known for these chaotic roles, he has also proven his dramatic range in films like The Trial of the Chicago 7. | © Netflix
Harrison Ford carved his name into cinematic history as the charmingly cynical Han Solo and the whip-cracking adventurer Indiana Jones. Beyond these iconic roles, he has delivered powerful, dramatic performances in films like Witness and The Fugitive. The son of a Jewish mother, Ford is also a dedicated environmental advocate and a pilot for humanitarian missions. | © Paramount Pictures
Daniel Day-Lewis stands as a true titan of acting, holding the singular distinction of being the only man to win three Best Actor Oscars. He was legendary for his intense method acting, often remaining fully in character for the entire duration of a film's production. While his retirement from cinema is a profound loss, his legacy as one of the greatest performers of all time is absolutely secure. | © Miramax Films
From comedy giants to dramatic powerhouses, Jewish actors have been fundamental in shaping the story of modern entertainment. This list celebrates the most iconic performers whose work has left a permanent mark on our culture.
