The 1980s saw the birth of several excellent film series and the careers of many performers who would go on to win Academy Awards in the years to come. Nonetheless, one thing is sure: Hollywood has more stars than ever before, each carving out its unique place.
Let us take a closer look at the stars of Hollywood from the 1980s who gave us films that will live long in our memories, changed what it means to be a star, and became standards of coolness worldwide.
You may still be familiar with many of these household names, but there are a few unsung heroes who also deserve to be honored. We mustn’t forget about them.
1. Robert De Niro
| Robert De Niro | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Robert Anthony De Niro |
| Birthdate | August 17, 1943 |
| Birthplace | New York City, U.S. |
| Alma Mater | HB Studio, Stella Adler Conservatory, Lee Strasberg’s Actors Studio |
| Occupations | Actor, Film Producer |
| Years Active | 1963-present |
| Notable Works | Mean Streets, The Godfather Part II, Raging Bull, Goodfellas, The Irishman, and more |
| Collaborations | Martin Scorsese |
| Awards | 2 Academy Awards, Golden Globe Award, Cecil B. DeMille Award, SAG Life Achievement Award |
| Spouses | Diahnne Abbott (m. 1976; div. 1988), Grace Hightower (m. 1997; sep. 2018) |
| Children | 7, including Drena and Raphael |
| Parents | Robert De Niro Sr., Virginia Admiral |
Robert Anthony De Niro Jr. is a well-known American actor and producer. He was born in the United States on August 17, 1943.
He has won several prestigious awards, including two Oscars, a Golden Globe, the Cecil B. DeMille Award, and a Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award.
In 2009, De Niro was awarded the Kennedy Center Honor, and in 2016, he was presented with the Presidential Medal of Freedom by Barack Obama, the President of the United States.
In addition, the Screen Actors Guild bestowed its Life Achievement Award on him, making him its 56th winner.
If you’re a fan of Robert De Niro, check out our list of famous actors of the ’90s for more iconic names. From Tom Cruise to Will Smith, this list has it all.
2. John Lemon
| John Lemon | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | John Uhler Lemmon III |
| Born | February 8, 1925 |
| Birthplace | Newton, Massachusetts, U.S. |
| Died | June 27, 2001 (aged 76) |
| Resting Place | Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Years Active | 1949–2001 |
| Notable Work | Mister Roberts, Some Like It Hot, The Apartment, |
| Awards | 2 Academy Awards, 6 Golden Globe Awards, |
| Collaboration | Long-running partnership with Walter Matthau, |
| Broadway | Tony Award nominations for Tribute and |
| Early Life | Born in Newton, Massachusetts; raised Catholic; |
| Film Debut | The Lady Takes a Sailor |
| Billy Wilder | Collaborated on Some Like It Hot, The Apartment, |
| Collaboration | Irma la Douce |
| Days of Wine and | Nominated for Best Actor Oscar; produced film |
| Roses | through Jalem production company |
| Walter Matthau | Collaborated on The Odd Couple, The Front Page, |
| Collaboration | Buddy Buddy, and more |
| Directing | Directed the film Kotch |
He was born John Uhler Lemmon III on February 8, 1925, and died on June 27, 2001.
His star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame was unveiled in 1960. Lemmon received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Screen Actors Guild.
In 1986, the “Career Achievement” award was given to Jack Lemmon by the United States National Board of Review of Motion Pictures. In March 1988, when his career in the film business had already spanned two years, he was honored with the American Film Institute’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
Lemmon received the inaugural Harvard Arts Medal in 1995. At the 46th Berlin International Film Festival in 1996, Lemmon was given an Honorary Golden Bear for his work.
