10 Action Stars Who Could Actually Do Shakespeare

Action stars are known for their grit, stunts, and charisma, but some have the depth to tackle the complex emotions and language of Shakespeare. Their screen presence and ability to command attention could translate seamlessly to the Bard’s poetic dramas.

I’ve chosen 10 action stars who could convincingly take on Shakespeare’s iconic roles. Their intensity, versatility, and raw talent suggest they’d shine in a world of soliloquies and tragedy. Let’s explore why these action icons could master the stage.

Dwayne Johnson

Dwayne Johnson, the muscle-bound star of ‘Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle’ (2017), has the commanding presence for Macbeth. His larger-than-life charisma, seen in films like ‘Fast Five’ (2011), could capture the Scottish king’s ambition and descent into madness. Johnson’s ability to project strength would make Macbeth’s inner turmoil gripping.

His lesser-known dramatic roles, like in ‘Southland Tales’ (2006), show he can handle complex emotions. Johnson’s natural gravitas and physicality could bring a fresh, intense take to the tragic hero. He’d own the stage in those haunting soliloquies.

Charlize Theron

Charlize Theron, fierce in ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ (2015), could embody Cleopatra with her regal intensity. Her commanding presence and sharp delivery, honed in action films like ‘Atomic Blonde’ (2017), would suit the Egyptian queen’s cunning and allure. Theron’s ability to blend strength with vulnerability is perfect for the role.

Her Oscar-winning turn in ‘Monster’ (2003) proves she can dive into complex characters. Theron’s charisma and emotional depth would make Cleopatra’s schemes and passion unforgettable. She’d light up the stage with every line.

Keanu Reeves

Keanu Reeves, beloved for ‘John Wick’ (2014), has the introspective depth for Hamlet. His quiet intensity, seen in ‘The Matrix’ (1999), could capture the Danish prince’s brooding and indecision. Reeves’ understated style would bring a modern edge to the role.

His performance in ‘Bram Stoker’s Dracula’ (1992) showed he can handle period drama, despite mixed reviews. Reeves’ ability to convey grief and resolve would make Hamlet’s soliloquies resonate. He’d bring a soulful energy to the tragic prince.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldaña, dynamic in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ (2014), could dominate as Lady Macbeth. Her fierce energy, showcased in ‘Colombiana’ (2011), would nail the character’s ruthless ambition. Saldaña’s ability to convey intensity would make the role chilling.

Her dramatic work in ‘The Terminal’ (2004) highlights her range beyond action. Saldaña’s sharp delivery and emotional depth could capture Lady Macbeth’s manipulative fire and eventual guilt. She’d steal the show with her commanding presence.

Chris Hemsworth

Chris Hemsworth, iconic as Thor in ‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019), could tackle Othello with his natural charisma. His physicality and emotional range, seen in ‘Rush’ (2013), would suit the Moor’s passion and jealousy. Hemsworth’s larger-than-life energy fits Shakespeare’s tragic hero.

His heartfelt performance in ‘In the Heart of the Sea’ (2015) shows he can handle heavy drama. Hemsworth’s ability to convey love and rage would make Othello’s downfall compelling. He’d bring a magnetic intensity to the stage.

Milla Jovovich

Milla Jovovich, fierce in ‘Resident Evil’ (2002), could shine as Juliet in ‘Romeo and Juliet’. Her action-hero grit, paired with her expressive eyes, seen in ‘The Fifth Element’ (1997), would capture the young lover’s passion and tragedy. Jovovich’s energy would light up the role.

Her dramatic turn in ‘The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc’ (1999) proves she can handle emotional depth. Jovovich’s ability to blend strength with vulnerability would make Juliet’s romance heartbreaking. She’d deliver the poetry with raw feeling.

Tom Hardy

Tom Hardy, intense in ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ (2015), could master Richard III. His commanding presence, seen in ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ (2012), would suit the scheming king’s charisma and menace. Hardy’s ability to embody complex villains makes him a perfect fit.

His Oscar-nominated role in ‘The Revenant’ (2015) shows his dramatic range. Hardy’s gravelly voice and physicality would bring Richard’s twisted ambition to life. He’d captivate audiences with every conniving line.

Jason Statham

Jason Statham, the tough guy of ‘The Expendables’ (2010), could excel as Coriolanus. His stoic intensity, honed in ‘Crank’ (2006), would fit the warrior’s pride and isolation. Statham’s raw energy would make the Roman general’s defiance compelling.

His understated role in ‘The Bank Job’ (2008) hints at untapped dramatic potential. Statham’s ability to convey grit and inner conflict would ground Coriolanus’ tragic arc. He’d deliver the Bard’s lines with a fierce edge.

Scarlett Johansson

Scarlett Johansson, dynamic in ‘Black Widow’ (2021), could charm as Viola in ‘Twelfth Night’. Her wit and emotional depth, seen in ‘Lucy’ (2014), would suit the clever heroine’s disguise and romance. Johansson’s charisma would make Viola’s journey engaging.

Her dramatic work in ‘Marriage Story’ (2019) earned her an Oscar nomination, proving her range. Johansson’s ability to balance humor and heart would bring Viola’s spirit to life. She’d shine in the play’s comedic and poignant moments.

Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington, commanding in ‘Man on Fire’ (2004), could dominate as King Lear. His powerful presence, seen in ‘Training Day’ (2001), would capture the king’s rage and heartbreak. Washington’s gravitas makes him ideal for the tragic monarch.

His Oscar-nominated role in ‘The Tragedy of Macbeth’ (2021) already showed his Shakespearean chops. Washington’s ability to convey authority and vulnerability would make Lear’s downfall unforgettable. He’d own the stage with every thunderous line.

Which action star do you think would nail a Shakespeare role, or did I miss a perfect casting? Drop your ideas in the comments!