Zoe Saldana Surpasses Samuel L. Jackson in Box Office Earnings

Zoe Saldana has achieved a significant milestone in her acting career, surpassing Samuel L. Jackson to become the second-highest-grossing actor of all time at the worldwide box office. Following the release of "Avatar: Fire and Ash" on December 17, 2025, Saldana's total box office earnings reached approximately $15.042 billion, edging past Jackson's $14.613 billion. This achievement positions her just behind Scarlett Johansson, whose films have grossed around $15.401 billion.

Thanks to Avatar 3, Zoe Saldana Surpasses a Record Previously Held by Samuel L. JacksonUSA Today

Saldana's rise in the box office hierarchy is largely attributed to her roles in several highly successful film franchises, including "Avatar," the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and "Star Trek." Her participation in "Avengers: Endgame," which grossed $2.8 billion globally, and the ongoing success of the "Avatar" series have been pivotal in her career. The third installment, "Avatar: Fire and Ash," has already begun to redefine box office records, contributing significantly to her earnings.

Thanks to Avatar 3, Zoe Saldana Surpasses a Record Previously Held by Samuel L. Jackson

"Avatar: Fire and Ash" debuted with an estimated $88 million in North America during its opening weekend. While this figure may appear modest for a film of its scale, the "Avatar" franchise is known for its long-term box office performance. As of December 28, 2025, the film has grossed approximately $760 million internationally, continuing the franchise's trend of sustained audience interest.

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Despite her achievements, some critics argue that box office numbers do not fully represent an actor's talent or versatility. While Saldana's success is undeniable, her career has been heavily reliant on blockbuster franchises, raising questions about the sustainability of her box office dominance. Critics point out that while she excels in commercial cinema, her range as an actress may not be fully recognized in the context of these massive productions.

Thanks to Avatar 3, Zoe Saldana Surpasses a Record Previously Held by Samuel L. Jackson

Industry analysts note that Saldana's success reflects the current trends in Hollywood, where franchise films dominate box office earnings. "The numbers are a testament to the power of franchise synergy in today's cinema landscape," stated a film industry expert. As Saldana continues to build her career, her commitment to both blockbuster films and more diverse projects, such as her role in Jacques Audiard's "Emilia Perez," showcases her versatility as an actress.

Thanks to Avatar 3, Zoe Saldana Surpasses a Record Previously Held by Samuel L. Jackson

Looking ahead, the question remains whether Saldana can surpass Johansson to become the highest-grossing actress of all time. With her career trajectory suggesting she is still on the rise, the potential for her to claim this title remains a topic of interest in the film industry. As Hollywood continues to evolve, Saldana's achievements will likely influence the future landscape of box office rankings.

Thanks to Avatar 3, Zoe Saldana Surpasses a Record Previously Held by Samuel L. Jackson

• “At 47, her career trajectory suggests she is only just beginning to reach her peak.” — Industry Analyst

Thanks to Avatar 3, Zoe Saldana Surpasses a Record Previously Held by Samuel L. Jackson