What's Happening?
Zoe Saldaña has overtaken Scarlett Johansson as the highest-grossing actor of all time, following the success of the latest film in the 'Avatar' series, 'Avatar: Fire and Ash.' The film, directed by James Cameron, has contributed significantly to Saldaña's box office earnings, which now total $16.8 billion globally. This surpasses Johansson's previous record of $16.4 billion. Saldaña's filmography includes major hits such as 'Star Trek,' 'Avengers: Endgame,' and 'Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl.' The recent 'Avatar' installment alone grossed $1.23 billion worldwide, according to Box Office Mojo. Saldaña's achievement was highlighted during the 2026 Golden Globes, where she expressed gratitude to her colleagues and fellow
nominees.
Why It's Important?
This development underscores the significant impact of blockbuster franchises on an actor's career and earnings. Saldaña's rise to the top of the box office charts highlights the enduring popularity and financial success of the 'Avatar' series, as well as other major franchises she has been part of. This shift in rankings also reflects the evolving landscape of Hollywood, where diverse roles and representation are increasingly recognized and rewarded. Saldaña's success may inspire other actors and filmmakers to pursue roles in large-scale productions that have the potential to reach global audiences and achieve substantial box office returns.
What's Next?
As Saldaña continues to build on her success, she may seek to leverage her position to take on more diverse and challenging roles. The continued success of the 'Avatar' series and other franchises she is involved in could further solidify her status in Hollywood. Additionally, this achievement may influence casting decisions and the types of projects that receive funding, as studios look to replicate the success of high-grossing actors and franchises. Saldaña's future projects will likely be closely watched by industry insiders and audiences alike.
