It is unlikely that people will ever agree on who the most gorgeous woman is. However, there are several ladies that are considered top candidates. We have compiled these people for you so that you can choose for yourself!
Beauty is famously in the eye of the beholder, and this list offers a variety of fascinating women from recent history, many of whom are considered timeless beauties.
Michelle Pfeiffer
Michelle Pfeiffer was one of the most famous women of the ’80s and ’90s. The talented actress often got cast for her pretty face but proved her worth in “Scarface.” According to the Daily Telegraph, she has “the kind of beauty you find yourself involuntarily taking a moment to marvel at mid-conversation.”
Michelle Pfeiffer has undoubtedly left a lasting impression in the entertainment industry and is appreciated not only for her beauty but also for her acting talent.
Vivien Leigh
Vivien Leigh had to prove to us all that she was more than just a pretty face. A director even called her a “consummate actress, hampered by beauty.” She is best known for her roles in “Gone with the Wind” and “A Streetcar Named Desire,” but her stage career was equally impressive.
In the last few decades of her life, she fought tuberculosis but succumbed to it in 1967. Vivien Leigh will be remembered not only for her outer beauty but also for her remarkable acting talent and stage presence.
Sharon Tate
Sadly, Sharon Tate will always be associated with the Manson family murders. Praised for her natural beauty, she entered the scene as a promising new actress who excelled in both comedy and drama. In 1968, she married Roman Polanski, her co-star and director in “The Fearless Vampire Killers.”
The saddest part of her death was that she was 8 months pregnant when she was murdered. Her life and promising career were tragically cut short, and she will always be remembered as a victim of a heinous crime.
Sophie Marceau
French actress Sophie Marceau made a name for herself as a teen. It all began when she starred in “La Boum” in 1980. After that, she starred in more European films before entering Hollywood with “Braveheart” and later “The World Is Not Enough.”
She is a humble lady who has gone as far as to say, “I’ve never really been beautiful. I’m photogenic…” Despite her modesty, Sophie Marceau is highly regarded for her acting talent and charm, leaving a lasting impression in the world of cinema.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan
It’s not at all surprising to find Aishwarya Rai here. Easily a “most beautiful woman in the world” contender, she began to model when she was in college and even won Miss World in 1994.
She also starred in Bollywood films. Derek Elley said she has a “delicately sensual presence and physical grace.” Aishwarya Rai is highly regarded and admired for her extraordinary beauty, acting talent, and international fame.
Hayden Panettiere
Hayden Panettiere is a woman of many skills. An American actress, model, and singer, she’s become a household name in Hollywood. Like other child stars in the business, her career began at a very young age. She started booking commercials at eleven months old.
All throughout her childhood, she appeared in all kinds of movies and TV shows, but it wasn’t until 2004 that she had her real breakthrough. She starred in the Disney Channel movie, “Tiger Cruise.” After that, she had no problem getting great roles. Most recently, she had a recurring role in the TV series, “Nashville.” The show wrapped in July 2018.
Elizabeth Hurley
Elizabeth Hurley first became famous when she accompanied Hugh Grant for the premiere of “Four Weddings and a Funeral.” She attracted attention when she wore a black Versace dress secured by gold safety pins. It made the fashion house more popular and made her a household name.
She even became a spokesmodel for Estée Lauder even though she did not have modeling experience before that. She was also in films like “Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery” and “Bedazzled.” Elizabeth Hurley is known for both her beauty and her acting talents.
Kim Basinger
Kim Basinger was a model during the ’70s. However, she shot into stardom when she moved to LA and started acting. She has starred in a number of TV films but made her debut in “Hard Country” and appeared in “Never Say Never Again.”
She was also a poster girl ’til the ’90s. She is still active in Hollywood to this day. Kim Basinger has secured a firm place in the industry as a versatile and talented actress despite her long career in the entertainment business.
