Celebrities Who Became Actresses – And Delivered

Many entertainers started their careers in music or sports before finding success on the silver screen. These multi talented women proved they could master a new craft by delivering performances that earned critical praise and prestigious awards. From international models to Olympic athletes they demonstrated that star power can translate across different entertainment industries. This list examines fifty celebrities who transitioned from their original fields to become respected actresses in film and television.

Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga achieved global superstardom in the music industry before moving into professional acting. She earned significant praise for her leading role in the film ‘A Star Is Born’ where she portrayed an aspiring singer. The performer received an Academy Award nomination for her acting and won for her musical contributions to the movie. She continued her screen career with a starring role in ‘House of Gucci’ and a celebrated turn in ‘American Horror Story’.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson first rose to prominence as a finalist on the reality competition series ‘American Idol’. She made a massive impact with her debut film role in the musical drama ‘Dreamgirls’. Her performance earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress which established her as a serious talent in Hollywood. Since then she has starred in numerous films and earned an EGOT by winning every major entertainment award.

Cher

Cher began her career as one half of a popular folk rock duo before launching a successful solo music career. She successfully transitioned to cinema with acclaimed roles in movies like ‘Silkwood’ and ‘Mask’. Her career reached a new peak when she won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance in ‘Moonstruck’. She remains a rare example of a pop icon who attained equal levels of prestige in both the music and film worlds.

Barbra Streisand

Barbra Streisand was already a celebrated singer and Broadway star before she made her way to Hollywood. She won an Academy Award for her very first film role in the musical ‘Funny Girl’. The actress later became a powerhouse in the industry by directing and producing her own acclaimed projects such as ‘Yentl’. Her legacy includes multiple awards and a career that has spanned several decades of high quality work.

Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston was one of the best selling music artists of all time when she made her acting debut. She starred in the romantic thriller ‘The Bodyguard’ which became a massive commercial success at the box office. The singer followed this triumph with roles in popular films like ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and ‘The Preacher’s Wife’. Her screen presence was often noted for its natural charisma and emotional depth.

Beyoncé

Beyoncé transitioned from being a member of a chart topping girl group to a dominant solo artist and actress. She delivered a standout performance as Deena Jones in the musical film ‘Dreamgirls’. Her filmography also includes roles in the comedy ‘Austin Powers in Goldmember’ and the thriller ‘Obsessed’. She has consistently chosen projects that showcase her range as both a performer and a dramatic talent.

Mary J. Blige

Mary J. Blige earned the title of Queen of Hip Hop Soul before she began her journey as a film actress. She received critical acclaim and two Academy Award nominations for her work in the period drama ‘Mudbound’. Her performance demonstrated a quiet intensity that surprised many critics who knew her primarily for her music. She has since appeared in various television series and films including the superhero drama ‘The Umbrella Academy’.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah started her career as a pioneering female rapper before moving into television and film. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her role as Matron Mama Morton in the musical ‘Chicago’. Her versatility allowed her to star in successful comedies like ‘Bringing Down the House’ and dramas like ‘Set It Off’. She has built a long standing career as a leading lady and a respected producer in Hollywood.

Janet Jackson

Janet Jackson was a global pop icon when she took on her first major film role in ‘Poetic Justice’. She received positive reviews for her portrayal of a grieving poet alongside Tupac Shakur. The actress continued to show her acting skills in the ‘Nutty Professor’ sequel and several films directed by Tyler Perry. Her transition to the screen proved she could carry a movie as a leading dramatic actress.

Mandy Moore

Mandy Moore first gained fame as a teen pop singer during the late nineties. She successfully reinvented her career by taking on challenging roles in films like ‘A Walk to Remember’. Her performance in the long running television drama ‘This Is Us’ earned her multiple award nominations and critical praise. She is now widely recognized as a versatile actress capable of handling complex emotional narratives.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe established herself as a visionary musician with a series of conceptual albums. She made a powerful transition to film with significant roles in ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. Both movies were critical successes that highlighted her ability to portray deeply human and grounded characters. She has continued to earn praise for her lead performance in the mystery film ‘Glass Onion’.

Madonna

Madonna was the undisputed Queen of Pop when she began appearing in major motion pictures. She received a Golden Globe Award for her portrayal of Eva Perón in the musical ‘Evita’. Her film career includes memorable turns in ‘Desperately Seeking Susan’ and ‘A League of Their Own’. Despite the pressures of her music career she has maintained a steady presence in the film industry for decades.