3. Henry Fonda
| Henry Fonda | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Henry Fonda |
| Birthdate | May 16, 1905 |
| Birthplace | Grand Island, Nebraska, U.S. |
| Alma Mater | University of Minnesota |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Years Active | 1928–1981 |
| Political Party | Democratic |
| Spouses | Margaret Sullavan |
| Children | 3, including Jane and Peter |
| Broadway Success | Established himself as a notable Broadway actor |
| Hollywood Breakthrough | Made successful Hollywood film debut in 1935 |
| Career Milestones | Notable performances in Jezebel, Jesse James, and Young Mr. Lincoln |
| Later Career | Memorable roles in Once Upon a Time in the West and On Golden Pond |
| Family Legacy | Patriarch of a family of actors, including Jane Fonda, Peter Fonda, and Bridget Fonda |
| American Film Institute | Named the sixth-Greatest Male Screen Legend of the Classic Hollywood Era |
Henry Jaynes Fonda was an American film and stage actor, born on May 16, 1905, and passed away on August 12, 1982. He had a career that lasted five decades on Broadway and in Hollywood. Fonda passed away in 1982.
In 1940, he was nominated for an Academy Award in the Best Actor category. He received the BAFTA for Best Foreign Actor in 1957.
He received the Academy Award for Best Actor at the 54th Annual Academy Awards ceremony in 1981.
He was ranked by the American Film Institute as the sixth-greatest male screen legend of the Golden Age of Hollywood in 1999.
4. Arnold Schwarzenegger
| Arnold Alois Schwarzenegger | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Arnold Alois Schwarzenegger |
| Birthdate | July 30, 1947 |
| Birthplace | Thal, Styria, Austria |
| Citizenship | Austria, United States |
| Occupation | Actor, Businessman, Filmmaker, Politician, Retired Professional Bodybuilder |
| Known For | High-profile action movie roles, 38th Governor of California, Bodybuilding Achievements |
| Awards and Recognition | Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world |
| Bodybuilding Career | Mr. Universe title at age 20, Mr. Olympia title seven times, regarded as one of the greatest bodybuilders |
| Film Career | Breakthrough role in “Conan the Barbarian,” “Terminator” series, successful action and comedy films |
| Political Career | Chairman of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, Governor of California |
| Nicknames | “Austrian Oak,” “Arnie,” “Schwarzy,” “The Governator” |
| Family and Personal Life | Former spouse: Maria Shriver, Children: 5, including Katherine, Patrick, and Joseph Baena |
Arnold Alois Schwarzenegger is a politician, actor, film producer, businessman, and former bodybuilder born in Austria on July 30, 1947. He is of American and Austrian descent.
Between 2003 and 2011, he was California’s 38th governor and presided over the state.
He is the most recent Republican to hold the position of Governor of California as of the year 2022.
In both 2004 and 2007, Schwarzenegger was recognized by Time magazine as one of the 100 most influential people in the world.
He was also inducted into the International Sports Hall of Fame and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
If you’re wondering about Arnold Schwarzenegger’s actual height, you’re not alone. Despite being a well-known and beloved actor, people have speculated about his height for years. Discover the truth about his height and how he compares to other Hollywood actors.
5. Eddie Murphy
| Eddie Murphy | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Eddie Murphy |
| Birth Name | Edward Regan Murphy |
| Born | April 3, 1961 |
| Birthplace | New York City, U.S. |
| Medium | Stand-up, film, television, music |
| Years Active | 1976–present |
| Genres | Observational comedy, musical comedy, blue comedy, black comedy, insult comedy, sketch comedy, racial humor, satire |
| Subject(s) | African-American culture, race relations, racism, marriage, sex, everyday life, pop culture |
| Spouse | Nicole Mitchell |
| Partner(s) | Melanie Brown, Tracey Edmonds, Paige Butcher |
| Children | 10 |
| Relative(s) | Charlie Murphy (brother) |
| Musical Career | R&B, funk, synth-pop, comedy |
| Instruments | Vocals |
| Labels | Sony BMG, CBS, Columbia, Motown |
| Musical Artist | Eddie Murphy |
Edward Regan Murphy is a well-known American actor, comedian, writer, producer, and singer. He was born on April 3, 1961, in the United States.
Comedy Central lists the 100 best stand-up comedians of all time. Murphy is number ten on that list.
In 2007, Murphy was nominated for an Academy Award and won the Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor. He also won the Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor.
