20 Singers Who Became Actors – Ranked from Worst to Best
Some singers stick to the stage, but others take a bold leap into acting, hoping to shine on screen. The results can be a mixed bag—some crash hard, while others find a new calling in Hollywood.
This article ranks 20 singers who tried their hand at acting, from those who struggled to those who nailed it. I’ll dive into their key roles, share what worked or didn’t, and highlight their journey from music to movies or TV.
20. Vanilla Ice
Vanilla Ice, born Robert Van Winkle, hit big with his 1990 rap song ‘Ice Ice Baby.’ His acting debut in ‘Cool as Ice’ (1991) was meant to capitalize on his music fame but flopped. The film, a cheesy romance, tanked at the box office and drew harsh reviews for his stiff performance.
Critics slammed his lack of range, and audiences didn’t buy him as a leading man. Vanilla Ice wisely returned to music and reality TV, leaving acting behind. His brief stint showed he was better suited to rapping than delivering lines.
19. Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey’s voice defined pop in the ‘90s, but her acting in ‘Glitter’ (2001) didn’t match that magic. Playing a singer chasing fame, her performance felt flat and lacked depth, with critics calling it a vanity project gone wrong.
She later took smaller roles, like in ‘Precious’ (2009), which showed slight improvement. Still, her acting never clicked, and she’s stayed safer behind the mic than in front of the camera.
18. Britney Spears
Britney Spears ruled pop with hits like ‘Baby One More Time.’ Her acting venture in ‘Crossroads’ (2002), a road-trip drama, aimed to showcase her charm but fell short. Her delivery felt forced, and the film leaned too heavily on her star power.
Reviews were unkind, and Spears didn’t pursue much acting afterward. Her energy works on stage, but the screen exposed her limits in conveying emotion.
17. Jessica Simpson
Jessica Simpson, known for pop hits like ‘Irresistible,’ tried acting in ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’ (2005) as Daisy Duke. Her performance was more about her looks than skill, coming off as wooden and unconvincing.
Follow-up roles in ‘Employee of the Month’ (2006) and ‘Blonde Ambition’ (2007) didn’t fare better. Simpson’s charisma shines in music and reality TV, but acting wasn’t her strength.
16. Kelly Clarkson
Kelly Clarkson, the first ‘American Idol’ winner, brought powerful vocals to her music career. Her acting debut in ‘From Justin to Kelly’ (2003), a beach musical, was a misstep, with clunky dialogue and awkward musical numbers.
The film bombed, and Clarkson quickly distanced herself from acting. Her focus returned to music, where her talent clearly lies, proving the screen wasn’t her stage.
15. Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift’s music empire is undeniable, but her acting in ‘Valentine’s Day’ (2010) and ‘The Giver’ (2014) felt underwhelming. Her cameos, like in ‘New Girl’ (2010-2018), were fun but didn’t demand much depth.
Her role in ‘Cats’ (2019) was panned, with her performance overshadowed by the film’s chaotic visuals. Swift’s charm works in music videos, but acting requires more polish.
14. Adam Levine
Maroon 5’s Adam Levine brought his rock-star vibe to ‘Begin Again’ (2014), playing a self-absorbed musician. His performance felt too close to his real persona, lacking the depth needed to stand out.
Critics noted his stiffness, and he hasn’t chased acting since. Levine’s charisma fuels his music career, but it didn’t translate well to the big screen.
13. 50 Cent
Rapper 50 Cent, born Curtis Jackson, starred in ‘Get Rich or Die Tryin’ (2005), a semi-autobiographical film about his rise from crime to music. His acting felt one-note, leaning heavily on his real-life persona.
Later roles in ‘Den of Thieves’ (2018) showed slight growth, but he never broke free from typecasting. His music and producing work outshine his acting efforts.
12. Snoop Dogg
Snoop Dogg, born Calvin Broadus Jr., brought his laid-back vibe to ‘Starsky & Hutch’ (2004) as Huggy Bear. His charm carried the role, but it didn’t demand much range. Other films like ‘Soul Plane’ (2004) leaned on his persona too.
He’s better in small, fun parts than leading roles. Snoop’s real talent remains in his music and cultural presence, not deep acting.