Bette Midler

Bette Midler began her career as a singer and stage performer before becoming a major movie star. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in the musical drama ‘The Rose’. The actress became known for her comedic timing in films like ‘Hocus Pocus’ and ‘The First Wives Club’. Her ability to blend humor with genuine pathos has made her a beloved figure in American cinema.

Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez was a successful dancer and singer before she landed the career defining role of ‘Selena’. Her performance as the late Tejano star earned her a Golden Globe nomination and launched her as an A list actress. She went on to star in a string of successful romantic comedies and dramatic films like ‘Hustlers’. She remains one of the most successful entertainers to balance a music career with major film roles.

Björk

Björk was already an internationally acclaimed avant garde musician when she took the lead role in ‘Dancer in the Dark’. Her intense performance earned her the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival. The film showcased her unique ability to combine her musical talents with a devastating dramatic portrayal. While she has appeared in fewer films than others on this list her impact on cinema is considered profound.

Diana Ross

Diana Ross was a legendary singer with the Supremes and a solo star before she entered the world of film. She received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Billie Holiday in ‘Lady Sings the Blues’. Her acting career continued with leading roles in movies like ‘Mahogany’ and the musical ‘The Wiz’. She proved that her magnetic stage presence could easily translate to the big screen.

Doris Day

Doris Day began her career as a big band singer before becoming one of the biggest film stars of the fifties and sixties. She was known for her roles in popular romantic comedies such as ‘Pillow Talk’. The actress also showed her dramatic range in films like ‘Love Me or Leave Me’. Her career transition from music to film made her one of the most bankable stars in Hollywood history.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne was one of the most recognizable fashion models in the world before she turned to acting. She made her film debut in ‘Anna Karenina’ and soon landed lead roles in ‘Paper Towns’ and ‘Suicide Squad’. The actress has also found success on television in the fantasy series ‘Carnival Row’. She has successfully moved away from the runway to establish a consistent career in the acting world.

Milla Jovovich

Milla Jovovich started as a high fashion model before becoming a major action star. She gained international fame for her role in the science fiction film ‘The Fifth Element’. The actress later became the face of the ‘Resident Evil’ franchise which spanned several successful movies. Her career is a prime example of a model successfully transitioning into a durable and profitable acting career.

Rebecca Romijn

Rebecca Romijn was a famous supermodel known for her work with major brands and magazines. She made a successful jump to acting with her role as Mystique in the ‘X Men’ film series. Her performance in the comic book franchise led to other roles in movies like ‘Femme Fatale’. She has also maintained a steady career in television by starring in series like ‘Ugly Betty’ and ‘Star Trek Strange New Worlds’.

Famke Janssen

Famke Janssen worked as a professional model for brands like Chanel before pursuing an acting career. She first gained major attention as a villain in the James Bond film ‘GoldenEye’. The actress then achieved wider recognition for playing Jean Grey in the ‘X Men’ series. Her transition allowed her to move from high fashion to becoming a staple of major Hollywood blockbusters.

Diane Kruger

Diane Kruger was a successful fashion model in Europe before she decided to study acting in Paris. She landed her breakout role as Helen of Troy in the epic film ‘Troy’. The actress earned further acclaim for her work in ‘Inglourious Basterds’ and the thriller series ‘The Bridge’. She has demonstrated a strong ability to perform in both major studio films and independent international projects.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer was a prominent model who walked for high fashion brands before being cast in the drama series ‘Euphoria’. Her portrayal of Jules Vaughn earned her widespread critical praise for its emotional complexity. The actress has since transitioned into film with a major role in ‘The Hunger Games The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’. She is now considered one of the most promising young talents in the industry.

Sienna Miller

Sienna Miller began her career as a model before moving into acting with roles in British television. She gained international fame for her performances in films like ‘Layer Cake’ and ‘Alfie’. The actress earned critical respect for her work in biographical dramas such as ‘The Girl’ and ‘Foxcatcher’. Her career has been marked by a transition from being a tabloid fixture to a respected dramatic performer.

