Being a professional athlete puts you in a unique spotlight, and the roar of the crowd is hard to give up. Many athletes turn to acting to keep the adrenaline flowing. While pro wrestlers often transition easily, others face a tough challenge, with some failing miserably.
Check out our list of athletes who became Hollywood legends or crashed and burned spectacularly. You won’t believe which stars shined the brightest and who flopped the hardest! Which of these athletes do you think was the most successful on the big screen? Share this list with fans of their famous roles and find out who they think conquered Hollywood!
Jason Lee
Best known for his role on the NBC comedy My Name is Earl, Jason Lee first made his mark as a successful professional skateboarder and extreme sports entrepreneur. His passion for skateboarding led him to co-found the company Stereo Skateboards. In the early 1990s, Lee decided to explore acting.
His unique talent and charisma caught the attention of director Kevin Smith, who cast him in a lead role in the 1995 comedy Mallrats. This breakthrough role launched Lee’s acting career, leading to numerous roles in both film and television. His seamless transition from the world of extreme sports to Hollywood highlights his versatility and talent.
Michael Jordan
Arguably the greatest professional basketball player of all time, Michael Jordan’s acting career is best remembered for his role in the iconic film Space Jam. In this beloved movie, Jordan starred alongside Warner Brothers’ legendary animated characters, creating a lasting cultural impact. While his acting career didn’t extend beyond this memorable performance, Space Jam remains a fan favorite.
To celebrate the film’s 30th anniversary, Nike released a limited edition Air Jordan model, paying tribute to Jordan’s unique venture into Hollywood. This special edition sneaker combines nostalgia with Jordan’s legendary status, delighting both basketball fans and sneaker enthusiasts alike.
Chuck Connors
Chuck Connors not only made a name for himself in Hollywood but also excelled in professional sports. After his army discharge in 1946, Connors briefly played for the NBA’s Boston Celtics. He then joined the Brooklyn Dodgers, appearing in one game before becoming a first baseman for the Chicago Cubs.
Though drafted by the NFL’s Chicago Bears, he never played a game. Connors eventually left sports for a successful 40-year career in film and television. He is best remembered for his iconic role as Lucas McCain on the ABC series The Rifleman. Connors’ unique journey from professional athlete to celebrated actor showcases his diverse talents and enduring legacy in both fields.
Chuck Norris
Internet meme, conservative political activist, Bruce Lee victim, chest hair legend—these are just a few ways we know Chuck Norris. Before all that, Norris was a real-life championship karate athlete. His martial arts prowess earned him numerous titles, and he founded his own karate schools.
While already pursuing an acting career, Norris gained significant recognition when Bruce Lee cast him as the villain in the 1972 film Return of the Dragon. This iconic role catapulted Norris to fame, leading to a prolific career in action films and television. Known for his tough-guy persona and martial arts skills, Norris has become a cultural icon whose influence extends far beyond his early karate championships.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was a key player for the UCLA Bruins, helping them secure three national championships, and later won multiple NBA championships with the Los Angeles Lakers. Even before the Lakers’ dominance, Jabbar had ventured into acting. He famously fought Bruce Lee in Game of Death and played a humorous role as himself in the comedy Airplane!.
Beyond his sports and acting careers, Jabbar is now a respected expert on jazz music and serves as a social commentator for TIME magazine. His multifaceted career highlights his talents not just as an athlete but also as an actor and intellectual, making significant contributions to both entertainment and cultural discourse.
Kurt Russell
Kurt Russell played minor league baseball but was determined not to abandon his thriving acting career, which had begun in his childhood. Russell became a cult movie fan favorite through his collaborations with director John Carpenter, starring in classics like Escape from New York and The Thing.
His status as a cult icon caught the attention of Quentin Tarantino, who cast him in the upcoming movie The Hateful Eight. Russell’s dedication to both sports and acting, coupled with his memorable roles in cult films, has solidified his place in Hollywood as a versatile and beloved actor.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson faced a challenging childhood, with his father, professional wrestler Rocky Johnson, often absent due to his career. After a stint with the University of Miami’s championship team, Johnson briefly pursued a football career in the Canadian Football League before transitioning to professional wrestling.
