15 Top Athletes Turned Actors

Sports stars have a lot in common with movie stars. They both have fan followings, attract huge media coverage and attend the A-list parties. They also tend to have great bodies and physical skills that look good on film. Some top jocks have tried to capitalize on their fame in the sports arena to seek roles on the Hollywood set. But just because you’re a celebrity athlete doesn’t mean you can act. Once in a while, though, someone manages to shine both in the stadium and on the big screen. Here are fifteen athletes turned actors, with varying degrees of success.

1. Jason Lee Was Once a Promising Pro Skateboarder

You probably know Lee as the comedic actor from My Name Is Earl and Alvin and the Chipmunks. However, he has a hidden talent you may not know about. He was once a professional skateboarder, giving Tony Hawk a run for his money back in the 1980s and 90s. He co-founded Stereo Skateboards and is still involved with the company today. While he has built an impressive acting resume over the last decade or so, Lee is still a passionate skateboarder.