Top 50 Most Popular Actors from 80s [2025]

Daniel Day-Lewis is widely regarded as one of Hollywood's greatest actors. Born to Poet Laureate Cecil Day-Lewis and actress Jill Balcon, he comes from an artistic and distinguished background.

In interviews, Day-Lewis has candidly described himself as a mischievous child, engaging in shoplifting and rebelling against authority figures.

By high school, however, he matured and focused deeply on his twin passions—acting and woodworking—setting the course for his future career.

While his screen debut was in 1971's Sunday Bloody Sunday as a child actor, it was during the 1980s that he truly began his film career.

The films he selected showcased his immense talent and refined his reputation as an extraordinary performer.

Notable credits from this era include Gandhi, The Bounty, My Beautiful Laundrette, A Room with a View, Nanou, and The Unbearable Lightness of Being.

His performances consistently earned critical praise, culminating in his 1989 portrayal of Irish artist and writer Christy Brown in My Left Foot.

This role won Day-Lewis his first Academy Award for Best Actor and marked the beginning of a remarkable run of unforgettable performances.

Clint Eastwood, born on May 31, 1930, is a celebrated American actor, director, and producer. He gained widespread fame for his roles in classic westerns such as "Rawhide," "For a Few Dollars More," and "The Good, The Bad and the Ugly."

During the 1980s, Eastwood cemented his status as a Hollywood icon, starring in and directing several notable films. These include "Bronco Billy" (1980), "Firefox" (1982), "Sudden Impact" (1983), and "Pale Rider" (1985). Although "Unforgiven" (1992) came shortly after the decade, it remains one of his most acclaimed works.

Over his remarkable career, Eastwood has won four Academy Awards for acting, directing, and producing. His influence is evident in his wide-ranging roles, directorial accomplishments, and lasting legacy within the Western genre and the film industry as a whole.

William James ‘Willem’ Dafoe is a versatile actor renowned for his dynamic work, especially in experimental films, setting him apart from many of his contemporaries. His daring approach has garnered critical acclaim and a devoted following.

Throughout his celebrated career, Dafoe has been honored with four Academy Award nominations, four Screen Actors Guild Award nominations, three Golden Globe nominations, and a BAFTA nomination, reflecting his exceptional talent and range.

Dafoe began his journey in the arts with The Wooster Group, an experimental theater company that shaped his unique on-screen presence and artistic sensibilities.

His impressive filmography includes renowned titles like The Loveless, To Live and Die in L.A., Platoon, The Last Temptation of Christ, Mississippi Burning, and Shadow of the Vampire, among many others.

He is also recognized for his role as The Green Goblin in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Spider-Man franchise, and as Nuidis Vulko in the DCEU’s Aquaman series.

Other notable projects featuring Dafoe include Mr. Bean’s Holiday, Antichrist, The Fault in Our Stars, John Wick, The Grand Budapest Hotel, Murder on the Orient Express, The Florida Project, The Lighthouse, At Eternity’s Gate, and Togo.

Jack Nicholson is a retired American actor and filmmaker whose remarkable career in Hollywood spans five decades.

Throughout his extensive career, Nicholson excelled in a wide variety of roles—including leads, supporting characters, villains, and comedic parts—demonstrating exceptional versatility and depth.

He holds the distinction of being the most-nominated male actor in history, earning twelve Academy Award nominations and winning three Oscars.

Jack began his career in 1956, appearing in television shows and small film roles before achieving breakout success with his performance in the drama Easy Rider.

He continued to impress audiences with acclaimed performances in dramas and comedy-dramas such as One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Terms of Endearment, Five Easy Pieces, and The Witches of Eastwick.

Nicholson also left a lasting mark with iconic roles in psychological and crime thrillers, including Chinatown, The Pledge, The Shining, A Few Good Men, and The Departed.

Surprisingly, his comedic talents were also highly praised, with memorable performances in films such as As Good as It Gets, About Schmidt, Anger Management, and Something’s Gotta Give.

Tom Hanks is celebrated as one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors, known for his genuine kindness and professionalism with colleagues both on and off the set.

Raised in a devout household, Hanks was a disciplined and well-behaved child. He rarely got into trouble, embracing his upbringing's values from a young age.

His passion for acting flourished during his college days, leading to a three-year internship at the Great Lakes Theater Festival in Cleveland. This formative experience laid the foundation for his career.

Tom Hanks made his Hollywood debut in 1980, quickly gaining notice for his roles in comedies. Throughout the decade, he starred in memorable films such as Splash, Bachelor Party, Big, Dragnet, Nothing in Common, and Turner & Hooch.

The 1990s saw Hanks’s career soar with a string of box-office hits, including A League of Their Own, Sleepless in Seattle, Philadelphia, Forrest Gump, Apollo 13, and Cast Away.

He continued to impress audiences in iconic roles such as Woody in the Toy Story franchise, Professor Robert Langdon in the Dan Brown films, and appearances in Catch Me If You Can, Saving Private Ryan, Road to Perdition, The Green Mile, Bridge of Spies, and Band of Brothers.

Sir Anthony Hopkins, born on December 31, 1937, in Wales, is one of the most acclaimed actors of his generation. Renowned for his remarkable talent across both stage and screen, Hopkins has won two Academy Awards and received numerous Oscar nominations over his illustrious career.

During the 1980s, Hopkins delivered outstanding performances in a range of film genres. He starred as Dr. Frederick Treves in the critically acclaimed "The Elephant Man" (1980) and took on the role of Admiral Bligh in "The Bounty" (1984). Though he is perhaps most famous for playing Hannibal Lecter in "The Silence of the Lambs" (1991), his notable contributions in the 1980s showcased his versatile acting abilities.

Hopkins' role in "The Dresser" (1983) further demonstrated his depth, earning him an additional Oscar nomination. His powerful screen presence and masterful performances throughout the decade established him as one of the most respected actors in Hollywood, whose influence endures well beyond the 1980s.