His acting debut came when he portrayed his father in an episode of That 70’s Show. Today, known for his roles in The Fast and the Furious franchise, Johnson also stars in the HBO series Ballers, showcasing his diverse talents beyond the wrestling ring and football field.
Jason Statham
In the early 2000s, Jason Statham rose to fame as the quintessential tough-guy in movies, despite his unexpected background in sports. Surprisingly, he spent twelve years as a member of the British National Diving Squad, a far cry from his later roles as a formidable bone crusher in films such as The Transporter.
Statham’s transition from diving to acting marked a dramatic shift in his career, where he effortlessly embodied tough and charismatic characters on screen. His diverse skills and athletic prowess undoubtedly contributed to his success in portraying action-packed roles that have solidified his status as a prominent figure in action cinema.
John Cena
John Cena’s journey to fame began on the football fields of Springfield College, where he played Division III football before transitioning to become a celebrated figure in professional wrestling. With the inception of Vince McMahon’s World Wrestling Entertainment movie production arm in 2005, Cena seized the opportunity and secured the lead role in one of its inaugural films, The Marine.
While initially making waves in Hollywood, Cena has since shifted his focus back to wrestling and has also ventured into business endeavors like endorsing cereals. Despite his early foray into acting, Cena’s enduring legacy remains deeply rooted in his contributions to the world of wrestling, where his charismatic persona continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Joe Namath
“Broadway Joe” Namath, renowned for his charismatic and handsome demeanor, achieved fame as the Super Bowl-winning quarterback for the New York Jets. Following his football career, Namath ventured into television, frequently appearing in cameo roles as himself. His laid-back charm and iconic status eventually led to opportunities as a host on various talk shows.
Today, as a member of the NFL Hall of Fame, Namath remains active in the football world, providing insightful commentary on professional football, reflecting his enduring influence and connection to the sport beyond his playing days.
Bruce Lee
Bruce Lee’s journey into acting began in his youth, although his encounters with street gangs prompted him to delve into martial arts. Upon moving to the United States, Lee pioneered his unique fighting style, Jeet Kune Do. His exceptional skills caught the attention of a television producer who invited him to audition for the role of Kato in the series The Green Hornet.
Despite tragically passing away at the age of 32, Lee left an indelible mark as a film icon and is credited with popularizing martial arts cinema in the United States. His legacy continues to inspire generations, showcasing his profound impact on both martial arts and the entertainment industry worldwide.
Arnold Schwarzenegger
The bodybuilding legend harbored ambitions of fame from an early age. His breakthrough came in 1982 when he landed the lead role in Conan the Barbarian, marking the start of a successful career. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s portrayal as the android in James Cameron’s The Terminator catapulted him to stardom in the 1980s.
Despite surprising career choices, Schwarzenegger famously declared to the acting world, “I’ll be back,” and indeed, he kept his promise. The imposing Austrian star has revisited the iconic role multiple times, reaffirming his status as a formidable presence in Hollywood. His journey from bodybuilder to actor has solidified his legacy, showcasing his versatility and enduring appeal in the entertainment industry.
Ronda Rousey
Ronda Rousey, a current Mixed Martial Arts world champion and prominent figure in commercials, aims to elevate her profile with aspirations to secure a role in Marvel Entertainment’s upcoming film, Captain Marvel. Known for her outspoken nature, Rousey is strategically positioning herself to capture the attention of Marvel casting directors.
Her determination to transition from the world of sports to acting underscores her ambition and drive. With a successful career in both athletics and endorsements, Rousey seeks to add superhero films to her repertoire, potentially expanding her influence and presence in the entertainment industry.
Shaquille O’Neal
During his NBA career, “Shaq Diesel” showcased his versatility by acting in multiple films and launching a prosperous rap music venture. Since retiring from basketball, the former NBA champion has embraced comedic roles, starring in commercials and playfully parodying himself on television, including a memorable appearance on the ABC series Fresh Off the Boat.
Shaquille O’Neal’s transition from sports to entertainment has been marked by his charismatic presence and ability to entertain audiences both on and off the court. His ongoing success in various media reflects his enduring popularity and his knack for blending humor with his larger-than-life persona in the public eye.
