Some athletes got bitten by the “acting bug” when it was time to hang up their cleats or put away their jerseys. These athletes made their transition from the field to the bright lights of Hollywood, and for some it has worked out. Here is a list of some athletes who have turned into successful actors.
Chuck Norris: Before becoming a pop culture icon, Chuck Norris was a nationally ranked martial artist who rose to fame as an actor with his popular television show “Walker Texas Ranger.” He has starred in a number of action films, but many may know him best for his fitness infomercials. He is set to appear alongside some of his fellow athletes-turned-action-stars in the movie “The Expendables 2.”
Arnold Schwarzenegger: Schwarzenegger, or as many still refer to him as the “Terminator,” was a former bodybuilder. Schwarzenegger broke into acting with his first role in “Hercules in New York” in the 70s, but it wasn’t until 1982 when he really got his big break playing Conan in “Conan the Barbarian.” Schwarzenegger has done well for himself — he became the Governor of California after all. Schwarzenegger will be making his return to the big screen this year with his role in “The Expendables 2.”
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson: Long before he was being called Dwayne Johnson by Hollywood, he went by one name, “The Rock.” After playing football for the University of Miami, “The Rock” rose to fame as a professional wrestler in the WWE; being called by all those who admired him as “The People’s Champ.” He made his acting debut with his lead role in “The Scorpion King” in 2002. Since then he has made his name synonymous with acting. His versatility in action and comedic roles has made him a superstar outside the ring. This summer, he will appear in the movie “G.I. Joe: Retaliation.”
Jet Li: From a young age, Li was destined for greatness. He is a Chinese Martial Artist and Wushu champion. Like other martial artists, Li transitioned into an acting career, becoming a star in China before moving on to international stardom. His first Hollywood leading role was in “Romeo Must Die.” Since then he has gone on to star in many action films such as “The Forbidden Kingdom,” alongside Jackie Chan.
Jason Statham: Jason Statham, who has made his name as an action star, was originally a professional diver for Britain’s National Diving Squad. Statham has appeared in many films such as “Snatch” and “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels,” but it wasn’t until he was given a starring role as “The Transporter” that he was really was able to reveal himself as a true action movie star.
Gina Cerano: Cerano is a professional Mixed Martial Artist turned actress. She has been referred to as “the face” for women’s MMA and was formerly ranked as the third best female fighter in the world. Cerano is not new to the acting world; she has appeared in television shows such as “American Gladiator,” and in 2009 landed the leading role in “Haywire.” The next movie that she will be appearing in is “In the Blood.”
