Hard work truly yields rewards. Take a look at how many of today’s Hollywood stars started with minor roles and worked their way up to major parts in blockbuster films. With just a few years of perseverance, these actors went from brief appearances to leading roles, captivating audiences with unforgettable performances. Now, they’re not only living the dream, but they’re also playing both fictional and real-life characters that entertain us daily.
Every star begins their journey somewhere, and for a select few, it’s a combination of luck and relentless determination that propels them to fame. But what did these household names look like at the start of their cinematic careers? We’re diving into the early days of some of our favorite actors and actresses, specifically focusing on their very first appearance on the silver screen.
Carrie Fisher: Shampoo
Carrie Fisher, born to Hollywood legends, first made her mark on Broadway in the 1973 revival of the musical Irene, starring alongside her mother, Debbie Reynolds. At just 17, she made her film debut two years later in a comedic role as Lorna Karpf in Shampoo. However, it was her portrayal of the daughter of a Sith Lord that catapulted her to universal fame.
In interviews, Fisher displayed the same sharp wit and vibrant personality as Princess Leia. It was often hard to distinguish whether she was acting or just being her authentic self. She continues to be an iconic figure, one we fall in love with over and over again.
Matt Damon: Mystic Pizza
Matt Damon made his first appearance in the 1988 romantic comedy Mystic Pizza, where he played a small role. His true breakthrough came nearly a decade later when director Francis Ford Coppola cast him in The Rainmaker, where he portrayed an insurance investigator taking on a powerful law firm. That same year, his co-written role in Good Will Hunting made him a household name.
Damon later became known for his portrayal of an undercover agent in the Bourne series and recently starred as Carroll Shelby in Ford v Ferrari, where he helped design the famous GT-40 car that played a crucial role in the 1966 Le Mans race. The car is now expected to fetch 12 million dollars at auction.
Ryan Reynolds: Ordinary Magic
If it were anyone else making snarky and sarcastic remarks, the internet would be in an uproar. But Ryan Reynolds has somehow earned the public’s affection, perhaps because of his undeniable charm. He first gained attention as part of the TV series Fifteen, before making his film debut in the Canadian drama Ordinary Magic.
Today, Reynolds is a household name, largely due to his darkly comedic portrayal of Deadpool in the Deadpool films, where his humor and powers simultaneously leave us laughing and in awe. His marriage to actress Blake Lively has also captured public interest, often regarded as one of Hollywood’s most adored couples.
Alan Rickman: Die Hard
Alan Rickman was often typecast as a villain, and his big-screen debut as the ruthless antagonist in Die Hard in 1988 is one of his most memorable roles. He was 41 at the time, showing that it’s never too late to make your mark in Hollywood.
Beyond his role as Severus Snape in the Harry Potter series, Rickman portrayed a range of iconic characters, including Rasputin and the villainous sheriff in Robin Hood. His directorial efforts, such as the Scottish drama The Winter Guest, further showcased his talent. Even in later years, his role in Eye in the Sky, which dealt with drone warfare, was met with high praise. Rickman’s passing from pancreatic cancer was a sad moment for the film world, but his legacy remains.
Bruce Willis: The First Deadly Sin
Before becoming a household name in the action-packed Die Hard, Bruce Willis was a struggling actor, with his first role being in The First Deadly Sin, although his appearance went uncredited.
Five years later, Willis secured a role in the hit TV series Moonlighting, where he beat out 3,000 other hopefuls. This role earned him three Golden Globe nominations and two Emmy nominations, setting the stage for his meteoric rise to fame.
Kate Winslet: Heavenly Creatures
When we hear the name Kate Winslet, we can’t help but picture her with long flowing hair, staring across a body of water, or as the fiery Clementine from Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. But her first major film, Heavenly Creatures, was far from the romance of Titanic.
Directed by Peter Jackson, the film explores the real-life 1950s murder committed by two teenage girls in New Zealand. Winslet has since become a more mature figure in Hollywood, candidly discussing the natural aging process and her career’s evolution.
Keanu Reeves: Youngblood
Keanu Reeves is known for his agelessness and effortless cool. But before becoming famous for playing lovable goofballs in films like Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure, he started his career as an innocent goaltender in the 1986 film Youngblood.
Following his later roles in The Matrix and other iconic action films, Keanu’s career is still going strong, with his latest portrayal of a vigilante in the John Wick series.
