Hollywood Actors Who Cannot Carry a Movie

Hollywood casting directors often seek out performers who can anchor a major motion picture with their individual presence and commercial appeal. While many actors possess significant technical skill they do not always possess the specific charisma or marketability required to carry a film as the sole protagonist. Industry data indicates that many talented men achieve their greatest critical and commercial success when they are part of a larger ensemble or supporting a more established star. These performers often provide essential depth to a production without the heavy burden of being the primary box office draw. This list examines fifty actors whose careers demonstrate a consistent pattern of finding more acclaim and longevity in character or supporting roles.

Jai Courtney

Jai Courtney initially rose to prominence with leading roles in major action franchises like ‘A Good Day to Die Hard’ and ‘Terminator Genisys’. Critics frequently noted that his performances in these blockbuster films lacked the distinct personality needed to sustain a franchise. He found much greater success playing the eccentric Captain Boomerang in the ensemble cast of ‘Suicide Squad’ and its sequel. His career has since pivoted toward more diverse supporting roles in television and film where his physical presence remains an asset. He continues to work steadily in projects where he can contribute to a group dynamic rather than leading the narrative.

Sam Worthington

Sam Worthington achieved worldwide fame after starring as the lead in the massive blockbuster ‘Avatar’. Despite the success of that franchise his attempts to lead other major films like ‘Clash of the Titans’ and ‘Man on a Ledge’ met with mixed critical and commercial results. Industry analysts often suggest that his acting style is most effective when integrated into large scale spectacles driven by visionary directors. He remains a central figure in the ‘Avatar’ sequels which rely heavily on a vast ensemble and groundbreaking visual effects. His most praised work outside of that franchise typically involves grounded supporting performances in smaller dramas.

Taylor Kitsch

Taylor Kitsch was positioned as the next major leading man after his success on the television series ‘Friday Night Lights’. His transition to film leads in ‘John Carter’ and ‘Battleship’ resulted in significant financial losses for the studios involved. Critics argued that his understated intensity worked better in the context of a small town drama than as a larger than life action hero. He has since found a successful niche playing complex supporting characters in projects like ‘Lone Survivor’ and ‘The Normal Heart’. These roles allowed him to showcase his range without the pressure of anchoring a big budget production.

Garrett Hedlund

Garrett Hedlund was given a major opportunity to lead a franchise with ‘Tron Legacy’ which performed decently but failed to make him a superstar. Subsequent leading roles in films like ‘Pan’ did not resonate with audiences or critics. He is often cited as a standout performer in supporting roles within films like ‘Mudbound’ and ‘Inside Llewyn Davis’. In these projects he brings a unique energy that complements the primary leads and enhances the overall atmosphere. He has transitioned into a respected character actor who thrives in high quality independent cinema and television ensembles.

Scott Eastwood

Scott Eastwood has appeared in numerous high profile films including ‘The Longest Ride’ and ‘Pacific Rim Uprising’. While he possesses the traditional looks of a Hollywood leading man his solo ventures have struggled to capture a wide audience. He is frequently cast in supporting roles within major franchises such as ‘Fast and Furious’ and ‘Suicide Squad’. In these films he serves as a reliable part of the supporting cast rather than the central focus. His career trajectory suggests he is most effective when providing backup to more established and charismatic icons.

Armie Hammer

Armie Hammer was heavily promoted as a major lead after his breakout dual role in ‘The Social Network’. His turns as the titular character in ‘The Lone Ranger’ and ‘The Man from U.N.C.L.E.’ were critical and commercial disappointments. He received significant praise for his supporting role in ‘Call Me by Your Name’ which demonstrated his ability to excel in a collaborative environment. Many critics noted that his physical stature and classical looks are best utilized when he plays against a strong co-star. He has often performed better in smaller character driven roles than in large studio vehicles meant to showcase him alone.