Morgan Freeman was raised by his grandmother in the southern state of Mississippi before moving to Chicago.

Throughout his childhood, Freeman was actively involved in theater, appearing in his first play at just nine years old.

Recognizing his talent, Jackson State University offered him a partial scholarship to study acting and drama, but he declined the opportunity to enlist in the United States Air Force instead.

After serving until 1959, Freeman relocated to Los Angeles where he continued his acting education at the Pasadena Playhouse and Los Angeles City College.

Freeman showcased his versatility by taking on various roles in film and television throughout his early career. His major breakthrough came in 1987 with the film "Street Smart," earning him his first Academy Award nomination.

Some of his other notable 1980s performances include "Clean and Sober," "Driving Miss Daisy," "Glory," and "Lean on Me." He received his second of five Oscar nominations for "Driving Miss Daisy."

Freeman continued to build an impressive legacy, starring in iconic films such as "The Shawshank Redemption," "Million Dollar Baby," "Se7en," "Unforgiven," and "Amistad."

Robert De Niro is a legendary actor, director, and producer, celebrated for his incredible range and dedication to his craft. He has formed a historic partnership with famed filmmaker Martin Scorsese, resulting in many unforgettable films that have become cinematic classics.

De Niro has received multiple Academy Award nominations throughout his career. Notably, he won Oscars for his roles in "The Godfather II" and "Raging Bull," and has been nominated for six other films as well.

Although his first leading role was in "Greetings," De Niro's real breakthrough came with his performance as young Vito Corleone in Francis Ford Coppola's "The Godfather II." This role catapulted him to international stardom.

He went on to deliver acclaimed performances in movies like "Mean Streets," "Taxi Driver," "The Deer Hunter," and "Raging Bull." These films exemplify his powerful screen presence and versatility.

During the 1980s, De Niro expanded his repertoire by taking on comedic roles, proving his ability to succeed in diverse genres. His comedic talent shone through and earned him recognition beyond drama.

His popular comedies from this era and beyond include "The King of Comedy," "Brazil," "Midnight Run," "Wag the Dog," "Analyze This," "Meet the Parents," and "Silver Linings Playbook," among others.

Other critically acclaimed films featuring Robert De Niro include "Goodfellas," "The Mission," "Cape Fear," "Heat," "Awakenings," "Once Upon a Time in America," "This Boy’s Life," "Joker," and "The Irishman." His enduring contributions have firmly established him as one of the most influential actors of all time.

Kevin Costner is a renowned American filmmaker, actor, and businessman who first rose to prominence in the 1980s. His early career was marked by a passionate interest in sports, music, and the arts rather than academics during his high school years.

Despite his varied interests, Costner went on to earn a degree in finance and marketing. A life-changing encounter with actor Richard Burton on a flight inspired him to pursue acting, with Burton encouraging him that his blue eyes could open doors in Hollywood.

Costner made his film debut in 1981 and quickly landed roles in films such as Fandango, American Flyers, and Silverado. However, it was his performances in the acclaimed 1987 releases The Untouchables and No Way Out that truly launched his stardom.

Building on this momentum, Costner delivered memorable performances in Bull Durham and Field of Dreams, cementing his reputation as a talented actor. His ambition soon led him to direct, and in 1990, he released the landmark film Dances With Wolves, earning two Academy Awards for his efforts.

Throughout the 1990s, Costner continued to work on high-profile projects, including Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, JFK, and The Bodyguard, establishing himself as one of the most iconic stars of the era.

Tom Cruise is an acclaimed actor and producer who rose to fame in the 1980s. As one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, his films have amassed over $10.1 billion in global box office revenue, cementing his place among the highest-grossing actors of all time.

Throughout his career, Cruise has received significant critical acclaim, including three Academy Award nominations, three Golden Globe wins, and a nomination at the British Academy Film Awards.

Cruise's breakthrough came in 1983 with "Risky Business," followed by standout roles in "Top Gun," "The Color of Money," "Rain Man," "Days of Thunder," "Cocktail," and "Born on the Fourth of July." For the latter, he earned his first Academy Award nomination and secured a Golden Globe win.

In the years since, Tom Cruise has delivered unforgettable performances in "A Few Good Men," the "Mission Impossible" series, "Magnolia," "Eyes Wide Shut," "Minority Report," "Jerry Maguire," "Vanilla Sky," "The Last Samurai," and more.

Renowned for his dedication to performing his own stunts and delivering high-octane action films, Cruise remains a beloved figure among fans, celebrated for both his talent and commitment to thrilling entertainment.

Michael Douglas is a celebrated Academy Award-winning actor and producer, renowned for both his talent and his enduring impact on Hollywood. He earned his first Academy Award as a producer for the acclaimed film One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest.

This influential film was adapted from the novel of the same name, with rights originally held by Kirk Douglas, Michael's father and a legendary figure in his own right.

As the son of Kirk Douglas and Diana Dill, Michael was inspired by early success and soon made his mark in the 1980s. He produced and starred in numerous hits such as The China Syndrome, Romancing the Stone, and Jewel of the Nile.

He further showcased his versatility in popular films like A Chorus Line, Fatal Attraction, Wall Street, The War of the Roses, and Black Rain. In addition, Douglas was well-known for his role on The Streets of San Francisco.

Over the course of his illustrious career, Michael Douglas has received two Academy Awards, five Golden Globe Awards, a Primetime Emmy Award, and the Cecil B. DeMille Award. His distinguished filmography continues with acclaimed works such as Basic Instinct, The Game, A Perfect Murder, Traffic, Behind the Candelabra, and his roles in the Ant-Man franchise and The Kominsky Method.

Dustin Hoffman is a renowned actor and filmmaker, celebrated for his remarkable versatility and transformative performances. His talent earned high praise from contemporaries such as Robert De Niro, who admired Hoffman’s ability to portray any character with genuine, heartfelt emotion.

