Foreign Actors With Military Backgrounds

Entertainment history is filled with talented individuals who possessed significant military experience before they became global icons. These actors hailed from various nations and served in capacities ranging from elite special forces to standard national service units. Their time in the armed forces often instilled a level of discipline and physical stamina that served them well in the demanding world of show business. Many of these performers took part in major historical conflicts while others completed their duties during times of peace. This collection celebrates the international male actors who dedicated part of their lives to military service.

Christopher Lee

Christopher Lee served with the Royal Air Force during the second world war and worked with the special forces. He performed dangerous missions across multiple continents and eventually achieved the rank of flight lieutenant. After the war he found massive success in films like ‘The Wicker Man’ and ‘Star Wars’ as a versatile performer. His military experience reportedly provided the inspiration for many of his more intense and commanding characters. He remained a highly respected figure in the industry until his passing in 2015.

Michael Caine

Michael Caine served in the British Army during the Korean War and was stationed in both Germany and Korea. He credits his time in the military for helping him develop the discipline necessary for a long career in Hollywood. The actor has starred in numerous classic films including ‘The Italian Job’ and ‘Alfie’ over several decades. He later received critical acclaim for his supporting roles in ‘The Dark Knight’ trilogy and ‘The Cider House Rules’ project. His experiences in the Royal Fusiliers gave him a unique perspective on life that he often utilized in his craft.

Sean Connery

Sean Connery joined the Royal Navy at the age of sixteen and served for three years before being discharged for medical reasons. He spent his time in the military working as an able seaman and developed a strong work ethic during his service. The Scottish actor later became a global superstar when he originated the role of James Bond in ‘Dr. No’ and several sequels. He earned an Academy Award for his performance in ‘The Untouchables’ and remained a beloved cinema icon for years. His navy background was a significant part of his early life before he pursued bodybuilding and acting.

Arnold Schwarzenegger

Arnold Schwarzenegger served his mandatory year of service in the Austrian Army in 1965 as a tank driver. During this time he famously went absent without leave to compete in the Junior Mr. Europe bodybuilding contest. He won the competition but spent time in military prison as a consequence of his unauthorized departure. After finishing his service he moved to the United States and became a legendary action star in films like ‘The Terminator’ and ‘Predator’ series. His military discipline helped him transition into a successful career in both show business and politics.

Alexander Skarsgård

Alexander Skarsgård served in the Swedish military for eighteen months as part of a specialized unit focused on anti terrorism and naval security. He was stationed at the Berga Naval Base near Stockholm and learned valuable tactical skills during his tenure. The actor later gained international fame for his roles in the series ‘True Blood’ and the film ‘The Legend of Tarzan’. He often brings a physical intensity to his performances that reflects his rigorous military training. He continues to be a prominent figure in both Swedish and American cinema.

Dolph Lundgren

Dolph Lundgren completed his mandatory military service in the Swedish Marine Corps where he served as a corporal. He was a highly disciplined soldier who balanced his duties with academic pursuits in chemical engineering. The actor became a household name after playing the formidable Ivan Drago in the movie ‘Rocky IV’. He has since appeared in numerous action films including ‘The Expendables’ franchise and ‘Universal Soldier’. His background in the marines and martial arts contributed to his status as a legendary action hero.

Hyun Bin

Hyun Bin completed his mandatory military service in the South Korean Marine Corps which is known for being one of the toughest branches. He volunteered for the marines rather than taking an easier assignment and served with distinction for twenty one months. The actor returned to the entertainment industry and starred in the massive hit series ‘Crash Landing on You’. His service was highly publicized and he received praise for his dedication to his national duties. He remains one of the most popular and respected actors in the South Korean film industry.

Gong Yoo

Gong Yoo served in the South Korean Army for two years and spent a portion of his service working in the public relations unit. He also hosted a radio program for the military which allowed him to maintain a connection to the entertainment world. After his discharge he starred in the critically acclaimed film ‘Train to Busan’ and the popular series ‘Guardian: The Lonely and Great God’. His time in the military is often cited as a period where he gained maturity and focus. He is widely regarded as a top tier talent in Asian cinema today.

