Actors Who Have Written Best-Selling Books or Scripts

The landscape of Hollywood is filled with multi-talented individuals who often venture beyond the screen to express their creativity through the written word. While many are recognized for their performances, a significant number of male actors have quietly or successfully built parallel careers as best-selling authors and award-winning screenwriters. From psychological thrillers and memoirs to Academy Award-winning scripts, these performers have demonstrated a profound command of narrative and character development. This list explores the literary and screenwriting achievements of famous men whose work in the publishing and film industries often rivals their on-screen fame.

Ethan Hawke

Ethan Hawke established himself as a novelist long before many of his contemporaries by publishing ‘The Hottest State’ in 1996. The novel was a commercial success and was later adapted into a film which Hawke directed himself. He followed this achievement with the 2002 novel ‘Ash Wednesday’, which received critical acclaim for its lyrical prose and emotional depth. Beyond fiction, Hawke has received Academy Award nominations for his screenwriting contributions to ‘Before Sunset’ and ‘Before Midnight’. He continues to publish graphic novels and essays while maintaining a prolific acting career.

Wentworth Miller

Wentworth Miller, known for his starring role in ‘Prison Break’, surprised the film industry when it was revealed he wrote the screenplay for ‘Stoker’. To ensure the script was judged solely on its own merits, Miller used the pseudonym Ted Foulke during the initial submission process. The screenplay was featured on the 2010 Black List, a prestigious annual survey of the most liked unproduced scripts in Hollywood. The film was eventually produced in 2013, starring Nicole Kidman and Mia Wasikowska. Miller has also penned the screenplay for the horror-thriller ‘The Disappointments Room’.

Hugh Laurie

While globally recognized for his portrayal of the titular character in ‘House’, Hugh Laurie is also an accomplished author of the international best-seller ‘The Gun Seller’. Published in 1996, the novel is a comedic spy thriller that follows an ex-soldier caught in a complex web of international intrigue. The book was praised for its sharp wit and satirical take on the thriller genre, drawing comparisons to the work of P.G. Wodehouse. Laurie has also contributed scripts to various television projects throughout his career in British comedy. His literary success remains a significant part of his professional identity outside of acting.

Gene Hackman

Following his retirement from acting, Academy Award winner Gene Hackman embarked on a successful career as a novelist specializing in historical fiction. He co-authored three novels with Daniel Lenihan, including the high-seas adventure ‘Wake of the Perdido Star’. In 2011, Hackman released his first solo effort, a Western titled ‘Payback at Morning Peak’, which received positive reviews for its authentic period detail. He followed this with the psychological thriller ‘Pursuit’ in 2013, proving his versatility as a writer. His transition from screen legend to respected author has been marked by a focus on gritty, well-researched narratives.

Justin Theroux

Justin Theroux is a highly sought-after screenwriter who has penned some of Hollywood’s most successful modern comedies and blockbusters. He co-wrote the script for the satirical action film ‘Tropic Thunder’, which became a massive box-office hit and a critical success. Theroux also wrote the screenplay for ‘Iron Man 2’, contributing significantly to the expansion of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His writing credits extend to the musical comedy ‘Rock of Ages’ and the animated ‘The Lego Ninjago Movie’. Despite his frequent on-screen appearances, he remains a prominent force in the writers’ room.

Steve Martin

Steve Martin has balanced a legendary acting career with a prolific output of best-selling books and plays. His novella ‘Shopgirl’ was a New York Times best-seller and was later adapted into a feature film starring Martin himself. He also authored ‘The Pleasure of My Company’, which received critical praise for its poignant exploration of mental health and social anxiety. Martin’s memoir, ‘Born Standing Up’, is widely considered one of the best books written about the craft of stand-up comedy. Additionally, he has written several successful stage plays, including ‘Picasso at the Lapin Agile’.

David Duchovny

David Duchovny has expanded his creative horizons far beyond ‘The X-Files’ by becoming a successful novelist. He published his first book, ‘Holy Cow: A Modern-Day Dairy Tale’, in 2015, which became a New York Times best-seller. His subsequent novels, including ‘Bucky F*cking Dent’ and ‘Miss Subways’, have been praised for their unique blend of magical realism and dark humor. Duchovny often explores complex themes of identity and Americana through his literary work. He has also written and directed several episodes of his most famous television series.