Hoffman's diverse range is evident in the span of roles he has taken on over the decades. In the 1970s, he rose to prominence in acclaimed films like The Graduate, Midnight Cowboy, Kramer vs. Kramer, Papillon, Marathon Man, and All The President’s Men.

During the 1980s, he captivated audiences in iconic movies including Tootsie, Death of a Salesman, Ishtar, and Rain Man. Hoffman's stage work is equally impressive; his portrayal of Shylock in The Merchant of Venice earned him the Drama Desk Award and a Tony Award nomination.

Throughout his extensive career, Dustin Hoffman consistently delivered powerful performances, cementing his legacy as one of Hollywood’s most respected and versatile actors.

Bill Murray is a celebrated comedian and actor whose remarkable sense of humor made him a defining talent in the 1980s.

During that era, he worked closely with renowned directors such as Ivan Reitman, Harold Ramis, the Farrelly Brothers, Wes Anderson, and Sofia Coppola, contributing to numerous acclaimed films.

Murray first rose to fame on "Saturday Night Live," where his outstanding comedic skills as both a performer and co-writer quickly earned him a devoted following.

Building on his SNL success, he starred in a string of iconic comedies, including "Meatballs," "Caddyshack," "Stripes," "Tootsie," "Ghostbusters," "Scrooged," and "Ghostbusters II."

He continued delivering memorable performances into the 1990s and beyond with films such as "What About Bob?," "Groundhog Day," "Kingpin," "The Man Who Knew Too Little," "Rushmore," "Hyde Park on Hudson," "St. Vincent," "Lost in Translation," "Garfield: The Movie" and its sequel, as well as "The Fantastic Mr. Fox."

Denzel Hayes Washington Jr. is a critically acclaimed, award-winning actor, director, and producer renowned for his contributions to stage, television, and film.

While attending Texas Tech University, Washington faced uncertainty about his chosen major. Taking a semester off, he worked as a stage director at a summer camp, an experience that sparked his passion for acting.

After graduating, he pursued theater, performing off-Broadway in plays like Coriolanus, Wings of the Morning, and A Soldier’s Play. Washington made his Hollywood debut in 1981 with the film Carbon Copy.

He soon gained prominence as one of the few black actors on NBC’s hit show St. Elsewhere, while also appearing in films such as A Soldier’s Story, Hard Lessons, Cry Freedom, The Mighty Quinn, Glory, and For Queen and Country.

By 1990, Washington had won an Academy Award and received another nomination. He continued working alongside renowned directors like Antoine Fuqua, Spike Lee, and Tony Scott, accumulating many more accolades.

His impressive filmography features standout roles in Much Ado About Nothing, Malcolm X, The Pelican Brief, Philadelphia, The Hurricane, Training Day, Fences, and many more.

Sylvester Stallone is a renowned actor, screenwriter, director, and producer, best known for his significant contribution to some of Hollywood’s most memorable sports dramas.

Despite facing years of hardship, Stallone persevered through uncredited roles and struggled to establish himself in the film industry. His journey mirrors that of many emerging actors who face similar uphill battles to gain recognition and experience in Hollywood.

Stallone's breakthrough came with the iconic boxing film Rocky and its sequels. Early in his career, he faced additional challenges due to a speech impediment, which led many directors to pass over him or struggle to record his lines.

Nevertheless, Stallone's determination and creative drive prevailed. He was committed to sharing the stories he envisioned and went on to write screenplays for the Rocky, Rambo, and The Expendables franchises, as well as films like F.I.S.T., Lords of Flatbush, and Paradise Alley.

Stallone has showcased his talent in a mix of action movies and comedies. Some of his most notable works include Cliffhanger, Stop! Or My Mom Will Shoot, Cobra, Tango & Cash, Demolition Man, The Specialist, Escape Plan, Creed, and many more.

Jeff Bridges soared to stardom in the 1980s, cementing his reputation as a remarkably versatile and widely celebrated actor. His remarkable talent allowed him to bring depth and authenticity to every role, making him a standout figure in Hollywood during the decade.

Following a string of early successes in the 1970s, Bridges continued to impress audiences with memorable performances in several iconic films. His work resonated with viewers and critics alike, contributing to his growing acclaim.

Although "The Big Lebowski"—where he portrays the unforgettable and laid-back "The Dude"—became a cult classic after the 1980s, it remains integral to his enduring popularity and iconic status in pop culture.

Bridges received critical praise for his roles in films like "Starman," which earned him an Academy Award nomination, and "The Fabulous Baker Boys," further showcasing his range and earning him numerous accolades.

Throughout the decade, he seamlessly moved between genres, consistently captivating audiences with his magnetic presence and exceptional acting prowess. The 1980s truly represented a transformative era for Jeff Bridges, marking him as one of the era’s most influential stars.

Born Krishna Pandit Bhanji, Ben Kingsley comes from a family of Gujarati Indian spice traders who first settled in Kenya before moving to the UK prior to his birth.

Early in his acting journey, Ben faced challenges landing roles due to his distinctive name, prompting him to adopt the professional name "Ben Kingsley," which quickly opened new doors.

Over a span of 15 years, he became a prominent figure with the Royal Shakespeare Company, performing in numerous plays and West End productions.

In 1982, his career reached new heights when Sir Richard Attenborough cast him as Mohandas Gandhi in the acclaimed film "Gandhi."

This portrayal earned Kingsley the Academy Award, Golden Globe, and BAFTA for Best Actor, marking a major milestone.

Throughout the 1980s, he appeared in notable films such as "Turtle Diary," "Maurice," "Pascali's Island," and "Without a Clue."

Kingsley later continued to captivate audiences with performances in celebrated films including "Schindler’s List," "Bugsy," "Sexy Beast," "Shutter Island," and "House of Sand and Fog."

Robin Williams is widely recognized as one of Hollywood's greatest comedians, captivating both audiences and critics with his incredible talent. In his third year at the Juilliard School of Arts, his drama instructors admitted there was nothing more the school could offer him—his abilities were that extraordinary.