Barbara Parkins
This Canadian-American star moved to LA and made a name for herself at 16 years old. She got her start as a backup singer and dancer at nightclubs. In 1961, she got her debut when she starred in “20,000 Eyes.”
She was also in “The Stepford Wives” and earned an Emmy nomination for her outstanding performance. This talented artist has secured a firm place in the world of film and television through her impressive career.
Jaclyn Smith
Jaclyn Smith is an actress and businesswoman who became a household name after starring in “Charlie’s Angels.” She was also in “Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle.” Since then, she has appeared in numerous other television shows, films, and miniseries.
She has been married four times in the past. Jaclyn Smith has secured a special place in the hearts of viewers through her versatile career in the entertainment industry and remains a respected figure in the business.
Natalie Wood
Russian-American actress Natalie Wood had a prominent career from a young age, appearing in films such as “West Side Story,” “Rebel Without A Cause,” and “Miracle on 34th Street.”
Tragically, she passed away at the age of 43 during a trip to Santa Catalina Island with her husband, co-star Robert Wagner, and the yacht captain. The case was recently reopened by the police, with Robert Wagner being named a person of interest in the investigation surrounding her death.
Elizabeth Taylor
Elizabeth Taylor, one of the most renowned figures on the list, emigrated from England to California with her family before the outbreak of World War II. Known for her striking beauty, she famously had two sets of eyelashes.
As a former child star, she appeared in numerous iconic films, championed the rights of Jewish people, and played a significant role in promoting AIDS awareness.
Charlize Theron
This actress had a unique upbringing on a farm in South Africa. Tragically, at the age of 15, her mother killed her alcoholic father in an act of self-defense. Initially training in ballet, she had to quit due to an injury.
Her stunning beauty caught the attention of modeling scouts, but she ultimately achieved fame as an actress. Notably, she has an Academy Award for Best Actress to her name, marking a significant achievement in her career.
Raquel Welch
Raquel Welch is most renowned for her role in “One Million Years B.C.,” where her iconic fur bikini became a symbol of the film. She also appeared in notable movies such as “Bandolero!,” “Bedazzled,” “100 Rifles,” and “Legally Blonde.”
In 2001, she received the “Imagen Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award” in recognition of her efforts to promote her Latin heritage, showcasing her contributions beyond her acting career.
Rita Hayworth
Rita Hayworth was a lifelong performer, starting her career as a dancer in New York before her family relocated to California during her youth. She initially starred in dancing movies during the 1930s but transitioned to more serious roles in the 1940s.
Unfortunately, she faced significant financial and substance abuse challenges throughout her life. In a tragic turn of events, she experienced symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease before her passing in 1987, marking the end of an era for the iconic actress.
Ursula Andress
Ursula Andress made history as the first-ever Bond girl in “Dr. No.” In addition to her iconic role, she also appeared in Playboy multiple times. Despite her Swiss-German accent, which was dubbed in films, she left a lasting impression.
When questioned about her nude photos, she confidently responded, “because I’m beautiful,” reflecting her self-assuredness and confidence in her own beauty.
Catherine Deneuve
Catherine Deneuve achieved stardom with her role in “Les Parapluies de Cherbourg.” The French actress also starred in Roman Polanski’s film “Repulsion” and boasts numerous acting credits. In 1985, she became the symbol of Marianne, representing French liberty.
More recently, she garnered attention for signing an open letter denouncing the #MeToo movement, sparking a public debate on the topic of sexual harassment and gender equality in the entertainment industry.
Ann-Margret
Swedish-American star Ann-Margret Olsson gained fame in the 1960s and 1970s. She became a household name through her role in “Bye Bye Birdie.” Over the years, her career has included appearances in productions like “Tommy,” “Law and Order: SVU,” and “Ray Donovan.”
Ann-Margret’s legacy continues to endure, solidifying her status as a beloved and iconic performer.