Mark Harmon
The son of an NFL legend, the charismatic Mark Harmon gained early fame as the quarterback for the UCLA Bruins, leading them to victory in the Rose Bowl. Transitioning from sports to acting, Harmon found success on television, first portraying doctors in long-running series like St. Elsewhere and Chicago Hope.
He later solidified his status as a TV star with his enduring role as an investigator on the hit show NCIS. Harmon’s diverse talents and compelling screen presence have made him a fixture in American television, seamlessly shifting from sports to a successful acting career.
Lawrence Taylor
This Hall of Fame linebacker from the University of North Carolina and the New York Giants, Lawrence Taylor, played football and lived his life with reckless abandon. Unfortunately, his wild lifestyle resulted in cocaine addiction and legal troubles. Despite these challenges, Taylor found success in Hollywood, most notably co-starring with Jamie Foxx and Al Pacino in the film Any Given Sunday.
His powerful presence on the field and screen showcased his undeniable talent, even as he battled personal demons. Taylor’s legacy remains a complex blend of athletic greatness and personal struggles, marking him as one of the most memorable figures in both football and film.
Gina Carano
Gina Carano emerged as one of the pioneering stars in women’s Mixed Martial Arts, gaining fame for her impressive victories and striking beauty, which landed her features in various magazines. Transitioning from the MMA arena to Hollywood, Carano has established herself as an action movie star.
She made a notable appearance in Fast and Furious 6 and is set to star in the upcoming Marvel movie, Deadpool. Her dynamic career shift from a successful fighter to a prominent actress highlights her versatility and appeal, making her a notable figure in both sports and entertainment industries.
Kevin James
Here’s a surprising fact: Kevin James, known for his comedic roles, was a top varsity wrestler at Ward Melville High School, even surpassing his friend and future wrestling legend, Mick Foley. James later drew on this athletic background for his acting career, particularly in the movie Here Comes The Boom.
In this film, he portrays a teacher who takes up Mixed Martial Arts in his spare time, blending his wrestling experience with his comedic talent. This unique combination of skills highlights James’s versatility and adds an interesting layer to his diverse career in entertainment.
Johnny Weissmuller
Though he claimed Pennsylvania as his birthplace to compete for the United States in the Olympics, Johnny Weissmuller was actually born in the then-Austro-Hungarian Empire. As an Olympic swimmer in the 1920s, Weissmuller was among the world’s fastest, never losing a match as an amateur and winning five Olympic gold medals.
Following his swimming career, Weissmuller achieved international fame as an actor, starring as Tarzan in the 1932 film Tarzan the Ape Man. He continued to portray Tarzan in numerous sequels and later took on the lead role in the Jungle Jim film series during the 1940s and 50s, cementing his status as a beloved action star.
Hulk Hogan
The popular wrestler Hulk Hogan gained fame as a villain in Rocky III and frequently appeared as versions of himself in B-movies and TV shows. In 2005, he joined the reality TV craze with Hogan Knows Best, showcasing his family life. However, Hogan’s career faced a major setback when he was fired from WWE after a recording surfaced in which he used racially derogatory language.
This incident significantly impacted his public image and professional standing, overshadowing his previous achievements in wrestling and entertainment. Despite these controversies, Hogan remains a well-known figure, with his legacy marked by both his contributions to wrestling and his off-screen controversies.
Buster Crabbe
Buster Crabbe, born in northern California, eventually made his way to the bright lights of Hollywood. As an Olympic swimmer, he earned a bronze medal in 1928 and a gold medal in 1932. After his swimming career, Crabbe found acting success, starring in the Tarzan films of the 1930s. His big break came in 1936 when he was cast as the lead in the first Flash Gordon serial.
Crabbe further cemented his status as a quintessential action hero by also portraying Buck Rogers in a science fiction film serial, rounding out his impressive repertoire of comic-strip and pulp characters. His athletic prowess and charismatic screen presence made him a memorable figure in early Hollywood.