His movies earned him the Performing Arts Award in 2015 and propelled him to the sixth spot on the list of most grossing actors in the United States.
In 2020, he was awarded the Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series, his first Emmy ever.
6. Tom Cruise
| Tom Cruise | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tom Cruise |
| Born | July 3, 1962 |
| Birthplace | Syracuse, New York, U.S. |
| Occupations | Actor, producer |
| Years Active | 1981–present |
| Spouses | Mimi Rogers, Nicole Kidman, Katie Holmes |
| Children | 3 |
| Relatives | William Mapother (cousin) |
| Awards | Honorary Palme d’Or, 3 Golden Globe Awards |
| Films Grossed | Over $4 billion in North America, |
| Notable Roles | Risky Business, Top Gun, Rain Man, |
| Stunt Performer | Known for performing own risky stunts |
| Philanthropy | Active supporter of the Church of Scientology, |
Tom Cruise is an American actor and producer. His real name is Thomas Cruise Mapother IV, although he is known professionally as Tom Cruise. He was born on July 3, 1962.
He is one of the best-paid artists in the world and has won many awards for his work. As a result of the nearly $4 billion in North America and over $11.1 billion in global revenue that his films have generated, he is one of the highest-grossing box office stars in the history of the industry.
Cruise’s work earned him the Golden Globe Award and a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actor.
Both the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor and his second nomination for an Academy Award came to him for his performance in the latter film.
In 1999, he won another Golden Globe Award and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
If you are curious about how tall Tom Cruise is, check out our article on Tom Cruise height, where we reveal this Hollywood star’s true height and discuss how his height has impacted his career in the film industry.
7. Morgan Freeman
| Morgan Freeman | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Morgan Porterfield Freeman Jr. |
| Born | June 1, 1937 |
| Birthplace | Memphis, Tennessee, U.S. |
| Education | Broad Street High School |
| Occupations | Actor, Producer, Narrator |
| Years Active | 1964–present |
| Organization | Revelations Entertainment |
| Spouses | Jeanette Adair Bradshaw (1967-1979) Myrna Colley-Lee (1984-2010) |
| Children | 4 |
| Voice Sample | Morgan Freeman’s voice from BBC Radio 4’s The Film Programme, September 12, 2008 |
Morgan Freeman is an American actor, director, and narrator. He was born on June 1, 1937, in the United States.
He is recognized for his uniquely low voice and the many parts he has played in a diverse range of film genres.
In 1989, the actor received his initial nomination for an Academy Award in the Best Actor category.
The Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor went to Morgan Freeman for his work in Clint Eastwood’s sports drama “Million Dollar Baby,” which came out in 2004.
In 2009, he was nominated for an Academy Award for his performance as former President of South Africa Nelson Mandela in Clint Eastwood’s film Invictus.
8. Robin Williams
| Robin Williams | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Robin McLaurin Williams |
| Birthdate | July 21, 1951 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Actor, Comedian |
| Known For | Improvisational skills, versatile characters, comedic genius |
| Notable Roles | Mork (Mork & Mindy), Adrian Cronauer (Good Morning, Vietnam), Sean Maguire (Good Will Hunting) |
| Notable Films | Good Morning, Vietnam, Dead Poets Society, Mrs. Doubtfire, Good Will Hunting, Aladdin, Jumanji |
| Awards | Academy Award, Primetime Emmy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, Screen Actors Guild Awards, Grammy Awards |
| Education | Claremont McKenna College, College of Marin, Juilliard School |
| Legacy | Regarded as one of the greatest comedians of all time, versatile and beloved actor |
| Death | August 11, 2014, at the age of 63, due to suicide |
| Health Condition | Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and experienced depression, anxiety, and Lewy body dementia |
Robin McLaurin Williams was an American actor and comedian. He was born on July 21, 1951, and passed away on August 11, 2014.
One of the reasons why Williams is known as one of the best comedians of all time is his ability to make things up on the spot.