Charlie Hunnam

Charlie Hunnam gained a dedicated following through his lead role in the long running series ‘Sons of Anarchy’. His transition to lead roles in major films like ‘Pacific Rim’ and ‘King Arthur Legend of the Sword’ did not translate into consistent box office success. While he is a capable performer he often shines more in character roles like those found in ‘The Lost City of Z’ or ‘The Gentlemen’. These films utilize his rugged screen presence as part of a wider tapestry of interesting characters. He continues to find regular work in projects that prioritize ensemble storytelling over solo stardom.

Joel Kinnaman

Joel Kinnaman is well known for his work in the television series ‘The Killing’ and ‘For All Mankind’. His attempt to lead the ‘RoboCop’ reboot was met with lukewarm reviews and moderate box office returns. He has found much more consistent success as part of the ensemble in ‘Suicide Squad’ and ‘The Suicide Squad’. His ability to play intense and professional characters makes him a valuable asset to any supporting cast. He has largely settled into roles where he can be a strong secondary presence in both film and television.

Boyd Holbrook

Boyd Holbrook delivered a strong performance as the lead in the first two seasons of ‘Narcos’. However his turn as the primary protagonist in ‘The Predator’ failed to ignite the franchise or establish him as a solo movie star. He is frequently praised for his work as a villain or a supporting player in films like ‘Logan’ and ‘Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny’. His sharp features and intense screen presence are highly effective when he is used as a foil to the main hero. He remains a sought after talent for complex secondary characters in high budget productions.

Alexander Skarsgård

Alexander Skarsgård became a star through his supporting role in the series ‘True Blood’. His attempt at leading a massive blockbuster with ‘The Legend of Tarzan’ was not a major success for the studio. He has since focused on supporting roles in acclaimed projects like ‘Big Little Lies’ and ‘Succession’ for which he won several awards. His performance in ‘The Northman’ was critically lauded but the film struggled to find a massive commercial audience. He appears to be most comfortable and effective when playing distinct and often dark characters within an ensemble.

Ben Foster

Ben Foster is widely regarded as one of the most talented actors of his generation. Despite his immense skill his leading roles in films like ‘The Program’ have not typically translated into mainstream commercial success. He is almost universally praised for his scene stealing supporting roles in ‘Hell or High Water’ and ‘3:10 to Yuma’. His ability to inhabit volatile and complex characters makes him an incredible addition to any cast. He remains a premier character actor who elevates every project he joins regardless of the size of the role.

Justin Long

Justin Long became a familiar face through his roles in comedies like ‘Dodgeball A True Underdog Story’ and ‘Accepted’. While he has led several romantic comedies and horror films he is often most memorable as a supporting player. His work in ‘Live Free or Die Hard’ showcased his ability to act as a comedic and relatable foil to an established action star. He has recently found a new niche in the horror genre with supporting turns in films like ‘Barbarian’. His career demonstrates that he is a reliable and versatile actor who excels when playing off of others.

Topher Grace

Topher Grace rose to fame as the lead of the sitcom ‘That 70s Show’. His attempts to transition into a leading man in films like ‘Win a Date with Tad Hamilton’ and ‘In Good Company’ were met with mixed results. He famously played a supporting villainous role in ‘Spider-Man 3’ which drew significant attention even if the character was controversial. More recently he has earned praise for his supporting work in films like ‘BlacKkKlansman’ where he played David Duke. He has proven to be a sharp and intelligent character actor who can tackle difficult and diverse roles.

Emile Hirsch

Emile Hirsch earned critical acclaim for his leading performance in ‘Into the Wild’. However his subsequent attempts at leading major studio films like ‘Speed Racer’ did not result in commercial success. He has found a steady stream of work in supporting roles within films like ‘Milk’ and ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’. In these projects he provides a grounded and realistic presence that supports the primary narrative. His talent is frequently recognized when he is part of a high quality ensemble cast.