Tom Hanks: He Knows You’re Alone
Tom Hanks is beloved for his heartwarming and often comedic roles, such as portraying Mr. Rogers in A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood. But his first film was quite different—he starred as a psychology student in the 1980 slasher film He Knows You’re Alone.
Since then, Hanks has become known for his roles in feel-good films, his generosity, and his reputation as one of the nicest guys in Hollywood.
Clint Eastwood: Francis in the Navy
Clint Eastwood’s rugged good looks have withstood the test of time, but his first appearance on screen was in the 1950s comedy Francis in the Navy, where he played a sailor named Jonesy—although the movie’s true star was a mule.
Over six decades later, Clint Eastwood is preparing to retire from filmmaking, with his final directorial effort being the 2018 film The Mule.
Scarlett Johansson: North
Before Scarlett Johansson became a global superstar, she made her film debut at just 9 years old in the 1994 film North. Directed by Rob Reiner, the film wasn’t a critical success, but Johansson’s true breakout came when she starred in Lost in Translation at 18.
In Marriage Story, Johansson portrayed a theater actress going through a bitter divorce, and her performance earned her widespread acclaim. Her Oscar win seems closer than ever.
George Clooney: Grizzly II: Revenge
Before becoming a silver screen heartthrob, George Clooney starred in Grizzly II: Revenge, where he faced off against a massive 15-foot bear. This role marked the beginning of his film career, which would take him through decades of stardom.
Clooney’s career flourished with his iconic roles in From Dusk Till Dawn and Batman & Robin, and in recent years, he’s starred in the TV miniseries Catch-22.
Jennifer Aniston: Leprechaun
Can you believe Jennifer Aniston was only 24 when she landed her first credited movie role? We can’t help but appreciate her dark hair in this film, a far cry from her iconic blonde locks in Friends and Murder Mystery. But hey, that’s just our opinion. Which look do you prefer?
There’s likely a reason Leprechaun doesn’t come up often in conversation—it’s considered so bad, it’s become a cult classic. Aniston once recalled watching the film again with her then-boyfriend, Justin Theroux, who wouldn’t let go of the remote despite her efforts to turn it off.
Liam Neeson: Pilgrim’s Progress
Neeson made his mark with his unique set of skills, which landed him a spot on this list! The Northern Irish actor debuted in 1978, starring in an adaptation of the 17th-century religious text. Over time, he worked his way up to bigger roles and became internationally known in 1993 for his unforgettable performance in Spielberg’s Schindler’s List.
That was nearly 15 years before he reached superstardom! His perseverance paid off, and even just through his voice, he has solidified himself as one of Hollywood’s most iconic and formidable actors.
Jennifer Lawrence: Garden Party
While her signature chubby cheeks and round forehead remain, back then, Jennifer Lawrence was just a high schooler dealing with bullying. Who could have guessed this blonde would go on to become one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars, an Oscar winner, and a role model for kick-ass characters?
Just three years before landing the role of Mystique in X-Men: First Class, Jennifer made her film debut in an independent film called Garden Party. Haven’t heard of it? No worries! With her ever-growing list of accomplishments, we can only imagine what she’ll achieve next.
Hugh Jackman: Paperback Hero
Can you remember a time when we didn’t know who Hugh Jackman was? We certainly can’t! Interestingly, his first film role was as a truck driver writing romantic novels under a female pseudonym. When the book gained popularity, sparks flew between him and his friend-turned-love interest.
Since then, we’ve been enchanted by this Australian multi-talent who can act, sing, and dance. His incredible performances in Les Misérables, The Prestige, and as Wolverine have firmly cemented his status as a Hollywood legend.
Angelina Jolie: Lookin’ to Get Out
Angelina Jolie’s daughter, Shiloh, bears a striking resemblance to her in this throwback shot. At just seven years old, Jolie made her film debut in Lookin’ to Get Out, a comedy co-written by her Oscar-winning father Jon Voight. Her mother was her biggest supporter, often waiting for her during auditions.
Many years later, Jolie embraced the role of a mother both on and off-screen (as Maleficent). During her marriage to Brad Pitt, they formed one of Hollywood’s most iconic families. Beyond her film career, she has become a prominent humanitarian, advocating for women’s rights in impoverished countries and raising awareness about cancer.
