Former Athletes Who Became Movie and TV Actors
By
Dan Holmes
Contributor Updated: 13 September 2024
Dan Holmes Contributor
Dan Holmes, a content creator and sports betting enthusiast, brings over a decade of experience to Betting.US. His extensive writing background spans from the internet to prestigious roles at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. Dan’s articles, featured on numerous websites, cover various sports, from bowling to disc golf.
Athletes Who Became Movie and TV Actors
Athletes who became actors. It seems like they are all over the place, right? Well, actually no. Most “famous athletes” today may have a strong social media presence, or even a podcast (we’re looking at you, LeBron James), but that doesn’t make them accomplished actors.
This article examines the few athletes who made a switch to acting in Hollywood and/or television and found great success. Some of them were more known as athletes, and a few were much more known as movie stars. But all of them originally performed on the athletic field, where some probably enjoyed wagering on them via top sports betting sites.
Arnold Schwarzenegger: From Mr. Olympia to The Terminator
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s journey from world bodybuilding champion to iconic actor is a testament to his remarkable versatility and ambition. As a bodybuilder, Schwarzenegger dominated the sport he basically invented, winning the Mr. Olympia title multiple times and setting new standards for muscular development.
His transition to acting began with roles in films like “Conan the Barbarian” and “The Terminator,” where his imposing physique and charismatic presence captivated audiences worldwide. Schwarzenegger’s career soared with blockbuster hits such as “Predator,” “Total Recall,” and “True Lies,” solidifying his status as an action hero.
His ability to blend intense action with humor in films like “Twins” and “Kindergarten Cop” showcased his range and appeal beyond the typical action star persona. When discussing the athletes turned actors, Arnold ranks at the top for fame and accomplishments.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson: Wrestler to Pop Culture Icon
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s journey from athlete to cultural icon is nothing short of extraordinary. Starting as a professional wrestler in WWE, Johnson quickly became a fan favorite with his charismatic persona and catchphrases, earning multiple championship titles. His electrifying presence in the ring and eye-popping physique paved the way for a successful transition to acting.
Johnson’s film career took off with roles in movies like “The Scorpion King” and “The Rundown.” He cemented his status as a Hollywood heavyweight with blockbuster franchises such as “Fast & Furious,” where he plays the formidable Luke Hobbs, and the “Jumanji” series, showcasing his versatility and charm.
On television, Johnson starred in the critically acclaimed HBO series “Ballers,” portraying a retired NFL player turned financial manager. That role did much to establish Johnson as an iconic member of the athletes who became actors. Johnson has hosted “Saturday Night Live” multiple times, displaying his comedic talents and endearing himself further to a broad audience. His infectious personality and relentless work ethic have made him a beloved figure.
Carl Weathers: Apollo Creed
Is it possible to steal a scene from Sylvester Stallone? Carl Weathers did it. As the charismatic Apollo Creed in several Rocky movies, Weathers was a beautiful, Muhammad Ali-styled foil to Sly’s uneducated, streetsmart Rocky Balboa. His performances in “Rocky” and “Rocky II” are iconic cinema moments. Before his acting career, Weathers had a brief NFL career, but he is indeed a famous athlete turned actor.
Jim Brown: The First Superstar Athlete to Choose Hollywood
Jim Brown, an NFL legend, seamlessly transitioned to Hollywood after retiring from football at the peak of his career. He became the quintessential among actors who were athletes. Known for his powerful presence on the field, Brown brought the same intensity to his acting roles.
He made his mark with a standout performance in “The Dirty Dozen”, where his athleticism and charisma shone through. Brown continued to build his acting portfolio with roles in “100 Rifles” and “Three the Hard Way,” becoming a prominent figure in action films during the 1960s and 1970s. Brown’s move from the gridiron to the silver screen paved the way for other athletes to pursue acting careers.
O.J. Simpson
Former Buffalo Bill O.J. Simpson’s transition from star NFL running back to actor was as smooth as his moves on the field. After a successful football career, he turned to Hollywood, where his charisma landed him several notable roles. He became well-known for his comedic turn as Officer Nordberg in “The Naked Gun” series, where his physical comedy was a hit.
Simpson also appeared in films like “The Towering Inferno” and “Capricorn One.” His seemingly easy charm and athletic prowess helped him make a memorable mark in the world of acting, expanding his fame beyond the gridiron. Later, his reputation became completely obliterated when he was charged with a double homicide, a crime he was found responsible for in a criminal trial. His legacy is to be classified in the infamous category of athletes that became actors.
Alex Karras: Sacking QBs and Playing Mongo
Alex Karras was a larger-than-life figure both on and off the football field. First, Karras was a dominant defensive tackle for the Detroit Lions, famous for his fierce play and charismatic personality. But his talents weren’t confined to sports. After hanging up his cleats, Karras smoothly transitioned into acting, becoming a familiar face on television and in movies.
He starred in the TV sitcom “Webster” and delivered a memorable performance as Mongo in the comedy classic “Blazing Saddles,” written by Mel Brooks. Karras’s blend of athletic prowess and acting chops made him a unique and beloved figure in American pop culture, especially in the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s.
Shaquille O’Neal: Kazaam!
Shaquille O’Neal’s acting career is as eclectic as the man himself. Standing at 7’1″ with a personality to match, Shaq has lit up the screen in ways few could. His 1996 movie “Kazaam” saw him playing a rapping genie — because if anyone can make a genie cool, it’s Shaq. He then dove into the superhero genre with “Steel,” proving that even a steel-suited hero can have a soft spot for fun.
Shaq’s charm didn’t stop there; he made hilarious cameos in comedies like “Grown Ups 2” and “Blended”, often poking fun at his gigantic stature and infectious laugh. Plus, his voice work in animated films like “The Lego Movie” adds to his quirky and endearing filmography. Shaq’s acting credits are a testament to his willingness to try anything, making every role uniquely his own, behind that deep, gravelly voice and gigantic childlike smile.
