Movies have the power to transport us to new worlds, introduce us to unforgettable characters, and leave a lasting impact on our lives. And at the heart of every great film is an actor or actress who brings their role to life.
Although, some actors seem to be in every other film we watch. They seem to have an endless supply of energy and talent, constantly tackling new roles and bringing their unique skills to the big screen. These actors have dedicated their lives to the craft of acting, and it shows in the sheer number of films they have appeared in. From classic Hollywood icons to modern day superstars, these are actors from all eras and genres. Whether they are known for their dramatic performances or their comedic timing, these actors have proven time and time again that they have what it takes to captivate audiences.
But what makes an actor able to appear in so many films? Is it their range as an actor, their ability to adapt to different roles, or their dedication to their craft? Whatever the reason, one thing is certain: these actors have left a lasting mark on the film industry and will continue to do so for years to come.
So, who are these actors who have starred in the most movies? You might be surprised by some of the names on this list.
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20 Clint Eastwood – 82 movies
Universal Pictures
Clint Eastwood is a household name in Hollywood, and with good reason. He has starred in a staggering 82 films, making him a true icon of the film industry. But Eastwood’s journey to fame wasn’t always easy. After serving in the Korean War, he worked as a lifeguard and lumberjack before finding his way into the entertainment industry.
MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY
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It wasn’t until the 1960s that Eastwood really made a name for himself, thanks to his portrayal of the iconic character The Man with No Name in the Dollar trilogy of spaghetti westerns. From there, he went on to star in a wide range of films, including Dirty Harry, Unforgiven, and Gran Torino.
Eastwood is known for his rugged good looks and strong presence on screen, and his talent as an actor is undeniable. But he is also a skilled director and producer, having directed and produced a number of critically acclaimed films. His contributions to the film industry have earned him numerous awards and accolades, cementing his place as a true Hollywood legend.
19 Bette Davis – 99 movies
Warner Bros.
Bette Davis is a name that is synonymous with Hollywood glamour. She starred in a total of 99 films, earning her a reputation as one of the greatest actresses of all time. Davis began her career in the 1930s, and it wasn’t long before she became a leading lady in Hollywood.
Her talent and dedication to her craft earned her numerous awards, including two Academy Awards for Best Actress. Some of her most memorable roles include All About Eve, Jezebel, and What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?
But Davis wasn’t just known for her acting abilities. She was also known for her feisty personality and strong will, which sometimes caused conflicts on set. Nevertheless, she remained a beloved figure in Hollywood, and her legacy lives on today.
18 Anthony Hopkins – 99 movies
Price Entertainment
Anthony Hopkins is a Welsh actor who has starred in a total of 99 films. He is perhaps best known for his portrayal of Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs, a role that earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor.
But Hopkins has also made a name for himself in a wide range of other films, including The Elephant Man, Nixon, and Thor. He has proven time and time again that he has the ability to transform into any character, no matter how complex or challenging.
In addition to his film work, Hopkins is also a talented stage actor, having appeared in numerous productions on Broadway and in the West End. His talent and dedication to his craft have earned him numerous awards and accolades, making him one of the most respected actors in the industry.
17 Ray Milland – 132 movies
Turner Classic Movies
Ray Milland was a British actor who starred in a total of 132 films during his career. He is perhaps best known for his portrayal of alcoholic writer Don Birnam in The Lost Weekend, a role that earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor.
Milland began his career in the 1920s, and he quickly made a name for himself in Hollywood. He appeared in a wide range of films, including A Life of Her Own, Dial M for Murder, and Love Story.
Milland was known for his good looks and charm, and he was a popular leading man in Hollywood during the 1940s and 1950s. But he was also a talented actor, and he proved time and time again that he had the range to tackle a wide variety of roles. Despite his success in Hollywood, Milland remained humble and dedicated to his craft. He continued to act well into his 70s, and his contributions to the film industry have left a lasting mark.
16 James Hong – 133 films
James Hong is an actor who has appeared in an impressive 133 films during his career. He is perhaps best known for his roles in Blade Runner, Big Trouble in Little China, and Kung Fu Panda.
Hong was born in Minnesota and moved to Los Angeles as a young man to pursue a career in acting. He quickly made a name for himself in Hollywood, and he became a mainstay in the film industry.
Hong is known for his versatility as an actor, and he has played a wide range of roles throughout his career. He has appeared in everything from action films to comedies, and he has the ability to bring depth and complexity to even the smallest of roles.
