The best Isabel May movies and TV shows prove that the rising star’s talent and charm have made her one of the most exciting actresses of her generation. Born on November 21, 2000, in Santa Monica, Isabel May first captured audiences with her natural screen presence and emotional depth. Though she began her career with comedic flair, she quickly proved she could handle drama, action, and even voice acting with equal skill. Her breakout came as Katie Cooper in the Netflix sitcom Alexa & Katie, but it wasn’t long before she expanded into more intense roles that revealed just how versatile she really is.

Thanks to shows like Young Sheldon and 1883, Isabel May has already gained a reputation for her grounded portrayals and the heart she brings to every performance. With each new project, be it on the big or small screen, she’s added more range and complexity to her résumé – with her filmography already including a wide range of genres. From network sitcoms and edgy thrillers to sweeping Westerns and emotional voiceovers, the best Isabel May movies and TV shows span genres and styles.

7

I Want You Back (2022)

Isabel May Plays Leighton

Directed by Jason Orley, I Want You Back is a romantic comedy that follows two heartbroken strangers, played by Charlie Day and Jenny Slate, who team up to sabotage their exes’ new relationships. Amid the humor and chaos, Isabel May appears in a smaller but memorable role as Leighton, the teenage daughter of a key supporting character. While her screen time is limited, May manages to shine with a sharp, sarcastic energy that adds flair to the ensemble.

I Want You Back isn’t a project where Isabel takes center stage, but she uses her brief scenes to leave an impression. Her performance is snappy, confident, and perfectly timed – a subtle reminder of her comedic roots. Although I Want You Back may not be a standout among the best Isabel May movies and TV shows, it proves her ability to elevate even the smallest of roles. With a star-studded cast including Scott Eastwood and Gina Rodriguez, the film is a charming watch that balances sweetness and silliness. For fans wanting to catch all corners of May’s career, her appearance in I Want You Back is a fun detour.

6

Young Sheldon (2018-2020)

Isabel May Plays Veronica Duncan

Created by Chuck Lorre and Steven Molaro, Young Sheldon is the spin-off of The Big Bang Theory, offering a look at the childhood of genius Sheldon Cooper. Isabel May joined the cast in season 2 as Veronica Duncan, a rebellious but kind-hearted teenager who forms a surprising bond with Sheldon’s brother, Georgie. Though May’s time on the show was relatively brief, her character quickly became a fan favorite thanks to her layered portrayal of a girl trying to turn her life around.

Isabel May brought warmth, vulnerability, and edge to Veronica in Young Sheldon, turning what could have been a one-dimensional role into something genuinely touching. Her chemistry with Montana Jordan (Georgie) made for some of the series’ most heartfelt moments. While Young Sheldon is a lighthearted sitcom, Isabel’s performance provided emotional depth that stood out amid the laughs. It’s not one of the most prominent entries among Isabel May’s movies and TV shows, but it remains a significant stepping stone in her career. Working alongside veterans like Zoe Perry and Lance Barber, May held her own with grace, proving she could bring sincerity to even a smaller supporting arc.

5

Run Hide Fight (2020)

Isabel May Plays Zoe Hull

In 2020’s Run Hide Fight, Isabel May takes on her most intense and action-packed role to date as Zoe Hull, a high school student who becomes an unexpected hero during a ᴅᴇᴀᴅly school shooting. Directed by Kyle Rankin, Run Hide Fight is a gritty, controversial thriller that asks tough questions about trauma, survival, and resilience. May leads the cast with raw determination and vulnerability, carrying nearly every scene with an emotional authenticity that elevates the material.

Run Hide Fight itself sparked debate for its subject matter, but there was widespread praise for Isabel May’s gripping performance. She portrays Zoe as tough but haunted, channeling pain into strength in a way that feels both believable and heartbreaking. Sharing the screen with Thomas Jane and Radha Mitchell, May stands out as a rising talent capable of anchoring an intense, emotionally charged narrative. Though divisive in its reception, Run Hide Fight remains one of the most pivotal entries in Isabel May’s filmography as it showcased her ability to command the screen in a high-stakes lead role.

