Famous Actors Who Served in the Vietnam War

The Vietnam War was a challenging period that left a lasting impact on those who served. Among them were individuals who later became well-known actors, bringing their real-life courage to the big and small screens.

These actors didn’t just portray heroes—they lived through intense experiences that shaped their lives and careers. Below is a list of 15 famous actors who served in the Vietnam War, highlighting their military service and acting achievements.

Dennis Franz

Dennis Franz is best known for his role as Detective Andy Sipowicz in ‘NYPD Blue’. He served 11 months in Vietnam with the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions, enduring heavy combat that left him with depression after returning home.

His military experience added depth to his acting, earning him multiple Emmy Awards. Discovered by director Robert Altman after joining the Organic Theatre Company, Franz’s gritty performances made him a standout in television.

Wes Studi

Wes Studi, a Cherokee actor, starred as Magua in ‘The Last of the Mohicans’ (1992) and in ‘Geronimo: An American Legend’ (1993). At 17, he joined the Oklahoma National Guard and volunteered for Vietnam, serving with the 9th Infantry Division in Viet Cong territory.

His time in Vietnam fueled his anti-war stance, which he expressed after his discharge. Studi’s powerful roles in films like ‘Hostiles’ reflect the strength from his military service and cultural heritage.

Richard Chaves

Richard Chaves played Poncho in the action classic ‘Predator’ (1987). He served in the Army from 1970 to 1973 with the 196th Infantry Brigade in Vietnam, reaching the rank of Specialist 4 as an infantryman.

After his service, Chaves transitioned to acting, starting in theater before landing his iconic ‘Predator’ role. His military background gave him a natural edge in action-packed performances.

James Avery

James Avery is beloved as Uncle Phil in ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ (1990-1996). He served in the Navy from 1968 to 1969, stationed in Vietnam during the height of the conflict.

With nearly 180 acting credits, including roles in ‘ER’ and ‘That ’70s Show’, Avery’s commanding presence reflected the discipline from his Navy days. His career spanned nearly 40 years.

Richard Kline

Richard Kline is known for playing Larry Dallas in ‘Three’s Company’ (1977-1984). He enlisted in the Army and served in Vietnam, surviving a lightning strike while under an airplane wing in Phu Bai.

The shocking experience didn’t stop Kline from pursuing acting. His comedic charm in ‘Three’s Company’ made him a sitcom favorite, showing his resilience beyond the battlefield.

R. Lee Ermey

R. Lee Ermey’s iconic role as Gunnery Sgt. Hartman in ‘Full Metal Jacket’ (1987) drew from his real-life service. He spent 11 years in the Marines, including 14 months in Vietnam, retiring as a staff sergeant due to injuries.

Hired as a technical advisor for ‘Full Metal Jacket’, Ermey’s authentic performance convinced Stanley Kubrick to cast him. His intense portrayal made him a legend in military films.

Oliver Stone

Oliver Stone, a director and actor, served in the Army’s 25th Infantry Division in Vietnam for 15 months. Wounded twice, he earned a Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts for bravery near the Cambodian border.

His Vietnam experiences shaped films like ‘Platoon’ (1986) and ‘Born on the Fourth of July’ (1989), both earning him Academy Awards. His firsthand knowledge brought raw emotion to his work.

Pat Sajak

Pat Sajak, the longtime host of ‘Wheel of Fortune’ (1981-present), served as a disc jockey for the American Forces Vietnam Network. He worked alongside Adrian Cronauer, the inspiration for ‘Good Morning, Vietnam’ (1987).

Sajak’s radio work lifted troop morale, and his charm translated to his TV career. His service added a unique layer to his path to stardom.

Steve Kanaly

Steve Kanaly played Ray Krebbs in ‘Dallas’ (1978-1991). He served as a radio operator with the First Air Cavalry Division in Vietnam, handling critical communications under pressure.

After his discharge, Kanaly’s rugged persona suited his ‘Dallas’ role perfectly. His military experience brought authenticity to his performances in the hit series.

Tom Selleck

Tom Selleck, star of ‘Magnum, P.I.’ (1980-1988), served in the California Army National Guard during the Vietnam era. He was part of the 160th Infantry Regiment, ready for deployment if called.

Selleck’s discipline from his service carried into his acting career. His iconic roles in ‘Magnum, P.I.’ and ‘Blue Bloods’ showcased his strong, dependable presence.

Brian Dennehy

Brian Dennehy, known for ‘First Blood’ (1982), served five years in the Marines, including a stint in Vietnam. He later clarified he exaggerated some combat stories but was indeed stationed there.

Dennehy’s tough-guy roles in films like ‘Tommy Boy’ and ‘Cocoon’ reflected his military background. His commanding screen presence made him a versatile actor.

Harvey Keitel

Harvey Keitel, known for ‘Reservoir Dogs’ (1992), joined the Marines at 16 and served in Vietnam during the late 1950s, before the war’s escalation. His service taught him discipline and resilience.

Keitel’s intense performances in films like ‘Pulp Fiction’ and ‘The Piano’ showed the grit he developed in the Marines. His career spans decades of acclaimed roles.

Dale Dye

Dale Dye played Captain Harris in ‘Platoon’ (1986). A Marine for 20 years, he served multiple tours In Vietnam, earning a Bronze Star and three Purple Hearts for bravery.

After retiring, Dye became a military consultant and actor, appearing in ‘Saving Private Ryan’ and ‘Band of Brothers’. His real-life experience brought unmatched realism to his roles.

Chuck Woolery

Chuck Woolery, host of ‘Wheel of Fortune’ (1975-1981) and ‘Love Connection’, served as a Navy diver during the Vietnam era. His service involved high-risk underwater operations.

Woolery’s charisma carried over to his hosting career, where he became a game show icon. His Navy background added a layer of toughness to his public persona.

John Amos

John Amos, known for playing James Evans in ‘Good Times’ (1974-1979), served in the New Jersey National Guard during the Vietnam era. He was trained for potential deployment but was not sent overseas.

Amos’s strong performances in ‘Roots’ and ‘Coming to America’ showed his commanding presence. His military training contributed to his disciplined approach to acting.

What’s your favorite role from these actors who served in Vietnam? Share your thoughts in the comments!