Key Facts
- ✓ Zoe Saldaña has become the highest-grossing actress in cinema history with a total of $16.859 billion in worldwide box office revenue.
- ✓ The record was achieved following the release of 'Avatar: Fire and Ash', which has already grossed over $1.2 billion internationally.
- ✓ Saldaña surpassed the previous record holder, Scarlett Johansson, who had held the top position since 2025 with $16.435 billion.
- ✓ Her success is largely attributed to her roles in major franchise films, including 'Avatar', the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and 'Star Trek'.
- ✓ Saldaña expressed hope that another woman will eventually break her record, highlighting a collaborative industry spirit.
A New Box Office Champion
Zoe Saldaña has officially claimed the title of the highest-grossing actress in cinema history. The milestone was reached in January 2026, following the massive success of Avatar: Fire and Ash, which pushed her cumulative box office total to an unprecedented figure.
This achievement marks a significant shift in Hollywood's financial landscape, with Saldaña surpassing the previous record held by Scarlett Johansson. The transition highlights the enduring power of franchise films and the global appeal of both actresses' work.
The Numbers Behind the Record
The record-breaking figure stands at $16.859 billion in worldwide box office revenue. This total was accumulated through Saldaña's extensive filmography, which spans multiple major franchises and decades of work.
Her success is particularly notable for its reliance on ensemble blockbusters rather than solo-led vehicles. The actress has become a cornerstone of some of the highest-grossing film series ever made.
Key contributors to her total include:
- The Avatar franchise, with her role as Neytiri
- The Marvel Cinematic Universe as Gamora
- The Guardians of the Galaxy series
- The Star Trek reboot films
"I hope the next one to break the record is another woman."
— Zoe Saldaña
Dethroning a Titan
Saldaña's ascent required surpassing a formidable predecessor. Scarlett Johansson had held the top position since 2025, following the release of Jurassic World: Rebirth, which elevated her career total to $16.435 billion.
The margin between the two actresses is significant, yet narrow enough to demonstrate the competitive nature of box office records. Johansson's own success is deeply tied to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, where her portrayal of Black Widow spanned over a decade.
Both actresses share a common trajectory: their financial success is overwhelmingly driven by their participation in large-scale, globally marketed franchise films rather than independent or mid-budget productions.
The Power of Franchise Filmmaking
Saldaña's career trajectory exemplifies the modern blockbuster model. Her filmography is a masterclass in strategic franchise involvement, anchoring multiple cinematic universes simultaneously.
Her most notable roles include:
- Neytiri in James Cameron's Avatar series
- Gamora in the Marvel Cinematic Universe
- Nyota Uhura in the Star Trek reboot films
This diverse portfolio has made her a constant presence at the global box office. Her ability to connect with audiences across different genres and franchises is a key factor in her historic achievement.
A Historic Milestone
Saldaña's record is not just a personal achievement but a significant moment for representation in Hollywood. She becomes the first actress to cross the $16 billion threshold, setting a new benchmark for future generations.
Her success is particularly noteworthy given the competitive landscape of modern cinema. To reach this pinnacle, she has consistently delivered performances in films that have resonated with audiences worldwide, from the Pandora of Avatar to the cosmic adventures of the Marvel universe.
“I hope the next one to break the record is another woman.”
This sentiment reflects a collaborative spirit within the industry, even at the highest levels of commercial success.
Looking Ahead
With Avatar: Fire and Ash still in theaters, Saldaña's total is expected to grow further. The film has already surpassed $1.2 billion in international box office revenue, demonstrating the continued dominance of the Avatar franchise.
The record set by Saldaña is likely to stand for some time, given the rarity of such consistent blockbuster success. However, her own words suggest she views this not as an endpoint, but as a milestone in the ongoing evolution of women's roles in Hollywood's highest-grossing films.