Williams stepped confidently onto the stage, instantly winning the admiration of everyone who saw his performances.

He achieved his breakthrough as the lovable alien in the TV series Mork and Mindy, a role that made him a household name. From there, he starred in an impressive array of hits including The World According to Garp, Moscow on the Hudson, Good Morning, Vietnam, Dead Poets Society, Awakenings, The Fisher King, Patch Adams, Mrs. Doubtfire, Jumanji, and The Birdcage.

Williams also excelled in voice acting, most notably as Genie in Aladdin and its sequel, as well as in Happy Feet and its follow-up.

For his role in Good Will Hunting, he won an Academy Award and earned four additional Oscar nominations for acting. His impressive list of honors includes two Primetime Emmy Awards, six Golden Globe Awards, two Screen Actors Guild Awards, and five Grammy Awards.

Harrison Ford was undeniably one of the biggest stars of the 1980s, captivating audiences with a series of iconic, box-office hits and blockbuster franchises.

While his career continued to thrive in the following decades, the sheer impact of his 1980s roles set a benchmark that was difficult to surpass.

Ford is among the highest-grossing actors in history, with his films generating over $9 billion worldwide.

Throughout the 1980s, he played unforgettable roles in major franchises such as Star Wars and Indiana Jones, solidifying his status as a Hollywood legend.

His impressive filmography also includes classics like Blade Runner, Witness, Working Girl, and The Mosquito Coast. In the 1990s, he took on the role of Jack Ryan in the acclaimed spy thrillers Patriot Games and Clear and Present Danger.

Ford's success extended to a wide range of genres, starring in memorable films like The Fugitive, Air Force One, and romantic comedies such as Heroes, Working Girl, Sabrina, Six Days, Seven Nights, Random Hearts, Morning Glory, and The Age of Adaline.

Additional notable works feature titles like Presumed Innocent, What Lies Beneath, 42, Ender's Game, and The Conversation, showcasing the versatility and enduring appeal of Harrison Ford's career.

Mel Gibson is a celebrated actor, director, and producer, renowned for legendary roles such as Max Rockatansky in the Mad Max series and Martin Riggs in Lethal Weapon. Over the decades, his dynamic screen presence has made him one of the most recognizable faces from the 1980s.

Originally born in New York, Mel Gibson relocated to Australia with his family during his youth. He spent his formative years in New South Wales, where his passion for acting began to flourish.

Gibson started his career with a role on the Australian television series The Sullivans before gaining international fame with his critically acclaimed performance in the post-apocalyptic thriller Mad Max.

He further showcased his range by collaborating with director Peter Weir on the acclaimed World War I drama Gallipoli, cementing his status as a talented and versatile actor.

Mel Gibson's filmography from the 1980s and early 1990s includes hit films such as the Mad Max and Lethal Weapon series, A Year of Living Dangerously, Tequila Sunrise, Bird on a Wire, and Maverick.

Expanding his talents behind the camera, Gibson directed and produced his first film, A Man Without a Face, in 1993. He followed this success with his Oscar-winning epic, Braveheart, which earned him two Academy Awards.

Beyond acting and directing, Gibson has produced and directed acclaimed films like The Passion of the Christ, Apocalypto, and contributed to movies such as Get The Gringo, The Singing Detective, and Paparazzi, solidifying his legacy in Hollywood.

Alfredo James ‘Al’ Pacino was born into an Italian-American family. When Al insisted on taking up acting as a career, his mother was against it.

He rebelled and moved out of the house to study drama at the HB Studio under Charlie Laughton.

After his mother and grandfather died in quick succession, Pacino was distraught. He immersed himself in the theater to get a grip on his feelings.

He struggled all through the 60s to get a foothold in movies. In the 1970s, Al Pacino starred in great Oscar-nominated films like The Godfather, Serpico, Dog Day Afternoon, …And Justice For All, etc.

After a very successful decade, the 80s saw a decline in his luck. Al Pacino starred in the critical and commercially successful Scarface.

It was followed by multiple failures. He appeared in Author!, Author!, Sea of Love, Revolution, and Cruising apart from Scarface.

His luck turned again in the 90s, and he went back to making hit films again.

Philip Andre ‘Mickey’ Rourke Jr is an actor and a former boxer. While living in Miami with his mother and stepfather, he developed a keen interest in boxing and participated in sparring matches with middleweight champions.

He pursued boxing as a career from 1964 to 1973. Due to suffering concussions, Mickey took a break from boxing with a record of 27 wins.

While at the University of Miami, Mickey Rourke participated in a play for his friend.

After this, he developed a liking for art. He moved to New York and started to pursue acting as a career.

Despite a few small roles in films, Mickey got his breakthrough in Body Heat in 1981.

After that, he appeared in acclaimed roles in the films Diner, Rumble Fish, Pope of Greenwich Village, 91/2 Weeks, etc.

Mickey Rourke garnered maximum praise for his movies Barfly and Angel Heart, both of which were released in 1987.

Later, he went on to work in Harley Davidson and the Marlboro Man, The Rainmaker, Buffalo 66, Get Carter, Sin City, The Wrestler, and more.

Eddie Murphy is a stand-up comedian, actor, director, and producer. He started his career with stand-up comedy and performed in front of sellout audiences.

After gaining fame in the comedy circuits, he also worked on sketch comedy with Saturday Night Live.

This only solidified his popularity with his fans. Eddie Murphy debuted in films with 48 hrs.

He continued his comedy run with the Beverly Hills Cop series, Trading Places, Coming To America, Harlem Nights, The Nutty Professor, and its sequels, Vampire in Brooklyn, Boomerang, etc.

He also did voice acting for Mulan as Mushu and as Donkey in the Shrek franchise.

For his turn as the singer James Thunder Early in Dreamgirls, he received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

His other prominent films are Dr. DoLittle, and its sequels, Norbit, Dolemite is My Name, The Haunted Mansion, The Adventures of Pluto Nash, etc.

