20 Hollywood Film Stars Shining in Major TV Roles

Hollywood’s biggest names are no longer just lighting up the big screen. Many A-list actors, known for iconic film performances, are now taking on substantial roles in television, proving their talent translates effortlessly to the small screen. These aren’t fleeting cameos but meaty parts that showcase their range and depth in fresh ways.

From gripping dramas to sharp comedies, these stars are redefining what it means to dominate both film and TV. We’ve rounded up 20 of the most notable Hollywood actors who’ve recently tackled main or major supporting roles in TV shows, bringing their star power to serialized storytelling. Let’s dive into their standout performances.

Pedro Pascal

Known for blockbusters like ‘The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent’ and ‘Wonder Woman 1984’, Pedro Pascal has become a TV powerhouse. His magnetic presence carries weight in every role he takes. His ability to blend intensity with charm makes him a standout in any genre.

He showcased his talent as Din Djarin, and in ‘The Last of Us’ (2023-present), Pascal plays Joel, a hardened survivor in a post-apocalyptic world. His portrayal captures a gruff yet tender father figure, earning praise for grounding the show’s emotional core. The role showcases his knack for balancing action with heartfelt depth.

Toni Collette

Toni Collette, celebrated for ‘The Sixth Sense’ and ‘Little Miss Sunshine’, brings raw emotion to every performance. Her versatility allows her to shift seamlessly between comedy and drama. She’s a master at making complex characters feel real.

In ‘The Power’ (2023-present), Collette stars as Margot Cleary-Lopez, a mayor navigating a world where women gain electrifying abilities. Her layered performance anchors the sci-fi drama, blending strength and vulnerability as she explores themes of power and equality.

Tim Robbins

Tim Robbins, an Oscar winner for ‘Mystic River’, is known for commanding roles in films like ‘The Shawshank Redemption’. His ability to convey quiet intensity makes him unforgettable. He brings gravitas to every project he touches.

In ‘Silo’ (2023-present), Robbins plays Bernard Holland, a secretive leader in a dystopian underground community. His performance is chilling, adding depth to the show’s tense mystery with his commanding presence and subtle menace.

Taron Egerton

Taron Egerton won hearts in ‘Rocketman’ and ‘Kingsman: The Secret Service’ with his charisma and emotional range. He’s a dynamic performer who can tackle both action and drama. His youthful energy lights up any scene.

In ‘Black Bird’ (2022-present), Egerton stars as Jimmy Keene, a convict infiltrating a prison to uncover a killer’s secrets. His intense, nuanced portrayal drives the psychological thriller, showcasing his ability to carry a gritty narrative.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson, a legend from ‘Pulp Fiction’ and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, is known for his electrifying screen presence. His commanding voice and charisma make every role iconic. He’s a force in any medium.

In ‘Secret Invasion’ (2023-present), Jackson reprises his role as Nick Fury, leading a darker, more mature Marvel series. His performance as the spy unraveling a Skrull invasion is intense, proving he can dominate TV as fiercely as film.

Harrison Ford

Harrison Ford, iconic for ‘Star Wars’ and ‘Indiana Jones’, brings rugged charm to every role. His grizzled yet warm persona makes him a beloved figure. He’s a master at blending humor with heart.

In ‘Shrinking’ (2023-present), Ford plays Dr. Paul Rhoades, a therapist mentoring a grieving colleague. His comedic timing and subtle emotional depth make the role a standout, showing a lighter side of his legendary career.

Tom Holland

Tom Holland, famous for ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ and ‘Uncharted’, is a dynamic young star with a knack for emotional authenticity. His dance background adds flair to his performances. He’s a rising force in Hollywood.

In ‘The Crowded Room’ (2023-present), Holland plays Danny Sullivan, a young man with dissociative identity disorder caught in a crime. His raw, heartbreaking performance anchors the psychological drama, proving his serious acting chops.

Helen Mirren

Dame Helen Mirren, known for ‘The Queen’ and ‘Gosford Park’, exudes elegance and strength. Her ability to portray complex women is unmatched. She brings sophistication to every role she plays.

In ‘1923’ (2022-present), Mirren stars as Cara Dutton, a fierce matriarch in the ‘Yellowstone’ prequel. Her commanding performance grounds the Western drama, blending grit and grace in a captivating portrayal.

Steve Carell

Steve Carell, beloved for ‘The 40-Year-Old Virgin’ and ‘Crazy, Stupid, Love’, is a comedic genius who also excels in drama. His everyman charm makes him endlessly relatable. He’s a master of balancing humor and heart.

In ‘The Patient’ (2022-present), Carell plays Alan Strauss, a therapist held captive by a serial killer. His intense, vulnerable performance drives the psychological thriller, showcasing his dramatic range in a chilling role.