Tom Hanks

Tom Hanks ventured into the world of fiction with his 2017 collection of short stories titled ‘Uncommon Type’. The book features seventeen different stories, all linked by the presence of a unique typewriter in each narrative. The collection was a commercial success and received favorable reviews for its nostalgic tone and character-driven plots. Hanks followed this with his first novel, ‘The Making of Another Major Motion Picture Masterpiece’, published in 2023. This work provides an insider’s look at the film industry, spanning several decades of American history.

Jim Carrey

Jim Carrey took a surreal and semi-autobiographical turn with the release of his novel ‘Memoirs and Misinformation’ in 2020. Co-authored with Dana Vachon, the book reached the New York Times best-seller list shortly after its release. It is described as a deconstruction of Carrey’s public persona, blending real-life events with satirical and apocalyptic fiction. The narrative serves as a commentary on Hollywood fame, ego, and the search for meaning. Critics noted the book’s ambitious scope and its reflection of Carrey’s own artistic evolution.

Billy Bob Thornton

Billy Bob Thornton achieved a rare feat by winning an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for ‘Sling Blade’ in 1997. He wrote the script based on his own one-man play and also directed and starred in the film. This success catapulted him into the spotlight as both a top-tier actor and a formidable writer. Thornton has continued to contribute to screenplays throughout his career, often focusing on Southern Gothic themes and complex characters. His writing is known for its authentic dialogue and stark, emotional realism.

James Franco

James Franco is known for his academic pursuits and his prolific output as an author and screenwriter. He published the short story collection ‘Palo Alto’ in 2010, which was later adapted into a film that explored the lives of troubled teenagers. His literary work often deals with themes of youth, rebellion, and the darker side of suburban life. Franco has also published a novel titled ‘Actors Anonymous’, which draws from his experiences within the film industry. Additionally, he has written several screenplays for independent films that he also directed.

Sean Penn

Sean Penn made his debut as a novelist in 2018 with the release of ‘Bob Honey Who Just Do Stuff’. The book is a satirical work that follows a protagonist who is an international assassin and septic tank salesman. It sparked significant conversation due to its unconventional prose style and sharp political commentary. Penn followed the success of the first book with a sequel titled ‘Bob Honey Sings Jimmy Crack Corn’. While polarizing among critics, the books achieved commercial success and established Penn as a provocative literary voice.

Jesse Eisenberg

Jesse Eisenberg is an accomplished playwright and author known for his sharp, neurotic wit. He published a collection of short stories titled ‘Bream Gives Me Hiccups’ in 2015, which was well-received by critics and readers alike. Eisenberg has also written several plays, including ‘The Revisionist’ and ‘The Spoils’, both of which were performed off-Broadway to critical acclaim. His writing often examines the social anxieties and internal monologues of modern characters. He recently expanded into screenwriting and directing with the film ‘When You Finish Saving the World’.

John Lithgow

John Lithgow has found immense success as a writer of children’s books and political satire. He has authored several New York Times best-selling picture books, including ‘The Remarkable Farkle McBride’ and ‘Marsupial Sue’. Lithgow’s books are known for their rhythmic verse and educational value, often encouraging children to explore the arts. In recent years, he has also published a series of satirical poetry books targeting political figures, such as ‘Dumpty: The Age of Trump in Verse’. His ability to engage both young and adult audiences has made him a versatile figure in the publishing world.

Jason Segel

Jason Segel transitioned from a successful career in comedy to becoming a best-selling author of young adult and middle-grade fiction. He co-authored the ‘Nightmares!’ series, which began in 2014 and became a New York Times best-seller. The series follows a young boy who discovers that his town is being haunted by the manifestation of people’s fears. Segel also co-authored the science fiction series ‘Last Reality’, further establishing his presence in the literary world. His writing is often noted for its heart, humor, and ability to tackle complex emotions for a younger audience.