Williams won many awards during his career, including the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
Additionally, he was the recipient of six Golden Globe Awards, one of which was Best Actor in a Motion Picture Musical or Comedy.
He also won five Grammy Awards, two Screen Actors Guild Awards, and two Primetime Emmy Awards.
If you want to learn more about Robin Williams’ comedic skills, check out our article on the funniest stand-up comedians. This list includes some of the greatest comedians of all time, making it the perfect place to start if you’re interested in exploring the world of comedy.
9. Danny Glover
| Danny Glover | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Danny Lebern Glover |
| Born | July 22, 1946 (age 76) |
| Birthplace | San Francisco, California, U.S. |
| Occupations | Actor, film director, political activist |
| Known for | Roger Murtaugh in the Lethal Weapon film series |
| Spouses | Asake Bomani (m. 1975; div. 2000), Eliane Cavalleiro (m. 2009; div. 2022) |
| Children | 1 |
| Leading Roles | The Color Purple, To Sleep with Anger, Predator 2, Angels in the Outfield, Operation Dumbo Drop |
| Prominent Supportive Roles | Silverado, Witness, A Rage in Harlem, Dreamgirls, Shooter, Death at a Funeral, Beyond the Lights, Saw, Sorry to Bother You, The Last Black Man in San Francisco, The Dead Don’t Die, Lonesome Dove, Jumanji: The Next Level |
| Accolades | Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, NAACP’s President’s Award, Cuban National Medal of Friendship, Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame induction |
| Nominations | 4 Primetime Emmy Awards, 4 Grammy Awards, Daytime Emmy Award |
| Notable Projects | Toussaint Louverture (directorial debut), The Exonerated, The People Speak, 2012, Sorry to Bother You |
| Political Activism | Active supporter of various political causes |
| Education | Attended San Francisco State University, trained at the Black Actors’ Workshop of the American Conservatory Theater, Presidential Medal of San Francisco State University |
| Organizations | Co-founded the Robey Theatre Company with actor Ben Guillory |
| Philanthropy | Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award recipient, advocate for social change through the arts |
| Personal Life | Married Asake Bomani (divorced 2000), married Eliane Cavalleiro (divorced 2022), father of one |
| Residence | Previously owned a house in Dunthorpe, Oregon |
| Activism | Active involvement in civil rights movements during college years |
| Arrest | Arrested during a protest in Maryland in 2010 |
Danny Lebern Glover is an American actor, film director, and political activist. He was born on July 22, 1946.
On September 7, 2011, he was also the beneficiary of a homage presented to him by the Deauville American Film Festival, which is held in France.
In 2022, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences gave Glover the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award as a thank you for his work in the humanitarian field.
He has also been nominated for four Grammy Awards, one Daytime Emmy Award, and four Primetime Emmy Awards.
10. Harrison Ford
| Harrison Ford | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Harrison Ford |
| Birthdate | July 13, 1942 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Years active | 1964–present |
| Spouses | Mary Marquardt (1964-1979) |
| Children | 5 |
| Grossing Record | Films grossed over $5.4 billion in North America |
| Cultural Icon | Regarded as an American cultural icon |
| Franchise Success | Starred as Han Solo in Star Wars and Indiana Jones |
| Academy Recognition | Received an Academy Award nomination |
| Environmental Activist | Vice Chair of Conservation International since 1991 |
| Television Series | Starred in Paramount+ series 1923 and Apple TV+ |
| Other Interests | Licensed pilot, involved in rescue missions, |
Harrison Ford is a well-known American actor born on July 13, 1942.
As a result of the more than $5.4 billion in revenue that his films have generated in North America and more than $9.3 billion in revenue that they have generated internationally, he is the seventh-highest earning actor in North America.
In 1986, he was nominated for Best Actor at the 58th Academy Awards for his work in the film Witness. He was also recognized for this role with nods for Best Actor at the Golden Globe Awards and the BAFTA Awards.
The American Film Institute gave him the AFI Life Achievement Award in 2000 in recognition of his extensive achievements in the film industry.
