Why Professional Athletes Make Great Actors

by Lewis Robinson

One thing that all professional athletes have in common is their time spent in the spotlight. Those at the very top are well-known all around the world. Although they're competing in athletic events, to a certain extent they're putting on a show for a very large audience. Many sports figures have even taken it a step further and had great success in show business. Here are several reasons why professional sportspeople make such good actors.

They Fit the Part

If you've ever seen the movie "The Princess Bride," can you imagine anyone other than Andre the Giant playing Fezzik? How about Lou Ferrigno in his role as the Hulk in "The Incredible Hulk" series? In many movie roles, such as large characters and superheroes, the physique of a trained athlete makes them perfect for such a part. Another example would be Arnold Schwarzenegger, whose distinctive build made him perfect for roles such as Conan the Barbarian and Terminator.

They Possess the Physical Stamina

Athletes are in peak physical condition which works to their advantage in many acting roles. If you're involved in sports, diet or experience the positive Thrive side effects from a supplement, you know you're up for any challenge. This physical stamina makes athletes perfect for certain movie roles that involve a lot of physical exertion. For example, superstar Lebron James starred in a movie called "Trainwreck" playing basketball as well as returning to the court in the "Space Jam 2" movie.

Desire To Expand Their Career

One of the most famous athletes turned actor has to be Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. Dwayne wrestled with WWF, now known as WWE, for eight years before expanding his talents to the big screen. His first movie appearance was in "The Mummy Returns" in 2001, followed by a lead role in "The Scorpion King" in 2002. He later went on to star in other blockbusters such as "San Andreas" and "Skyscraper." His decision to act has brought him numerous awards including People's Choice Awards and Entertainer of the Year.

Love of the Entertainment Business

Another reason that so many athletes star in motion pictures is for the sheer love of being in the entertainment business. For example, take actor Chuck Norris. He's an accomplished black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and judo, just to name a few. Chuck Norris has made over 40 movies and starred in the popular TV series "Walker, Texas Ranger." Another actor that has made almost 50 movies is Arnold Schwarzenegger. Mostly known for his bodybuilder physique, Schwarzenegger has also made a successful name for himself in comedy movies.

To Remain a Positive Role Model

Many athletes turned actors have used the craft to continue their positive role model status. One actor that comes to mind is former NFL player Merlin Olsen. Merlin played his entire athletic career for the Los Angeles Rams with his final game in 1976. Shortly after, Merlin was chosen to play Jonathan Garvey alongside Michael Landon on the incredibly successful series "Little House on the Prairie." Later, he starred in other programs created by Landon titled "Father Murphy" and "Highway to Heaven," playing wholesome and positive role models.

To Remain in the Spotlight After Retirement

There have also been many actors that have had a desire to be in movies and finally made their dreams come true after they retired from sports. One such actor is former Pittsburgh Steeler quarterback Terry Bradshaw. Terry has been in such movies as "Hooper", "The Cannonball Run," and "Failure to Launch." Another popular actor is John Amos who starred as the father on the series "Good Times" as well as the classic movie "Roots." Amos was once a former football player and respected boxer.

There are many reasons professional athletes decide to get into film. Because so many love acting, possess the right appearance for roles and enjoy being in the spotlight, well-loved movies have been produced as a result.