Lady Gaga’s Career: From ‘Machete Kills’ to ‘Wednesday’

Lady Gaga is known around the world as a pop music icon, famous for her chart-topping hits and groundbreaking visual artistry. Her natural flair for the dramatic and her background in performance art made her transition into acting feel almost inevitable. From the very beginning, she showed a unique ability to embody characters, blurring the lines between her stage persona and the roles she played. This seamless shift has allowed her to build a compelling screen presence that captivates audiences.

Over the past decade, she has carefully curated a fascinating and diverse acting portfolio, moving from memorable cameos to critically acclaimed leading roles. Her journey as an actress has been marked by bold choices, showcasing her range and dedication to the craft. She has proven that her talent extends far beyond the music studio, establishing herself as a formidable force in both film and television.

‘Machete Kills’ (2013)

In this action-packed film, Lady Gaga plays one of the many forms of an assassin named La Camaleón. The character is a master of disguise, and Gaga’s version is a gun-toting femme fatale with a distinctive and deadly style. Her appearance was a standout moment, serving as one of her first proper forays into feature film acting and proving she could hold her own in an ensemble cast.

The movie itself is a wild and over-the-top sequel directed by Robert Rodriguez. It follows the titular ex-Federale as he is recruited by the U.S. government for an impossible mission. The film is known for its stylized violence and campy tone, making Gaga’s theatrical cameo a perfect fit for its chaotic and fun universe.

‘Sin City: A Dame to Kill For’ (2014)

Lady Gaga had a small but memorable role as a waitress named Bertha in this stylish neo-noir thriller. She appears in a brief scene, sharing a moment of sympathy with a down-on-his-luck character played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt. This part continued her collaboration with director Robert Rodriguez and further demonstrated her interest in visually distinctive projects.

The film is the second installment in the ‘Sin City’ series, adapted from Frank Miller’s graphic novels. It maintains the original’s striking black-and-white aesthetic with selective splashes of color. The story weaves together multiple dark and gritty plotlines set within the corrupt and crime-ridden Basin City.

‘American Horror Story’ (2015–2016)

This series marked Lady Gaga’s first major leading role, where she starred as The Countess, the glamorous and ancient owner of the haunted Hotel Cortez. Her character is a fashionable and blood-drinking creature at the center of the season’s dark mysteries. The role allowed her to showcase a commanding and complex performance that was both chilling and captivating.

Her work on the fifth season of the popular horror anthology was met with widespread critical acclaim. She fully embodied the sinister elegance of her character, earning a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. This project was a turning point, firmly establishing her as a serious and talented actress in the television landscape.

‘American Horror Story: Roanoke’ (2016)

Lady Gaga returned to the horror anthology series in a mysterious guest role. She portrayed Scáthach, an ancient and immortal witch with deep ties to the land and the original Supreme. Her character was a primal and enigmatic force of nature, a stark contrast to the refined figure she played in the previous season.

The sixth season of the show was presented in a unique documentary style, adding a layer of found-footage horror to the narrative. Gaga’s character was a key figure in the historical backstory that haunted the season’s main characters. Her appearance was a surprise to many viewers and served to deepen the complex mythology of the entire series.

‘A Star Is Born’ (2018)

This film marked Lady Gaga’s first leading role in a major motion picture, playing a struggling singer named Ally. Her character’s life changes when she is discovered by Jackson Maine, a famous musician whose own career is in decline. The role allowed her to deliver a raw and vulnerable performance that earned her widespread acclaim.

The movie was a massive commercial and critical success, celebrated for its powerful storytelling and emotional depth. Gaga’s chemistry with co-star and director Bradley Cooper was a highlight for both audiences and critics. She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress and won the Oscar for Best Original Song for the film’s iconic track ‘Shallow’.

‘House of Gucci’ (2021)

In this biographical crime drama, Lady Gaga took on the complex role of Patrizia Reggiani. She portrayed the real-life figure who married into the famous Gucci fashion dynasty and whose ambition ultimately led to betrayal and murder. Her transformative performance captured Patrizia’s entire journey over three decades.

Directed by Ridley Scott, the film explores the intricate web of family, business, and power within the world of high fashion. It chronicles the events that culminated in the assassination of Maurizio Gucci. Gaga’s committed portrayal earned her numerous award nominations, including recognition from the Golden Globes, BAFTAs, and Screen Actors Guild Awards.

‘Joker: Folie à Deux’ (2024)

Lady Gaga enters the world of comic book characters, playing Dr. Harleen Quinzel, the psychiatrist who becomes the infamous Harley Quinn. She stars alongside Joaquin Phoenix in the sequel to the acclaimed film ‘Joker’. The role offers a new and distinct interpretation of the popular character.

The film is a psychological thriller that also incorporates musical elements, playing to Gaga’s strengths as both a singer and an actress. The story revolves around the twisted relationship that develops between the Joker and Harley Quinn within the confines of Arkham Asylum, exploring their shared madness.

‘Wednesday’ (2025)

Lady Gaga is set to join the cast of the hit supernatural series ‘Wednesday’ for its upcoming second season. Her specific role is currently being kept under wraps, but her involvement has generated significant excitement among fans. Her casting follows a viral social media trend that connected her music to the show.

The series became a global phenomenon, following Wednesday Addams as she navigates life at the gothic Nevermore Academy. A memorable dance scene performed by the show’s lead went viral online when fans paired it with a sped-up version of Gaga’s song ‘Bloody Mary’. This organic fan movement created a powerful association between the artist and the show’s dark, quirky aesthetic.

Let us know which of Lady Gaga’s on-screen performances is your favorite in the comments below.