Rebecca Ferguson has established herself as a versatile actress with a filmography that spans various genres since making her debut in 1999. Her career took off with a prominent role in the Swedish soap opera Nya tider, and by 2004, she made her film debut in Drowning Ghost. However, she garnered international recognition when she starred in the historical drama series The White Queen in 2012. Her Hollywood breakthrough occurred in the 2014 film Hercules alongside Dwayne Johnson, but it was her role in the Mission: Impossible franchise that truly marked her rise to fame, portraying MI6 agent Ilsa Faust.
Ferguson has showcased her talent in a multitude of compelling roles, including the villainous Rose the Hat in Doctor Sleep, Stephen King’s follow-up to The Shining. More recently, she has taken the lead in the Apple TV+ series Silo, further cementing her status in the industry.
10 The Girl On The Train (2016)
Anna Watson
In 2016, Rebecca Ferguson starred in The Girl on the Train, a film adaptation of Paula Hawkins’ best-selling novel that ignited a wave of “Girl on”thrillers. The movie features Emily Blunt as Rachel, a woman grappling with alcoholism who becomes entwined in the disappearance of her neighbor, Meagan. Ferguson portrays Anna, the new wife of Rachel’s ex-husband Tom, whose character provides significant twists and depth to the narrative. While Blunt’s performance was widely praised, Ferguson matched her talent with a strong supporting role, contributing to the film’s suspenseful atmosphere.
9 Men In Black: International (2019)
Riza Stavros
The 2019 reboot of the beloved Men in Black franchise saw Rebecca Ferguson take on the role of Riza Stavros, an alien arms dealer and the ex-girlfriend of H, played by Chris Hemsworth. Although her role may be limited, Ferguson delivers a compelling performance, effortlessly commanding attention in her scenes. Despite mixed reviews regarding the film’s overall execution, her portrayal offered a fresh perspective to the franchise.
8 Florence Foster Jenkins (2016)
Kathleen Weatherley
In Florence Foster Jenkins, which was released in 2016, Ferguson shares the screen with Meryl Streep and Hugh Grant. Portraying Kathleen Weatherley, Bayfield’s mistress, Ferguson adeptly navigates the dynamics of this ensemble cast. The film tells the inspiring true story of Jenkins, an heiress with a passion for singing despite her lack of talent. Ferguson’s performance, though relatively minor, stands out in a film that earned critical acclaim, particularly for Streep’s poignant portrayal of the titular character.
7 Life (2017)
Miranda North
2017’s science fiction horror film Life features Rebecca Ferguson alongside a stellar cast, including Jake Gyllenhaal and Ryan Reynolds. Set aboard the International Space Station, the crew’s discovery of a dangerous life-form leads to a chilling battle for survival. Ferguson’s performance as Miranda North received accolades, with critics praising her ability to convey a range of emotions as tension escalates. The film was nominated for the Best Science Fiction Film at the 44th Saturn Awards.
6 The Greatest Showman (2017)
Jenny Lind
In 2017, Ferguson embodied the role of Jenny Lind, the renowned Swedish singer in The Greatest Showman. The film chronicles the life of P.T. Barnum, portrayed by Hugh Jackman, showcasing the rise of his circus. Ferguson skillfully navigates her character’s complex relationship with Barnum, adding depth to the narrative, although her singing was dubbed with another artist’s voice. The film was not only a box office success but also an artistic celebration of individuality and acceptance.
5 Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018)
Ilsa Faust
Rebecca Ferguson joined the acclaimed Mission: Impossible franchise in Rogue Nation, returning as Ilsa Faust in Fallout (2018). This installment sees Ethan Hunt, played by Tom Cruise, teaming up with CIA operative August Walker (Henry Cavill). Ferguson’s portrayal maintains its strong footing amidst a predominantly male ensemble, contributing to both the action sequences and character-driven moments. The film shattered box office records, becoming the highest-grossing film of the franchise and earning a near-perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes.
4 Doctor Sleep (2019)
Rose The Hat
In her role as Rose the Hat in Doctor Sleep (2019), Ferguson stepped into the shoes of a chilling antagonist in this Stephen King adaptation. As an almost psychic vampire, her character leads a group around the country, preying on children with supernatural abilities. Ferguson’s performance serves as a blend of menace and charisma, adding to the film’s eerie atmosphere, and solidifying her status as a top-tier actress.
3 Dune (2021)
Lady Jessica
Denis Villeneuve’s adaptation of Dune (2021) showcases Rebecca Ferguson in a pivotal role as Lady Jessica, the mother of protagonist Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet). Her character is integral to the story’s themes of power, sacrifice, and destiny as she navigates the treacherous political landscape of Arrakis. Ferguson’s nuanced performance has been celebrated, earning her the Critics’ Choice Super Award for Best Actress in a Science Fiction/Fantasy Movie, amplifying her profile within the film industry.
2 Silo (2023-)
Juliette Nichols
In the Apple TV+ series Silo, Ferguson stars as Juliette Nichols, an engineer in a dystopian future where humanity survives in massive underground silos following a nuclear disaster. With the show’s narrative exploring societal beliefs and secrets, Ferguson’s performance has not only been critically acclaimed but has also earned her nominations for Best Actress at various awards. As the series continues into its second season, her character’s evolution promises further depth in the unfolding story.
1 Dune: Part Two (2024)
Lady Jessica
The forthcoming sequel, Dune: Part Two, slated for a 2024 release, will elevate Ferguson’s role as Lady Jessica further as she navigates the complexities of motherhood and prophecy. With Paul Atreides now in a battle for survival and prominence, Jessica’s guidance becomes crucial. The film is anticipated to delve deeper into the lore of the Dune universe, promising a rich mixture of adventure and emotional storytelling, alongside potential accolades for Ferguson’s powerful performance.
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