Thomas Sean Connery was a Scottish actor and the first James Bond. He made the MI6 agent 007 famous across the world with quotes like, “My name is Bond, James Bond” and “I’d like a Martini, shaken not stirred”.

Connery worked in seven Bond films before he quit the franchise to work in other film roles Apart from James Bond, Sean Connery appeared in other successful films like Marnie, The Hill, Murder on the Orient Express, The Man Who Would Be King, A Bridge Too Far, Highlander, The Name of the Rose, The Untouchables, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusades, The Hunt For the Red October, The Rock, Finding Forrester, etc.

Sean Connery has been made the Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters in France and was also knighted by the British monarchy in the 2000 New Years' Eve Honors.

Arnold Schwarzenegger is an Austrian-American bodybuilder, actor, politician, and businessman. He was born in Austria and trained as a weightlifter and bodybuilder.

He is not just a great actor, but also a politician. Many fans don't know, but Arnold was Governor of California from 2003 to 2007.

His football coach encouraged him to take up bodybuilding professionally, so Arnold started participating in events.

After winning multiple bodybuilding championships and Mr. Universe titles, he set his sights on Hollywood.

Initially, Arnold Schwarzenegger had to get his lines dubbed as his dialect was heavily accented in Hercules in New York.

His next venture was that of a deaf and mute hitman. But, he did not give up and worked on his speech.

He gave his breakthrough performance in 1982 in Conan the Barbarian and its sequel, Conan the Destroyer.

In the 80s, he also appeared in the hit sci-fi film series, The Terminator and its sequels.

His other prominent works include Commando, Predator, Total Recall, Twins, The Kindergarten Cop, True Lies, Junior, Jingle All The Way, etc.

James Earl Jones is an iconic actor whose voice has lent life to many memorable characters.

He is the voice of Darth Vader in the Star Wars films, Mufasa in Lion King, Emperor of the night in Pinocchio, and the Emperor of the Night, etc.

With a deep gravelly voice, which is classed as Basso profundo, his voice can be soothing and terrifying at the same time.

There was a time when James Earl Jones had a stutter so profound that he refused to speak.

His English teacher used poetry to encourage him out of his shell. James Earl Jones debuted on-screen with a Stanley Kubrick film, Dr. Strangelove.

He also appeared in Claudine, the Star Wars franchise, Lion King, its sequel, and the live-action remake in 2019.

He was also active on the theater scene, with Tony Award-winning plays like The Great White Hope, Fences, Driving Miss Daisy, The Best Man, The Gin Game, You Can’t Take It With You, etc.

In the 1980s, Jones appeared in films including Conan The Barbarian, Matewan, Coming to America, and its sequel, Field of Dreams, Hunt For Red October, etc.

Michael J Fox is a Canadian-American actor from the 80s. He was a teenage heartthrob who steadily worked his way up from television roles to film roles until 1998.

Michael disclosed his health problem and his struggles with Parkinson’s disease. After this, he reduced his film appearances and worked to create awareness for the condition.

The first significant role of Michael was in the TV series Family Ties, where he played Alex Keaton.

Simultaneously, he appeared in the sci-fi film trilogy, Back to the Future. With this role, he cemented his position as a heartthrob.

He followed it up with appearances in The Secret of My Success, Casualties of War, Doc Hollywood, The Frighteners, etc.

In 1998, Fox reduced the number of film and TV roles dramatically. He worked in the ABC sitcom Spin City till 2002, and he also did voice acting in Stuart Little and Atlantis: The Lost Empire.

His other works include The Michael J Fox Show, Rescue Me, The Good Wife, etc.

Sir Alec Guinness was an English actor who worked extensively in British cinema, television, and theater.

In particular, his work with the Ealing comedies has garnered him a large fanbase. To the rest of the world, Sir Alec Guinness is famous for his role as Obi-Wan Kenobi in the Star Wars franchise.

Before starting the Star Wars saga, Sir Alec was renowned for his role in such films as, Kind Hearts and Coronets, The Lavender Hill Mob, The LadyKillers, etc., from Ealing Studios.

He also appeared in great literary adaptations of The Great Expectations, Oliver Twist, The Bridge on River Kwai, Lawrence of Arabia, A Passage to India, Scrooge, etc.

This great actor has four Academy Award nominations, won the award once, and was honored with Academy Honorary Award for lifetime achievement.

Apart from this, he has multiple Tony Awards, BAFTA Awards, Golden Globes, and more.

William Shatner is a name synonymous with Star Trek. He is Captain James T. Kirk of the USS Enterprise, and he praised the same role in all the Star Trek movies, animated series, and Tv series.

This Canadian actor came to Los Angeles in the 50s and appeared in supporting roles in pictures and TV shows before becoming Captain Kirk in the 60s.

Apart from the Trekkie role, he also acted like a veteran police sergeant in T.J. Hooker, Rescue 911, Columbo, etc. He also had a music band and released his debut album, The Transformed Man, in 1968.

His TV work did not end there as he appeared in recurring roles in The Practice, Boston Legal, Better Late Than Never, 3rd Rock From The Sun, etc.

In 2021, William Shatner became the oldest man to travel to space. He made his trip in the sub-orbital capsule, Blue Origin.

He was 90 years old when he took the flight and described it as experiencing an overview effect.

Mark Hamill is an actor known for his role as Luke Skywalker in the Star Wars saga.

His fame reached such meteoric heights that he actively avoided being typecast and moved to stage and voice acting.

As a result, Mark has worked on some of the most well-loved voice roles in Batman, Spiderman, Avatar: The Last Airbender, etc.

Mark Hamill appeared in the first Star Wars film in 1977. It was an unexpected and enormous success, and its sequels, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, were equally successful.

Due to the pressure of the huge success, he shifted his work to Broadway and appeared in The Elephant Man, Amadeus, Harrigan ‘N Hart, Room Service, The Nerd, etc.

Mark Hamill did the voice of The Joker in many Batman animated series and DCEU animations.

