EW's 2017 Entertainers of the Year (original) (raw)

Entertainers of the Year

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There was no shortage of breakout talent in Hollywood over the last 12 months. Ahead, the 15 artists who had us laughing, crying, and then some in 2017.

Gal Gadot

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No woman roared louder on the big screen this year than Gal Gadot, who brought Wonder Woman to life in a way that inspired women (and men) of all ages.

Greta Gerwig

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The actress became an auteur, mining her own adolescence to craft Lady Bird, one of the most beautiful coming-of-age films in years.

Jimmy Kimmel

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In trying times, the late-night jester became a surprising -- and compelling -- voice of reason, unafraid to speak truth to power and bring difficult conversations about health care to the masses.

Issa Rae

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The Insecure star has cemented her status as one of TV's most unique and unmissable voices.

Jack Antonoff

Matthew Salacuse for EW

The prolific songwriter-producer was all over your favorite records in 2017 -- from Lorde to Taylor Swift.

Kumail Nanjiani

Matthias Clamer for EW

The comedian-actor delivered the most contagious comedy of the year with The Big Sick, a great American love story for the 21st century.

Elisabeth Moss

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The always stunning performer proved she could be a powerhouse producer, too -- and won an Emmy for her striking work on Hulu breakout The Handmaid's Tale.

Jordan Peele

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With Get Out, Jordan Peele concocted a funny and frightening social thriller that confronted the issue of race in post-Obama America.

Laurie Metcalf

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The Emmy-winning actress stepped into the Broadway limelight and provided the loving heart that beats through Lady Bird.

Big Little Lies

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The year's must-watch series boasted the most enviable ensemble of talent on TV -- including Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Laura Dern, Zoe Kravitz, and Shailene Woodley. Now we wonder what they have in store for season 2.

Stephen King

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From Sleeping Beauties to the blockbuster return of It and other hit adaptations, the storyteller has had one scary-good year.

Kesha

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The pop star pulled off the year's most triumphant comeback with her album Rainbow and its powerful lead single, "Praying."

Carrie Coon

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The actress refused to let the mystery be as she dominated this year's prestige television on The Leftovers and Fargo (and even found time to appear in a supporting role in Steven Spielberg's The Post).

Ben Platt

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The Dear Evan Hansen star brought us to our feet while giving the year's most heartwrenching performance -- and won a Tony for all the hard work (and tears shed).

Will & Grace

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The lovable quartet of comedy greats made it feel as good as the first time -- and then some -- as the beloved NBC comedy made its triumphant return.