Kathy Bates: Taking Off
Before Kathy Bates starred in One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest and Amadeus, she appeared in Czech director Miloš Forman’s Taking Off. She sang an original song, “Even Horses Had Wings,” earning a modest $50 for her brief appearance.
Two decades later, Bates won the Oscar for Best Actress for her haunting role in Misery. She became beloved for her portrayal of “The Unsinkable” Molly Brown in Titanic and captivated audiences with her performances in American Horror Story.
Kevin Bacon: National Lampoon’s Animal House
In his early years, Kevin Bacon had a rebellious yet prissy aura—perfect for playing the priggish ROTC cadet in National Lampoon’s Animal House. That iconic role led him to various other genres throughout his career.
He had us dancing in Footloose, left us on edge in Tremors, and pulled at our heartstrings in A Few Good Men and Apollo 13. Today, we still can’t quite figure out how many degrees of separation are between him and the rest of us.
Nicole Kidman: Bush Christmas
Nicole Kidman’s first film role was in Bush Christmas, where she starred as part of an Australian family struggling to pay off their farm’s mortgage debt. Their only hope was winning the local New Year’s race, but when their horse is stolen, they come up with creative ways to retrieve it.
Since then, Kidman’s career has skyrocketed, from smaller Australian productions to major films like Moulin Rouge!. Decades after her Oscar win for The Hours, she continues to deliver unforgettable performances.
Robert Downey Jr.: Pound
Robert Downey Jr. was practically destined for stardom, with his father casting him in films before he was even potty-trained. His 1970 film Pound marked the beginning of a career that has seen him bring his unique brand of nonchalant egocentrism to iconic roles in Sherlock Holmes, Iron Man, and Tropic Thunder.
Downey Jr. has a knack for making brutal honesty look effortlessly cool. Whether playing a detective, a superhero, or a soldier, his unique style has made him a force to be reckoned with on-screen.
Jennifer Lopez: My Little Girl
Before dazzling us in Selena, Jennifer Lopez was just 16 years old when she played Myra in My Little Girl. While it was a minor role, Lopez was already pursuing multiple talents, such as being a backup dancer—a skill that would later serve her well as she hired backup dancers for her own performances.
Her versatility shone through in Hustlers, where she portrayed a member of a group of exotic dancers pulling off a scam. In the film, it’s clear who’s in charge—even when the characters are performing, they know exactly how to control the men around them.
Anthony Hopkins: The Lion in Winter
In his first major role, Welsh actor Anthony Hopkins played the aspiring king, Henry II, in the 1968 film The Lion in Winter. His character’s dilemma centered on deciding who should succeed him to the throne, with his wife (played by Katharine Hepburn, who won an Oscar for the role) preferring Hopkins’ character over their own son.
Fifty years later, Hopkins continues to captivate audiences in a variety of roles, from historical figures to fictional characters. Whether in a priest’s robes or playing a leader of the church, his performances are endlessly compelling.
Julia Roberts: Firehouse
You’ll have to be quick to catch her. Julia Roberts’ role in Firehouse is so subtle that you might blink and miss it. And let’s be real, a star like her from Pretty Woman is far from being unnoticeable! This uncredited appearance came just a few years before she broke out in Mystic Pizza.
At 23, she had already caught the eye of Richard Gere in Pretty Woman, playing a slim, energetic, and wild-haired woman. Decades later, after winning an Oscar, she portrayed a hopeful mother in 2018’s Ben is Back, where her character grapples with denial over her son’s rehab return, and the tension is palpable.
Brad Pitt: The Dark Side of the Sun
Though not officially his first film, this obscure movie is one of the rarest to find. Filmed in 1988, Brad Pitt stars in The Dark Side of the Sun, a film about a man traveling to Yugoslavia to seek a cure for his skin condition. Unfortunately, it went straight to video and remained unreleased for nearly a decade.
Despite his appearances on TV’s Dallas and minor roles as an extra, his looks went unnoticed until Thelma & Louise, and the rest, as they say, is history. Brad Pitt has since earned his place in Hollywood royalty, with acting chops that earned him an Oscar, with his dashing looks being a mere bonus!
