Priyanka Chopra Jonas is strategically embracing large-scale action films in Hollywood, following a path successfully charted by iconic female action stars like Angelina Jolie and Charlize Theron.
Bollywood’s Action Limitation
In Bollywood, Priyanka Chopra Jonas starred in action films like “Don 2” and “Mary Kom,” but was never truly positioned as a bonafide action star. The Hindi film industry traditionally offers limited physically demanding roles for its female leads, often casting them as romantic interests or supporting characters.
While exceptions exist, such as Alia Bhatt’s recent “Jigra,” Priyanka chose not to wait for these opportunities. Instead, she set her sights on Hollywood, seeking roles that offered her more agency and diverse challenges.
Hollywood’s Welcoming Arms
Her leap to Hollywood began with the 2015 series “Quantico,” where she portrayed an FBI agent. This show marked her entry into a genre and industry that seemed ready to embrace her as an action-oriented lead.
Fast forward to 2025, Priyanka co-starred in “Heads of State” alongside action veterans John Cena and Idris Elba. In this major Hollywood action film, she commanded the screen with her presence and physicality, reminding audiences of her powerful past performances.
A Strategic Career Move
Priyanka has stated she might not have the courage for extreme stunts like hanging off a plane, but she admits a deep love for “mega movies.” This preference is strategic: action is a universal genre that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, reaching a global audience through high-octane sequences.
Choosing these large-scale, action-driven projects allows her to tap into the globally recognized narrative of good versus evil, securing a wider international footprint for her career.
Following Hollywood’s Action Queens
Priyanka’s career trajectory mirrors that of Hollywood actresses who achieved global icon status in their 30s and 40s by redefining their roles. Charlize Theron was 40 when “Atomic Blonde” released, Angelina Jolie was 35 for “Salt,” and Cameron Diaz was 37 when she starred in “Knight and Day.” Even Michelle Yeoh, a true pioneer, continued defying stereotypes for decades, winning an Oscar at 60 after a career built on incredible stunts.
These women weren’t just fronting blockbusters; they excelled in roles driven by physical prowess rather than just romantic validation. Their success proves that age and traditional gender roles don’t limit a powerful action star.
Priyanka’s Growing Action Portfolio
While Priyanka may not have reached the same level of global dominance as these veterans yet, her path shows striking similarities. Her brief but impactful appearance in “The Matrix Resurrections” brought her closer to the heart of the action genre.
“Citadel” (2023), despite mixed reviews, showcased her impressive physical agility. A scene where she fought enemies on a moving train in a stunning red outfit went viral, evoking the iconic, stylish action of films like “Charlie’s Angels.” Joseph Russo, “Citadel’s” co-creator, praised her dedication, noting she undertook the toughest physical demands ever asked of an actor, including those in Marvel films.
The Path Forward
Though her journey has included less impactful roles in films like “Baywatch,” Priyanka’s strategic focus remains clear. With “Heads of State” now released and “The Bluff,” an action-drama, on the horizon, she is firmly committing to the genre known for building stars with long-lasting careers.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas is steadily carving out her own space among the world’s most formidable female action stars, one powerful performance at a time.
- Priyanka Chopra Jonas is prioritizing large-scale Hollywood action films for global reach.
- Bollywood offered limited challenging action roles for female leads, prompting her move to Hollywood.
- She is following the career trajectory of actresses like Angelina Jolie and Charlize Theron, who found global success in action roles in their 30s and 40s.
- Her roles in “Quantico,” “The Matrix Resurrections,” “Citadel,” and “Heads of State” highlight her commitment to the action genre.
Priyanka’s choices demonstrate a clear vision for an international career built on versatile and physically demanding roles, setting a new standard for Indian actors in Hollywood.