Ava Gardner
Ava Gardner, hailing from South Carolina, faced initial challenges with her accent, which MGM found difficult to understand. Nevertheless, they signed her, and her breakthrough came with her role in “The Killers.”
She enjoyed a successful career spanning five decades in Hollywood until the health consequences of her smoking habit caught up with her. Tragically, she passed away from pneumonia in 1990, marking the end of an era for the iconic actress.
Hedy Lamarr
Hedy Lamarr was indeed a fascinating and multifaceted individual. Not only was she the first woman to depict the female orgasm onscreen, but she also made significant contributions to technology during World War II.
She developed a technique known as “frequency hopping” to address radio signal jamming, which she patented. This innovation has since been utilized in various civilian and military devices, highlighting her remarkable impact beyond her acting career.
Ingrid Bergman
Swedish actress Ingrid Bergman achieved fame through her iconic role in “Casablanca.” Prior to that, she had appeared in Swedish and German films. Bergman is often described as “arguably the most international star in the history of entertainment.”
Her resilience and commitment to staying true to herself, even through personal troubles, left a lasting impression. Tragically, she passed away from breast cancer in 1982, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in the world of cinema.
Isabella Rossellini
Isabella Rossellini, the daughter of renowned figures Roberto Rossellini and Ingrid Bergman, made her mark not only as an actress but also as a successful model. She served as a spokesmodel for Lancôme for an impressive 14 years.
Her acting career has spanned both film and television, with her role in “Blue Velvet” being among her most recognized. Beyond her career in entertainment, she is admired for her passion and dedication to activism and conservation, further contributing to her multifaceted legacy.
Brigitte Bardot
Brigitte Bardot initially pursued a career in dance before transitioning to acting in the 1950s. Her breakthrough came with her role in Robert Vadim’s “And God Created Woman.” An American critic aptly described her as “undeniably a creation of superlative craftsmanship.”
Bardot rose to fame during a conservative era and became the subject of Simone de Beauvoir’s works, including “Brigitte Bardot and The Lolita Syndrome.” Despite her advocacy for animal rights, she has faced legal consequences, being fined multiple times for issues related to racial hatred.
Barbara Eden
Barbara Eden indeed became famous for her role in “I Dream of Jeannie.” Although the creators initially had been seeking a brunette star, they were charmed by her audition and ultimately made the decision to cast her.
It’s safe to say that their change in plans worked out well, as Barbara Eden’s performance in the show made her an enduring and beloved figure in television history.
Anita Ekberg
Swedish-born Anita Ekberg had a successful career in both American and European films, with her base in Italy. She is best remembered for her iconic role in “La Dolce Vita.” Ekberg’s beauty was evident from an early age, and she even pursued a career in modeling during her teens.
Her striking looks earned her participation in the Miss Malmö and Miss Sweden pageants. Her undeniable beauty might explain her audacious decision to enter the 1951 Miss Universe pageant despite not speaking English, a testament to her confidence and allure.
Lauren Bacall
Lauren Bacall became a Hollywood icon known for her seductive looks and distinctive voice. She is often regarded as one of the top female actresses of the Golden Era of Hollywood, earning the Academy Honorary Award “in recognition of her central place in the Golden Age of motion pictures.”
Prior to her successful acting career, she started as a model, working for prestigious publications like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. Bacall’s allure is often described as having “cat-like grace, tawny blonde hair, and blue-green eyes,” which contributed to her lasting legacy in the world of entertainment.
Julie Ege
Julie Ege embarked on her career at the age of 15 as a model, later achieving second place in the Miss Norway contest when she was 18. She also participated in Miss Universe before relocating to England to work as an au pair, where she honed her English language skills.
In the late 1960s, she began taking on small acting roles. Her most recognized work includes the 1971 movie “Up Pompeii.” Ege expressed a pragmatic approach to her career, stating that she didn’t mind being a glamour actress as long as it helped pay the bills.