Johnny Depp: A Nightmare On Elm Street
Watching this cult classic slasher from the ’80s, you wouldn’t guess it was Johnny Depp’s first appearance on screen. You’d also probably think he was a terrible boyfriend. His character, in the movie, is far from heroic, despite his girlfriend Nancy coming up with ideas to survive Freddy Krueger. Even though Depp’s character can be unlikeable, you root for him to survive.
Depp, Hollywood’s beloved antihero, dominated 1990s box offices in films like Cry-Baby, Edward Scissorhands, and What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, before landing the iconic role of Captain Jack Sparrow in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. Lately, his roles have turned darker and more politically charged.
Kerry Washington: Our Song
At 23, Kerry Washington starred in Our Song, alongside three other actresses, portraying the lives of high school girls during a summer in Brooklyn. More than a decade later, she became iconic as she played a counselor who falls for the president in Scandal.
In recent years, she starred in American Son (2019), a gripping film about a couple searching for their missing son amid racial tensions. She also showcased her quirky side in the Netflix musical The Prom (2020), starring alongside Meryl Streep and Nicole Kidman. Washington is proving that her versatility knows no bounds.
Leonardo DiCaprio: Critters 3
As a young teenager, Leonardo DiCaprio faced off against alien creatures in Critters 3, a straight-to-video flop that thankfully didn’t derail his career. You might have expected him to win an Oscar for his role in What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, but it took until 2015’s The Revenant for him to secure that golden statue.
There were plenty of other roles where DiCaprio should have been awarded, like his work in Blood Diamond. Nonetheless, we were thrilled when he finally won. Most recently, he captivated audiences with his portrayal of a 1960s screen star in Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.
Jamie Lee Curtis: Halloween
Jamie Lee Curtis started her career with a chilling bang, and her most recent role is no different. After her debut in Halloween, where she earned her “scream queen” title, she has continued to dominate the thriller genre. It’s no surprise, considering her mother, Janet Leigh, became legendary for her scream in Hitchcock’s Psycho.
In 2019’s Knives Out, Curtis plays a murder suspect among a family battling over the fortune of author Harlan Thrombey. She continues her scream queen legacy in Halloween sequels, and we can’t help but marvel at how she’s still pulling off all that screaming!
Ryan Gosling: Frankenstein and Me
Ryan Gosling grew up before our eyes on screen. He first appeared on The Mickey Mouse Club alongside other future superstars like Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake. Today, he’s more famous for his heart-wrenching portrayal of a stubborn, scruffy realist in The Notebook.
Gosling has since starred in various genres, from sports and indie films to musicals and even hosting Saturday Night Live. His most recent role was as astronaut Neil Armstrong in First Man (2018), a deep dive into the life of a family man and the astronaut’s journey to the moon.
Jonah Hill: I Heart Huckabees
Before becoming known for the over-the-top comedy in Superbad, Jonah Hill made his way into Hollywood with small roles that gradually grew, thanks to his collaborations with Judd Apatow. His first film appearance was in I Heart Huckabees, thanks to his connection with Dustin Hoffman’s kids.
Hill has since shed weight and transitioned into drama, though his comedic presence is still as compelling as ever. He recently returned to his comedic roots in The Beach Bum (2019) and has even started directing. The future is bright for Jonah Hill.
Brie Larson: 13 Going on 30
It’s easy to overlook Brie Larson’s role as the high school bully in 13 Going on 30, especially with Jennifer Garner in the spotlight. Before this, Larson had some television roles, some small film appearances, and a Disney Channel film. This was her first major film role.
Two decades later, Larson would win an Academy Award for her role in The Room. After taking the Marvel universe by storm, her latest project, Just Mercy, is a legal drama based on Bryan Stevenson’s bestselling memoir. Larson stars alongside Michael B. Jordan and Jamie Foxx.
Chris Evans: The Newcomers
Chris Evans was already a standout in his early years. After his debut in the educational film Biodiversity: Wild About Life, he appeared in the small-town drama The Newcomers, where his star quality was evident even then.
By the following year, Evans was flaunting his physique in Not Another Teen Movie, and soon after, he became a Marvel mainstay. His most recent role in Knives Out (2019) shows him as the rebellious grandson to a patriarch, and Evans is also venturing into Broadway.
Jason Momoa: Johnson Family Vacation
Jason Momoa’s career began with TV roles, including Baywatch: Hawaiian Wedding and Tempted in 2003. His big break came after being discovered while working in a surf shop, followed by his role in Johnson Family Vacation.