15 Michael Caine – 147 movies
MGM-EMI Distributors
Michael Caine is a British actor who has appeared in over 147 movies throughout his career. He first gained fame in the 1960s with his roles in films such as Alfie and The Italian Job. Since then, Caine has become one of the most respected actors in Hollywood, known for his versatility and ability to portray a wide range of characters.
Some of his most memorable roles include his performances in Batman Begins, The Cider House Rules, and The Prestige. Caine has won two Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor, and has been nominated for numerous other awards throughout his career. His talent and dedication to his craft have made him a beloved figure in the film industry.
14 Donald Sutherland – 156 movies
United Artists Distributions
Donald Sutherland is a Canadian actor who has appeared in over 156 movies throughout his career. He first gained fame in the 1970s with his roles in films such as MASH and Don’t Look Now. Since then, Sutherland has become known for his versatility and ability to portray a wide range of characters.
Some of his most memorable roles include his performances in JFK, Six Degrees of Separation, and Pride and Prejudice. Sutherland has been nominated for numerous awards throughout his career, including a Golden Globe and an Emmy.
13 Bess Flowers – 165 movies
Popularly known as the ‘Queen of Hollywood Extras’, Bess Flowers may have around 165 movies under the bag, but her movie credits rise up to at least 972. Flowers started her career in the 1920s and has made powerful appearances throughout decades.
Flowers received massive critical acclaim for movies like The Shadow, We Faw Down and Beginner’s Luck. Her ability to bring the nuance in an otherwise methodical role made her stand out among the rest.
12 Susan Sarandon – 168 movies
ABC
Susan Sarandon is an American actress who has appeared in over 168 movies throughout her career. She first gained fame in the 1970s with her roles in films such as The Rocky Horror Picture Show and Thelma & Louise. Since then, Sarandon has become one of the most respected actresses in Hollywood, known for her versatility and ability to portray a wide range of characters.
Some of her most remarkable roles include her performances in Dead Man Walking, Anywhere but Here, and Bull Durham. Sarandon has won an Academy Award for Best Actress, and has been nominated for numerous other awards throughout her career.
11 Samuel L Jackson – 174 movies
A Band Apart
Samuel L Jackson is an American actor who has appeared in over 174 movies throughout his career. He first gained fame in the 1990s with his roles in films such as Pulp Fiction and Unbreakable. Since then, Jackson has become one of the most popular actors in Hollywood, known for his versatility and ability to portray a wide range of characters.
Jackson is best known for many roles, including his performances in Django Unchained, The Avengers, and Unbreakable. Jackson has been nominated for numerous awards throughout his career, including a BAFTA and a Golden Globe. His talent and dedication to his craft have made him a beloved figure in the film industry.
10 Mickey Rooney – 190 movies
MGM
Mickey Rooney is an actor with a career spanning nearly nine decades. He made his acting debut at just six years old and quickly rose to fame with his energetic and lively performances. Rooney is best known for his roles in films like Boys Town, The Human Comedy, and National Velvet. Throughout his career, he has appeared in over 190 movies, making him one of the actors with the most film credits to his name.
But it’s not just the sheer number of movies that makes Rooney stand out. His talent and range as an actor are undeniable. He has tackled everything from comedy to drama, and has received numerous accolades for his performances. Whether he was playing a mischievous teenager or a wise old man, Rooney brought a unique energy and vitality to every role he played.
9 Jackie Chan – 190 movies
Media Asia Releasing
Jackie Chan is another actor who has appeared in a staggering number of movies. With over 190 film credits to his name, he is known for his unique blend of action and comedy. Chan first gained fame in Hong Kong cinema, where he made a name for himself with his acrobatic fighting style and comedic timing. He later gained international fame with roles in films like Rush Hour and Shanghai Noon.
But it’s not just his acting skills that make Chan stand out. He is also known for his elaborate and daring stunt work, often performing his own stunts in his movies. This dedication to authenticity and excitement has made him a fan favorite and cemented his place as one of the most beloved action stars in the world.
8 Harry Strang – 196 movies
Harry Strang was an actor who appeared in over 196 movies throughout his career. He was a stalwart of Hollywood’s Golden Age, appearing in numerous classic films in the 1930s and 1940s. Strang was known for his versatility and range as an actor, tackling everything from drama to comedy with ease. Some of his most memorable roles include Charlie Chan in Shanghai, Dick Tracy’s Dilemma, and North by Northwest.
Despite his long list of film credits, Strang is perhaps best known for his work in horror movies. His performances in these films were always tinged with a sense of vulnerability and desperation, making him a perfect choice for these types of roles.