At the 59th Annual Golden Globe Awards in 2002, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association presented him with the Cecil B. DeMille Award, regarded as one of the most prestigious awards for career achievement.
Ford was honored with the award of a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on May 30, 2003.
11. Al Pacino
| Al Pacino | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Al Pacino |
| Birthdate | April 25, 1940 |
| Birthplace | Manhattan, New York City, New York, U.S. |
| Alma Mater | HB Studio, Actors Studio |
| Occupations | Actor, film director |
| Years Active | 1967–present |
| Partners | Jill Clayburgh, Tuesday Weld, Marthe Keller, Kathleen Quinlan, Lyndall Hobbs, Beverly D’Angelo, Lucila Polak, Noor Alfallah |
| Children | 4 |
| Awards | Academy Award, two Tony Awards, two Primetime Emmy Awards, Cecil B. DeMille Award, AFI Life Achievement Award, National Medal of Arts, Kennedy Center Honors |
Alfredo James Pacino is a well-known American actor born on April 25, 1940.
In addition, he is the recipient of the National Medal of Arts, the AFI Life Achievement Award, and the Cecil B. DeMille Award for his contributions to the film industry.
Throughout his career as an actor, Pacino has been nominated for and awarded many accolades, including one Oscar, nine Golden Globe nominations, and four BAFTA nominations.
He achieved two Primetime Emmy Awards for his work on television and two Tony Awards for his work on stage.
Pacino received a lifetime achievement award from the American Film Institute in 2007.
In 2003, audiences of British television picked Pacino as the best film star of all time in a survey for Channel 4.
If you’re wondering how tall the legendary Al Pacino is, check out our article on Al Pacino’s height. Known for his iconic roles in movies like “The Godfather” and “Scarface,” the height of this American actor may surprise you.
12. Anthony Hopkins
| Anthony Hopkins | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sir Philip Anthony Hopkins CBE |
| Birthdate | December 31, 1937 |
| Birthplace | Port Talbot, Glamorgan, Wales |
| Citizenship | United Kingdom, United States |
| Alma Mater | Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama Royal Academy of Dramatic Art |
| Occupations | Actor, Director, Producer |
| Years Active | 1960–present |
| Notable Awards | Two Academy Awards Four BAFTA Awards Two Primetime Emmy Awards Olivier Award Cecil B. DeMille Award BAFTA Fellowship |
| Knighted | Yes (1993) |
| Training | Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama Royal Academy of Dramatic Art |
| Notable Stage Plays | King Lear, Coriolanus, Macbeth, Antony and Cleopatra, Pravda, M. Butterfly |
| Notable Films | The Lion in Winter, A Bridge Too Far, The Elephant Man, The Silence of the Lambs, The Father, The Remains of the Day, Nixon, Amistad, The Two Popes, Thor franchise |
| Television | War and Peace, The Lindbergh Kidnapping Case, The Bunker, The Dresser, King Lear, Westworld |
| Early Life | Born in Port Talbot, Wales Disciple of Richard Burton |
| Quote | “Remember: nerves are vanity – you’re wondering what people think of you; to hell with them, just jump off the edge.” |
Born on the 31st of December 1937, Sir Philip Anthony Hopkins CBE is a Welsh actor, director, and producer. He has a CBE.
Hopkins is one of Britain’s most well-known and prolific performers; he has a reputation for his work both on the stage and in film and television.
He was honored with the British Academy Television Award for Best Actor in 1973 for his work in the television adaptation of the novel War and Peace.
In 1991, he was honored with the Academy Award for Best Actor, and the following year, he was nominated for four other Academy Awards.
In 2018, he was nominated for the Primetime Emmy Award in the category of Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series.
In 2020, he will be the oldest Oscar winner for Best Actor ever awarded.
