Hollywood Actors Who Are Mormons

The entertainment industry is home to individuals from a vast array of backgrounds including many who were raised in or currently practice the Mormon faith. These actors have achieved success in a wide range of genres from big budget blockbusters to independent films and television sitcoms. While some have remained active in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints others have moved away from the religion but still credit it for shaping their early lives. This list highlights several prominent male performers who have connections to the Mormon community throughout their careers in Hollywood.

Ryan Gosling

This award winning actor was raised in a household belonging to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints. He has often spoken about how the religious environment influenced his childhood and family life. While he does not currently practice the faith he acknowledges that it provided a strong cultural background. His career reached new heights with his performance in the film ‘Barbie’ where he played the role of Ken. He remains one of the most prominent figures in modern Hollywood with a diverse filmography.

Aaron Eckhart

Aaron Eckhart is a well known actor who was raised in the Mormon faith and even served a mission. He traveled to France and Switzerland for two years to share his religious beliefs before pursuing an acting career. His breakout role came in the independent film ‘In the Company of Men’ which established him as a talented leading man. He later gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Harvey Dent in ‘The Dark Knight’ alongside Christian Bale. Eckhart continues to be a steady presence in both dramatic and action oriented cinema.

Jon Heder

Jon Heder rose to fame with his eccentric performance as the title character in ‘Napoleon Dynamite’ which became a cult classic. He is an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints and frequently discusses his faith. Heder attended Brigham Young University where he studied 3D animation before transitioning into professional acting. He has appeared in several comedy films such as ‘Blades of Glory’ and ‘The Benchwarmers’ throughout his career. His commitment to his religious values is often reflected in his choice of film projects.

Paul Walker

The late Paul Walker was raised in a Mormon household and attended a community college in California before finding stardom. He became a global icon for his role as Brian O’Conner in the ‘Fast & Furious’ movie franchise. While he did not remain active in the church during his adult life he often credited his upbringing for his grounded nature. He was also known for his philanthropic work through his organization Reach Out Worldwide. His legacy continues to influence the film industry through his memorable performances and charitable efforts.

Donny Osmond

Donny Osmond is a legendary entertainer who has been an open and proud member of the Mormon faith for his entire life. He began his career as a child star with his siblings and later became a popular solo artist and actor. Osmond starred in the stage production of ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’ for several years with great success. He also provided the singing voice for the character Shang in the animated Disney film ‘Mulan’ and performed the song ‘I’ll Make a Man Out of You’. He frequently uses his platform to share his religious convictions with his fans around the world.

Wilford Brimley

Wilford Brimley was a veteran character actor who was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints. He was best known for his roles in films like ‘Cocoon’ and ‘The Thing’ as well as his work as a commercial spokesperson. Before finding success in Hollywood he worked as a ranch hand and a blacksmith which added to his rugged screen persona. Brimley often portrayed authority figures and wise mentors in a career that spanned several decades. He passed away in 2020 leaving behind a significant body of work in television and cinema.

Taran Killam

Taran Killam is an accomplished comedic actor who was raised in a Mormon family in California. He is best known for his long tenure as a cast member on the sketch comedy show ‘Saturday Night Live’ where he performed numerous impressions. Killam has also appeared in several films including ’12 Years a Slave’ and ‘Night School’ showcasing his range as a performer. He has spoken about his religious background in various interviews while discussing his journey through the entertainment industry. He continues to work in both television and film as a writer and actor.

Gary Coleman

The late Gary Coleman was a popular child star who became a household name for his role in the television series ‘Diff’rent Strokes’. He joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints later in his life and was baptized in 1991. Coleman appeared in various films and television shows throughout the 1980s and 1990s often playing himself or iconic characters. Despite many personal and health struggles he remained a recognizable figure in popular culture until his death. He was known for his catchphrase and his distinct presence on the small screen.