Winona Ryder

Winona Ryder, iconic for ‘Edward Scissorhands’ and ‘Beetlejuice’, brings a quirky intensity to her roles. Her comeback in recent years has reminded us of her unique talent. She’s a captivating presence.

In ‘Stranger Things’ (2016-present), Ryder plays Joyce Byers, a mother fighting to save her son in a supernatural mystery. Her raw, emotional performance anchors the show, making her a standout in the ensemble cast.

Geena Davis

Geena Davis, known for ‘Thelma & Louise’ and ‘A League of Their Own’, is a powerhouse with a knack for strong, relatable characters. Her warmth and strength shine in every performance. She’s a true icon.

In ‘The Exorcist’ (2016-2017), Davis played Angela Rance, a mother battling demonic forces. Her intense, grounded portrayal elevated the horror series, proving her ability to carry a dark, emotional narrative.

Bill Hader

Bill Hader, recognized for ‘Superbad’ and ‘Trainwreck’, is a comedic talent with surprising dramatic depth. His expressive style makes him a versatile performer. He’s a master of both laughs and tears.

In ‘Barry’ (2018-present), Hader stars as Barry Berkman, a hitman pursuing acting. His blend of dark humor and emotional vulnerability drives the acclaimed series, showcasing his range as both actor and creator.

Orlando Bloom

Orlando Bloom, famous for ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’, brings charm and intensity to his roles. His action-hero charisma is undeniable. He’s a magnetic screen presence.

In ‘Carnival Row’ (2019-present), Bloom plays Rycroft Philostrate, a detective in a fantasy world. His brooding, heartfelt performance anchors the neo-noir series, blending action with emotional depth.

Christina Ricci

Christina Ricci, known for ‘The Addams Family’ and ‘Sleepy Hollow’, brings a unique intensity to her roles. Her ability to portray complex characters is captivating. She’s a standout in any project.

In ‘Z: The Beginning of Everything’ (2017), Ricci starred as Zelda Fitzgerald, capturing the writer’s vibrant yet tragic life. Her nuanced performance carried the short-lived series, showcasing her dramatic depth.

Jim Broadbent

Jim Broadbent, celebrated for ‘Moulin Rouge!’ and ‘Harry Potter’, is a versatile character actor. His warmth and subtlety make him unforgettable. He elevates every scene he’s in.

In ‘Game of Thrones’ (2011-2019), Broadbent played Archmaester Ebrose, a wise scholar in the final season. His brief but impactful role added gravitas to the epic series, proving his skill in supporting parts.

Meryl Streep

Meryl Streep, a legend from ‘The Deer Hunter’ and ‘Kramer vs. Kramer’, is known for her transformative performances. Her ability to inhabit any character is unmatched. She’s a true icon of acting.

In ‘Big Little Lies’ (2017-2019), Streep played Mary Louise Wright, a grieving mother stirring tension. Her chilling, layered performance elevated the drama, proving her mastery extends to television.

Julia Roberts

Julia Roberts, iconic for ‘Pretty Woman’ and ‘Erin Brockovich’, brings warmth and strength to her roles. Her star power is undeniable. She’s a master at connecting with audiences.

In ‘Homecoming’ (2018-2020), Roberts starred as Heidi Bergman, a caseworker unraveling a mysterious program. Her intense, nuanced performance anchored the psychological thriller, marking a bold TV debut.

Anthony Hopkins

Anthony Hopkins, legendary for ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ and ‘The Father’, exudes gravitas. His ability to convey complex emotions is unparalleled. He’s a commanding presence in any role.

In ‘Westworld’ (2016-2022), Hopkins played Dr. Robert Ford, a park creator with dark secrets. His haunting, philosophical performance drove the sci-fi drama, showcasing his ability to dominate TV.

Jennifer Coolidge

Jennifer Coolidge, known for ‘American Pie’ and ‘Legally Blonde’, is a comedic gem with surprising depth. Her quirky charm steals every scene. She’s a fan favorite for a reason.

In ‘The White Lotus’ (2021-present), Coolidge plays Tanya McQuoid, a chaotic heiress. Her hilarious yet poignant performance earned her an Emmy, proving her brilliance in a major supporting role.

Forest Whitaker

Forest Whitaker, an Oscar winner for ‘The Last King of Scotland’, brings quiet intensity to his roles. His soulful performances resonate deeply. He’s a master at conveying complex emotions.

In ‘Godfather of Harlem’ (2019-present), Whitaker stars as Bumpy Johnson, a crime boss navigating 1960s Harlem. His powerful, layered performance anchors the gritty drama, showcasing his commanding presence.

Which of these TV roles surprised you the most, or is there another Hollywood star killing it on the small screen we missed? Drop your thoughts in the comments!