Song Joong-ki

Song Joong-ki served in the South Korean Army for twenty one months and was assigned to an infantry unit near the border. He was known for his exemplary conduct and was even selected to join the elite reconnaissance battalion. Upon his return to acting he starred in the global sensation ‘Descendants of the Sun’ where he played a special forces captain. This role resonated with fans due to his real life experience as a soldier in the military. He continues to lead high profile projects in both television and film.

David Niven

David Niven graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and served as a regular officer in the Highland Light Infantry. He left the army to pursue acting but returned to service when the second world war broke out. The actor participated in the Normandy landings and served as a liaison officer between the British and American forces. He starred in many beloved films such as ‘The Pink Panther’ and ‘Around the World in 80 Days’ after the war. His military record was distinguished and he was awarded the Legion of Merit by the United States.

Alec Guinness

Alec Guinness served in the Royal Navy during the second world war and commanded a landing craft during the invasion of Sicily. He also participated in missions to supply arms to partisans in Yugoslavia throughout the conflict. After the war he became one of the most respected actors of his generation with roles in ‘The Bridge on the River Kwai’ and ‘Star Wars’. He was known for his incredible range and ability to disappear into any character he portrayed. His wartime experiences were a foundational part of his life before he achieved global stardom.

Anthony Hopkins

Anthony Hopkins served in the British Army for two years as part of his mandatory national service requirements. He was stationed in the Royal Artillery and spent much of his time performing clerical duties in an office setting. After his discharge he pursued his passion for acting and eventually became one of the greatest performers in cinematic history. He won an Academy Award for his terrifying portrayal of Hannibal Lecter in ‘The Silence of the Lambs’. The actor has often spoken about how the discipline of the military influenced his professional life.

Roger Moore

Roger Moore served in the Royal Army Service Corps shortly after the end of the second world war. He eventually rose to the rank of captain and was stationed in West Germany for a period of time. The actor later became a global icon for his long running portrayal of James Bond in films like ‘The Spy Who Loved Me’. He also starred in the popular television series ‘The Saint’ before taking on the role of the famous secret agent. His military service provided a sense of authority that translated well to his on screen persona.

George Lazenby

George Lazenby served in the Australian Army as a physical training instructor before moving to the United Kingdom to pursue a career in modeling and acting. He was known for his athletic prowess and used these skills to secure the role of James Bond. The actor starred in ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’ as the famous spy before choosing to leave the franchise. His background in the military helped him perform many of his own stunts during the production of the film. He remains a unique figure in the history of the Bond series.

Dirk Bogarde

Dirk Bogarde served in the British Army during the second world war and worked in the intelligence corps. He was one of the first British officers to arrive at the Bergen Belsen concentration camp after its liberation. The horrors he witnessed during the war had a profound impact on his life and later career choices. He became a major film star in movies like ‘Victim’ and ‘Death in Venice’ during the middle of the twentieth century. His wartime service was something he rarely spoke about in detail until much later in his life.

Peter O’Toole

Peter O’Toole served in the Royal Navy for two years as a radio operator after finishing his early education. He reportedly chose the navy because he wanted to see the world and gain new experiences. The actor eventually rose to international fame for his incredible performance in the epic film ‘Lawrence of Arabia’. He received numerous Academy Award nominations throughout his long and distinguished career in theatre and cinema. His naval service was a brief but significant chapter in his life before he became a legendary performer.

Brian Blessed

Brian Blessed served in the Royal Air Force as a parachutist and completed his national service in the late fifties. He is known for his booming voice and larger than life personality in films and television. The actor has appeared in classics such as ‘Flash Gordon’ and ‘Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves’ over several decades. He is also a dedicated adventurer who has attempted to climb Mount Everest on several occasions. His military training likely contributed to the physical endurance he displays in his professional and personal life.