13. Jeff Bridges
| Jeff Bridges | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jeff Bridges |
| Birthdate | December 4, 1949 (age 73) |
| Birthplace | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Occupations | Actor, Film Producer, Singer |
| Years Active | 1951–present |
| Spouse | Susan Geston |
| Children | 3 |
| Parent(s) | Lloyd Bridges, Dorothy Bridges |
| Family | Beau Bridges (brother), Jordan Bridges (nephew) |
| Awards | Academy Award, Golden Globe Awards, Screen Actors Guild Award, Cecil B. DeMille Award, Critics Choice Lifetime Achievement Award |
| Notable Films | Crazy Heart, The Last Picture Show, Starman, True Grit, The Big Lebowski |
| Television Series | Sea Hunt, The Lloyd Bridges Show, The Old Man |
| Military Career | United States Coast Guard |
| Rank | Petty Officer Second Class |
| Music Career | Released Albums: Be Here Soon, Jeff Bridges, Sleeping Tapes |
Jeffrey Leon Bridges is a well-known actor born in the United States on December 4, 1949.
He was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor the following year, 1971.
His work in the 1974 picture Thunderbolt and Lightfoot, in which he co-starred with Clint Eastwood, earned him another nomination for the category of Best Supporting Actor.
In 1976, he played Jack Prescott, the protagonist, in the first remake of King Kong. The film was a commercial success, grossing $90 million worldwide, which was more than quadruple its budget of $23 million, and it also won an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects.
In 2019, he was honored with the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the Golden Globes.
If you’re a fan of Jeff Bridges, check out our list of 50 Most Influential Celebrity Beards of All Time. While Bridges is only one of many famous faces on the list, his iconic beard has become a staple of his rugged, masculine image. See who else made the cut and find some inspiration for your own facial hair style.
14. Kevin Costner
| Kevin Costner | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kevin Michael Costner |
| Birthdate | January 18, 1955 |
| Birthplace | Lynwood, California, U.S. |
| Alma Mater | California State University, Fullerton (BA) |
| Occupations | Actor, Producer, Film Director, Musician |
| Years Active | 1978–present |
| Notable Films | The Untouchables, Bull Durham, Field of Dreams, |
| Television | Hatfields & McCoys, Yellowstone |
| Spouses | Cindy Silva, Christine Baumgartner |
| Children | 7 |
| Awards | Academy Awards: 2, Golden Globe Awards: 3, |
Kevin Michael Costner is an American actor, producer, film director, and musician. He was born on January 18, 1955, in the United States.
The Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie went to Kevin Costner, who earned the award for his work on television.
1992 The American Academy of Achievement presented him with their Golden Plate Award, which he received.
In 2018, he was recognized with a nomination for a Screen Actors Guild Award.
2003, Kevin Costner received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
15. Denzel Washington
| Denzel Washington | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Denzel Hayes Washington Jr. |
| Birthdate | December 28, 1954 |
| Birthplace | Mount Vernon, New York, U.S. |
| Education | Fordham University (BA), American Conservatory Theater |
| Occupations | Actor, Producer, Director |
| Years Active | 1975–present |
| Spouse | Pauletta Pearson (m. 1983) |
| Children | 4, including John David |
| Awards | Academy Awards (2), Golden Globe Awards (3), Tony Award (1) |
| Honors | Presidential Medal of Freedom (2022) |
| Notable Achievements | Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award (2016), Named the greatest actor of the 21st century by The New York Times (2020) |
| Famous Roles | Dr. Phillip Chandler in “St. Elsewhere,” Private Silas Trip in “Glory,” Malcolm X in “Malcolm X,” Alonzo Harris in “Training Day” |
| Major Films | “Glory,” “Malcolm X,” “Training Day,” “The Hurricane,” “Remember the Titans,” “Man on Fire,” “American Gangster,” “Flight,” “Fences” |
| Other Works | Directed and starred in “Antwone Fisher,” directed “The Great Debaters,” directed and produced “Fences” |
| Early Life | Attended Fordham University, played collegiate basketball, performed in theater productions including “The Emperor Jones” and “Othello” |
| Notable Quote | “Do what you have to do, to do what you want to do.” |
Denzel Hayes Washington Jr. is a well-known American actor, director, and producer. He was born on December 28, 1954, in the United States.
The “concept of classic movie renown” is supposed to have been rethought in light of his acting performance.
