Hollywood stars either receive admiration or criticism from fans based on how they present themselves in public, their talent, or their charisma. Some celebrities, however, have made significant contributions to the industry yet often face negative remarks simply because they are misunderstood.
These individuals may excel in their craft, but they end up in the hot seat, perhaps due to rumors, overexposure, or being linked to a franchise that attracts a lot of negativity.
So, here are ten Hollywood celebrities who frequently face criticism, even though they might not deserve it.
Tobey Maguire
Those who grew up watching Tobey Maguire as Spider-Man consider him the best actor for the role, but there was a time when he faced controversies due to rumors that he was difficult to work with.
From the way he treated the paparazzi to being rumored to be a "diva" on set, Maguire often had a negative reputation in the press. Even when the first blockbuster Spider-Man was released, he was criticized for being “too reserved” or “too wimpish” to play the Marvel hero.
Although it was not entirely his fault, many jumped on the hate train when Spider-Man 3 was released. The film was poorly received, which ultimately led to the cancellation of Spider-Man 4.
However, his return to the MCU in Spider-Man: No Way Home reignited fans’ admiration and respect for him. Even his co-stars, Tom Holland and Andrew Garfield, grew closer to him during and after filming — to the point that they reportedly have a WhatsApp group chat — putting to bed the gossip about his alleged difficult personality.
Nicolas Cage
Nicolas Cage has been turned into memes more times than the internet can count, to the point that even he acknowledged it. He once stated that he "didn’t get into movies to become a meme" and admitted his surprise at becoming a phenomenon in a way he neither expected nor enjoyed.
Known for appearing in films that often flop, Cage admitted to accepting questionable, “crummy” roles to pay off his massive debt, which has caused him to be ridiculed through online humor over the years.
However, this does not change the fact that before his career struggles, he was an Oscar winner who starred in blockbuster films such as Leaving Las Vegas and The Rock.
His recent films, such as The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, Dream Scenario, and Mandy, receiving positive feedback suggest that he will not be fading from Hollywood — or the internet — anytime soon.
Jennifer Lawrence
Jennifer Lawrence is one of those celebrities you would not expect to receive hate, especially since many favor her for being “relatable,” “genuine,” and “witty,” even in live interviews.
With how much attention she was getting from fans and the press, though, it’s no surprise that some grew tired of her “quirky act” and criticized her for making comments that came off as inappropriate.
The Silver Linings Playbook actress went from being everyone’s BFF to someone many now find “annoying.” But Lawrence admitted that her social anxiety may have led to misunderstandings, and the overwhelming public attention certainly did not help.
Chris Pratt
Chris Pratt has recently faced criticism for appearing in too many movies, leading to overexposure in the media.
Before landing the role of Star-Lord in Guardians of the Galaxy, Pratt starred in various films and shows, with Parks and Recreation being one of the most successful.
Still, working with the MCU helped him secure roles such as Mario in The Super Mario Bros. Movie and Garfield in The Garfield Movie, among others.
However, many have criticized his portrayals of these well-known characters, arguing that he lacks range in voice acting.
Aside from that, his past association with Hillsong Church, which has been criticized for its stance against the LGBT+ community, sparked intense backlash, with some even petitioning for his Star-Lord role to be recast.
Pratt, however, denies any connection to the church and has stated that while faith is important to him, it does not define him or his life.
Christina Aguilera
Christina Aguilera has the vocal prowess to captivate audiences with her singing, as seen in her portrayal of a performer in Burlesque, but one thing she struggles with is warming up to her peers and fans.
The singer has been described as "cold," though her shyness has played a role in that perception. People accustomed to pop stars with bubbly personalities are often surprised by her reserved demeanor.
In fact, JoJo once shared a story about meeting a star she idolized, only to experience a “never meet your heroes” moment. However, writer Gaby Wood wrote in Marie Claire that Aguilera admitted she has “felt like an outsider her entire life” because she has always been “intense and introverted.”
Meanwhile, Sia, who helped Aguilera create her Bionic album, described her as someone who is hyper-critical of herself.