Denholm Elliott

Denholm Elliott served in the Royal Air Force as a radio operator and gunner during the second world war. His plane was shot down over Germany in 1942 and he spent the remainder of the war as a prisoner of prisoner. He participated in amateur theatricals while in the prison camp which helped him discover his passion for acting. After the war he became a highly respected character actor in films like ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’ and ‘Trading Places’. He was known for his ability to bring depth and nuance to every role he played.

Donald Pleasence

Donald Pleasence served in the Royal Air Force as a wireless operator and flew numerous missions over occupied Europe. He was shot down in 1944 and spent a year in a German prisoner of war camp. The actor later became famous for his roles in ‘The Great Escape’ and as the villainous Blofeld in ‘You Only Live Twice’. He was also a fixture in the horror genre appearing in several ‘Halloween’ films as Dr. Sam Loomis. His real life experience in a prison camp added a layer of authenticity to his performance in wartime movies.

Richard Burton

Richard Burton served in the Royal Air Force for three years during the final stages of the second world war. He was stationed in Manitoba Canada as a navigator trainee but did not see active combat before the war ended. The actor went on to become one of the most famous and highly paid performers in the world during the sixties. He starred in epic films like ‘Cleopatra’ and ‘Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf’ alongside Elizabeth Taylor. His powerful voice and stage presence made him a legendary figure in both cinema and theatre.

Alain Delon

Alain Delon joined the French Navy at the age of seventeen and served as a paratrooper during the First Indochina War. He spent several years in the military and participated in active combat before returning to France. The actor became a major international star and a symbol of French cinema in the sixties and seventies. He is best known for his roles in ‘Le Samouraï’ and ‘The Leopard’ where he played cool and enigmatic characters. His rough upbringing and military service contributed to the tough persona he often portrayed on screen.

Jean-Paul Belmondo

Jean-Paul Belmondo served in the French Army during the Algerian War and spent time stationed in North Africa. He was an amateur boxer before his military service and brought a rugged physicality to his acting roles. The actor became a central figure in the French New Wave movement after starring in ‘Breathless’ by Jean Luc Godard. He was famous for performing his own stunts in action comedies and dramas throughout his long career. His military background and athletic skills made him a unique and beloved figure in world cinema.

Rain

Rain completed his mandatory military service in the South Korean Army and served as a public relations officer. He was a global superstar in both music and acting before he enlisted and his service was closely followed by fans. After finishing his duties he continued his successful career in films like ‘Ninja Assassin’ and various television dramas. He is credited with helping to spread the Korean Wave across the world through his diverse talents. His military service is viewed as an important milestone in his career and personal development.

Ji Chang-wook

Ji Chang-wook served in the South Korean Army for nearly two years and was assigned to an artillery brigade. He was recognized for his high performance and participated in military musicals during his time in the service. The actor gained widespread popularity for his roles in ‘Healer’ and ‘The K2’ where he often played action oriented characters. He has a large international following and is known for his versatility in both romantic and thriller genres. His time in the military helped him transition into more mature and physically demanding roles.

Lee Dong-wook

Lee Dong-wook served in the South Korean Army and worked in the public relations department where he hosted radio shows. He completed his service in 2011 and immediately returned to the acting world with successful projects. The actor is well known for his roles in ‘My Girl’ and his iconic performance as the Grim Reaper in ‘Guardian: The Lonely and Great God’. He has also hosted several variety shows and is praised for his witty and charming personality. His military service is remembered for his dedication and active involvement in military media.

Lee Seung-gi

Lee Seung-gi served in the South Korean Special Warfare Command and completed his service as a member of the elite airborne unit. He volunteered for this challenging assignment and earned several commendations for his physical and mental toughness. The actor and singer is often referred to as the nation’s little brother in South Korea due to his wholesome image. After his discharge he starred in hits like ‘Vagabond’ where he showcased the skills he learned during his special forces training. He remains a highly influential and popular entertainer across Asia.