He was also the voice of Hobgoblin in Spiderman, Fire Lord Ozai in Avatar: The Last Airbender, Skips in Regular Show, etc.

His other film works include Corvette Summer, The Big Red One,  The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia, Britannia Hospital, etc.

Donald ‘Danny’ Glover is an actor, director, and civil rights, activist. Before joining the acting profession, Danny worked at the city administration on community development.

However, his love for acting encouraged him to join acting classes at American Conservatory Theater.

In the 1980s, he appeared in a wide range of roles on television, on stage, and in films.

His most memorable roles were in the Lethal Weapon series of movies alongside Mel Gibson and Joe Pesci.

The Color Purple, Witness, To Sleep With Anger, Silverado, Witness, Hill Street Blues, Mandela, A Raisin in The Sun, etc.

Throughout his long and celebrated career, Danny Glover has worked in Predator 2, Angels in the Outfield, Operation Dumbo Drop, A Rage in Harlem, Dreamgirls, Shooter, Death at a Funeral, Beyond the Lights, Sorry to Bother You, The Last Black Man in San Francisco, The Dead Don't Die, Lonesome Dove, Jumanji: The Next Level, etc.

Billy Crystal was born William Edward Crystal into a family of art lovers. His dad and his uncle were jazz connoisseurs, and his uncle founded Commodore Records, which was known for its jazz records.

As a child, Billy’s house was frequented by many jazz musicians, and it laid the foundation for his love for performing arts.

After earning his BFA from the Tisch School of fine arts, Billy started work in the 70s with television series.

His biggest break came as Jodie Dallas in Soap. After the success of this role, Billy appeared in many movies and TV series in the 80s.

He substantiated his career as a comedian. He worked in movies like This is Spinal Tap, The Princess Bride, Throw Momma From The Train, Sesame Street, Running Scared, etc.

His most successful film of the 80s was When Harry Met Sally… This movie earned him a Golden Globe nomination and made him a name to watch out for.

He also appeared in Saturday Night Live! And displayed his talent for stand-up comedy. It could be said that his great work in the 80s laid the foundation for most of his future endeavors.

Steve Martin is Hollywood’s best funnyman. Starting his career as a stand-up comedian, he performed live shows for a long time.

Steve Martin worked in the Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, Saturday Night Live!, etc. He retired from his stand-up career to become an actor in the 1980s.

He carried on his tradition of slapstick comedy and physical comedy to his movies too.

He worked in super hit comedies like  The Jerk, Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid, The Man with Two Brains, Three Amigos, Planes, Trains and Automobiles, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, etc.

He frequently collaborated with Rob Reiner, and his most acclaimed film, All of Me, was made by Reiner too.

Steve Martin has been honored with the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor and the AFI Life Achievement Award.

His other famous appearances are in Sgt. Bilko, Bowfinger, Parenthood, the Father of the Bride film, the Cheaper by the Dozen films, and most recently Only Murders in the Building.

His character in his recent show, Only Murder In The Building is named Charles Savage. Charles is an old TV actor who has been away from acting for a while now and the younger generation is forgetting about him. 

But he starts an adventure with his neighbors and due to this his lonely dry life starts to get colorful.

The show is hilarious and his character is extremely wholesome.

Alan Rickman is a gifted British actor famous for his unique style of speaking. He has a deep and resonant voice.

Alan was born with a tight jaw which attributes to his voice. As a child, he was talented with calligraphy and watercolor painting.

Alan and his friends formed Graphiti, a graphic design company. But, Alan’s real passion lay in acting, and he quit the company to join the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts to learn drama.

He joined the Royal Shakespeare Company and worked on many plays like As You Like It, Romeo and Juliet, A View From The Bridge, The Seagull, etc.

In 1986, he performed Les Liaisons Dangereuse in the West End and 87, on Broadway.

It earned him a Tony nomination. Starting in 1980, he appeared in many television series and movies, chief of them being The Barchester Chronicles and Die Hard.

Alan Rickman went on to work in iconic films like the Harry Potter franchise, Love Actually, Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, etc.

James Woods is an Academy Award-nominated actor who almost became an eye surgeon. He attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology but quit one semester shy of graduation.

He decided to pursue his dream of acting and joined the theater group Dramashop. He acted in multiple Off-Broadway plays before stepping into Hollywood.

Before the 80s, James Wood appeared in acclaimed movies like The Onion Field, Holocaust, The Way We Were, and more.

On the back of his critical success, he worked with acclaimed directors like Sergio Leone, Oliver Stone, and more.

His critical successes in the 80s include Once Upon a Time in America, Against All Odds, Salvadore, etc.

Other notable works of Woods include Videodrome, Chaplin, Casino, Nixon, Ghosts of Mississippi, Any Given Sunday, Contact, True Crime, Virgin Suicides, My Names Bill W., Family Guy, The Simpsons, Start Little 2, Surfs Up, etc.

William Hurt is an actor who has gained critical and commercial success in film, television, and theater roles.

He always harbored a love for acting throughout his schooling years and later joined the Juilliard School.

While he was at Juilliard, Hurt's classmates were Robin Williams and Christopher Reeve. He stepped onto the stage right after graduation and won an Obie Award for his debut performance.

In 1980, William Hurt worked on a science-fiction body horror film, the Altered States, and won critical acclaim for it.

In the following years, he worked on more Lawrence Kasdan films like Body Heat, The Big Chill, The Accidental Tourist, and I Love You to Death.

In the 80s, William Hurt worked in three major films that were all nominated for Academy Awards, Kiss From the Spider Woman, Children From a Lesser God, and Broadcast News.

Hurt acted in many more successful films throughout his career like Gorky Park, A History of Violence, A.I.: Artificial Intelligence, Syriana, The Good Shepherd, Captain America: Civil War, Avengers: Infinity War, Avengers: Endgame, etc.

Danny DeVito is an actor, director, producer, and screenwriter who came to prominence in the 1980s.

His dream was to work as a makeup artist, and he attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts to learn the craft.