Gordon Jump

Gordon Jump was a versatile actor who was a devoted member of the Mormon faith for most of his life. He is most remembered for his role as the bumbling station manager Arthur Carlson on the sitcom ‘WKRP in Cincinnati’. Jump also appeared in numerous commercials and had a recurring role as the Maytag repairman for many years. He frequently participated in films produced for the church such as ‘The Cipher’ and ‘The Testaments of One Fold and One Shepherd’. His career was marked by a commitment to family friendly entertainment and character driven comedy.

Will Swenson

Will Swenson is a prominent Broadway actor and singer who comes from a family with deep roots in the Mormon church. He is known for his roles in stage productions like ‘Hair’ and ‘Priscilla Queen of the Desert’ as well as various television appearances. Swenson has also starred in films targeted at the LDS audience such as ‘The Singles Ward’ and ‘The Sons of Provo’. He served a mission for the church in Ecuador before pursuing his career in the performing arts. His talent has earned him multiple award nominations and a respected place in the theater community.

Brian Stokes Mitchell

Brian Stokes Mitchell is a Tony Award winning actor and singer who was raised in a Mormon household. He has enjoyed a prolific career on Broadway with starring roles in productions like ‘Ragtime’ and ‘Man of La Mancha’. Mitchell has also appeared in various television shows and films throughout his extensive career. He is often recognized for his powerful baritone voice and his commanding presence on the stage. While he has explored different spiritual paths he remains connected to the community where he spent his youth.

Derek Hough

Derek Hough is a professional dancer and actor who was raised in a Mormon family in Utah. He gained fame as a champion on the reality competition show ‘Dancing with the Stars’ before moving into acting and judging. Hough has appeared in films like ‘Make Your Move’ and television series such as ‘Nashville’ and ‘High School Musical The Musical The Series’. He frequently credits his disciplined upbringing and family support for his success in the entertainment world. He continues to be a major figure in the dance and entertainment industry.

Moroni Olsen

Moroni Olsen was a classic Hollywood character actor who was named after a figure from the Book of Mormon. He appeared in over 100 films during the golden age of cinema including ‘The Song of Bernadette’ and ‘Mildred Pierce’. Olsen also provided the voice of the Magic Mirror in the animated Disney classic ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’. He was an active member of the church throughout his life and was part of the thriving community of Mormon actors in early Hollywood. His long career made him one of the most prolific LDS performers in film history.

Dean Jagger

Dean Jagger was an Academy Award winning actor who converted to the Mormon faith later in his life. He won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his role in the film ‘Twelve O’Clock High’ which remains a classic of the war genre. Jagger appeared in many other notable films such as ‘White Christmas’ and ‘Bad Day at Black Rock’. He became a member of the church after marrying his second wife who was a lifelong member. He remained a dedicated member of the faith until his death in 1991.

Brian Wimmer

Brian Wimmer is an actor who is best known for his role as Boonie Lanier in the television series ‘China Beach’. He was raised in a Mormon family in Utah and attended Brigham Young University before moving to Hollywood. Wimmer has appeared in films such as ‘Late for Dinner’ and ‘The Bachelor’ along with many guest roles on television. He has also worked in films within the LDS cinema movement like ‘The Errand of Angels’. He continues to act and direct while maintaining connections to his roots in the West.

Christopher Gorham

Christopher Gorham is a versatile actor who was raised in the Mormon faith and attended the University of California Los Angeles. He has had starring roles in several television series including ‘Ugly Betty’ and ‘Covert Affairs’. Gorham has also appeared in films like ‘The Other Side of Heaven’ which tells the story of a Mormon missionary in Tonga. He often plays characters that are intelligent and charming which has earned him a loyal fan base. He remains a consistent worker in the television industry with numerous credits to his name.

Jeremy Sumpter

Jeremy Sumpter is an actor who rose to international fame for his portrayal of the title character in the 2003 film ‘Peter Pan’. He was raised in a Mormon family and spent much of his youth in Kentucky and Texas before moving to Los Angeles. Sumpter has also appeared in the television series ‘Friday Night Lights’ and the film ‘Into the Storm’. He continues to pursue a career in acting and has been involved in several independent film projects. His early success as a child star provided a strong foundation for his ongoing work in the industry.