Seth Rogen

Seth Rogen added “best-selling author” to his resume with the release of his essay collection ‘Yearbook’ in 2021. The book features a series of humorous and personal stories about his life, career, and upbringing in Vancouver. It quickly rose to the top of the New York Times best-seller list and was praised for its candid and entertaining tone. Rogen is also a prolific screenwriter, having co-written hit films such as ‘Superbad’, ‘Pineapple Express’, and ‘This Is the End’. His influence on modern film comedy is largely rooted in his collaborative writing process.

Matthew McConaughey

Matthew McConaughey released his memoir ‘Greenlights’ in 2020, which became a massive commercial and critical success. The book is based on journals the actor kept for over thirty years and offers a philosophical look at his life and career. It spent dozens of weeks on the New York Times best-seller list and sold millions of copies worldwide. McConaughey followed this success with a children’s book titled ‘Just Because’ in 2023. His writing style is characterized by its folksy wisdom and rhythmic, storytelling approach.

Stephen Fry

Stephen Fry is a titan of British literature and comedy, having written several best-selling novels and non-fiction works. His debut novel ‘The Liar’ was a major success, and he followed it with other popular titles like ‘The Hippopotamus’ and ‘Making History’. In recent years, Fry has found immense success with his ‘Mythos’ series, which provides modern retellings of Greek myths. These books have topped best-seller lists and have been adapted into a successful stage show. Fry’s erudite writing style and wit have earned him a permanent place in the literary canon.

Alan Alda

Alan Alda has authored several New York Times best-selling memoirs and books on the art of communication. His first book, ‘Never Have Your Dog Stuffed: And Other Things I’ve Learned’, provides a candid look at his life and the lessons he acquired through his career. He followed this with ‘Things I Overheard While Talking to Myself’, which explores his search for a meaningful life. Alda also wrote ‘If I Understood You, Would I Have This Look on My Face?’, which focuses on the importance of empathy in communication. His work in science communication has also led to numerous essays and scripts for educational programming.

Nick Offerman

Nick Offerman has parlayed his ‘Parks and Recreation’ fame into a successful career as an author of humorous and philosophical books. His debut, ‘Paddle Your Own Canoe: One Man’s Fundamentals for Delicious Living’, was a New York Times best-seller that blended memoir with practical life advice. He followed this with ‘Gumption’, where he profiles historical and modern figures he admires. Offerman’s writing often focuses on the value of hard work, craftsmanship, and the great outdoors. His book ‘Where the Deer and the Antelope Play’ continues this trend, detailing his travels through America’s national parks.

Michael Imperioli

Michael Imperioli, famous for his role as Christopher Moltisanti in ‘The Sopranos’, is also a respected novelist and screenwriter. He published his debut novel, ‘The Perfume Burns His Eyes’, in 2018, which follows a teenager’s coming-of-age in 1970s New York City. The book received positive reviews for its atmospheric setting and emotional resonance. Imperioli was also a writer for ‘The Sopranos’, penning five episodes of the iconic series during its run. His creative work often explores the gritty reality of urban life and the complexities of the human condition.

Kunal Nayyar

Kunal Nayyar, best known for ‘The Big Bang Theory’, released a successful memoir titled ‘Yes, My Accent Is Real: And Some Other Things I Haven’t Told You’ in 2015. The book traces his journey from his childhood in New Delhi to his move to America and eventual success in Hollywood. It was praised for its humor and relatable stories about the immigrant experience and the struggles of an aspiring actor. The book achieved best-seller status and provided fans with a deeper look at the man behind the character of Raj Koothrappali. Nayyar has also been involved in writing for various stage productions.

William Shatner

William Shatner has been a prolific author throughout his career, most notably for his ‘TekWar’ science fiction series. The books, which he co-authored, became best-sellers and were eventually adapted into a television series and a comic book line. Shatner has also written several memoirs, including ‘Up Till Now’ and ‘Live Long and…’, which offer a humorous look at his life and the ‘Star Trek’ phenomenon. He has even ventured into writing ‘Star Trek’ novels, contributing to the expanded universe of the franchise. His literary output is as vast and varied as his acting credits.

