A breakthrough role, also known as a breakout role, is a term in the film industry to describe the performance of an actor or actress which contributed significantly to the development of their career and beginning of critical recognition.

A breakthrough role often catapults an actor from relative obscurity to the spotlight. It’s typically a performance that resonates deeply with audiences and critics alike, showcasing the actor’s abilities in a way that previous roles might not have. These roles usually display complexity and require a range of emotions.