Matthew Davis

Matthew Davis is an actor who is well known for his roles in the film ‘Legally Blonde’ and the television series ‘The Vampire Diaries’. He was raised in a Mormon household in Utah and attended the University of Utah before starting his professional career. Davis has appeared in a wide range of film genres including action movies like ‘Pearl Harbor’ and ‘Blue Crush’. He also starred in the television series ‘Cult’ and ‘Legacies’ which expanded his popularity among young audiences. He continues to be a prominent figure in the television landscape.

Joey Lawrence

Joey Lawrence is an actor and musician who was raised in a Mormon family and became a child star in the 1980s. He is best known for his roles on the sitcoms ‘Gimme a Break’ and ‘Blossom’ where he became a teen idol. Lawrence has also appeared in several films and television movies throughout his lengthy career in entertainment. He later starred in the series ‘Melissa & Joey’ alongside Melissa Joan Hart which ran for several seasons. He has frequently spoken about the importance of his family and the values he was taught during his upbringing.

Matthew Lawrence

Matthew Lawrence is an actor who followed in the footsteps of his older brother Joey and was also raised in a Mormon household. He is best known for his role as Jack Hunter on the television series ‘Boy Meets World’ and for appearing in the film ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’. Lawrence has worked consistently in television and film since he was a young child. He appeared alongside his brothers in the series ‘Brotherly Love’ which showcased their real life family dynamic. He remains active in the industry with various acting and voice over projects.

Andrew Lawrence

Andrew Lawrence is the youngest of the Lawrence brothers and was raised in the same Mormon family environment. He began his career at a very young age and has appeared in numerous television shows and films. He is well known for his voice work in the animated series ‘Recess’ where he played the character T.J. Detweiler. Andrew also starred in several Disney Channel Original Movies such as ‘The Other Me’ and ‘Horse Sense’. He continues to work as an actor and has also ventured into directing and producing independent films.

Thurl Bailey

Thurl Bailey is a former professional basketball player and actor who converted to the Mormon faith while playing in Italy. He played for the Utah Jazz and the Minnesota Timberwolves before pursuing a career in broadcasting and acting. Bailey has appeared in films like ‘The Luck of the Irish’ and ‘The Singles Ward’ as well as various television guest spots. He is known for his deep voice and charismatic presence which has made him a popular figure in the Utah community. He also performs as a singer and songwriter with several albums to his credit.

Kirby Heyborne

Kirby Heyborne is an actor and musician who is a prominent figure in the LDS film industry. He gained popularity for his roles in comedy films like ‘The Singles Ward’ and ‘The R.M.’ which are aimed at Mormon audiences. Heyborne has also appeared in mainstream productions such as the film ‘The Three Stooges’ and various national commercials. He is an active member of the church and frequently performs music and comedy for community events. His career has successfully bridged the gap between niche religious media and broader commercial success.

Corbin Allred

Corbin Allred is an actor who has worked in both mainstream Hollywood films and LDS cinema. He is best known for his lead role in the film ‘Saints and Soldiers’ which depicts the experiences of American soldiers in World War II. Allred also appeared in the film ‘Robin Hood Men in Tights’ and the television series ‘Teen Angel’. He served a mission for the Mormon church in Australia which briefly interrupted his early acting career. He has continued to take roles that align with his personal values while working in various film and television projects.

Rick Macy

Rick Macy is a veteran actor who has appeared in dozens of films and television productions including many for the LDS market. He is perhaps best known for his portrayal of Joseph Smith Sr. in the film ‘Joseph Smith The Prophet of the Restoration’. Macy has also appeared in mainstream films like ‘Little Secrets’ and several television guest roles. He is a lifelong member of the Mormon faith and has dedicated much of his career to projects with religious themes. He continues to be a respected figure in the Utah acting community.