11. Rihanna
Rihanna’s bold energy lights up her music, and she tried acting in ‘Battleship’ (2012) as a tough naval officer. Her performance was decent but forgettable, overshadowed by the film’s action. Roles in ‘Ocean’s 8’ (2018) suited her better, playing a sassy hacker.
She shines in parts that match her vibe but hasn’t tackled complex roles. Her screen presence is strong, yet music remains her true domain.
10. Madonna
Madonna, the queen of pop, took on acting in ‘Desperately Seeking Susan’ (1985), where her charisma fit the quirky role. However, ‘Evita’ (1996) showed her limits, with critics praising her singing but not her emotional depth.
Her film roles often feel like extensions of her stage persona. While she’s had some wins, Madonna’s acting never matched her music legacy.
9. LL Cool J
LL Cool J, born James Todd Smith, transitioned from rap to acting with roles in ‘Deep Blue Sea’ (1999), earning praise as a sharp-witted chef. His work in ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’ (2009-present) shows he can hold a lead role with grit.
His natural charisma carries him, though he sticks to action-heavy parts. LL Cool J’s acting feels like a solid extension of his confident stage presence.
8. Ice-T
Ice-T, born Tracy Marrow, went from rap pioneer to TV icon as Detective Tutuola in ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’ (1999-present). His gritty authenticity makes the role believable, drawing from his real-life edge.
Films like ‘New Jack City’ (1991) also showcased his intensity. Ice-T’s acting career is a strong second act to his music legacy.
7. Reba McEntire
Country star Reba McEntire shined in her sitcom ‘Reba’ (2001-2007), playing a witty single mom with natural comedic timing. Her film debut in ‘Tremors’ (1990) was solid, showing she could handle action too.
Reba’s warmth and charm make her roles feel genuine. Her acting success complements her music career beautifully, proving her versatility.
6. Tim McGraw
Country singer Tim McGraw brought heart to ‘Friday Night Lights’ (2004) as a flawed father, earning praise for his emotional depth. His role in ‘The Blind Side’ (2009) further showed his ability to shine in dramas.
McGraw’s natural presence makes him believable on screen. His acting career stands tall alongside his chart-topping music.
5. Queen Latifah
Queen Latifah, born Dana Owens, moved from rap to acting with power, starring in ‘Chicago’ (2002) and earning an Oscar nomination. Her roles in ‘Hairspray’ (2007) and ‘Girls Trip’ (2017) show her range in drama and comedy.
Her commanding presence works in both music and film. Latifah’s talent makes her a standout in any role she takes.
4. Kris Kristofferson
Kris Kristofferson, a country music legend, won a Golden Globe for ‘A Star Is Born’ (1976), playing a fading rock star with raw emotion. His roles in ‘Blade’ (1998) and ‘Lone Star’ (1996) proved his versatility.
His weathered charm adds depth to every part. Kristofferson’s acting career is as impressive as his songwriting legacy.
3. Cher
Cher’s iconic music career led to stellar acting in ‘Moonstruck’ (1987), where she won an Oscar for her heartfelt role. Films like ‘Silkwood’ (1983) and ‘Mask’ (1985) showed her ability to tackle complex characters.
Her larger-than-life persona translates beautifully to the screen. Cher’s acting matches her music in bold, unforgettable impact.
2. Jennifer Hudson
Jennifer Hudson, an ‘American Idol’ alum, stunned in ‘Dreamgirls’ (2006), winning an Oscar for her powerful role as Effie White. Her work in ‘Respect’ (2021) as Aretha Franklin further proved her dramatic chops.
Her voice carries her acting, infusing every role with emotion. Hudson’s seamless shift to acting makes her a true double threat.
1. Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga, born Stefani Germanotta, stole the show in ‘A Star Is Born’ (2018), earning an Oscar nomination for her raw, heartfelt performance. Her role in ‘House of Gucci’ (2021) showed she could handle intense drama too.
Gaga’s passion and stage presence make her a natural on screen. She tops this list for blending music and acting with stunning skill.
Which singer-turned-actor surprised you the most, or did I miss a standout performance? Drop your thoughts in the comments!