Sophia Loren
Sophia Loren indeed became famous as an actress and is an iconic Italian film star. She began her career at the young age of 14 and continues to act to this day. Her filmography includes notable works like “The Pride and the Passion,” “Grumpier Old Men,” and “A Countess from Hong Kong.”
An interesting and unconventional aspect of her personal style is that she has chosen not to shave her armpits, embracing her own unique choices in beauty and self-expression.
Jane Birkin
Jane Birkin, an English actress, gained recognition in both British and French cinema, becoming even more famous when she entered a relationship with Serge Gainsbourg. Although their relationship eventually ended, Birkin had a successful career in acting and singing.
She starred in films like “Red Fox” and “A Soldier’s Daughter Never Cries.” Additionally, she is well-known for inspiring the creation of the Hermes Birkin bag, a symbol of her iconic status in the fashion world.
Britt Ekland
Britt Ekland made a name for herself with her roles in several films during the 1960s, including “Get Carter,” “The Night They Raided Minsky’s,” and “The Man with the Golden Gun.” She gained even more prominence when she married Peter Sellers after he saw a photo of her.
In the 1970s, she was considered one of the most photographed and famous celebrities worldwide, cementing her status as a notable figure in the entertainment industry.
Loretta Young
Loretta Young had a fascinating and enduring career that started when she was just two or three years old. Her acting career spanned from 1917 to 1953. She earned an Oscar nomination for her performances in “The Farmer’s Daughter” and “Come to the Stable.”
Young was married to Grant Withers from 1930 to 1931 and had a public affair with Spencer Tracy, making her personal life as noteworthy as her professional accomplishments.
Jacqueline Bisset
This English actress began her film career in the 1960s and appeared in movies like “Bullitt,” “Day for Night,” and “The Deep.” She is particularly famous for a memorable scene in “The Deep” involving a white shirt, which is said to have inspired the concept of wet T-shirt contests.
While she gained notoriety for this moment, she has predominantly worked on TV films and shows throughout her career.
Grace Kelly
Grace Kelly had a relatively short but incredibly impactful career in Hollywood, spanning just five years before her marriage to Prince Rainier III of Monaco. Her beauty and elegance established her as one of the greatest stars in Hollywood history.
After her marriage, she chose to prioritize philanthropy and the promotion of art rather than continuing her acting career. Tragically, she passed away after suffering a stroke while driving, resulting in a fatal car crash. Thankfully, her daughter survived the accident. Grace Kelly’s legacy continues to endure as an iconic figure in both Hollywood and Monaco.
Audrey Hepburn
Audrey Hepburn’s beauty and unique charm indeed made her a beloved and iconic star in Hollywood. She achieved fame with her role in “Roman Holiday,” for which she received accolades including a Golden Globe, Academy Award, and BAFTA.
Hepburn later shifted her focus towards philanthropy and humanitarian work, making a significant impact in those areas. In 1993, she tragically battled a rare form of abdominal cancer. Despite her passing, her legacy endures, and she continues to be celebrated for her timeless contributions to film and her humanitarian efforts.
Kim Novak
Kim Novak’s entry into Hollywood as a replacement for Rita Hayworth and a competitor to Marilyn Monroe is an interesting part of her career history. Her breakthrough came with her role in “Vertigo,” and while she continued to act sporadically into the 1960s, she eventually retired from the industry in the 1990s.
In 2010, she bravely shared her battle with breast cancer and triumphed over it, demonstrating her resilience and strength in the face of adversity. Kim Novak remains an enduring figure in the history of Hollywood.
Claudia Cardinale
Sophia Loren’s journey to stardom is certainly unique. Starting as the “Most Beautiful Italian Girl in Tunisia,” she won a chance to go to Italy, where her looks opened doors to modeling and acting despite initial language barriers. To conceal her raspy voice and French accent, her speaking scenes were dubbed.
In 2000, she was appointed as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, showcasing her commitment to using her influence for positive and global causes. Sophia Loren’s career and contributions have left a lasting mark on the entertainment world and beyond.