Momoa would later become the face of DC’s Aquaman, and his distinct scarred eyebrow, the result of a past altercation, only added to his appeal. His early days on Game of Thrones as Khal Drogo also helped cement his place as a major Hollywood figure.
Robert De Niro: Greetings
The uncertainty in Robert De Niro’s early roles perfectly captured the essence of his up-and-coming characters. Before becoming one of Hollywood’s legends through collaborations with Scorsese and Coppola, he starred in smaller, more satirical films like Greetings.
De Niro later transitioned into more assertive characters, with iconic roles in films like Meet The Parents, The Good Shepherd, and Goodfellas. His most recent portrayal in The Irishman as a loyal mobster shows that De Niro’s mastery of his craft has only deepened over time.
Will Smith: Where the Day Takes You
By the time Will Smith was starring in the hit TV series The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, he was already setting his sights on the big screen with the 1992 drama Where the Day Takes You. At just 24 years old, he had already juggled a successful rap career and a breakout role in a popular TV series, accomplishing what many aspire to throughout their lives.
Will’s first feature film didn’t involve action-packed explosions or enforcing the law; instead, he portrayed a runaway teen in this poignant crime drama. After decades of delivering comedic hits, heartfelt performances, and unforgettable moments of brilliance, we’re thrilled to see Will team up once again with Martin Lawrence for the action-packed Bad Boys series.
Tom Cruise: Endless Love
Tom Cruise was diagnosed with dyslexia as a child, a challenge that left him functionally illiterate throughout high school. However, his passion for acting was unwavering. To memorize his scripts, he would rely on others to read them aloud, committing them to memory by ear.
Starting off as Billy in Endless Love, Tom Cruise has come a long way to become the face of on-screen action with iconic films like Top Gun. Known for his dedication to performing his own stunts and for his versatile roles, Tom has solidified his reputation as one of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors.
Harrison Ford: A Time for Killing
The tale of Harrison Ford’s meeting with George Lucas, which happened by chance while working as a carpenter, is a legendary part of Hollywood lore. However, Ford had already built a solid foundation in acting before that, including his first credited role in the 1967 Western, A Time for Killing.
Though Ford’s screen time was limited in this film, his career skyrocketed in the following decade, particularly with his portrayal of the daring Han Solo in Star Wars. Recently, Ford returned to the franchise in the latest Star Wars films and continues to dazzle audiences in the new Indiana Jones movies.
Natalie Portman: Léon: The Professional
In Léon: The Professional, even though the central character is a hitman, it’s impossible not to feel a deep emotional connection to 13-year-old Natalie Portman’s portrayal of a young girl, desperately in love with the hitman. Her character’s emotions are raw, perhaps stemming from her unstable upbringing.
Since then, Portman has proven her prowess in various roles, including her unforgettable performances in the Star Wars prequels, her Oscar-winning role in Black Swan, and her gritty turn in V for Vendetta, with a shaved head. In 2019, she starred in Lucy in the Sky, based on one of the most bizarre true stories of American astronauts.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson: The Mummy Returns
Before making a name for himself in Hollywood, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson was already a household name in professional wrestling. His first acting appearance was as the Scorpion King in the 2001 action-adventure film, The Mummy Returns, though the movie itself hasn’t aged well.
Since then, The Rock has continued to shine, proving his comedic chops in films like Red Notice, where he stars in a high-stakes game of cat and mouse with art thieves. Let’s hope he succeeds in bringing Ryan Reynolds’ character to justice!
Meryl Streep: Julia
Can you imagine that Meryl Streep had to work her way up in Hollywood? Before landing her first major film role, Streep had a strong foundation in Broadway, where she debuted in 1975. Two years later, she starred in Julia, a film about the rise of Nazi Germany, marking her first screen role.
Since then, Streep’s career has been nothing short of legendary, from her iconic role in Little Women as Aunt March to her unmatched number of Academy Award nominations. Meryl Streep could retire today and still be remembered as one of the greatest actresses of all time, but she continues to delight audiences with her craft.
Daniel Radcliffe: The Tailor of Panama
Breaking free from the long shadow of his Harry Potter character has been a challenge for Daniel Radcliffe, yet he continues to find his way. In his first film role in The Tailor of Panama, he was easily overlooked by the audience, with Pierce Brosnan and Jamie Lee Curtis stealing the spotlight.