Dane DeHaan

Dane DeHaan was praised for his breakout performances in ‘Chronicle’ and ‘The Place Beyond the Pines’. His leading role in the expensive sci-fi epic ‘Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets’ was a notable box office disappointment. Critics often point out that his unique look and intense acting style are better suited for specific character roles. He has delivered memorable supporting performances in ‘The Amazing Spider-Man 2’ and ‘Oppenheimer’. He continues to be a go to actor for directors looking for a specific type of moody or complex supporting character.

Logan Lerman

Logan Lerman led the ‘Percy Jackson’ franchise which had moderate success but did not reach the heights of other young adult adaptations. His leading turn in ‘Fury’ was well received but he shared the screen with several other major stars. He has shown a particular talent for playing sensitive and observant characters in supporting roles. His work in ‘The Perks of Being a Wallflower’ remains a highlight of his career as a lead in an ensemble. He continues to work in television and film where he often plays part of a larger group of characters.

Ansel Elgort

Ansel Elgort found immense popularity leading the romantic drama ‘The Fault in Our Stars’. His attempt to carry the ‘Divergent’ series alongside Shailene Woodley was successful but his solo lead in ‘Baby Driver’ relied heavily on the director and the ensemble. His leading role in the adaptation of ‘The Goldfinch’ was a critical and commercial failure. He has since appeared in ‘West Side Story’ where he was part of a massive cast under Steven Spielberg. His career indicates that he is most effective when he is integrated into a larger cinematic vision.

Liam Hemsworth

Liam Hemsworth gained international recognition for his supporting role in ‘The Hunger Games’ series. His attempts to lead his own films such as ‘Paranoia’ and ‘Independence Day Resurgence’ did not find much success with audiences. He is often seen as a reliable supporting actor who can provide a steady presence in a film. He has recently taken over the lead role in ‘The Witcher’ series which will test his ability to carry a major property. Historically his most stable work has been as a member of a high profile ensemble.

Kellan Lutz

Kellan Lutz became famous as part of the supporting cast in the ‘Twilight’ saga. His transition to leading action roles in films like ‘The Legend of Hercules’ resulted in poor reviews and low box office numbers. He has since appeared in several supporting roles in action films and television shows. He is often cast for his physical appearance and ability to handle stunts within a larger cast. His career has largely remained in the realm of character and supporting work in the action genre.

Alex Pettyfer

Alex Pettyfer was given several opportunities to lead films such as ‘I Am Number Four’ and ‘Beastly’ early in his career. None of these projects managed to launch him as a consistent box office draw. He received more positive attention for his supporting role in ‘Magic Mike’ where he played the newcomer to the group. He has since worked in smaller independent projects and supporting roles in television. His career path suggests that his strengths lie in being part of a team rather than the sole focus of a film.

Theo James

Theo James led the ‘Divergent’ franchise which started strong but saw diminishing returns with each sequel. His other leading roles in films like ‘How It Ends’ did not make a significant impact on his career. He has recently found a great deal of success in the ensemble cast of ‘The White Lotus’ and as the lead in ‘The Gentlemen’ series. While he can lead a television show his film career has been more successful in supporting or ensemble capacities. He is often praised for his charm and presence when he is part of a stylish and talented group.

Sam Claflin

Sam Claflin is best known for his supporting role as Finnick Odair in ‘The Hunger Games’ franchise. He has led several romantic dramas like ‘Me Before You’ which performed well but he often shares the spotlight with a strong female lead. His leading turns in solo action or thriller films have not been as prominent in the public eye. He has proven to be a fantastic character actor in projects like ‘Peaky Blinders’ and ‘Daisy Jones and The Six’. He excels when he is given complex material as part of a high quality ensemble cast.

Douglas Booth

Douglas Booth has appeared as the lead in several adaptations of classic literature such as ‘Great Expectations’ and ‘Romeo and Juliet’. While he is often praised for his classical good looks these films did not make him a major movie star. He has found success in supporting roles in films like ‘The Dirt’ where he played Nikki Sixx. His career has increasingly involved character work in independent films and television series. He is a dependable performer who adds value to a cast without needing to be the primary lead.

