Gwyneth Paltrow has been gracing screens for over three decades, and in that time, she's brought us everything from intimate indie dramas to blockbuster spectacles. Now, with her latest role in Marty Supreme finally out in the world, we thought there's no time like the present to look back on those standout moments that showcase her versatility, charm, and emotional depth. Here’s a look at some of Paltrow's most memorable roles throughout the years.

Shakespeare in Love (1998)

It’s impossible to talk about Paltrow’s career without starting with Shakespeare in Love. Her portrayal of Viola, a spirited and ambitious young woman who inspires a young William Shakespeare, won her the Academy Award for Best Actress, kicking off what we now know to be an incredible career. It's hardly surprising she took home the award: Paltrow’s performance is playful and profound, capturing the wit and vulnerability that would become her signature.

Great Expectations (1998)

Paltrow stars as Estella in this modernised adaptation of the Dickens classic. Not only does her performance captures Estella’s complexity — it also gave us that iconic green outfit, which still lives rent free on our Pinterest board all these years later.

Sliding Doors (1998)

1998 was clearly a busy year for Platrow. In Sliding Doors, she plays Helen Quilley, whose life splits into two parallel realities after a (sliding doors) moment on the London Tube. The film is beloved not only for its inventive storytelling, but also Paltrow’s dual performance, which cements it as one of her most culturally resonant roles nearly three decades later.

The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)

In this now-iconic thriller, Paltrow plays Marge Sherwood, the love interest caught in Ripley's web of deception and danger. This was the role that proved Gwyneth could hold her own alongside heavyweights like Matt Damon and Jude Law, if you needed any convincing. It also solidified her reputation as a serious actor capable of navigating complex narratives.

The Royal Tenenbaums (2001) 

Paltrow and Wes Anderson is something of a dream combination for us, and she shines as Margot Tenenbaum, the secretive and enigmatic adopted daughter in this cult classic. With her signature bob and understated cool, she perfectly balances the film’s quirky humor with emotional depth, making Margot one of cinema’s most memorable (and stylish, obviously) characters.

Iron Man Series (2008–2019)

Transitioning seamlessly from highbrow cinema to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Paltrow brought Pepper Potts to life over several films. While some may have expected a supporting role to fade into the background, we'd argue Paltrow’s portrayal added depth to Tony Stark’s world — in other words, Pepper is an essential part of the Marvel narrative.

Contagion (2011)

Before the world caught up to its eery  plot, Contagion saw Paltrow playing Beth Emhoff, the woman (i.e., patient zero) at the centre of a global pandemic outbreak. Admittedly, her character is killed off pretty swiftly, but her performance is still integral to the plot, so we'd say it's worth an inclusion on our list.

Marty Supreme (2025)

We genuinely couldn't be happier that Paltrow is back acting, and opposite Timothée Chalamet no less. In Marty Supreme she plays Kay Stone, a retired actress-turned-socialite who forms a very complicated romantic relationship with Marty amidst his European travels. Speaking of her decision to return ot acting, Paltrow said she found herself with an "empty nest", adding, "And I thought, 'Why not try?' ... And I thought it would be fun to go to New York and get back into it, and I'm so glad I did, because I had the best time."