The most famous athletes-turned-actors

Athletes are often invited to appear in movies or series. But some of them enjoy acting so much that they stay for good, becoming even better known for as actors than athletes. Here are the most famous and/or successful cases...

Electrifying crowds with his charisma and strength, he became a Hollywood superstar, leading a huge number of box office hits like 'Jumanji' and the 'Fast & Furious' series. He also shines in the series 'Ballers.' How couldn't that eyebrow raise translate to Hollywood?

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This former elite bodybuilder conquered the world with his seven Mr. Olympia titles and transcended to stardom with unforgettable roles in the 'Terminator' series, 'Predator,' and now the series 'FUBAR.' If that wasn't enough, he also served as the governor of California, despite being Austrian by birth.

Few people know that Statham was a diver on the British national team and competed internationally. But his sexiness led him to reinvent himself as an action star in the 'Transporter' series, 'Crank,' and 'The Expendables,' where he showcases his physical skills.

Another former WWE wrestler, he became famous for his strength and inspirational slogans, diversifying his career with comedic roles in 'Blockers,' heroic roles in 'The Suicide Squad,' and leading the series 'Peacemaker.'

This former judoka dominated the world of MMA and won an Olympic medal in judo. Soon after, she made her way to Hollywood with roles in 'Fast & Furious 7' and 'Expendables 3,' as well as starring in '9-1-1.'

A legendary NBA player and all-time top scorer, he became so famous that acting was a natural step. He appeared in the comedy 'Airplane!' and the martial arts movie 'Game of Death,' as well as series like 'Scrubs.'

This charming former NFL player stood out for his strength and agility. After a few Old Spice commercials where he exuded charm and charisma, he conquered comedy in 'Brooklyn Nine-Nine,' 'Everybody Hates Chris,' and became a familiar face in 'White Chicks.'

This controversial former judo master was a pioneer in women's MMA, recognized for her bravery and skill. But Hollywood called, and she made an impact in 'Deadpool' and 'Fast & Furious 6,' and on TV with her role in 'The Mandalorian,' from which she was fired for her controversial comments.

Another towering WWE wrestler, feared for his impressive physique, proved he also has acting talent in blockbuster productions like 'Guardians of the Galaxy,' 'Blade Runner 2049,' and 'Dune.'

The now-infamous NFL star was legendary for his agility and speed, but his charm and charisma allowed him to act in 'The Naked Gun' and the historical series 'Roots.'

One of the NBA's all-time greats, he was known for his power and charisma on the court. This led him to Hollywood, appearing in 'Blue Chips,' starring in 'Kazaam,' and having fun on 'Curb Your Enthusiasm.'

This former NFL player was known for his strength and skill, but he became unforgettable for his standout performance as Apollo Creed in 'Rocky' and in 'Predator,' and more recently in the series 'The Mandalorian.'

This former martial arts talent who won multiple world championship titles became an action icon with the series 'Walker, Texas Ranger' and movies like 'The Delta Force,' using his fighting skills to define an era.

This giant of WWE earned his nickname both for his size and personality. These attributes made him unforgettable as Fezzik in 'The Princess Bride' and numerous TV appearances celebrating his legacy.

We end with the woman who started this trend of athletes becoming actors. This former Olympic swimmer, known for her elegance and speed in the water, was discovered by MGM producers and became the queen of aquatic musicals in Hollywood's golden age, starring in 'Neptune's Daughter' and 'Million Dollar Mermaid.'

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