15 Celebrities You Didn’t Know Starred in Video Games

Video games have become a massive part of entertainment, and it’s no surprise that big-name celebrities are jumping into the action. From lending their voices to iconic characters to full-on motion capture performances, stars are bringing their talents to virtual worlds, often in ways you might not expect.

I’m diving into 15 celebrities who’ve starred in video games, many of whom you probably didn’t know were part of these digital adventures. With their permission, these stars have added depth and star power to some of the most popular titles out there.

Gary Oldman as Viktor Reznov in ‘Call of Duty’ Series (2008-2010)

Gary Oldman, known for intense roles in films like ‘Darkest Hour,’ brought his commanding voice to Viktor Reznov in ‘Call of Duty: World at War’ and ‘Black Ops.’ His gritty performance as the Soviet soldier made Reznov a fan favorite, with permission from Oldman himself.

His work added emotional weight to the series’ intense war narratives. Oldman’s ability to embody a battle-hardened character made the games unforgettable for players.

Martin Sheen as The Illusive Man in ‘Mass Effect’ Series (2007-2012)

Martin Sheen, celebrated for ‘Apocalypse Now,’ voiced The Illusive Man in the ‘Mass Effect’ trilogy. His smoky, mysterious delivery, used with his consent, perfectly suited the shadowy leader of Cerberus.

Sheen’s performance gave the character a chilling authority, making players question his motives. It’s a standout example of how a seasoned actor can elevate a game’s story.

Norman Reedus as Sam Porter Bridges in ‘Death Stranding’ (2019)

Norman Reedus, famous from ‘The Walking Dead,’ starred as Sam Porter Bridges in ‘Death Stranding,’ using both voice and motion capture with his approval. His likeness brought a rugged authenticity to the game’s post-apocalyptic world.

Reedus’ subtle yet powerful performance made Sam a relatable hero. The game’s unique storytelling leaned heavily on his emotional depth.

Léa Seydoux as Fragile in ‘Death Stranding’ (2019)

Léa Seydoux, known for ‘No Time to Die,’ played Fragile in ‘Death Stranding’ with her permission. Her motion-captured performance added a haunting vulnerability to the character in Hideo Kojima’s surreal masterpiece.

Seydoux’s work brought a cinematic quality to the game, blending strength and fragility. Her presence made the narrative feel like a blockbuster film.

Mads Mikkelsen as Clifford Unger in ‘Death Stranding’ (2019)

Mads Mikkelsen, star of ‘Hannibal,’ lent his voice and likeness to Clifford Unger in ‘Death Stranding,’ with full consent. His intense performance added emotional stakes to the game’s complex story.

Mikkelsen’s ability to convey quiet pain made Unger unforgettable. His work shows how A-list talent can deepen a game’s impact.

Keanu Reeves as Johnny Silverhand in ‘Cyberpunk 2077’ (2020)

Keanu Reeves, beloved for ‘John Wick,’ played Johnny Silverhand in ‘Cyberpunk 2077’ with his permission. His voice and motion capture brought a rebellious edge to the futuristic rocker.

Reeves’ charisma made Johnny a standout, despite the game’s rocky launch. His performance remains a highlight, drawing fans into Night City’s gritty world.

Samuel L. Jackson as Officer Tenpenny in ‘Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas’ (2004)

Samuel L. Jackson, iconic for ‘Pulp Fiction,’ voiced the corrupt Officer Tenpenny in ‘Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas’ with his approval. His menacing delivery made the character a memorable villain.

Jackson’s star power added flair to the open-world classic. His performance brought a cinematic intensity to the game’s crime-filled streets.

Ray Liotta as Tommy Vercetti in ‘Grand Theft Auto: Vice City’ (2002)

Ray Liotta, known for ‘Goodfellas,’ voiced Tommy Vercetti in ‘Grand Theft Auto: Vice City’ with his consent. His tough-guy persona perfectly fit the 1980s mobster vibe.

Liotta’s energetic performance gave the game its cinematic soul. He made Tommy a character players still talk about decades later.

Patrick Stewart as Emperor Uriel Septim in ‘The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion’ (2006)

Patrick Stewart, famed for ‘Star Trek,’ voiced Emperor Uriel Septim in ‘The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion’ with permission. His regal tone set the stage for the game’s epic fantasy world.

Though his role was brief, Stewart’s gravitas made it impactful. His voice added a layer of grandeur to the game’s opening.

Ashley Johnson as Ellie in ‘The Last of Us’ Series (2013-2020)

Ashley Johnson, recognized from ‘Blindspot,’ voiced and motion-captured Ellie in ‘The Last of Us’ and its sequel, with her approval. Her heartfelt performance made Ellie a gaming icon.

Johnson’s work earned her two BAFTA Awards for Best Performer. She brought raw emotion to a post-apocalyptic story that resonated with millions.

Kit Harington as Salen Kotch in ‘Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare’ (2016)

Kit Harington, star of ‘Game of Thrones,’ played the villain Salen Kotch in ‘Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare’ with his consent. His chilling performance added depth to the sci-fi shooter.

Harington’s commanding presence made Kotch a formidable foe. His role showed how big names can shine in unexpected genres.

Willem Dafoe in ‘Beyond: Two Souls’ (2013)

Willem Dafoe, known for ‘Spider-Man,’ starred in ‘Beyond: Two Souls’ with his permission, using voice and motion capture. His role as a scientist added gravitas to the interactive drama.

Dafoe’s nuanced performance brought emotional weight to the game’s supernatural story. It’s a perfect blend of Hollywood talent and gaming innovation.

Cameron Monaghan as Cal Kestis in ‘Star Wars Jedi’ Series (2019-2023)

Cameron Monaghan, from ‘Shameless,’ played Cal Kestis in ‘Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order’ and ‘Survivor,’ with his approval. His motion-captured performance brought a fresh Jedi to life.

Monaghan’s heartfelt portrayal made Cal a fan favorite in the Star Wars universe. His work added depth to the galaxy far, far away.

Haley Joel Osment as Sora in ‘Kingdom Hearts’ Series (2002-2022)

Haley Joel Osment, famous for ‘The Sixth Sense,’ voiced Sora in the ‘Kingdom Hearts’ series with his consent. His youthful energy perfectly suited the Disney-Final Fantasy crossover.

Osment’s performance grew with Sora, capturing the character’s heart and bravery. His voice remains a nostalgic cornerstone for fans.

Mark Hamill as The Joker in ‘Batman: Arkham’ Series (2009-2015)

Mark Hamill, legendary for Luke Skywalker, voiced The Joker in the ‘Batman: Arkham’ series with his permission. His manic, chilling performance, rooted in his animated series work, is iconic.

Hamill’s Joker became a benchmark for video game villains. His cackling delivery made every encounter electrifying for players.

Video games are no longer just for gamers—Hollywood’s biggest names are making them must-play experiences. Which celebrity’s video game role shocked you the most, or is there another star you’d love to see in a game? Drop your thoughts in the comments!