Yet after a while at the academy, he became more interested in acting and started participating in theater.

Danny DeVito rose to fame in the TV series Taxi as the dispatcher. He steadily gained more recognition with his satirical comedies and supporting roles in dramatic films.

His filmography includes Terms of Endearment, Romancing the Stone, Throw Momma from the Train, Twins, The War of the Roses, Jewel of the Nile, etc.

Over the years, DeVito has appeared in  Junior, Get Shorty, Matilda, L. A. Confidential, The Big Kahuna, Big Fish, Deck the Halls, When in Rome, Solitary Man, Reno 911!, The Lorax, The Rainmaker, etc.

His recent film and television works are It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Dumbo, Jumanji: The Next Level, etc. He is loved by thousands and has fans from not just the old but younger generations too.

Rutger Hauer was a Dutch actor who debuted on the Dutch television series Floris. He acted in many Paul Verhoeven movies.

He gained international recognition with another Verhoeven movie, Soldier of Orange and Spetters. He was a major star in the Netherlands, and his picture was voted the Best Dutch Film of the Century in 1999.

In 1981, Rutger made his Hollywood debut with the movie Nighthawks with Sylvester Stallone. He followed it up with more roles in Inside the Third Reich,  Blade Runner, Eureka, The Osterman Weekend, Flesh & Blood, Ladyhawke, etc.

He continued to play different kinds of roles without sticking to a genre, and he never shied away from controversial roles.

His most memorable performances have been in Blade Runner, Escape from Sobibor, Legend of the Holy Drinker, Wanted: Dead or Alive, etc.

Rutger Hauer appeared in critically praised films like Confessions of a Dangerous Mind, Batman Begins, Sin City, The Rite, etc.

At the mention of Christopher Lloyd, everyone’s mind conjures up an image of an eccentric frazzled man with wild frizzy hair.

Owing to this persona from the Back to the  Future franchise, and his character in Taxi, both these roles were an integral part of entertainment in the 80s.

Apart from the Back to the Future franchise and the TV series Taxi, Lloyd has also worked in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, The Adams Chronicles, Star Trek III: The Search for Spock, Clue, Who Framed Roger Rabbit, The Addams Family and Addams Family Values, and more.

Lloyd has also appeared in animated films and TV series like Road to Avonlea, Anastasia, Twenty Bucks,  DuckTales the Movie: Treasure of the Lost Lamp, The Woodsman, Over the Garden Wall, Street Hawk, Amazing Stories, Spin City, My Favorite Martian, etc.

Richard Pryor was America’s number one stand-up comedian of all time. He was ranked in the top spot by the Comedy Central channel and Rolling Stone magazine as the best stand-up comic.

He has inspired several future performers and is admired by his contemporaries as well. Pryor had a difficult childhood, and most of his jokes revolve around racism, race relations, and sexuality.

His jokes were tragi-comic and freely discussed many uncomfortable topics. Richard Pryor had a  flourishing career doing stand-up shows and concerts.

They were released as records that won him 4 Grammy Awards too. Later, he collaborated with Paul Mooney, Gene Wilder, and Mel Brooks to appear in comedy films that were a roaring success as well.

His most memorable performances include Blue Collar, Bustin Loose, Superman III, Stir Crazy, See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Silver Streak, and more.

He also worked on television shows like Pryor's Place, Sesame Street, Chicago Hope, The Richard Pryor Show, Saturday Night Live!, etc.

Leonard Nimoy is a beloved actor who has immortalized the character of Mr. Spock from the Star Trek franchise.

He left such an impact on his fans in the film fraternity, the scientific community, and the world at large that they named an asteroid 4864 Nimoy in his honor.

Leonard Nimoy was a small-time actor who taught acting in Hollywood before he auditioned for this part.

Nimoy had worked in B movies like Kid Monk Baroni and Tv series like Perry Mason and Dragnet.

After attaining fame with his role, Nimoy turned to filmmaking and directed and produced films and shows.

He also did voice acting for the Star Trek animated series as well. His most notable performances were in The Transformers: The Movie (voice of Galvatron), Halloween Tree, documentary film, Destiny in Space, etc.

He did audio work and narrated the books, The Time Machine, Journey to the Center of the Earth, The Lost World, The Invisible Man, and The First Men in the Moon for the Sci-fi channel.

Christopher Reeve was the OG Superman in the DCEU franchise, and he was the most successful Superman actor.

He was a critically acclaimed actor before his equestrian accident. After Reeve broke his neck from the fall, he was paralyzed neck down.

He became confined to a wheelchair for the rest of his life. Christopher Reeve graduated from Cornell University and Juilliard School of arts with Robin Williams.

While Christopher was inclined to take up theater, his mother and stepfather made him promise to finish college, so he persevered at Cornell University while working in the theater during his holidays and vacations.

Despite the limited scope, his talent was recognized by big producers. Apart from his work in the Superman franchise, Christopher also appeared in acclaimed films, including The Bostonians, Street Smart, Remains of The Day, etc.

He appeared on stage in Fifth of July, The Aspern Papers, etc. His TV works include The Rear Window, In The Gloaming, Smallville, etc.

Kevin Kline was born in Missouri and spent his childhood steeped in the theater. In his high school, Kevin admittedly spent more time in school plays than in his classes.

His father was a music lover and an amateur opera singer, and this love for arts was passed on to him.

Kevin Kline attended the Juilliard School of arts and took up the theater after graduating from it.

Kevin spent the early part of his career winning awards for his theater performances. He debuted in films with Sophie’s Choice in 1982.

However, Kevin Kline had a natural talent for comedy. He appeared in The Big Chill and Silverado, which marked the start of his association with Lawrence Kasdan.

He worked with Kasdan on many more future projects like Grand Canyon, I Love You To Death and French Kiss.

Kline also appeared in other successful films like Pirates of Penzance, Cry Freedom, A Fish Called Wanda, etc.

He won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in the last one.

