MCU vs. Star Wars: Actors Who’ve Been in Both

The Marvel Cinematic Universe and Star Wars are two of the biggest franchises in modern cinema, each with sprawling universes and iconic characters. What makes them even more fascinating is the talented actors who’ve stepped into both worlds, bringing their skills to superhero epics and galactic adventures alike.

These crossovers show how versatile some performers are, moving seamlessly between Marvel’s action-packed stories and Star Wars’ mythic space opera. Let’s dive into the actors who’ve left their mark on both franchises, exploring their roles and the unique energy they bring to each.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson commands attention as Nick Fury in the MCU, the no-nonsense leader of S.H.I.E.L.D., starting with his debut in ‘Iron Man’ (2008). His sharp wit and commanding presence make Fury a linchpin of the Avengers’ world.

In Star Wars, Jackson wields a purple lightsaber as Mace Windu, a Jedi Master in the prequel trilogy, first appearing in ‘The Phantom Menace’ (1999). His intense gravitas brings depth to Windu’s stoic heroism, proving he can dominate any universe.

Natalie Portman

Natalie Portman shines as Jane Foster in the MCU’s Thor series, beginning with ‘Thor’ (2011). Her portrayal of the brilliant astrophysicist evolves from a curious scientist to a powerful figure wielding Mjolnir.

In Star Wars, Portman plays Padmé Amidala, the fierce queen-turned-senator, starting in ‘The Phantom Menace’ (1999). Her grace and strength make Padmé a standout, showing Portman’s knack for portraying determined women across genres.

Ben Mendelsohn

Ben Mendelsohn brings sly charm to the MCU as Talos, the Skrull leader in ‘Captain Marvel’ (2019). His shape-shifting character blends humor and heart, making Talos a fan favorite.

In Star Wars, Mendelsohn’s Director Krennic in ‘Rogue One’ (2016) is a cunning Imperial officer with ambition to spare. His intense performance adds menace to the galaxy far, far away.

Andy Serkis

Andy Serkis delivers a memorable MCU role as Ulysses Klaue in ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’ (2015) and ‘Black Panther’ (2018). His wild energy as the vibranium-smuggling villain is pure chaos.

In Star Wars, Serkis uses motion capture to portray Supreme Leader Snoke in ‘The Force Awakens’ (2015) and ‘The Last Jedi’ (2017). His eerie presence makes Snoke a chilling force in the sequel trilogy.

Paul Bettany

Paul Bettany’s MCU journey starts as the voice of Jarvis in ‘Iron Man’ (2008), later becoming the synthetic hero Vision in ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’ (2015). His thoughtful performance grounds Vision’s otherworldly nature.

In Star Wars, Bettany plays Dryden Vos, a ruthless crime lord in ‘Solo’ (2018). His suave yet dangerous vibe adds a sharp edge to the galactic underworld.

Forest Whitaker

Forest Whitaker brings gravitas to the MCU as Zuri, the wise elder in ‘Black Panther’ (2018). His quiet strength makes Zuri a key figure in Wakanda’s spiritual heart.

In Star Wars, Whitaker’s Saw Gerrera, introduced in ‘Rogue One’ (2016) and appearing in ‘Star Wars Rebels’ (2014-2018), is a battle-hardened rebel. His intense portrayal captures Saw’s unyielding fight against oppression.

Jon Favreau

Jon Favreau is a familiar face in the MCU as Happy Hogan, Tony Stark’s loyal friend and security chief, starting in ‘Iron Man’ (2008). His warmth and humor make Happy a standout.

In Star Wars, Favreau voices Rio Durant, a four-armed pilot in ‘Solo’ (2018). His lively performance adds charm to the heist-filled adventure.

Benicio del Toro

Benicio del Toro plays the eccentric Collector in the MCU’s ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ (2014). His quirky, cosmic vibe makes the character a memorable part of the galaxy’s underbelly.

In Star Wars, del Toro’s DJ in ‘The Last Jedi’ (2017) is a shifty codebreaker with murky morals. His layered performance keeps you guessing about DJ’s true loyalties.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o captivates as Nakia in the MCU’s ‘Black Panther’ (2018). Her fierce yet compassionate warrior-spy adds heart to Wakanda’s story.

In Star Wars, Nyong’o uses motion capture to play Maz Kanata, the wise pirate in ‘The Force Awakens’ (2015). Her warm, mysterious energy makes Maz a galactic gem.

Donald Glover

Donald Glover brings cool confidence to the MCU as Aaron Davis in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ (2017). His brief but impactful role hints at a larger story.

In Star Wars, Glover’s Lando Calrissian in ‘Solo’ (2018) channels the smuggler’s legendary charm. His smooth performance captures Lando’s roguish spirit.

Peter Serafinowicz

Peter Serafinowicz lends his voice to Darth Maul in Star Wars’ ‘The Phantom Menace’ (1999). His menacing tone sets the stage for the Sith’s terrifying presence.

In the MCU, Serafinowicz plays Denarian Saal, a Nova Corps officer in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ (2014). His stern yet heroic performance adds depth to the cosmic lawman.

Mads Mikkelsen

Mads Mikkelsen’s Kaecilius in the MCU’s ‘Doctor Strange’ (2016) is a sorcerer driven by dark ambition. His chilling intensity makes the villain unforgettable.

In Star Wars, Mikkelsen plays Galen Erso, the reluctant scientist in ‘Rogue One’ (2016). His nuanced performance conveys a father’s quiet defiance against the Empire.

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson’s Claire Temple in the MCU’s ‘Daredevil’ (2015-2018) is the grounded nurse tying Marvel’s street-level heroes together. Her warmth anchors the gritty stories.

In Star Wars, Dawson shines as Ahsoka Tano in ‘The Mandalorian’ (2019-2023) and ‘Ahsoka’ (2023). Her fierce yet soulful portrayal brings the beloved Jedi to life.

Richard E. Grant

Richard E. Grant’s Classic Loki in the MCU’s ‘Loki’ (2021-2023) is a mischievous variant with flair. His dramatic performance steals scenes in the multiverse saga.

In Star Wars, Grant plays General Pryde in ‘The Rise of Skywalker’ (2019). His cold, loyal Imperial officer adds weight to the final trilogy’s conflict.

Taika Waititi

Taika Waititi’s Korg in the MCU’s ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ (2017) is a lovable rock creature with deadpan humor. His voice work makes Korg a fan favorite.

In Star Wars, Waititi voices IG-11, a droid with a redemption arc in ‘The Mandalorian’ (2019-2023). His comedic timing shines in the galaxy far, far away.

Oscar Isaac

Oscar Isaac brings fiery charisma to Star Wars as Poe Dameron, the Resistance pilot in ‘The Force Awakens’ (2015). His bold energy drives the sequel trilogy.

In the MCU, Isaac’s Moon Knight in ‘Moon Knight’ (2022) showcases his range, portraying a hero with fractured identities. His intense performance grounds the psychological drama.

Which actor’s crossover between MCU and Star Wars surprised you most? Share your thoughts in the comments!