Since his Harry Potter days, Radcliffe has branched out into both theater and film, with his most recent project being Escape from Pretoria, a thrilling film about a real-life escape from a South African prison in the 1970s.
Emma Thompson: The Tall Guy
With both of her parents deeply involved in acting, Emma Thompson seemed destined for a career in the arts. She honed her craft, and by 1989, she was already earning acclaim, winning a BAFTA for her work in television. Her feature film debut came in the 1989 romantic comedy The Tall Guy, in which she played a London nurse who falls in love with an actor, portrayed by Jeff Goldblum.
Thompson’s talent continues to shine in her later works, including playing a concerned mother to Emilia Clarke in the 2019 holiday rom-com Last Christmas. Her impressive career and charm make her a beloved figure in the film industry.
Matthew McConaughey: Dazed and Confused
Matthew McConaughey’s iconic line, “Alright, alright, alright,” helped him land a breakout role in Dazed and Confused, but it wasn’t initially an easy road. Director Richard Linklater almost didn’t cast McConaughey because of his good looks, which the director thought might hinder the character’s authenticity. However, McConaughey won the role, making it unforgettable with his natural charisma.
McConaughey continued to impress in roles like The Wolf of Wall Street, where he performed a quirky pre-shoot ritual that ended up in the final cut, thanks to co-star Leonardo DiCaprio. McConaughey’s latest appearance is in The Gentlemen, a 2019 crime film directed by Guy Ritchie.
Cate Blanchett: Parklands
Cate Blanchett’s first role was in an Australian short film titled Parklands, where she portrayed a woman uncovering family secrets after the death of her father, including his connections to the drug trade.
Blanchett has since gone on to play some of the most iconic roles in film, including Bob Dylan, Galadriel from The Lord of the Rings, and Katharine Hepburn. Her career has spanned a vast array of characters, and her latest project takes her to Antarctica in Where’d You Go, Bernadette, as she embarks on an adventure with her daughter.
Morgan Freeman: Brubaker
Although Morgan Freeman’s career began in 1971 with a role in Who Says I Can’t Ride A Rainbow, it wasn’t until his standout performance in the 1980 film Brubaker that he became widely recognized. With his deep, resonant voice and ability to convey complex emotions, Freeman quickly established himself as one of the most respected actors in Hollywood.
Freeman, now in his eighties, continues to work and is set to appear in the upcoming comedy The Comeback Trail, alongside Robert De Niro. Fans are eagerly anticipating this dynamic pairing in a film about making a Western.
Chris Hemsworth: Star Trek Beginnings
While most stars often begin with indie films or low-budget productions, Chris Hemsworth kicked off his career in Star Trek. His early success might have been fueled by his popularity from the Australian soap opera Home and Away. Known for playing roles where he defends humanity from dangerous threats or attacks, he’s truly carved a niche for himself in heroic performances.
When you think of Chris Hemsworth, what’s the first thing that comes to mind (aside from “handsome”)? Most likely, it’s his iconic portrayal of Thor—and lucky for fans, there’s more of that coming soon! Additionally, Hemsworth is set to appear in a new Mad Max movie, so stay tuned for more exciting projects!
Cameron Diaz: The Mask Breakthrough
Known for her all-American blonde look, Cameron Diaz initially made a name for herself by gracing magazine covers. She starred as a jazz singer in the 1994 hit The Mask, a role where she charmed Jim Carrey, although her singing was dubbed by Susan Boyd. Before this film, Diaz had no acting experience, but she soon began taking acting lessons after landing the role.
Not just beautiful but also incredibly funny, Cameron Diaz has stayed grounded throughout her career. These days, she’s focusing more on family life and even announced her retirement from acting in 2018. However, we’re still hoping for a return to the big screen!
Jake Gyllenhaal: City Slickers and Beyond
At just 10 years old, Jake Gyllenhaal scored his first role in the Billy Crystal comedy City Slickers in 1991. Though his role was brief, it served as a stepping stone to his future. After staying relatively low-key for several years, Gyllenhaal’s breakthrough came with roles in October Sky, Donnie Darko, and Bubble Boy—all of which cemented his status in Hollywood.
Most recently, Gyllenhaal portrayed the villain Quentin Beck in the Spider-Man franchise. It’s hard to imagine him as a bad guy given his previous roles, but he nails the character effortlessly. From making us cry in Brokeback Mountain to playing a villain, Gyllenhaal proves his versatility.