Bruce Newbold

Bruce Newbold is an actor and writer who has a long history of working in film and television projects related to the Mormon faith. He has appeared in films such as ‘The Testaments of One Fold and One Shepherd’ and ‘The Work and the Glory’. Newbold also has credits in mainstream television shows and films demonstrating his versatility as a performer. In addition to acting he has written books and scripts that often explore themes of faith and family. He remains an active participant in the creative community in the western United States.

Michael Flynn

Michael Flynn is an actor and producer who has been a prominent figure in the film industry in Utah for many years. He has appeared in numerous films such as ‘The Lamb of God’ and ‘The Best Two Years’ which are popular within the Mormon community. Flynn also has a variety of credits in mainstream television and film including appearances in ‘Everwood’ and ‘Touched by an Angel’. He has worked as a producer on several projects through his own production company. His long career has made him a recognizable face to many viewers of religious and regional cinema.

Robert Swenson

Robert Swenson was an actor and professional wrestler who was a member of the Mormon faith during his life. He was known for his massive physique and played the character Bane in the 1997 film ‘Batman & Robin’. Swenson also appeared in films like ‘The Bad Pack’ and had a career in professional wrestling under various names. He grew up in a Mormon household and remained connected to his community throughout his career. He passed away shortly after the release of his most famous film role at a young age.

K. Danor Gerald

K. Danor Gerald is an actor who has appeared in several films and television shows including many with religious themes. He is well known for his role in the film ‘The Saints and Soldiers The Void’ where he played an American soldier. Gerald is an active member of the Mormon faith and has spoken about his experiences as a Black member of the church. He has also appeared in various commercials and independent film projects over the years. He continues to work in the industry while advocating for diverse representation in media.

David Nibley

David Nibley is an actor and singer who has appeared in various films and stage productions. He is best known for his roles in movies like ‘The Best Two Years’ which focuses on the lives of Mormon missionaries. Nibley has also worked on several musical projects and has a background in theatrical performance. He is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints and frequently works on projects that align with his beliefs. His work often combines his talents in both acting and vocal performance.

Marvin Payne

Marvin Payne is a prolific actor and songwriter who has been a major influence in Mormon creative circles. He is best known for his portrayal of various historical figures in church produced films and stage plays. Payne starred in the musical ‘The Forgotten Carols’ which has become a seasonal tradition for many families. He has also appeared in mainstream television guest roles and independent films throughout his career. His work often explores spiritual themes and the human condition through a religious lens.

Ivan Crosland

Ivan Crosland is a veteran stage and screen actor who was a longtime professor of theater at Brigham Young University. He has appeared in many films produced by the Mormon church including ‘The Restoration’ and ‘Man’s Search for Happiness’. Crosland is respected for his classical training and his contributions to the development of theater in Utah. He has performed in countless stage productions ranging from Shakespeare to modern drama. His career has been dedicated to both the practice and teaching of the acting craft.

Mark DeCarlo

Mark DeCarlo is an actor and comedian who was raised in the Mormon faith. He is best known for providing the voice of Hugh Neutron in the animated series and film ‘Jimmy Neutron Boy Genius’. DeCarlo has also hosted several television shows including ‘Manswers’ and has appeared in numerous sitcoms. He has written books about travel and food while maintaining a busy career in voice over and television. While his work is often comedic he has occasionally discussed his religious upbringing in interviews.

Curt Doussett

Curt Doussett is an actor and television host who has appeared in several films and commercials. He is known for his roles in movies like ‘Saints and Soldiers’ and ‘The Errand of Angels’. Doussett also hosted the discovery program ‘Hazard Pay’ and has appeared in guest roles on mainstream television shows. He is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints and has participated in many projects for the LDS market. He continues to work in various aspects of the entertainment industry as a performer and presenter.

