Many of the athletes we know enjoy their stardom on the field of competitive sports, but others have reached out and tried to make it in Hollywood. Like the people we meet in life, many athletes come and go, but some find their success in acting. Others succeed in politics while a majority retire to a normal life and sometimes go into coaching.
There are many paths in life, but one thing is for certain: these are the 10 celebrity athletes who starred in famous movies.
Arnold Schwarzenegger, The Terminator
While Arnold Schwarzenegger enjoys a net worth of $450 million, his wealth is not much of a surprise because growing up, he was determined to become the best body-builder whoever was. Arnold is a four-time Mr. Universe and International Powerlifting Champion, and his discipline in bodybuilding became his distinct advantage when he went on to become one of the greatest action heroes of all time.
His 1984 Terminator movie was his signature role where he played a cyborg from the future sent back in time to assassinate the mother of an unborn revolutionary leader. In the James Cameron classic, he only speaks 18 lines, but his memorable quote, “I’ll be back,” has captured the hearts of millions worldwide.
Aside from The Terminator, he starred in Predator (1987), Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991), Conan the Barbarian (1982), Total Recall (1990), and True Lies (1994). Arnold Schwarzenegger is one of the few people who are in the realm of legendary athletes in famous movies because of his cunning acting chops and serious presence on the big screen. While he may be known now as a politician, he’s forever slated to be an action hero in Hollywood and mainstream media.
Lebron James, Trainwreck
King James is recognized worldwide as one of the best NBA basketball players of all time. Whether you’re into sports or not, you’ve heard of his name. However, what most people would not probably know is about his acting career.
He starred in Judd Apatow’s Trainwreck in 2015. While the story did not exactly revolve around his character, King James had nonetheless a big part to play despite it being his first time acting.
But his acting career did not end there. Quite recently, he starred in the Space Jam sequel last 2021.
O.J. Simpson, The Naked Gun
O.J. Simpson was awarded the Heisman Trophy at USC and is known to have been the only running back in NFL history to rush for 2,000 yards within 14 games. Aside from that, he was also recognized as the blabbering idiot Detective Nordberg in The Naked Gun movies.
His other notable films included The Naked Gun 33 1/3: The Final Insult (1994) and The Towering Inferno (1974).
Mike Tyson, The Hangover
Mike Tyson was known to be the youngest fighter of recorded age 20 years, 4 months, and 22 days who unified the heavyweight title belt of WBC, WBA, and IBF. He was dubbed the “Iron Mike” who was a terror in the ring.
Tyson’s life is filled with drama as he did a hard time in prison, got a face tattoo, and bit off Evander Holyfield’s ear. He also talks with an effeminate voice, a stark contrast from the persona of the most feared man alive. Iron Mike also starred in The Hangover Part II (2011) and Rocky Balboa (2006), and he also appeared in a martial arts film with the esteemed actor Donnie Yen in Ip Man 3 (2015).
Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Airplane
Kareem Abdul Jabbar was known to be one of the best Lakers to have ever played in NBA history. Like King James, Abdul Jabbar’s status is almost legendary, considering he is a household name. Kareem played the role of a co-pilot in the 1980 comedy movie Airplane.
Many people were surprised to see a different side of this gentle giant in the theatres.
Ronda Rousey, Furious 7
Ronda Rousey was known to be the face of UFC besides Conor McGregor, considering she was one of the most dominant female bantamweight champions. However, her UFC career did not end particularly well due to her last two matches ending in defeat, but she found some success on the big screen.
Today, Rousey has an extensive acting career in play. She shows up in various action movies such as Furious 7 in 2015. It seems she is not slowing down any time soon.
Terry Bradshaw, Failure to Launch
This four-time Super Bowl champion played the father of Matthew McConaughey and husband of Kathy Bates in the 2006 movie, Failure to Launch. Bradshaw is known today as a broadcast announcer, but during his time as an actor, he was surrounded by immense talent.
However, he’s hilarious to watch, but his professionalism is obvious on the big screen.
Summary
From The Terminator to Iron Mike, there are several athletes who turn to Hollywood and found some form of success. Different paths call for various successes, and it is apparent that athletes can transition to an acting career, should they put in the effort and training.
