19 Most extraordinary debut performances in Hollywood

Modified Jan 27, 2025 09:53 ET

Dreamgirls (2006) | Image Source: DreamWorks Pictures — Dreamgirls (2006) | Image Source: Prime Video

4. Lupita Nyong’o – 12 Years a Slave (2013)

12 Years a Slave (2013) | Image Source: Fox Searchlight Pictures

Lupita Nyong'o's debut performance in 12 Years a Slave was stunning, leaving every audience breathless. As Patsey, the slave that endures unbearable hardships, Nyong'o outshined with emotional intensity to clinch the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Raw, vulnerable, and moving talent and recommendation of her potential as one of Hollywood's most compelling actresses. She has since continued to shine, thus cementing her status as a force to be reckoned with in the film industry.