Bryce Chamberlain

Bryce Chamberlain is an actor who is frequently recognized for his work in films produced for the Mormon church. He played the role of the narrator and guide in the film ‘Man’s Search for Happiness’ which was shown at the World’s Fair. Chamberlain also appeared in various television shows and films throughout the mid twentieth century. He was a regular performer in the thriving theater scene in Utah and remained active in the church his entire life. His voice and screen presence made him a familiar figure to generations of LDS viewers.

Dan Reynolds

Dan Reynolds is primarily known as the lead singer of the band Imagine Dragons but he has also ventured into acting and documentary filmmaking. He was raised in a Mormon family in Las Vegas and served a mission in Nebraska before his music career took off. Reynolds starred in the documentary film ‘Believer’ which explores his relationship with the church and the LGBTQ community. He has also appeared in various television specials and music based films. He remains a vocal figure regarding his complicated relationship with his religious heritage.

Brandon Flowers

Brandon Flowers is the frontman of the rock band The Killers and is a very vocal member of the Mormon faith. While primarily a musician he has appeared in numerous music videos that utilize cinematic storytelling and acting techniques. Flowers has also participated in several documentary projects where he discusses the impact of his faith on his life and career. He appeared in a high profile advertising campaign for the church called ‘I’m a Mormon’ which was seen globally. He continues to balance his high profile rock star lifestyle with his commitment to his religious values.

Shawn Bradley

Shawn Bradley is a former professional basketball player who had a notable role in the Hollywood film ‘Space Jam’. Standing at seven feet six inches he played himself alongside other NBA stars and Michael Jordan in the animated and live action crossover. Bradley was raised in a Mormon household and served a mission in Australia before playing in the NBA. He has appeared in various television shows and documentaries often discussing his faith and his unique physical stature. He remains a well known figure in both the sports world and pop culture.

Bart Johnson

Bart Johnson is an actor who is best known for his role as Coach Jack Bolton in the ‘High School Musical’ film trilogy. He is a member of the Mormon faith and is married to actress Robyn Lively who also belongs to the church. Johnson has appeared in various television shows such as ‘The Client List’ and ‘NCIS’. He also starred in the film ‘The Cell 2’ and several holiday themed television movies. He continues to work in the industry while balancing his professional life with his family values.

Scott Christopher

Scott Christopher is an actor and author who has appeared in numerous films and television series throughout his career. He is well known for his roles in the films ‘The Best Two Years’ and ‘The Ledge’. Christopher is an active member of the Mormon faith and has written several books on religious and motivational topics. He has also made appearances in popular shows like ‘Modern Family’ and ‘Granite Flats’. His career spans various mediums including theater and public speaking.

Adam Johnson

Adam Johnson is an actor and director who has worked extensively in both independent films and television productions. He is best known for his role in the acclaimed film ‘The Saratov Approach’ which tells the story of two kidnapped Mormon missionaries. Johnson has also appeared in the film ‘Veronica Mars’ and the television series ‘Extinct’. He is a member of the Mormon faith and often works with other LDS filmmakers on various projects. His career includes a mix of comedic and dramatic roles across different genres.

Lincoln Hoppe

Lincoln Hoppe is an actor and writer who has been featured in several films and television programs over the last two decades. He gained recognition for his roles in comedy films like ‘The Singles Ward’ and ‘The R.M.’ which have high popularity among LDS audiences. Hoppe has also appeared in television series such as ‘Everwood’ and ‘JAG’. He is an active member of the Mormon faith and has contributed to many religious media projects. He continues to perform in independent films and stage productions.

Maclain Nelson

Maclain Nelson is an actor, writer, and director who is a prominent figure in the Utah film industry. He is best known for his role in the film ‘The Saratov Approach’ and for directing the comedy ‘Vamp U’. Nelson has appeared in various other films such as ‘The Singles Ward 2’ and ‘The Errand of Angels’. He is a member of the Mormon faith and frequently collaborates with his wife who is also an actress and filmmaker. His work often blends humor with themes related to his religious culture.

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