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The Breakthrough Years of Cinema Stars
First major success in 1980
Sophie Marceau
Her breakthrough role as Victoire Beretton in La Boum catapulted her to overnight stardom in France. The film was a massive box-office success, making her a teen idol and launching her acting career at just 13 years old.
1980
1981
1982
1982
1982
1982
Tom Selleck
Tom Selleck achieved major public recognition and career breakthrough with his starring role as Thomas Magnum in the television series Magnum, P.I., which made him a household name.
1982
1983
1983
1983
1983
1983
William Hurt
Altered States was his film debut in a leading role, earning a Golden Globe nomination.
1981
1981
1986
1987
1987
1987
Debra Winger
Urban Cowboy established her as a major leading actress.
1983
1983
1984
1987
Timothy Hutton
Ordinary People earned him a Best Supporting Actor Oscar on his film debut.
1981
1984
1987
1997
The Elephant Man brought him international critical acclaim and an Oscar nomination.
1981
1988
1989
Rodney Dangerfield
Caddyshack was his major film acting breakthrough after a successful stand-up career.
1987
1987
1988
Sam J. Jones
His career-defining breakthrough came with the starring role in the cult science fiction film "Flash Gordon. This iconic portrayal of the titular hero cemented his place in pop culture history.
1981
1981
Cathy Moriarty
Raging Bull earned her an Oscar nomination on her film debut.
1993
Raging Bull was his acting breakthrough, earning an Oscar nomination.
1991

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