He won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for the first time in 1989; then, he went on to win the Academy Award for Best Actor in 2001.
In 2010, he was honored with the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Drama for his performance in the Broadway revival of the play Fences, written by August Wilson.
In the early spring of 2010, Washington was presented with the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play, which he went on to win.
Washington is one of just five male performers who have been nominated for an Academy Award in the five decades since the award’s inception.
You might want to know about the 50 Most Attractive Black Actors In The World, including Denzel Washington. With his remarkable acting talent and attractive looks, he’s definitely one of the top on the list.
16. Ben Kingsley
| Ben Kingsley | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ben Kingsley |
| Birthdate | December 31, 1943 |
| Birthplace | Snainton, North Riding of Yorkshire, England |
| Occupation | English actor |
| Awards | Academy Award, BAFTA Award, Grammy Award, Golden Globe Awards, Britannia Award |
| Honors | Knight Bachelor (2002), Hollywood Walk of Fame star (2010) |
| Career Highlights | Starring roles in “Gandhi” (1982) and “Schindler’s List” (1993) |
| Notable Films | “Gandhi” (1982), “Schindler’s List” (1993), “Sexy Beast” (2000), “House of Sand and Fog” (2003), “Hugo” (2011) |
| Marvel Cinematic Universe Roles | Trevor Slattery in “Iron Man 3” (2013), Mazer Rackham in “Ender’s Game” (2013) |
| Other Achievements | Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album, Worldwide Contribution to Filmed Entertainment Award |
| Spouses | Angela Morant, Alison Sutcliffe, Alexandra Christmann, Daniela Lavender |
| Children | 4, including Ferdinand Kingsley |
Born on the 31st of December 1943, Sir Ben Kingsley is a well-known English actor whose career spans over half a century.
After that, he went on to win the Academy Award for Best Actor in 1982 and the BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role the same year.
In 1993, he was also considered for the BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role, for which he got a nomination.
In recognition of his contributions to the film business in the United Kingdom, Kingsley was made a Knight Bachelor in 2002.
A star was placed in his honor on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2010.
He was honored with the Britannia Award for Worldwide Contribution to Filmed Entertainment the following year, 2013.
17. John Malkovich
| John Malkovich | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | John Malkovich |
| Birthdate | December 9, 1953 (age 69) |
| Birthplace | Christopher, Illinois, U.S. |
| Occupation | Actor, filmmaker, theatre director, fashion designer |
| Years Active | 1976–present |
| Spouse | Glenne Headly (m. 1982; div. 1988) |
| Partner | Nicoletta Peyran (1989–present) |
| Children | 2 |
| Accolades | Primetime Emmy Award, Academy Award nominations, BAFTA Award, SAG Awards, Golden Globe Awards |
| Notable Film Roles | “Dangerous Liaisons” (1988), “Being John Malkovich” (1999), “Burn After Reading” (2008), “Red” (2010) |
| Theatre Work | Charter member of Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Broadway debut in “Death of a Salesman” revival (1984) |
| Television Work | Primetime Emmy Award for “Death of a Salesman” (1985), “RKO 281” (1999), “Napoléon” (2002) |
| Fashion Endeavors | Founder of fashion company “Mrs. Mudd,” designed menswear collections |
John Malkovich is a well-known American actor born on December 9th, 1953.
In 1980, he appeared in a production of the play True West by Sam Shepard at Steppenwolf, for which he was awarded an Obie Award.
When the play was adapted for television, Malkovich received an Emmy Award for his performance in this role in early 1982.
In 1984, Malkovich was considered for the Academy Award in the category of Best Supporting Actor for the first time.
18. Willem Dafoe
| Willem Dafoe | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Willem Dafoe |
| Birthdate | July 22, 1955 |
| Birthplace | Appleton, Wisconsin, U.S. |
| Citizenship | United States, Italy |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Years active | 1975–present |
| Spouse | Giada Colagrande |
| Partner | Elizabeth LeCompte |
| Children | 1 |
| Notable Films | Platoon, The Last Temptation of Christ, Mississippi Burning, Shadow of the Vampire, The Florida Project, At Eternity’s Gate |
| Collaborations | Paul Schrader, Abel Ferrara, Lars von Trier, Julian Schnabel, Wes Anderson, Robert Eggers |
Willem James Dafoe is a well-known American actor born on July 22, 1955.
