Erin Moriarty embarked on her acting journey at just 11 years old, showcasing her talent across various films and television series throughout her career. Raised in New York, Moriarty received extensive training in both theater and on-screen performances. Although her breakout role was in the soap opera One Life to Live, her most impressive performances extend far beyond that initial foray into the industry.
Soap operas are often considered rigorous training grounds for aspiring actors due to their fast-paced production schedules and demanding environments. Moriarty’s time on a soap likely provided her with invaluable lessons that have contributed to her growth as an artist. While she has primarily occupied supporting roles, her versatility shines through as she adeptly tackles various projects in genres ranging from drama to comedy to action. This list highlights some of her most significant works, reflecting her immense talent and potential.
10 Law and Order: SVU (2011)
As Dru
Erin Moriarty made her mark in the Law & Order franchise with a small but impactful role in Law & Order: SVU (Season 12, Episode 15 “Flight”). Despite her brief appearance, it provided a glimpse into the talent that would flourish in her later works. The episode explores a disturbing case involving a French girl on a flight who claims to be assaulted, ultimately revealing her trauma from a genuine assault, leading detectives to uncover a long-standing predator.
Interestingly, Katherine McNamara, known for her roles in Shadowhunters and Arrow, also guest stars as one of the survivors, further strengthening the episode’s compelling narrative.
9 Captain Fantastic (2016)
As Claire
In Captain Fantastic, Moriarty plays a pivotal supporting role that showcases the film’s remarkable ensemble. Starring Viggo Mortensen as a father raising his children away from societal norms, Moriarty’s character helps bridge the gap between the sheltered siblings and the outside world, highlighting her ability to adapt to her co-stars’ strengths.
While this film received critical acclaim at various festivals and international circuits, it remains one of her standout ensemble pieces rather than her most defining individual performance.
8 The Miracle Season (2018)
As Kelly
The Miracle Season marks a significant turning point in Moriarty’s career, offering her an opportunity to headline as the emotional core of the narrative. This inspiring sports drama, based on a true story, centers around a high school volleyball team struggling to cope with the loss of their leader.
Moriarty portrays the best friend of the deceased, stepping up to unite the team in the face of tragedy. Grounded by veteran performances from Helen Hunt and William Hurt, Moriarty delivers an impactful portrayal of grief and resilience that resonates deeply with audiences.
7 Red Widow (2013)
As Natalie
Red Widow marked another significant chapter in Moriarty’s rise, as it was her first experience as a series regular. Despite its premature cancellation after just eight episodes, the show provided her with valuable exposure and experience in a lead role.
In this crime drama, Moriarty plays the daughter of a widow who takes on her late husband’s criminal activities. Although her character mostly navigates teenage challenges, she clearly demonstrates her potential as a leading actor, leaving audiences wanting to see more.
6 Blood Father (2016)
As Lydia
Moriarty steps into the action-thriller genre with Blood Father, sharing the screen with Mel Gibson, who portrays her estranged father. Their tumultuous reunion takes a dangerous turn when they find themselves on the run due to her tumultuous relationship with a drug dealer.
This role allowed Moriarty to explore complex character dynamics, as she embodied a young woman fighting against addiction and the challenges of familial estrangement. Despite mixed reviews for the film, Moriarty’s performance signals her growing ability to engage in gritty narratives.
5 The Extraordinary Journey Of The Fakir (2018)
As Marie
Though The Extraordinary Journey Of The Fakir struggled at the box office, it garnered appreciation on streaming platforms, especially among European audiences. The film, which tells the story of a street magician who becomes infatuated with Moriarty’s character, Marie, highlights her ability to showcase charm and depth.
The film mixes elements of comedy and drama, demonstrating Moriarty’s skill in portraying lighter, whimsical roles, while still being engaging and relatable.
4 The Kings Of Summer (2013)
As Kelly
The Kings of Summer serves as a significant platform for Moriarty in a coming-of-age story about young men seeking independence. Her character serves as the emotional catalyst in the narrative, influencing the dynamics among the three male leads.
While not the most dramatic role, Moriarty effectively imbues her character with empathy and warmth, grounding the film’s emotional turmoil and serving as a foil to the boys’ reckless adventures.
3 True Detective (2014)
As Audrey
In the acclaimed series True Detective, Moriarty showcases her ability to diverge from the typical roles she had played before. Portraying Audrey, Woody Harrelson’s rebellious daughter, she captures the essence of teenage angst and rebellion.
Her character’s layered emotions reflect the complexities of family dynamics against the backdrop of a gripping narrative, allowing Moriarty to flex her dramatic capabilities in a compelling manner.
2 Marvel’s Jessica Jones (2015)
As Hope
One of Moriarty’s breakthrough roles came in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with her portrayal of Hope in Jessica Jones. The story revolves around Jessica’s struggle against her past trauma while attempting to help Moriarty’s character, who falls victim to a sinister villain, portrayed by David Tennant.
This role not only elevated Moriarty’s profile significantly but also showcased her ability to convey intense emotional depth, as she grapples with the harrowing impacts of trauma throughout the season.
1 The Boys (2019-)
As Starlight
Currently, The Boys is arguably Erin Moriarty’s most successful project. This satirical superhero series deconstructs typical superhero tropes, positioning Moriarty’s character, Starlight, as a rare beacon of sincerity and hope amidst a world of morally ambiguous heroes.
Her performance stands out not only for its earnestness but also for her impressive ability to showcase range; when a shapeshifter assumes her identity, Moriarty skillfully navigates the complexities of portraying two contrasting versions of her character.
With the show’s success indicating her potential, Erin Moriarty is undeniably an actress to watch in the coming years.
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