Young Actors with Military Backgrounds

The transition from military service to a career in Hollywood is a path taken by several of today’s most prominent performers. These individuals often move from high-stakes environments in the armed forces to the disciplined world of film and television production. While many legendary stars of previous generations served during mid-century conflicts, a contemporary group of actors brings experiences from specialized units and modern naval operations to their craft. Their real-world training frequently informs their performances in both dramatic and action-oriented roles.

Adam Driver

Adam Driver enlisted in the United States Marine Corps shortly after the events of September 11, 2001. He served as an 81mm mortar man with the 1st Battalion, 1st Marines at Camp Pendleton for over two years. Despite his commitment to his unit, a mountain biking accident resulted in a fractured sternum that led to a medical discharge in 2004. Following his service, he pursued a degree at the Juilliard School and eventually achieved global recognition for his work in both independent films and major franchises. He continues to support the military community through his nonprofit organization, Arts in the Armed Forces.

Remi Adeleke

Remi Adeleke dedicated thirteen years to the United States Navy, serving as a member of the elite Navy SEAL teams. During his tenure, he specialized in human intelligence, which involved sourcing and analyzing information in volatile international settings. After retiring from the military in 2016, he transitioned into the entertainment industry, appearing in high-budget projects such as ‘Transformers: The Last Knight’ and ‘6 Underground’. Adeleke also applies his tactical knowledge as a screenwriter and technical consultant for modern war films. His autobiography outlines his journey from a difficult upbringing in the Bronx to his successes in the special operations community.

Wes Chatham

Wes Chatham joined the United States Navy after completing high school and spent four years as an aviation firefighter. He was stationed aboard the USS Essex, where he worked in crash and salvage operations on the flight deck. His entry into professional acting occurred when his ship was utilized as a filming location, providing him with his first experience on a major production set. Chatham is widely recognized for his portrayal of Amos Burton in the science fiction series ‘The Expanse’, a role that required significant physical and technical presence. He often cites the camaraderie and discipline of the Navy as foundational elements of his professional life.

Alexander Skarsgård

Alexander Skarsgård fulfilled his national service obligations by joining the Swedish military at the age of nineteen. He served for eighteen months in an elite anti-sabotage and anti-terrorism unit known as SäkJakt within the Swedish Navy. This specialized role involved intensive training in small-squad tactics and reconnaissance throughout the Stockholm archipelago. Skarsgård has noted that his military background provided the necessary perspective for his breakout role as a Marine in the miniseries ‘Generation Kill’. After his service concluded in 1996, he moved to England and later the United States to study theater and pursue a full-time acting career.

J.R. Martinez

J.R. Martinez enlisted in the United States Army in 2002 and served as an infantryman with the 101st Airborne Division. While deployed to Iraq in 2003, he sustained severe injuries and burns after the vehicle he was operating struck an improvised explosive device. Following a period of extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, he transitioned into public speaking and professional acting. He gained significant popularity for his role on the daytime drama ‘All My Children’ and later won the competition series ‘Dancing with the Stars’. Martinez continues to use his platform to advocate for wounded veterans and their families.

Share your favorite performances from these veteran actors in the comments.