Bella Ramsey
Bella Ramsey landed a major role at just 11 years old, playing the fierce Lyanna Mormont in Game of Thrones — and audiences loved her for it.
In recent years, however, she has faced significant backlash after being cast as Ellie in The Last of Us series. Fans of the video game it was based on disagreed with the casting, arguing that Ramsey looked too different from the character in the game.
Additionally, many criticized her portrayal of the 14-year-old, believing her performance lacked accuracy compared to the original. On top of that, Ramsey has been subjected to attacks over her gender identity since coming out as non-binary, with degrading comments and edited photos of her appearance circulating on social media since the show’s release.
The Worst Witch star returns to play the older version of Ellie in The Last of Us Part II, and her interview with GQ gives fans a glimpse of how she will portray the beloved character this time around. Ramsey shared her thoughts on the negative reactions to her appearance and acting: “I’m just glad I could do that for them. And for the show. And for Ellie. I want to do her justice.”
Leonardo DiCaprio
Leonardo DiCaprio has been under scrutiny for his dating preferences, with many pointing out a pattern — he tends to date younger women and reportedly ends relationships when they turn 25.
Because of this, his contributions to the entertainment industry are often overshadowed by controversy. The award-winning actor, who has starred in numerous blockbuster films such as The Aviator, The Wolf of Wall Street, and Shutter Island, has consistently showcased his range as an actor over the years.
Those who focus on DiCaprio’s personal life also tend to overlook his work as an environmentalist. He actively raises awareness about climate change and has funded organizations dedicated to protecting fragile ecosystems and endangered species.
DiCaprio has always been private about his personal affairs, so it has never been definitively proven whether he exclusively prefers younger women or if the patterns in his dating history are simply coincidental.
Marilyn Monroe
One of the most memorable Hollywood icons of the 1950s, Marilyn Monroe was known for portraying alluring characters with undeniable charm and charisma. However, behind the scenes, she was described as a “hot, hopeless romantic mess” toward the later years of her life and career.
Often sexualized in the industry, Monroe’s “dumb blonde” persona in front of the camera concealed a side of her that many people of her time never truly saw. She was not only intelligent — something evident in her sharp comedic timing — but also skilled in negotiations, managing to secure roles in an industry largely dominated by men in the 1950s.
Her kindness was also overlooked, as shown when she helped Ella Fitzgerald land a singing job at a nightclub by promising the owner she would attend every night. While men admired her and women envied her, few recognized her generosity.
Still, she remained a misunderstood sex symbol throughout her career. Her troubled relationships, struggles with addiction, and mental health issues only reinforced the misconceptions about her, and even now, her untimely death in 1962 remains a topic of speculation.
Adam Sandler
Adam Sandler has been a familiar face in Hollywood for years, starring in more movies than most can keep track of—and people either love or hate him for it.
From classics like The Wedding Singer and The Waterboy to widely criticized films like Pixels, it’s almost impossible to go through life without seeing at least one of his movies.
Sandler has been unfairly labeled as the embodiment of everything wrong with the film industry, accused of making mediocre or outright terrible films just for the money.
However, despite the criticism, many see him as a laid-back and easygoing person who simply enjoys making movies — especially with his friends.
While he has certainly starred in his share of 'cheesy comedies' and often plays similar roles, his performances in critically acclaimed films such as Punch-Drunk Love, Click, and Uncut Gems are now being disregarded due to recent issues.
Rachel Zegler
Rachel Zegler was praised for her singing voice and standout performance in West Side Story, which earned her a Golden Globe. However, she recently found herself at the center of an online backlash.
The controversy began when she was cast as Snow White. Many struggled to accept her in the role, arguing that her appearance did not match the character from the original Disney film. From there, more controversies surfaced.
Supporters of Zegler, who know her to be kind in person, believe the backlash stems from her involvement in a film that faced heavy criticism even before its release, as well as her association with Disney. The company has recently been under fire for producing uninspired live-action remakes of its animated classics and releasing new animated films that some viewers feel lack depth.