Exploring the early roles of Hollywood’s biggest stars reveals a lesser-known side to their journey toward stardom and uncovers some forgotten gems in the process. From Leonardo DiCaprio’s fresh-faced entry into Hollywood to Cate Blanchett’s earliest roles, here are 25 A-List Actors with roles that totally slipped our minds.
Leonardo DiCaprio
Leonardo DiCaprio’s early career included standout performances in films such as What’s Eating Gilbert Grape and This Boy’s Life, where his ability to embody complex characters with authenticity foreshadowed his future as an Oscar-winning actor.
Brad Pitt
Many actors would rather forget the earliest moments of their blossoming careers, but Brad Pitt’s youth included various A-list projects. Pitt’s early career offers a glimpse into films such as Johnny Suede and Cool World, where his magnetic presence and brooding charisma hinted at the leading man he would eventually become long before achieving A-list status himself.
Jennifer Lawrence
Jennifer Lawrence’s rise to fame was catalyzed by standout performances in indie films like Winter’s Bone, where her portrayal of a resilient young woman navigating a harsh environment earned her critical acclaim and established her as a versatile actress.
Tom Hanks
Tom Hanks’ early comedic roles in films like Bachelor Party and Splash showcased his affable charm and comedic timing, setting the stage for his later dramatic successes in films such as Philadelphia and Forrest Gump.
Angelina Jolie
Later known for her blockbuster roles, Angelina Jolie’s captivating presence on screen started early in her career with roles in films like Hackers and Gia. In these underrated flicks, Jolie displayed intense performances and a willingness to tackle complex characters that would define her future roles.
George Clooney
Beginning with roles in TV shows like ER and films such as From Dusk Till Dawn, George Clooney’s journey to leading man status was marked by his suave demeanor and natural charisma. These early roles quickly made him a standout in Hollywood, paving the way for his success as an actor and filmmaker.
Julia Roberts
A few journeys to stardom started, as did Julia Roberts’ breakout role in Mystic Pizza, which led to her rise as America’s sweetheart. Additional early hits like Steel Magnolias and Pretty Woman showcased her infectious charm and undeniable star power.
Robert Downey Jr.
Robert Downey Jr.’s early career was marked by standout performances in films like Less Than Zero and Chaplin, where his intense portrayals and magnetic presence hinted at the transformative roles he would later embody in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Meryl Streep
One of Meryl Streep’s earliest roles was in Julia, a 1977 film that afforded her a short scene in a flashback sequence. Since then, roles like Kramer vs. Kramer and Sophie’s Choice showcased her unmatched versatility and commitment to her craft, establishing her as one of the greatest actresses of her generation.
Denzel Washington
Denzel Washington’s commanding presence and powerful performances in early films such as Glory and Malcolm X set him apart in Hollywood, paving the way for his status as an iconic actor.
Emma Stone
Including standout roles in films like Easy A and The Help, Emma Stone had plenty of opportunities to showcase her impeccable comedic timing and emotional depth. Though minor, these roles hinted at her future as an Oscar-winning actress in La La Land.
Johnny Depp
Johnny Depp’s early career was defined by transformative performances in films such as Edward Scissorhands and What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, showcasing his ability to disappear into eccentric characters and captivate audiences.
Nicole Kidman
Nicole Kidman’s early films like Dead Calm and To Die For highlighted her ability to embody complex characters with grace and intensity, setting the stage for her future Oscar-winning performances.
Harrison Ford
Harrison Ford’s natural charisma and leading man potential were evident in films like American Graffiti and The Conversation. Before becoming synonymous with iconic characters like Han Solo and Indiana Jones, these early roles influenced his career choices and future successes.
Scarlett Johansson
Scarlett Johansson’s early career spanned indie hits like Ghost World and Lost in Translation, where her ability to balance vulnerability and strength set her apart as a versatile actress in Hollywood.
Matt Damon
Few actors can say that they started their career by starring in a film they co-wrote in the 1990s. Matt Damon’s early performances in films like Good Will Hunting and The Talented Mr. Ripley established him as a leading actor with a knack for playing complex characters with depth and nuance.
Anne Hathaway
Anne Hathaway’s versatility was showcased in early roles like The Princess Diaries and Brokeback Mountain. These performances demonstrated her ability to transition seamlessly between comedic and dramatic roles.
Tom Cruise
With roles in films such as Risky Business and Top Gun, Tom Cruise solidified his status as a Hollywood heartthrob. His intensity and on-screen charisma captivated audiences worldwide, paving the way for his later successes in blockbuster franchises.
Christian Bale
Christian Bale’s early career included transformative performances in films like Empire of the Sun and American Psycho, where his dedication to his characters and chameleon-like ability to embody them were evident.
Al Pacino
Al Pacino’s early career was defined by intense performances in films like The Godfather and Serpico, where his raw talent and magnetic presence made him a cinematic legend.
Cate Blanchett
Cate Blanchett’s early performances in films like Elizabeth and The Talented Mr. Ripley showcased her ability to disappear into characters and command the screen with her presence and range.
Joaquin Phoenix
Before starring as the infamous Joker, Joaquin Phoenix had an illustrious early career marked by bold choices in films like To Die For and Gladiator. Here, his intense performances and commitment to his characters set him apart in the world of Hollywood and put him firmly on the road to greatness.
Emma Watson
Emma Watson’s career began with a defining role in the Harry Potter series. Still, her early performances in films like The Perks of Being a Wallflower and The Bling Ring hinted at her versatility beyond Hogwarts.
Chris Evans
Chris Evans’ early roles in films like Not Another Teen Movie and The Perfect Score showcased his comedic talents before he embraced dramatic roles and became Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Kate Winslet
Few journeys to stardom are as diverse as Kate Winslet’s. With early films including Heavenly Creatures and Sense and Sensibility, this phase in Winslet’s career highlighted her ability to inhabit complex characters with depth and emotional resonance.