Kim Soo-hyun

Kim Soo-hyun served in the South Korean Army and was assigned to a reconnaissance battalion near the demilitarized zone. He originally received a public service grade due to a heart condition but worked hard to improve his health to serve as an active duty soldier. The actor is one of the highest paid stars in South Korea and is famous for roles in ‘My Love from the Star’ and ‘It’s Okay to Not Be Okay’. He was praised for his humble attitude and excellent performance throughout his military service. He continues to dominate the charts and viewership ratings with his projects.

Lee Jun-ho

Lee Jun-ho served his mandatory service as a public service worker after suffering a serious shoulder injury during his career as an idol. He is a member of the popular group 2PM and has successfully transitioned into a highly acclaimed actor. He recently starred in the historical drama ‘The Red Sleeve’ which earned him several prestigious acting awards. His military service was a period of reflection and recovery that paved the way for his current success. He is recognized for his intense focus and dedication to his characters.

Choi Si-won

Choi Si-won served in the South Korean National Police Agency as part of his mandatory military duties. He is a member of the legendary group Super Junior and has had a very successful career in both music and acting. The actor has appeared in various international projects and is known for his roles in ‘She Was Pretty’ and ‘Revolutionary Love’. He is also a regional ambassador for UNICEF and is active in many charitable causes. His time in the police force allowed him to serve his country while preparing for his future in the arts.

Lee Jong-suk

Lee Jong-suk served his mandatory military service as a public service worker due to a childhood car accident injury. He completed his duties in early 2021 and made a highly anticipated return to the screen. The actor is known for his unique charm and has starred in hits such as ‘While You Were Sleeping’ and ‘Big Mouth’. He has a massive fan base across the world and is considered one of the leading actors of the Korean Wave. His military service was a quiet period before he re entered the spotlight with more mature roles.

Kang Ha-neul

Kang Ha-neul served in the South Korean Republic of Korea Army and was a member of the military police motorcycle unit. He was often seen at public events representing the army and was praised for his positive and hardworking attitude. The actor is well known for his roles in ‘When the Camellia Blooms’ and the film ‘Midnight Runners’. He has a reputation for being one of the kindest and most sincere actors in the industry. His military service was an extension of his public image as a dedicated and honorable individual.

Jung Hae-in

Jung Hae-in completed his mandatory military service when he was twenty one years old before he started his professional acting career. He has stated that his time in the army helped him find his direction in life and gave him the resolve to pursue acting. The actor gained international fame for his roles in ‘Something in the Rain’ and the Netflix series ‘D.P.’ which focuses on military desertion. His personal experience in the military added a layer of realism to his performance in military themed shows. He continues to be a rising star in both domestic and international markets.

Lee Je-hoon

Lee Je-hoon served in the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency as part of the auxiliary police unit during his mandatory service. He is a highly acclaimed actor known for his versatile roles in films like ‘Architecture 101’ and the series ‘Signal’. He has won numerous awards for his performances and is known for his commitment to high quality storytelling. After his discharge he continued to lead successful projects such as ‘Taxi Driver’ and ‘Move to Heaven’. His time in the police force provided him with a unique perspective on justice and society.

Yoo Seung-ho

Yoo Seung-ho chose to enlist in the South Korean Army at the age of nineteen while his career was at a peak. He served as an assistant instructor in a training camp and opted for a regular enlistment rather than a celebrity unit. The actor started as a child star and is often referred to as the Nation’s Little Brother by the Korean public. He has starred in many successful dramas including ‘The Emperor: Owner of the Mask’ and ‘Moonshine’. His decision to serve early was widely praised and helped him transition into adult roles smoothly.

Til Schweiger

Til Schweiger served his mandatory military service in the German Bundeswehr before he began his career in the arts. He is one of the most successful actors and directors in Germany and is known for films like ‘Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door’. He also gained international recognition for his role in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Inglourious Basterds’ as Sergeant Hugo Stiglitz. His tough and direct acting style is a hallmark of his many action and comedy roles. He continues to be a major force in the European film industry today.