Max Irons

Max Irons starred in several young adult adaptations including ‘The Host’ and ‘Red Riding Hood’. These films were intended to launch him as a leading man but they failed to gain much traction. He has since moved into more mature roles in television series like ‘Condor’ and ‘The White Queen’. He often performs best when he is part of a historical drama or a political thriller ensemble. His career shows a preference for steady television work over carrying massive film productions.

Jeremy Irvine

Jeremy Irvine made his debut as the lead in the Steven Spielberg film ‘War Horse’. Despite this prestigious start he has not become a consistent leading man in the years following. He has appeared in several supporting roles in films like ‘Mamma Mia Here We Go Again’ and ‘The Railway Man’. His performances are generally solid but he often lacks the star power to drive a film on his own. He continues to work in a variety of supporting roles in both British and American cinema.

Jack Huston

Jack Huston earned widespread acclaim for his supporting role as Richard Harrow in the series ‘Boardwalk Empire’. His attempt to lead the massive remake of ‘Ben-Hur’ was a significant commercial failure for the studio. He is frequently cast in interesting supporting roles in films like ‘American Hustle’ and ‘House of Gucci’. His ability to transform into unique and memorable characters makes him a favorite of many directors. He is clearly more successful and acclaimed when he is working as a character actor.

Toby Kebbell

Toby Kebbell has delivered incredible motion capture performances as supporting characters in ‘Dawn of the Planet of the Apes’ and ‘Warcraft’. His leading role in the ‘Fantastic Four’ reboot as Doctor Doom was met with critical derision. He is often noted for his intensity and range but his solo leading ventures have not found an audience. He remains an in demand character actor who can play both villains and heroes in a supporting capacity. His most effective work usually involves being part of a larger and more complex narrative.

Dominic Cooper

Dominic Cooper has led several films including ‘The Devil’s Double’ and the television series ‘Preacher’. While he is a highly capable actor his leading film roles like ‘Need for Speed’ did not result in major success. He is much more recognized for his supporting work in the ‘Mamma Mia’ films and as Howard Stark in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He brings a great deal of energy and charisma to his secondary roles. He has built a long and successful career by being a reliable and entertaining part of various ensembles.

Luke Evans

Luke Evans has led several films such as ‘Dracula Untold’ and ‘The Raven’ but neither managed to establish a lasting franchise. He is often most effective and memorable in supporting roles like Gaston in ‘Beauty and the Beast’ or as part of ‘The Fast and the Furious’ ensemble. His powerful screen presence and vocal talent make him a stand out in musical and action projects. He continues to find a great deal of work in both leading and supporting roles across film and television. His highest grossing and most popular films are those where he is part of a massive cast.

Richard Madden

Richard Madden became a global star through his supporting role as Robb Stark in ‘Game of Thrones’. His leading role in the series ‘Bodyguard’ was a massive success in the United Kingdom and internationally. However his lead role in the film ‘Cinderella’ and his part in the ensemble of ‘Eternals’ showed he is often most effective as part of a group. His career seems to thrive in high quality television where he can lead a long form story. In film he is frequently utilized as a strong supporting presence or part of an ensemble.

Kit Harington

Kit Harington is best known for his iconic role as Jon Snow in ‘Game of Thrones’. His attempts to lead films outside of the series such as ‘Pompeii’ were not major commercial or critical successes. He has since taken on supporting roles in projects like ‘Eternals’ and various theatrical productions. He possesses a specific type of intensity that worked perfectly for his long running television role. His transition to a solo film star has been more challenging than his success in ensemble television.

Michiel Huisman

Michiel Huisman has appeared in many successful television series including ‘Game of Thrones’ and ‘The Haunting of Hill House’. While he has led several romantic dramas like ‘The Age of Adaline’ he is often the supporting male lead to a more famous actress. He is a very consistent and charming performer who works well within an ensemble cast. His film career has largely been defined by these types of supporting or co-leading roles. He continues to be a popular choice for high end television and film productions.