Beyonce Knowles
Beyoncé Knowles is indeed a multi-talented artist with a remarkable career. Starting as a member of Destiny’s Child and then launching her solo career with the successful album “Dangerously in Love,” she has achieved immense success in the music industry.
Her multiple Grammy wins and record-breaking album sales have solidified her position as one of the most influential and celebrated artists in the world. Beyoncé’s marriage to Jay-Z adds another layer to her dynamic career in the music industry.
Jean Shrimpton
Jean Shrimpton is indeed a British fashion icon known for her modeling career during the 1960s. Her appearances in top fashion magazines like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar cemented her status as one of the most influential models of her time.
Even in her 70s, her impact on the fashion industry and her iconic status continue to be celebrated.
Kate Moss
Kate Moss is a well-known English model who rose to fame at a young age and became an iconic figure in the fashion industry. Her discovery by Sarah Doukas at the age of 14 marked the beginning of her successful modeling career.
Moss became particularly prominent during the mid-’90s when the “heroin chic” fashion trend was prevalent. In addition to her modeling work, she has ventured into business and fashion editing, showcasing her versatility within the fashion world.
Scarlett Johansson
Scarlett Johansson is a multifaceted talent, excelling as a model, singer, and actress. She’s renowned for her roles in films like “Girl with a Pearl Earring,” “Lost in Translation,” and “Match Point.”
With Golden Globe nominations and a British Academy Film Award win in 2003, her versatility and skill have earned her critical acclaim in the entertainment industry.
Megan Fox
Starting her acting journey in 2001, this actress made early appearances in “Hope & Faith” and “Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen” in 2004. However, it was her role in the 2007 blockbuster “Transformers” that catapulted her to stardom.
With her captivating performances and striking presence, she has since become a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, leaving an indelible mark on both television and film.
Kate Upton
After being featured in the 2011 edition of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, she earned the title of “Rookie of the Year.” Her appearances continued in the 2012 and 2013 editions of the publication.
This emerging American model has also ventured into acting, and she graced the 100th-anniversary edition of Vanity Fair.
Halle Berry
Halle Berry has been a remarkable inspiration to many in the African-American community. Her Oscar-winning performance in “Monster’s Ball” is just one of her notable achievements.
She has also starred in films like “Die Another Day,” “X-Men,” “Gothika,” and “Swordfish.” Her beauty and immense talent have made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
Adriana Lima
This Brazilian supermodel, a familiar face from Victoria’s Secret, also represented Maybelline from 2003 to 2009. She kickstarted her modeling journey at just 15 years old.
With a net worth of around $85 million, she’s not only known for her stunning beauty but also for her successful career in the fashion industry.
Gal Gadot
You’ve undoubtedly heard of Gal Gadot. This multi-talented individual, a model and actress, also has a background in law and international relations, and she even worked as a combat instructor in the IDF.
In 2004, she claimed the title of Miss Israel. However, it was her portrayal of Wonder Woman that truly brought her international recognition.
Lynda Carter
Lynda Carter, the original Wonder Woman, remains an iconic figure. Besides her acting, modeling, and singing-songwriting career, she is a vocal advocate for LGBT rights.
She has actively participated in numerous pride marches, serving as the Grand Marshal for both the 2011 New York and 2011 Phoenix Pride Parades. Her commitment to promoting equality has made her a beloved figure in the LGBT community.
Nicole Scherzinger
This talented woman began her music career as part of the music group “Days of the New.” Subsequently, she became a member of “Eden’s Crush” and later joined “The Pussycat Dolls.”
Apart from her music career, she is recognized for her roles as a TV personality, actress, and dancer, and she gained further fame through her involvement in The X Factor USA.
Cindy Crawford
Cindy Crawford is a household name, known for her iconic beauty mark. The supermodel and actress was previously represented by Storm Model Agency. Beyond her successful career, she has been dedicated to philanthropy, particularly in the fight against childhood leukemia.