Twiggy

Twiggy was the face of the sixties fashion scene and an international icon of the modeling world. She made a successful transition to the screen in the musical film ‘The Boy Friend’. Her performance earned her two Golden Globe Awards and proved she had genuine acting and dancing abilities. She continued to work in film and theater while maintaining her status as a cultural legend.

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie worked as a professional model during her teenage years before focusing entirely on acting. She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in ‘Girl Interrupted’. The actress became a global star through her lead performances in the ‘Lara Croft’ films and ‘Maleficent’. She is now recognized as one of the most influential figures in Hollywood as both an actress and director.

Demi Moore

Demi Moore started her career as a model before landing a recurring role on the soap opera ‘General Hospital’. She became a household name as part of the Brat Pack and starred in hits like ‘Ghost’ and ‘A Few Good Men’. Her career during the nineties made her one of the highest paid actresses in the world. She has successfully navigated various genres from romantic dramas to intense thrillers.

Julia Roberts

Julia Roberts briefly worked as a model when she first moved to New York City to pursue her dreams. She became a major movie star after her breakout performance in the romantic comedy ‘Pretty Woman’. The actress won an Academy Award for her title role in the biographical drama ‘Erin Brockovich’. She has remained one of the most enduring and popular leading ladies in cinematic history.

Brooke Shields

Brooke Shields began her career as a child model and became a world famous face at a very young age. She transitioned into acting with controversial and acclaimed roles in films like ‘Pretty Baby’ and ‘The Blue Lagoon’. The actress later found success in television by starring in the popular sitcom ‘Suddenly Susan’. She has managed to maintain a long and varied career in the public eye across different mediums.

Uma Thurman

Uma Thurman started as a high fashion model at age fifteen before making her film debut. She achieved legendary status for her collaborations with director Quentin Tarantino in ‘Pulp Fiction’ and ‘Kill Bill’. Her performances are often cited for their unique intensity and physical commitment. She has built a diverse filmography that includes everything from superhero movies to period dramas.

Cameron Diaz

Cameron Diaz was a successful model with Elite Model Management before she auditioned for her first film. She made her debut in ‘The Mask’ and immediately became a popular comedic actress. She starred in numerous hits including ‘There’s Something About Mary’ and ‘Charlie’s Angels’. Her career transition is often cited as one of the most successful in Hollywood history.

Charlize Theron

Charlize Theron worked as a model in Europe and New York before moving to Los Angeles to act. she won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her transformative performance in ‘Monster’. The actress has since become known for her range in both intense dramas and high octane action films like ‘Mad Max Fury Road’. She is now a highly respected producer as well as a leading cinematic talent.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry was a successful model and beauty pageant contestant before she began her acting career. She made history as the first African American woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress for ‘Monster’s Ball’. Her career includes roles in major franchises like ‘X Men’ and lead performances in various thrillers. She has consistently proven her ability to handle demanding dramatic and physical roles.

Monica Bellucci

Monica Bellucci was a prominent fashion model for brands like Dolce and Gabbana before entering the film industry. She gained international fame for her roles in the Italian film ‘Malèna’ and the ‘Matrix’ sequels. The actress has worked extensively in both European and Hollywood cinema throughout her career. She is frequently cited as one of the most beautiful and talented actresses of her generation.

Caitríona Balfe

Caitriona Balfe had a decade long career as a top fashion model for some of the world’s biggest designers. She successfully transitioned to acting and landed the lead role in the popular historical drama series ‘Outlander’. Her performance has earned her multiple award nominations and a dedicated global fanbase. She also received critical praise for her role in the Academy Award winning film ‘Belfast’.

Lauren Bacall

Lauren Bacall was a fashion model when her image on a magazine cover caught the attention of a Hollywood director. She made a legendary film debut alongside Humphrey Bogart in ‘To Have and Have Not’. The actress became known for her distinctive voice and sophisticated screen presence in numerous classic films. Her career lasted for over sixty years and earned her an honorary Academy Award.

Esther Williams

Esther Williams was a competitive swimmer who was set to compete in the Olympics before the event was canceled. She was signed by MGM and became the star of a new genre of films known as aquamusicals. Movies like ‘Million Dollar Mermaid’ showcased her athletic skills and made her a major box office draw. She successfully utilized her athletic background to create a unique and lasting niche in cinema.

