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VIRAL EXCLUSIVE
Aug. 21, 2023
New Faces on Streaming Originals are taking Centre Stage
In the ever-evolving landscape of entertainment, streaming platforms have emerged as fertile ground for fresh talent to blossom, propelling actors from relative obscurity to global recognition. By: Syahmi Zulqarnain
Why Streamers are Picking New Faces
The streaming landscape has not only disrupted traditional entertainment norms but has also provided an innovative platform for emerging talents to shine. Streaming services prioritize new faces for several compelling reasons. Firstly, they seek to offer fresh and diverse narratives that resonate with a global audience, often requiring unique perspectives and lesser-known talents to bring authenticity to their stories.
Furthermore, the streaming industry's flexibility and willingness to take creative risks provide a nurturing environment for budding actors to hone their craft and reach wider audiences. Unlike the stringent constraints of traditional media, streaming platforms are more open to experimenting with unique characters, unconventional storylines, and innovative concepts. This approach not only benefits audiences by offering fresh content but also encourages emerging talents to explore their range and develop their skills.
At the forefront of this captivating shift are figures like Millie Bobby Brown, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Pedro Pascal, whose trajectories vividly illustrate the influence of streaming originals in helping shape contemporary fame.
Standout Stars
Millie Bobby Brown, renowned for her captivating portrayal of Eleven in the Netflix sensation Stranger Things, has undoubtedly been one of the most striking success stories of the streaming era. Brown's portrayal of the enigmatic young girl with psychokinetic abilities instantly resonated with audiences, catapulting her to international acclaim. The series' immense popularity not only led to Brown's earnings reportedly surging to a staggering $350,000 per episode by its third season but also sparked her transition into the role of producer for the upcoming film Damsel, showcasing her multifaceted talents both in front of and behind the camera.
Anya Taylor-Joy's journey from relative obscurity to becoming a global sensation was illuminated by her remarkable performance in Netflix's The Queen's Gambit. Taylor-Joy's portrayal of the prodigious yet emotionally complex chess prodigy earned her widespread praise, culminating in a Golden Globe win. Beyond the accolades, Taylor-Joy's transformative journey extended to the big screen, with her securing a role as Illyana Rasputin / Magik in the Marvel film The New Mutants, underscoring the potential for streaming success to serve as a springboard to blockbuster opportunities.
Pedro Pascal's ascent to stardom was profoundly accelerated by his role as the titular character in Disney+'s The Mandalorian. Pascal's portrayal of the enigmatic bounty hunter showcased his ability to captivate audiences even while hidden behind a helmet. The show's unparalleled popularity, bolstered by Pascal's charismatic performance, led to his reported earnings of approximately $600,000 per episode. His journey took an additional leap when he was cast in the highly anticipated Last of Us live-action series, further highlighting how streaming breakthroughs can open doors to a plethora of prestigious projects.
By seeking out new talent, streaming services harness the potential for groundbreaking performances that might otherwise go unnoticed in traditional casting circles. This commitment not only infuses a fresh energy into the entertainment landscape but also serves as a testament to the democratization of the industry, allowing aspiring actors from diverse backgrounds to make their mark on the global stage.
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