Bruce Campbell

Bruce Campbell is a beloved cult icon who has written several best-selling books about his experiences in the film industry. His first memoir, ‘If Chins Could Kill: Confessions of a B-Movie Actor’, became a New York Times best-seller and is considered essential reading for aspiring filmmakers. He followed this with ‘Make Love! The Bruce Campbell Way’, a fictionalized account of his attempt to break into A-list movies. His third book, ‘Hail to the Chin: Further Confessions of a B-Movie Actor’, updates fans on his later career and personal life. Campbell’s writing is known for its self-deprecating humor and honest look at the realities of show business.

Rob Lowe

Rob Lowe surprised critics and audiences alike with the success of his 2011 memoir, ‘Stories I Only Tell My Friends’. The book was a New York Times best-seller and received high praise for its insightful and candid look at the heights and depths of fame. Lowe followed this with ‘Love Life’ in 2014, another collection of personal essays that explored themes of family, career, and aging. His writing is characterized by its storytelling flair and his ability to reflect on his place in Hollywood history. The success of his books has led to a popular touring stage show based on his literary work.

Bryan Cranston

Bryan Cranston shared the intricate details of his life and craft in his 2016 memoir, ‘A Life in Parts’. The book became a New York Times best-seller and was praised for its honesty about his early struggles and his eventual rise to stardom. Each chapter of the book correlates to a different “part” or role he has played, both on screen and in his personal life. Cranston also has experience as a screenwriter and director, having written the script for the 1999 film ‘Last Chance’. His literary success mirrors the critical acclaim he has received for his acting.

Jonah Hill

Jonah Hill has developed into a serious creative force in Hollywood, with significant writing credits to his name. He co-wrote the script for the global hit ‘Superbad’, a project he had been developing since his teenage years with Seth Rogen. Hill also received writing credits for ’21 Jump Street’ and its sequel, ’22 Jump Street’, both of which were major box-office successes. In 2018, he wrote and directed the critically acclaimed coming-of-age film ‘Mid90s’. His transition from comedic actor to respected screenwriter and director has been marked by a focus on authentic, character-driven narratives.

Kumail Nanjiani

Kumail Nanjiani received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay for the 2017 film ‘The Big Sick’. He co-wrote the script with his wife, Emily V. Gordon, based on the real-life events of their early relationship and her sudden illness. The film was a critical and commercial success, praised for its unique blend of romantic comedy and high-stakes drama. Before this success, Nanjiani was a writer and performer on various television projects, including ‘The Meltdown with Jonah and Kumail’. His ability to translate personal experience into a universal narrative established him as a major talent in screenwriting.

Paul Rudd

Paul Rudd is often recognized for his leading roles in comedies, but he also has significant writing credits, particularly within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He co-wrote the screenplay for ‘Ant-Man’, contributing to the film’s unique comedic tone and character dynamics. Rudd returned to the writers’ room for the sequel, ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp’, further shaping the journey of his titular hero. He also co-wrote the 2008 comedy ‘Role Models’, in which he also starred. His writing often incorporates the same wit and charm that define his on-screen performances.

Dan Aykroyd

Dan Aykroyd is the co-creator and co-writer of one of the most successful film franchises in history, ‘Ghostbusters’. He wrote the original script with Harold Ramis, blending elements of science fiction, horror, and comedy into a groundbreaking narrative. Aykroyd also wrote or co-wrote several other classic films, including ‘The Blues Brothers’ and ‘Spies Like Us’. His writing often reflects his personal interests in the paranormal and his background in improvisational comedy. The enduring legacy of his scripts has made him a foundational figure in modern cinematic comedy.

Harold Ramis

The late Harold Ramis was a titan of comedy screenwriting, responsible for some of the most beloved films of the 20th century. He co-wrote ‘Caddyshack’, ‘National Lampoon’s Animal House’, and ‘Ghostbusters’, all of which became cultural touchstones. Ramis also wrote and directed ‘Groundhog Day’, a film widely considered a masterpiece for its philosophical depth and clever structure. His writing style was characterized by its intelligence, sharp satire, and ability to balance absurdity with heart. Even after his passing, his scripts continue to influence generations of writers and filmmakers.

John Cleese

John Cleese is a comedy legend who has written some of the most influential scripts in television and film history. He co-created and co-wrote ‘Fawlty Towers’, a show often cited as one of the greatest sitcoms ever made. Cleese also wrote the screenplay for ‘A Fish Called Wanda’, for which he received an Academy Award nomination. In addition to his screenwriting, he has authored several books on psychology and creativity, as well as a best-selling memoir, ‘So, Anyway…’. His literary and scriptwriting achievements are central to his status as a comedic genius.