OJ Simpson
OJ Simpson, a Heisman Trophy winner at USC and NFL rushing record holder with the Buffalo Bills, is indelibly linked to one of America’s most sensational murder trials. In 1991, he was accused of murdering his ex-wife Nicole and her friend Ron Goldman. Although acquitted in criminal court, he was found liable for their wrongful deaths in a civil lawsuit.
Simpson’s troubles continued, leading to his current imprisonment on armed robbery and kidnapping charges. Aside from his sports career, “The Juice” found success as an actor in the 1970s and 80s, with notable roles in the miniseries Roots and The Naked Gun franchise, marking a complex legacy marked by athletic prowess, legal battles, and acting achievements.
Stacy Keibler
Stacy Keibler gained widespread popularity as a wrestler for the World Wrestling Federation. After her wrestling career, she transitioned to television, appearing in several TV series and hosting reality shows.
Despite her success in the entertainment industry, Keibler is perhaps best known for her high-profile relationship with actor George Clooney, which garnered significant media attention. Her diverse career, spanning wrestling, acting, and reality TV, highlights her versatility and enduring appeal in the public eye.
Burt Reynolds
Burt Reynolds played football at Florida State University in the 1950s, but injuries cut his athletic career short. He then discovered a passion for acting, winning an award in college, which earned him a scholarship to a New York acting institute. Hollywood took notice in the 1960s, and Reynolds landed roles in various TV shows.
His breakthrough came with the film Deliverance, which propelled him to stardom. Reynolds continues to act, maintaining a lasting presence in the entertainment industry. His journey from college football to Hollywood icon showcases his resilience and talent, securing his legacy as a versatile and enduring actor.
Bob Uecker
Bob Uecker may have been a lackluster major league catcher, but he found his true calling as a talented play-by-play announcer. His witty appearances on The Tonight Show led NBC to cast him in the sitcom Mr. Belvedere. Uecker also ventured into film, notably appearing in the 1989 comedy Major League.
Today, at age 81, he continues to provide play-by-play commentary for the Milwaukee Brewers, showcasing his enduring charm and expertise. Uecker’s career trajectory from the baseball diamond to the broadcast booth and acting highlights his versatility and lasting impact on sports and entertainment.
Andre the Giant
French-born André Roussimoff, known as André the Giant, stood an imposing 7’6”, dwarfing his fellow professional wrestlers in the 1970s and 80s. His remarkable stature and presence made him a standout figure in wrestling.
Beyond the ring, he made numerous guest appearances on television and achieved fame for his role as Fezzik in the 1987 cult classic The Princess Bride. Roussimoff’s larger-than-life persona captivated audiences until his death in 1993, leaving a lasting legacy in both wrestling and entertainment.
Jim Brown
Jim Brown was a three-sport star at Syracuse University before becoming an NFL legend as a running back for the Cleveland Browns. He started his acting career while still playing football but retired from the sport before his breakthrough role in the 1966 film The Dirty Dozen. Brown also became known for his vocal political activism during his acting career.
Today, he continues to be active in both the entertainment industry and his political endeavors, maintaining a lasting impact on both fields. His dual legacy as a sports icon and an advocate for social change underscores his multifaceted contributions to American culture.
Lou Ferrigno
Legally deaf and hailing from New York, Lou Ferrigno was a professional bodybuilder alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger, both featured in the documentary Pumping Iron. Before finding his calling in acting, Ferrigno attempted manual labor and had a brief, unsuccessful stint in Canadian pro football.
His career took a pivotal turn in 1977 when he landed the iconic role of The Incredible Hulk, which brought him widespread fame. Today, Ferrigno is not only remembered for his contributions to fitness and entertainment but has also established himself as a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, dedicating his efforts to various charitable causes and business ventures.
Terry Crews
Terry Crews’ first passion was art, earning him an art scholarship before securing a football scholarship to Western Michigan University as a defensive end. Drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1991, Crews played professional football until his retirement in 1997. Post-football, he returned to Los Angeles to pursue an acting career.
He gained widespread fame as a star of the hit TV show Brooklyn Nine-Nine. Despite his success in Hollywood, Crews continues to indulge in his love for painting and sketching, maintaining a strong connection to his artistic roots. His journey from athlete to actor and artist highlights his diverse talents and relentless pursuit of his passions.