Ed Skrein

Ed Skrein led the reboot of ‘The Transporter Refueled’ which failed to match the success of the original series. He found much more acclaim and recognition playing the villain Ajax in ‘Deadpool’. He has also appeared in supporting roles in ‘Alita Battle Angel’ and ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. His sharp features and aggressive acting style make him an excellent choice for antagonistic or intense secondary characters. He has proven to be more effective as a foil to a hero than as the hero himself.

Bill Skarsgård

Bill Skarsgård earned worldwide fame for his terrifying supporting role as Pennywise in the ‘It’ films. While he has led smaller projects like ‘Boy Kills World’ he is primarily recognized for his transformative character work. He has delivered memorable supporting performances in ‘John Wick Chapter 4’ and ‘Barbarian’. His ability to play strange and haunting characters is his greatest strength. He is a premier character actor who thrives when he is given unique roles within a larger cast.

Alden Ehrenreich

Alden Ehrenreich was handpicked to play the lead in ‘Solo A Star Wars Story’ which became the first financial failure for the franchise. Despite his talent he faced immense pressure and criticism for taking on such an iconic role. He has since returned to supporting work with highly praised roles in ‘Oppenheimer’ and ‘Fair Play’. These performances have reminded audiences of his skill as a versatile and subtle actor. He seems to be moving toward a career as a respected character actor rather than a traditional blockbuster lead.

Tye Sheridan

Tye Sheridan led the massive Steven Spielberg production ‘Ready Player One’ which was a commercial success but did not turn him into a superstar. He has also led several independent films that received critical praise but limited viewership. He is often seen as a strong part of ensembles like the later ‘X-Men’ films where he played Cyclops. He is a gifted performer who often brings a grounded and realistic quality to his roles. He continues to work steadily in both independent and studio films as part of larger casts.

Lucas Hedges

Lucas Hedges received an Academy Award nomination for his supporting role in ‘Manchester by the Sea’. While he has led films like ‘Boy Erased’ and ‘Ben Is Back’ these are primarily small scale dramas. He has not made the transition to leading large scale commercial films. He is frequently praised for his vulnerability and range in supporting roles within high quality ensembles. He remains one of the most respected young actors in the industry for his character focused work.

Josh Lucas

Josh Lucas has had a long career with several attempts at leading films like ‘Stealth’ and ‘Poseidon’. These high budget projects were significant box office disappointments. He has found much more success and longevity in supporting roles in films like ‘A Beautiful Mind’ and ‘Ford v Ferrari’. He has also become a regular in the ensemble of the hit series ‘Yellowstone’. His charm and steady presence make him a perfect fit for a dependable supporting actor.

Giovanni Ribisi

Giovanni Ribisi is a prolific actor who has appeared in dozens of films over several decades. While he has occasionally led smaller films or television series like ‘Sneaky Pete’ he is best known for his supporting work. He has delivered memorable performances in ‘Saving Private Ryan’ and ‘Avatar’. His unique voice and intense acting style make him a standout character actor. He is a valuable asset to any production where he can play an interesting or quirky secondary character.

Jason Clarke

Jason Clarke has led several films including ‘Pet Sematary’ and ‘Terminator Genisys’. These films often received mixed reviews and his leading man status never quite solidified. He is highly regarded for his supporting roles in ‘Zero Dark Thirty’ and ‘Oppenheimer’. He brings a rugged and authoritative presence to his characters that works exceptionally well in an ensemble. He has become a staple of prestige cinema and television as a reliable character performer.

Joel Edgerton

Joel Edgerton is a talented actor and director who has led films like ‘The Gift’ and ‘It Comes at Night’. While he is very capable as a lead his most famous roles are often supporting turns in films like ‘The Great Gatsby’ and ‘Warrior’. He is a versatile performer who can disappear into a wide variety of characters. He has built a very successful career by balancing small lead roles with major supporting performances in high profile films. He is widely considered one of the most dependable actors working today.