Sonja Henie

Sonja Henie was a three time Olympic gold medalist in figure skating before she moved to Hollywood. She signed a lucrative contract and became one of the highest paid actresses of her time. Her films often featured spectacular ice skating sequences that helped popularize the sport worldwide. She was a pioneer who proved that elite athletes could transition into becoming massive entertainment icons.

Gina Carano

Gina Carano was a pioneer in women’s mixed martial arts before she was cast in the film ‘Haywire’. Her background in combat sports allowed her to perform her own stunts and bring realism to action roles. She appeared in major franchises including ‘Fast and Furious 6’ and ‘Deadpool’. The actress later gained wider recognition for her recurring role in the television series ‘The Mandalorian’.

Ronda Rousey

Ronda Rousey was an Olympic medalist in judo and a dominant UFC champion before she started acting. She appeared in big budget action films like ‘The Expendables 3’ and ‘Furious 7’. Her physical presence and athletic reputation made her a natural fit for roles requiring combat skills. She has continued to work in entertainment through both acting and professional wrestling.

Dot-Marie Jones

Dot Marie Jones was a champion shot putter and professional arm wrestler before she began her television career. She is best known for her role as Coach Shannon Beiste on the musical series ‘Glee’. Her performance earned her multiple Emmy nominations and was praised for its emotional depth. She has built a steady career as a character actress in various popular television shows.

Courtney Love

Courtney Love was a famous rock musician and the lead singer of the band Hole before she focused on acting. She received a Golden Globe nomination for her performance in ‘The People vs Larry Flynt’. Her work was widely praised for its raw honesty and surprising vulnerability. While she continued to make music her acting roles in various independent films established her as a genuine screen talent.

Rene Russo

Rene Russo was a top fashion model in the seventies before she decided to pursue an acting career in her thirties. She became a major star in the nineties with leading roles in ‘Lethal Weapon 3’ and ‘The Thomas Crown Affair’. The actress was known for playing smart and capable characters in popular thrillers and comedies. Her successful transition showed that models could build long lasting acting careers later in life.

Sharon Stone

Sharon Stone worked as a model in New York and Europe before landing small roles in film and television. She achieved worldwide fame for her performance in the thriller ‘Basic Instinct’. The actress later earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in the Martin Scorsese drama ‘Casino’. She has maintained a significant presence in Hollywood for decades as both a star and a producer.

Cybill Shepherd

Cybill Shepherd was a successful model and pageant winner before she made her film debut in ‘The Last Picture Show’. Her performance in the classic drama earned her critical acclaim and launched her career. She later found great success on television by starring in the popular series ‘Moonlighting’. She has enjoyed a long career marked by several major awards and iconic roles.

Gal Gadot

Gal Gadot was a successful model and former Miss Israel before she began acting in international films. She gained global fame for her portrayal of ‘Wonder Woman’ in the DC Extended Universe. The actress originally started in the ‘Fast and Furious’ franchise before becoming a leading lady. Her transition from the modeling world to a major superhero icon has been exceptionally successful.

Kim Basinger

Kim Basinger was a successful model with Ford Models before she moved to Los Angeles to act. She became a major star in the eighties with roles in films like ‘Never Say Never Again’ and ‘9 1/2 Weeks’. The actress won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in ‘L.A. Confidential’. Her career has spanned several decades and includes a wide variety of dramatic and comedic roles.

Andie MacDowell

Andie MacDowell was a prominent fashion model for brands like Calvin Klein before she transitioned to film. She earned critical acclaim for her role in the independent hit ‘Sex Lies and Videotape’. The actress became a household name with leading roles in ‘Groundhog Day’ and ‘Four Weddings and a Funeral’. She has continued to work steadily in both film and television while being recognized for her natural acting style.

Rihanna

Rihanna was already one of the biggest music stars in the world when she made her film debut in ‘Battleship’. She later earned positive reviews for her role in the star studded heist movie ‘Ocean’s 8’. The performer has also lent her voice to animated films and appeared in various television projects. Her transition to the screen has showcased her natural charisma and screen presence.

Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton was an established country music legend before she made her film debut in ‘9 to 5’. Her performance was a huge success and led to other iconic roles in films like ‘Steel Magnolias’. She received Academy Award nominations for both her acting and her songwriting for films. She remains a beloved figure who has successfully navigated the worlds of music and cinema for over forty years.

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