7 Ward Bond – 200 movies
Ward Bond was an actor who appeared in over 200 movies throughout his career. He was a fixture of Hollywood’s Golden Age, appearing in numerous classic films in the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s. Bond was known for his rugged good looks and strong presence, often playing tough, no-nonsense characters. Some of his most memorable roles include It’s a Wonderful Life, The Searchers, and Hondo.
But it’s not just his acting skills that made Bond stand out. He was also known for his off-screen personality, often known for his practical jokes and pranks on set. His good-natured nature and easygoing personality made him a popular choice for directors and fellow actors alike.
6 Christopher Lee – 211 movies
Hammer Film Productions
Christopher Lee is an actor who appeared in over 211 movies throughout his career. He first gained fame in the 1950s and 1960s with his roles in horror movies like The Curse of Frankenstein and Dracula. However, he is perhaps best known for his later roles in franchises like Star Wars and Lord of the Rings.
Lee’s talent as an actor was undeniable, and he brought a sense of gravitas and presence to every role he played. Whether he was playing a menacing villain or a noble hero, Lee always managed to captivate audiences with his performances. His extensive filmography is a testament to his dedication to the craft of acting and his enduring popularity with audiences around the world.
5 Danny Trejo – 215 movies
Dimension Films
Danny Trejo is a Hollywood icon with an impressive filmography that includes over 215 movies. He has been a staple in the film industry for decades, playing both supporting and lead roles in a variety of genres.
Trejo is best known for his appearances in the Machete film series, as well as his memorable roles in From Dusk Till Dawn, Heat, and Desperado. His talent and dedication to his craft have made him a fan favorite and a respected actor in the industry.
4 Danny Glover – 219 movies
20th Century Fox
With a filmography that includes over 219 movies, Danny Glover is a veteran actor with a career that spans decades. He has played a wide range of roles, from dramatic to comedic, and has proven time and time again that he has the talent and range to captivate audiences.
Glover is perhaps best known for his role as Detective Roger Murtaugh in the Lethal Weapon film series, but he has also appeared in countless other films, including The Color Purple, Beloved, and Angels in the Outfield. His performances have earned him numerous accolades, including a Golden Globe nomination for his role in Lethal Weapon.
In addition to his acting career, Glover is also an activist and humanitarian, using his platform to speak out on social and political issues. He is a true talent and a valuable asset to the film industry.
3 John Carradine – 222 movies
Twentieth Century Fox
With over 222 movies to his name, John Carradine is a Hollywood legend and a true icon of the film industry. He was a versatile actor who could tackle any role, from drama to comedy to horror.
Carradine’s career spanned over five decades, and he appeared in some of the most iconic films of all time. He is best known for his roles in The Grapes of Wrath, House of the Long Shadows, and the classic horror film Billy the Kid Verses Dracula. He also appeared in numerous television shows, including To the Last Man and Westwind.
Carradine’s talent and dedication to his craft made him a valuable asset to any film or television project. His legacy as a performer lives on to this day, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest actors of all time.
2 Gertrude Astor – 276 movies
Gertrude Astor is a Hollywood pioneer who appeared in over 276 movies during her career. She was one of the first actresses to make the transition from silent films to the talkies, and she proved to be a versatile and talented performer.
Astor began her career in the silent film era, appearing in numerous productions and making a name for herself as a talented actress. When the transition to sound films was made, Astor’s career took off, and she appeared in a wide range of movies, from comedies to dramas to horror films.
Astor was best known for her roles in films like The Sound of Music, and Stage Struck. She was a pioneering actress who paved the way for future generations of actresses in the film industry.
1 Eric Roberts – 455 movies
Eric Roberts is an actor with an impressive filmography that includes over 455 movies. He has appeared in a wide range of films, from blockbuster hits to independent productions, and has proven to be a versatile and talented performer.
Roberts got his start in the film industry in the 1980s and quickly became a sought-after actor. He is best known for his roles in films like Runaway Train, Star 80, and The Pope of Greenwich Village. He has also appeared in numerous television shows and has won several awards for his performances.
Roberts is known for his ability to adapt to any role and bring a unique energy to his performances. He has played both lead and supporting roles in a variety of genres, and his talent and dedication to his craft have made him a respected actor in the industry.
In addition to his acting career, Roberts is also a producer and has been involved in the production of numerous films and television shows. His contributions to the film industry have made him a valuable asset and a respected performer.