Hardy Krüger

Hardy Krüger was drafted into the German Wehrmacht during the final stages of the second world war at the age of sixteen. He was assigned to an elite division but was nearly executed for refusing to fire on American soldiers during a mission. He eventually escaped and spent time as a prisoner of war before returning to acting. The actor became an international star and appeared in many classic films such as ‘The Flight of the Phoenix’ and ‘A Bridge Too Far’. His incredible life story and wartime experiences shaped his long and successful career in cinema.

Jean Gabin

Jean Gabin served in the French Navy during the second world war after fleeing occupied France for the United States. He joined the Free French Forces and served as a tank commander in the armored division that helped liberate Paris. The actor was a major star of French cinema before the war and his heroic service only increased his legendary status. He appeared in iconic films like ‘Grand Illusion’ and ‘The Lower Depths’ during his storied career. He remains one of the most significant and beloved figures in the history of French film.

Lino Ventura

Lino Ventura was an Italian citizen living in France who was drafted into the Italian Army during the second world war. He eventually deserted the military and lived in hiding until the end of the conflict to avoid fighting for the fascist regime. The actor was a professional wrestler before he transition to acting and became a staple of French crime cinema. He is best known for his roles in ‘Army of Shadows’ and ‘The French Detective’ where he played stoic and powerful characters. His rugged looks and real life toughness made him a favorite among audiences for decades.

Marcello Mastroianni

Marcello Mastroianni was drafted into the Italian military during the second world war but was captured by German forces. He spent time in a labor camp before he managed to escape and live in hiding until the war concluded. The actor became the most famous Italian performer in history and a favorite of director Federico Fellini. He starred in masterpieces such as ‘La Dolce Vita’ and ‘8 1/2’ which cemented his status as a global icon. His wartime hardships were a stark contrast to the sophisticated and romantic image he often projected on screen.

Patrick Macnee

Patrick Macnee served in the Royal Navy during the second world war and worked as a navigator on motor torpedo boats. He saw active service in the English Channel and reached the rank of lieutenant before leaving the military. The actor is most famous for his role as the dapper secret agent John Steed in the classic television series ‘The Avengers’. He also appeared in many films including the James Bond entry ‘A View to a Kill’ alongside Roger Moore. His military experience helped him bring a sense of professionalism and authority to his most famous character.

Chaim Topol

Chaim Topol served in the Israeli Defense Forces during his mandatory national service and was a member of the military’s entertainment troupe. He also participated in active duty during various conflicts including the Six Day War as part of the reserve forces. The actor gained international fame for his portrayal of Tevye in the film and stage versions of ‘Fiddler on the Roof’. He received an Academy Award nomination and a Golden Globe for his iconic performance. He remained a prominent figure in international cinema and was a respected cultural ambassador for Israel.

Lior Raz

Lior Raz served as a commando in the elite undercover unit known as Duvdevan within the Israeli Defense Forces. His real life experiences in high pressure tactical operations directly inspired his work on the television series ‘Fauda’. He spent several years in the military before transitioning to a career in acting and writing. The physical and psychological intensity of his service is often visible in his gritty and realistic performances. He has since become a prominent figure in international cinema and streaming platforms.

Tsahi Halevi

Tsahi Halevi served in the elite Shimshon unit of the Israeli Defense Forces where he participated in numerous undercover operations. He is a talented actor and singer who gained fame for his role in the acclaimed film ‘Bethlehem’. He is also well known for his performance in the series ‘Fauda’ alongside other military veterans. His background in special operations gives him a deep understanding of the complex themes explored in his work. He continues to be a versatile performer in both musical and dramatic projects.

Tomer Capone

Tomer Capone served in the Israeli Defense Forces as a combat soldier and paratrooper where he saw active duty. He transitioned to acting after his service and became a major star in Israel before moving to international projects. He is best known to global audiences for his role as Frenchie in the superhero series ‘The Boys’. The actor often brings a sense of vulnerability and intensity to his roles that reflects his life experiences. He is recognized as one of the most promising international actors working in Hollywood today.

Please share your favorite performance by an actor with a military background in the comments.