Her commitment to this cause stems from a personal tragedy, as she lost her brother to the same disease when she was just 10 years old.
Brooke Shields
Brooke Shields was just 12 years old when she received the offer to star in the controversial film “Pretty Baby,” where she portrayed a child prostitute in New Orleans.
She was previously married to Andre Agassi, but they have since divorced. She is currently married to Chris Henchy, and together they have two children.
Elisabeth Shue
Certainly! Elisabeth Shue, known for her role in “The Karate Kid,” also appeared in “Back to the Future Part II,” “Back to the Future Part III,” “The Boys,” and “Cocktail.”
Her versatile acting skills have earned her nominations for esteemed awards such as the BAFTA, Oscar, and Golden Globe, showcasing her enduring impact in the world of film and entertainment.
Pamela Anderson
Pamela Anderson, renowned as a model and actress, achieved her greatest fame through her role in “Baywatch.” Despite being in her fifties, she has never been married. She has two children with Tommy Lee.
Pamela is also a dedicated animal rights activist, having been a member of PETA for an extended period, and she passionately advocates for the welfare of animals.
Catherine Bell
Catherine Bell is indeed a memorable actress, especially for her portrayal of Lt. Col. Sarah MacKenzie in “JAG.” She also made appearances in “Army Wives” and has more recently starred as Cassandra “Cassie” Nightingale in “The Good Witch.”
Her versatile acting career has left a lasting impact on both television and film.
Olivia Newton-John
Olivia Newton-John is indeed a legendary figure in the entertainment industry! As a singer-songwriter, activist, entrepreneur, and actress, she has achieved remarkable success, including 4 Grammy Awards, 2 #1 Billboard 200 albums, and 5 #1 Billboard Hot 100 singles.
Her contributions to music and her advocacy work have made her an iconic and celebrated personality.
Rihanna
Rihanna, hailing from Barbados, is undeniably one of the most accomplished musicians in history. Her versatility spans various music styles, and she has continuously evolved her image throughout her career.
Currently ranked as the 7th best-selling music artist globally, she has amassed a staggering net worth of $600 million, making her a true powerhouse in the music industry.
Caroline Munro
Caroline Munro is indeed an actress celebrated for her roles in various action, horror, and sci-fi projects. Despite being in her 70s, she has left a lasting impact with her performances in films like “The Spy Who Loved Me,” “Starcrash,” and “The Golden Voyage of Sinbad.”
Her contributions to these genres have earned her a special place in the world of cinema.
Lisa Bonet
The actress you’re referring to is Lisa Bonet, known for her role as Denise Huxtable in both “The Cosby Show” and its spin-off, “A Different World.” In more recent years, she was part of the cast of “Ray Donovan.”
She has been in a relationship with actor Jason Momoa since 2005, and they have become a well-known couple in the entertainment industry.
Loretta Swit
Loretta Swit indeed gained fame for her portrayal of Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan in the iconic series “M.A.S.H.” Her memorable character is still well-remembered.
After retiring from acting, she has dedicated her time to her jewelry business and actively participates in fundraising efforts for animal rights causes, demonstrating her commitment to these important issues.
Jeanne Tripplehorn
Jeanne Tripplehorn initially garnered attention for her role in “Basic Instinct” and her appearance in “Waterworld.”
She has continued to pursue her acting career, and fans of the long-running crime series “Criminal Minds” have had the pleasure of enjoying her talent on the show. Her contributions to the entertainment industry have left a lasting impact.
Marilyn Monroe
Marilyn Monroe is indeed an iconic figure in the world of entertainment, and her legacy continues to endure long after her passing. Unfortunately, she passed away at the young age of 36, leaving a void in Hollywood.
Her famous quote, “Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius, and it’s better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring,” reflects her unique perspective and enduring influence on the world of cinema and culture.