In 1985, he was nominated for the Academy Award for the first time, and in 2000, he was nominated for the Academy Award for the second time (as Best Supporting Actor).
In 2019, he was nominated for an Academy Award in the Best Actor category, marking his debut.
In addition to being nominated for four Screen Actors Guild Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, and one British Academy Film Award, he has won several honors and awards, including the Volpi Cup for Best Actor.
Willem Dafoe’s unique look and captivating performances have made him one of the most respected actors in the industry. Check out our list of celebrities with big noses, where Dafoe’s striking facial feature puts him in good company with other famous personalities.
19. Steve Martin
| Steve Martin | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Steve Martin |
| Birth Name | Stephen Glenn Martin |
| Born | August 14, 1945 |
| Birthplace | Waco, Texas, U.S. |
| Medium | Stand-up, film, television, music, books |
| Education | Santa Ana College, California State University, Long Beach, University of California, Los Angeles |
| Years Active | 1966–present |
| Genres | Improvisational comedy, musical comedy, physical comedy, sketch comedy, word play, satire |
| Spouse | Victoria Tennant, Anne Stringfield |
| Children | 1 |
| Musical Career | Bluegrass, folk revival, pop, country, musical comedy |
| Instrument(s) | Banjo, vocals |
| Labels | Rounder, Warner Bros. |
Stephen Glenn Martin is a well-known American actor, comedian, writer, producer, and musician. He was born on August 14, 1945, in the United States.
He is the recipient of an Honorary Academy Award, in addition to his five Grammy Awards and Primetime Emmy Award, which he got in 2013.
Additionally, in 2016, he was considered for two Tony Awards nominations for the music he created, Bright Star.
The Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, the Kennedy Center Honors, and an AFI Life Achievement Award are just a few of his many accolades over his career.
In 2004, Martin was number six on a list of the 100 best stand-up comedians compiled by Comedy Central.
According to The Guardian, he is one of the finest performers in history who has never been nominated for an Academy Award.
20. Sylvester Stallone
| Sylvester Stallone | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sylvester Stallone |
| Birthdate | July 6, 1946 |
| Birthplace | Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan, New York City, U.S. |
| Other Names | “Sly” Stallone, Sylvester Gardenzio Stallone |
| Alma Mater | Miami Dade College, University of Miami (BFA) |
| Occupations | Actor, Filmmaker |
| Years Active | 1968–present |
| Spouses | Sasha Czack (m. 1974; div. 1985), Brigitte Nielsen (m. 1985; div. 1987), Jennifer Flavin (m. 1997) |
| Children | 5 (including Sage and Sistine Stallone) |
| Parents | Frank Stallone Sr. (Father), Jackie Stallone (Mother) |
| Relatives | Frank Stallone (Brother) |
| Education | Notre Dame Academy, Abraham Lincoln High School, Charlotte Hall Military Academy, Miami Dade College, |
| Notable Achievements | – Critical and commercial success as an actor and screenwriter, starting with the Rocky series |
| Legacy | – Only actor in American cinema history to have starred in a box-office number-one film across six decades |
Michael Sylvester Gardenzio Stallone, known professionally as Sylvester Enzio Stallone, is an American actor and director. He was born on July 6, 1946.
In 1977, Sylvester Stallone became just the third actor in the history of motion pictures to be considered for two Academy Award nominations, one for Best Original Screenplay and one for Best Actor.
A monument of his fictional Rocky is on display in Philadelphia, not far from where he was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
On the Hollywood Walk of Fame, he was presented with a star in 1984.
In 2016, the Board of Governors of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center presented Sylvester Stallone with the Heart of Hollywood Award. Stallone is a longtime supporter of the hospital.