4

1923 (2022-2025)

Isabel May Plays Elsa Dutton (Voice Only)

Taylor Sheridan’s 1923 is the sweeping sequel to 1883, expanding the Dutton family saga as part of the Yellowstone universe. While Isabel May doesn’t appear onscreen in 1923, her presence is deeply felt as the voice of Elsa Dutton, guiding the story with poetic narration. Her performance isn’t just a callback – it’s the emotional backbone of the series, tying the generations together with a haunting, lyrical thread that fans of 1883 will immediately recognize.

Even without appearing physically, Isabel May’s narration adds weight and intimacy to the unfolding drama. Her voiceover work captures the quiet sorrow and wisdom of Elsa, infusing each episode with poignancy. This unique role proves that Isabel doesn’t need to be on camera to make an impact, and it solidifies 1923 as a noteworthy continuation of one of her most beloved characters. With a cast led by Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren, 1923 is grand and gritty. While May’s role is smaller than in 1883, her contribution is undeniably powerful, making this one of the most touching entries among the best Isabel May movies and TV shows.

3

Let’s Scare Julie (2020)

Isabel May Plays Taylor

Directed by Jud Cremata, 2020’s Let’s Scare Julie is a first-of-its-kind thriller sH๏τ in a single, continuous take. The experimental horror movie follows a group of teenage girls who attempt to prank their mysterious new neighbor – only for things to spiral into something far more sinister. Isabel May stars as Taylor, the reluctant friend caught between peer pressure and her better instincts. Her performance is subtly powerful, anchoring the chaos with a sense of realism and moral tension.

What makes Isabel May shine in Let’s Scare Julie is how she plays fear – not just the horror movie kind, but the fear of loss, of making the wrong choice, of watching friends disappear one by one. The continuous take format means there’s nowhere for the actors to hide, and Isabel rises to the challenge with ease, keeping the emotional stakes high throughout. While Let’s Scare Julie flew under the radar, it’s a hidden gem in the best Isabel May movies and TV shows, especially for those who appreciate experimental storytelling. May proved in this under-the-radar movie she can thrive in high-concept filmmaking and keep viewers glued to the screen, and it remains one of her strongest performances to date.

2

Alexa & Katie (2018-2020)

Isabel May Plays Katie Cooper

Alexa & Katie marked Isabel May’s breakout role, and it’s easy to see why. Created by Heather Wordham, this Netflix sitcom is both hilarious and heartfelt, centering on two best friends navigating high school while one of them battles cancer. As Katie Cooper, Isabel May brings endless charm, humor, and emotional depth, playing the quirky, supportive best friend with genuine heart. Her comedic timing is spot-on, but it’s the emotional moments in Alexa & Katie in which she really stands out.

Isabel starred alongside Paris Berelc (Alexa), and their on-screen chemistry is the beating heart of Alexa & Katie. Over four seasons, May’s character evolves from a lovable goof to a confident young woman facing the ups and downs of teenage life. The series was praised for its sensitive handling of serious issues, and May was a major reason for that success. While she didn’t take home any major awards, her performance helped Alexa & Katie earn a Primetime Emmy nomination in 2018. It remains one of the most beloved entries among Isabel May’s movies and TV shows, especially for fans who followed her from the very beginning.

1

1883 (2021-2022)

Isabel May Plays Elsa Dutton

Taylor Sheridan’s 1883 is a gritty, emotional Western that launched Isabel May into the spotlight in a way few roles could. As Elsa Dutton, Isabel May is the voice and heart of the series, guiding viewers through the treacherous journey of her family across the American frontier. This Paramount+ original is a prequel to Yellowstone, and it’s arguably the most emotionally devastating entry in the Dutton saga – and May’s performance is nothing short of breathtaking.

Elsa Dutton is curious, strong-willed, and unbreakably brave, and Isabel portrays her with aching sincerity. She captures the spirit of a girl growing into a woman amid danger, love, and loss. Directed by Taylor Sheridan, the series also stars Sam Elliott, Tim McGraw, and Faith Hill, but May steals the show. Her narration frames the story, and her presence drives its emotional core, with the role cementing her place as one of Hollywood’s brightest young talents. Simply put, 1883 is a triumph – one of the very best Isabel May movies and TV shows, and the role that proved she’s almost certainly destined for further success.