Colin Firth: The Start of His Career in Another Country
Colin Firth’s career began with a sharp performance in the 1984 drama Another Country, where his character cheekily declares, “I don’t have to try. I am clever.” Firth’s natural talent made him a perfect fit for roles that delve into the upper echelons of British society. The film addresses themes like Marxism, espionage, and gay relationships—fascinating stuff!
After winning an Oscar for his portrayal of the Queen’s father in The King’s Speech, Colin Firth has continued to shine in films with more intrigue. In his latest role, he portrays a quirky uncle in a new adaptation of The Secret Garden.
Zooey Deschanel: Her Debut in Mumford
With her wholesome, retro pin-up girl vibe, Zooey Deschanel made her movie debut in Mumford, a full decade before she would become widely recognized for her role as the quirky, manic-pixie dream girl in (500) Days of Summer.
Deschanel’s portrayal of a whimsical woman in The New Girl was beloved by audiences for seven seasons. Her character, who moves in with a group of men, sparks hilarious and heartwarming moments throughout the series.
Aaron Paul: A Humble Beginning in Whatever It Takes
Aaron Paul first gained attention for his cameo on Beverly Hills 90210, a role he awkwardly revisited in an interview with Jay Leno. His first significant feature film appearance, however, was in Whatever It Takes, where he starred alongside James Franco and Shane West.
It’s a far cry from his breakout role in Breaking Bad, where he became known for his portrayal of Jesse Pinkman, a role that had him dealing with dangerous criminals. More recently, in 2020, Paul starred in Adam, the inspiring story of a quadriplegic.
Elijah Wood: Back to the Future Cameo
In 1989, a young Elijah Wood had two notable events in his career. First, he appeared in a Paula Abdul music video. Then, he scored a small role in the iconic sequel Back to the Future II, where he was credited simply as “video game boy.” A small start, but still a significant one.
From his early days as a child actor to his celebrated role as Frodo in Lord of the Rings, Wood’s career continues to evolve. His latest film sees him playing an entitled man spending time with his estranged father in a remote cabin, where he uncovers dark family secrets.
Emma Stone: Her Breakthrough in Superbad
Emma Stone’s first acting gig was on VH1’s reality competition for a new Partridge Family cast member. After winning, she made her movie debut in the hilarious comedy Superbad. While the series didn’t last, Emma’s acting career was just getting started.
More than a decade later, Emma’s singing career flourished when she starred in La La Land, earning her an Academy Award for Best Actress. She also starred in Zombieland, where she joined a group of survivors fighting to stay alive in a zombie apocalypse.
Reese Witherspoon: Her Start in The Man in the Moon
Reese Witherspoon’s first feature film, directed by Robert Mulligan, explored a young girl’s coming-of-age story in 1950s Louisiana. Witherspoon’s character and her sister both fall in love with the same boy, which causes a rift between them—though they eventually reconcile.
Since then, Witherspoon has starred in legendary films like Legally Blonde and Walk the Line, winning an Oscar for her portrayal of June Carter. In recent years, she has focused on television, particularly the acclaimed series Big Little Lies, and returned to thrillers like The Dry.
Jack Gleeson: From Batman Begins to Joffrey
In 2002, a very young Jack Gleeson appeared in Reign of Fire, alongside Christian Bale. However, it was in Batman Begins that Gleeson was officially credited for the first time. It’s hard to believe how much he’s grown since then.
His career took off after that, with his most famous role being Joffrey Baratheon on Game of Thrones, a role that made him one of the most despised and hated characters in TV history. His dramatic death on the show was a moment of satisfaction for many fans.
Joseph Gordon-Levitt: A River Runs Through It Early Years
Joseph Gordon-Levitt tweeted a picture of his first movie appearance in Beethoven, where he had a brief role. But it wasn’t until his next film, A River Runs Through It, in 1992, that he began to gain attention, and he was only 11 years old at the time.
Having been acting on TV since he was 7, Gordon-Levitt had already built a strong foundation for his career. He went on to star in films like Brick, Don Jon, and Inception, demonstrating his wide range of acting talent. In 2019, he starred in 7500, a tense thriller in which he plays an airline pilot negotiating with terrorists.