Ben Affleck

Ben Affleck achieved early career success by winning an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for ‘Good Will Hunting’. He co-wrote the script with Matt Damon, and the film’s success launched both of their careers into the Hollywood stratosphere. Affleck has since written several other high-profile scripts, including the critically acclaimed crime drama ‘The Town’. He also wrote and directed the 2012 film ‘Argo’, which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. His work as a writer often focuses on gritty, character-driven stories set in his native New England.

Matt Damon

Matt Damon is a highly respected screenwriter whose career was defined by his Academy Award-winning work on ‘Good Will Hunting’. Since then, he has continued to contribute to screenplays, often collaborating with long-time friends and creative partners. He co-wrote the script for ‘Gerry’ and the 2021 historical drama ‘The Last Duel’, in which he also starred. Damon’s writing is known for its focus on complex male friendships and ethical dilemmas. His ability to balance blockbuster acting roles with serious screenwriting projects has made him a versatile figure in the industry.

Simon Pegg

Simon Pegg is a central figure in modern British comedy, having co-written the celebrated ‘Three Flavours Cornetto’ trilogy. Alongside director Edgar Wright, he penned ‘Shaun of the Dead’, ‘Hot Fuzz’, and ‘The World’s End’, all of which received critical acclaim. Pegg also ventured into blockbuster screenwriting by co-writing ‘Star Trek Beyond’, where he also played the role of Scotty. His writing is praised for its clever genre deconstruction and fast-paced, witty dialogue. Beyond scripts, he has authored a successful memoir titled ‘Nerd Do Well’.

Ryan Reynolds

Ryan Reynolds took a very active role in the development of the ‘Deadpool’ franchise, receiving a writing credit for the 2018 sequel ‘Deadpool 2’. His involvement in the script was crucial to maintaining the character’s unique voice and meta-humor that fans adored. Reynolds also co-wrote the 2024 film ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’, which became a massive global phenomenon. His writing often mirrors his public persona, blending irreverent comedy with unexpected emotional beats. His success as a writer-producer has given him significant creative control over his major film projects.

Charlie Day

Charlie Day is one of the primary creative voices behind the long-running sitcom ‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’. He co-created the show and has served as a writer and executive producer for nearly two decades. Day’s writing is known for its boundary-pushing humor and its exploration of a group of deeply flawed characters. In 2023, he made his directorial debut with the film ‘Fool’s Paradise’, which he also wrote. His transition from television star to a multifaceted writer and director demonstrates his deep involvement in the creative process.

George Clooney

George Clooney has become a respected screenwriter and director, often focusing on political and historical themes. He co-wrote the screenplay for the 2005 film ‘Good Night, and Good Luck’, which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay. He also co-wrote ‘The Ides of March’, a political thriller that explored the darker side of American campaigning. Clooney’s writing is noted for its intelligence, restraint, and focus on moral ambiguity. His work behind the camera has earned him as much critical respect as his legendary acting career.

Andrew McCarthy

Andrew McCarthy, a former member of the ‘Brat Pack’, has successfully reinvented himself as an award-winning travel writer and novelist. He is a regular contributor to ‘National Geographic Traveler’ and has written a best-selling memoir titled ‘The Longest Way Home’. McCarthy also authored the New York Times best-selling novel ‘Just Fly Away’, which explores family secrets and personal discovery. His travel writing is praised for its emotional honesty and its focus on the internal journey of the traveler. He remains a prominent figure in the literary community, frequently appearing at book festivals and conferences.

Common

Common is not only an Academy Award-winning actor and musician but also a New York Times best-selling author. His 2011 memoir, ‘One Day It’ll All Make Sense’, explores his upbringing in Chicago and his professional journey in music and film. He followed this with another successful book, ‘Let Love Have the Last Word’, which focuses on themes of forgiveness and personal growth. Common’s writing is often praised for its vulnerability and its alignment with the conscious themes present in his art. He continues to use his platform to advocate for social change through both his screen roles and his written work.

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