9) Kristen Bell

Short Bio

Though she’s been working steadily for almost a decade now (her filmography lists over 30 movies and television shows), Kristen Bell has only recently stepped into the public’s consciousness thanks to her work in several high-profile projects. Though she kicked off her stint on Heroes in 2007, Kristen Bell’s role as Elle Bishop grew increasingly prominent as the series progressed, and this, coupled with her scene-stealing work in the comedy hit Forgetting Sarah Marshall, was instrumental in her 2008 rise from anonymous starlet to bona fide “It” girl.

Why She's No.9?

With her role on Heroes, Kristen Bell -- alongside Hayden Panettiere and Ali Larter -- successfully infused a geek-oriented program with unexpected jolts of sensuality (until her character was killed off). She undeniably possesses the kind of looks one generally associates with a fashion model, yet she can also come off as an approachable, girl-next-door sort. It’s a dichotomy that served her well when it came time to play a vixen in Forgetting Sarah Marshall, as she managed to ingratiate herself with audiences despite the fact that her character so heartlessly (and memorably) broke up with Jason Segel’s hapless Peter Bretter. And with a number of promising projects on the horizon for 2009 -- including a starring role in the Jon Favreau-penned romantic comedy Couples Retreat -- Kristen Bell’s star will only continue to rise in the months ahead.