Michael Shannon

Michael Shannon is an Academy Award nominated actor known for his intense and often frightening performances. Despite his immense talent he is rarely the sole lead of a major commercial film. He is a powerhouse in supporting roles within films like ‘Man of Steel’ and ‘The Shape of Water’. His presence in a movie immediately adds weight and gravitas to the story. He remains one of the most respected character actors in the business today.

Jesse Plemons

Jesse Plemons has built an incredible career by playing supporting roles in a long list of acclaimed projects. From ‘Breaking Bad’ to ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ he has consistently stood out even alongside major stars. While he has led some independent films he is primarily seen as a premier character actor. He received an Oscar nomination for his supporting work in ‘The Power of the Dog’. He is a master of understated and complex performances within an ensemble.

Jon Bernthal

Jon Bernthal became a star through his supporting role in the series ‘The Walking Dead’. He has led ‘The Punisher’ series to great acclaim but his film career is mostly defined by supporting roles. He has delivered powerful performances in ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ and ‘Sicario’. His intense energy and physical presence make him a perfect choice for tough supporting characters. He is a highly sought after talent who elevates every ensemble he joins.

Frank Grillo

Frank Grillo has led many action films that have found a dedicated audience on streaming platforms and home video. However he has not become a mainstream leading man for major theatrical releases. He is best known for his supporting roles in the ‘Captain America’ films and ‘The Purge’ series. He is a reliable and charismatic action star who excels when he is part of a larger franchise. He continues to work prolifically in the action genre in both leading and supporting capacities.

Shea Whigham

Shea Whigham is one of the busiest character actors in Hollywood with a filmography that includes dozens of high profile projects. He rarely leads a film but he is a constant presence in supporting roles in films like ‘Joker’ and ‘Mission Impossible Dead Reckoning Part One’. He is known for his ability to make a significant impact with even a small amount of screen time. He is a consummate professional who is highly respected by his peers and directors. He is the definition of a dependable character actor who makes every scene better.

Walton Goggins

Walton Goggins has led several television series like ‘The Shield’ and ‘Fallout’ to great success. In the world of film he is primarily a supporting actor who steals every scene he is in. He has delivered fantastic performances in ‘The Hateful Eight’ and ‘Django Unchained’ for director Quentin Tarantino. His unique appearance and high energy acting style are perfectly suited for memorable secondary characters. He is one of the most entertaining and versatile character actors working in the industry today.

David Dastmalchian

David Dastmalchian has appeared in many of the biggest franchises in Hollywood including the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the DC Extended Universe. He is a specialized character actor who excels at playing strange or eccentric supporting figures. He received significant praise for his role in ‘The Suicide Squad’ and ‘Late Night with the Devil’. While he has recently begun leading smaller horror films he remains a staple of the supporting cast in major productions. He brings a unique and often haunting quality to every role he takes.

Stephen Dorff

Stephen Dorff had a period of being a leading man in the 1990s with films like ‘Blade’ where he played the villain. He has since transitioned into a career defined by supporting roles in both film and television. He earned critical acclaim for his lead role in the film ‘Somewhere’ but it did not lead back to mainstream stardom. He has recently found success as a supporting player in the series ‘True Detective’. He remains a talented and edgy performer who works best in specific character driven roles.

Wes Bentley

Wes Bentley became a breakout star with his supporting role in ‘American Beauty’. His subsequent attempts to lead films like ‘The Four Feathers’ did not result in a sustained leading man career. He has since become a very successful supporting actor in films like ‘Interstellar’ and ‘The Hunger Games’. He is currently a main cast member of the hit series ‘Yellowstone’ where he plays a central but ensemble focused role. He has built a long and steady career by embracing his strengths as a versatile character actor.

Share your thoughts on which of these actors you prefer in supporting roles in the comments.