From the ring to the big screen, professional wrestlers have been known to make it big in Hollywood. Here are seven of the most iconic wrestlers-turned-actors who have made their mark on both the wrestling and entertainment industries.
Randy Orton
Randy Orton is one of the leading professional wrestlers who has found success outside of WWE with roles in movies such as:
- “12 Rounds”
- “That's What I Am”
- “The Condemned 2: Desert Prey”
Additionally, he has appeared in episodes of television shows like The Simpsons and Scorpion.
Elle | “12 Rounds” star Randy Orton is one of the most loved wrestlers who transitioned into Hollywood.
Hulk Hogan
Hulk Hogan is the most iconic wrestler of all time, and his success in the ring has translated to success on the big screen. He starred in films like "Rocky III," "Gremlins 2: The New Batch," and "Mr. Nanny." His most recent movie was “Suburban Commando.” And he also had a recurring role in “Thunder in Paradise” as well as an animated series based on his character.
The Rock & "Stone Cold" Steve Austin
Two of the biggest names in professional wrestling, The Rock and "Stone Cold" Steve Austin have also become big stars on the big screen. Both have starred in major blockbuster films such as "Fast Five" and "The Expendables," respectively.
Apart from that, they also had roles in TV shows such as “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” and “Nip/Tuck.”
John Morrison
John Morrison is a former WWE superstar who has recently turned to acting with roles in movies such as “Wrestling With Pain,” “Boogeyman 3,” and “Temple Grandin.” He has also made appearances on hit TV shows like “How I Met Your Mother” and “The Flash.”
WWE | “Boogeyman 3” star John Morrison is one of the leading WWE professionals!
Dave Bautista
Dave Bautista is most widely known for playing Drax in Marvel Cinematic Universe movies such as “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2,” “Avengers: Endgame, “and “Thor: Ragnarok.”
Prior to that, he was one of the biggest names in professional wrestling. In World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE,) he won four World Heavyweight Championships.
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson
Dwayne Johnson is one of the biggest names in Hollywood today and he got his start as a wrestler with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). He became a fan favorite for his larger-than-life persona, which eventually led him to starring roles in many hit films. These include such as:
- "The Scorpion King"
- "Fast and Furious"
His impressive acting career has earned him numerous awards including several MTV Movie Awards and a People's Choice Award for Favorite Male Action Star.
Elle | The Rock is one of the leading (and perhaps most famous) wrestlers who transitioned into Hollywood.
John Cena
John Cena is a longtime veteran of WWE and has also become a successful actor. He starred in the hit comedy "Trainwreck," as well as films like "Blockers" and "Ferdinand."
In addition to his acting work, he has appeared on television shows such as "Saturday Night Live" and hosted the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards multiple times.
The Final Word
Professional wrestlers have transitioned from the ring to the big screen with great success. From Dwayne Johnson and Hulk Hogan to Randy Orton, these wrestlers-turned-actors have become Hollywood icons. With their charisma and larger-than-life personalities, they have proven that wrestling truly is an art form that can be adapted for other mediums.