Kurt Russell is an actor and the son of Bing Russell. With Bing Russell being a minor league baseball player, even Kurt took up that sport in his high school.

However, acting proved to be a stronger attraction, and he appeared in television series from a young age.

He appeared in TV series like Our Man Higgins,  The Travels of Jaimie McPheeters, The Man from U.N. C. L. E, Daniel Boone, Gilligan’s Island, etc. Kurt Russell was a child actor who worked throughout the seventies, but he made his big transition to lead actor in the 1980s.

With the direction of John Carpenter, Kurt worked in the films Escape From New York, The Thing, and Big Trouble in Little China.

The latter two films gained cult status despite being a commercial flop at the start.

Kurt also starred in many comedies that bolstered his fame during that decade. His big hits include Best of Times, Overboard, Tango & Cash, Silkwood, Tequila Sunrise, Winter People, and more.

This decade also marked the start of his long and happy relationship with Goldie Hawn.

Emilio Estevez's rise to fame during the 1980s was marked by his notable performances and his association with the Brat Pack, a group of young actors who became synonymous with youth-oriented films of the era.

Estevez gained widespread recognition with his roles in iconic movies like "The Outsiders" and "Repo Man," where his talent and charisma shone through.

However, it was his portrayal of Andrew Clark in the critically acclaimed coming-of-age film "The Breakfast Club" that solidified his status as a prominent member of the Brat Pack.

Estevez continued to impress audiences with memorable performances in films like "St. Elmo's Fire" and "Young Guns," showcasing his versatility and establishing himself as a talented actor.

Throughout the 1980s, Estevez's star continued to rise, leaving an indelible mark on the decade's pop culture landscape.

Charlie Sheen was born Carlos Irwin Esteve to Martin Sheen and Janet Templeton. He comes from a family of actors, screenwriters, and filmmakers.

Charlie started young with small roles in his father's movies. He also made Super 8 movies with his brother Emilio Estevez and high school friends Rob Lowe and Sean Penn.

In 1980, Charlie Sheen debuted in films with Grizzly II: Revenge. He acted alongside his dad in movies like Badlands, The Execution of Private Slovik, Wall Street, etc.

He also appeared in Young Guns, Men At Work, etc., with his brother, Emilio. Charlie was a part of such successful films as Platoon, Red Dawn, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, Amazing Stories, Eight Men Out, Wisdom, Major League, etc.

Charlie Sheen also worked on the small screen with hit shows like Spin City, Two and a Half Men, Anger Management, etc.

Tom Berenger is the screen name of Thomas Michael Moore. At the University of Missouri, he graduated with journalism as his major.

Tom worked as a flight attendant with Eastern Airlines before realizing his calling to become an actor.

As there was an actor listed as Tom Moore, he chose to change his name to Tom Berenger.

He took up small roles in films like Looking for Mr. Goodbar, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, One Life To Live, In Praise of Older Women, etc.

He got his first lead role in the film Rush it. In the 1980s, Tom Berenger’s work drew critical praise.

He worked in films like  The Big Chill, Eddie, and the Cruisers, Rustlers' Rhapsody, Platoon, Someone to Watch Over Me, Shoot to Kill, Major League, etc.

His work in Platoon was also nominated for Academy Award and Golden Globe Awards. Other notable performances of Berenger were Dogs of War, the Major League franchise, the Sniper franchise, Betrayed, The Field, Gettysburg, The Substitute, One Man’s Hero, Training Day, Inception, etc.

Dan Aykroyd is a Canadian actor, musician, writer, comedian, and more. He was a part of the original team of Saturday Night Live!

Dan worked with the Second City comedy troupe, and he did stand-up comedy shows in Ottawa.

He briefly worked in the Canadian sketch comedy show The Hart and Lorne Terrific Hour with Lorne Michaels of SNL.

Once SNL was created, Lorne invited Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi to audition and join the cast.

Rolling Stones Magazine voted Aykroyd as the fifth most iconic SNL cast member. The sketches he created and worked on became feature films, including The Coneheads, The Blues Brothers, etc.

He also created and co-wrote The Ghostbusters franchise along with Harold Ramis. Some of the iconic works of Dan Aykroyd are The Blues Brothers, Coneheads, Driving Miss Daisy, Nothing But Trouble, 1941, Ghostbusters franchise, Soul Man, Indiana Jones, and The Temple of Doom, The Great Outdoors, and more.

Rick Moranis is a Canadian actor, comedian, and musician, known for his role in the Honey, I Shrunk The Kids franchise.

He was a prominent actor in the 80s and appeared in many comedies in lead and supporting roles.

He worked extensively with the Second City comedy troupe in Canada and their TV shows too.

In the 1980s, he started work in Hollywood and appeared in the hit films Strange Brew, Ghostbusters,  Ghostbusters II, Little Shop of Horrors, Spaceballs, Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, Parenthood, SC TV Network, Saturday Night Live!, etc.

After the death of his wife, Moranis reduced his television and film work to concentrate on his kids and be a single father.

His famous roles include Honey, I Blew Up The Kids, The Flintstones, Honey, I Shrunk the Audience, Splitting Heirs, Brother Bear, and the sequels, etc.

He is set to make a comeback in 2022 with another installment of Shrunk.

Edward Earnest ‘Judge’ Reinhold Jr. is a character actor, popular during the 1980s. Most of his appearances were in comedy films, and he was the supporting lead in many hit franchises.

He attended Mary Washington College and Palm Beach Community College to earn his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.

After college, he started his acting career on television with the series Wonder Woman. On TV, he also worked in Magnum PI, Secret Service Guy, Saturday Night Live!, Seinfeld, Ellen, The King of Queens, National Lampoon’s Thanksgiving Family Reunion, Monk, Easy Money, etc.

In films, he appeared in supporting roles in hit comedies like Stripes, Pandemonium, Fast Times at Ridgemont High, Gremlins, Beverly Hills Cop, Ruthless People, Santa Clause trilogy, Beverly Hill II,  Beverly Cop III, etc.