IMDb’s STARmeter Awards continue to spotlight the entertainment industry’s fastest rising names in 2026, with the platform recognizing breakout performers and fan favorites throughout the year instead of hosting a single annual ceremony.
Among the biggest milestones is Dexter Sol Ansell, who became the youngest recipient in the history of the IMDb “Breakout” STARmeter Award after his acclaimed debut as Prince Aegon “Egg” Targaryen in HBO’s A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms.
The 11-year-old actor accepted the honor on June 10 while filming the series’ second season, joining previous Westeros stars Peter Dinklage, Emma D’Arcy and Olivia Cooke among STARmeter recipients.
Indian creator and actor Ambrish Verma also earned the “Breakout Star” distinction following the success of Sapne Vs Everyone. Verma wrote, directed and starred in the acclaimed series, whose second season boosted both the show and its creator on IMDb’s popularity charts.
His rise included consecutive No. 1 rankings on IMDb’s Popular Indian Celebrities list, while the series secured a place in IMDb’s Top 250 TV Shows.
The latest recipients also include Akash Makhija and Ramandeep Yadav, recognized for their performances in Prime Video’s Raakh. Meanwhile, the cast and creators of Prime Video’s Off Campus received the “Fan Favorite Ensemble” STARmeter Award during Obsessed Fest in Los Angeles on June 30.
Earlier this year, Maya Hawke accepted the “Fan Favorite” STARmeter Award at SXSW while promoting Wishful Thinking.
Unlike traditional awards decided by industry voting panels, IMDb STARmeter Awards reflect audience interest based on activity from more than 250 million monthly IMDb users worldwide.
The rankings have long served as an influential measure of momentum, highlighting artists whose growing popularity often precedes major career breakthroughs.
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