Hollywood is full of actors both good and questionable, and they all have their strengths and weaknesses. What is evident with some but not all however is that some actors are often typecast into a certain kind of role that they never seem to break out of. While it might be considered that actors niche, it can lead to that person becoming known as the kind of actor that knows only one type of role. Even if that actor breaks out of the mold eventually they will have to work extra hard to be seen as anything but that one certain character.
Typecast Actors
5. Kevin Costner – The Reluctant Hero
Its hard to put such a big name here but the truth is that Costner has taken on a heroic role in a great number of his films, but always when he’s given enough incentive or no other choice. Waterworld, Bull Durham, Robin Hood, and many more are prime examples of how his characters seem to be selfish but with many redeeming qualities.
4. Jason Statham – Ultimate Tough Guy
No matter if he’s a villain or a hero Statham is just that one force of nature you can’t seem to stop. Whether its overwhelming odds or a walking juggernaut he has no business beating, nothing ever stops his characters. Plus, his backstory is usually something very dramatic or tragic, such as The Transporter, Redemption, or Homefront.
3. Melissa McCarthy – Female Chris Farley
She’s larger than life, loud, has no shame, and doesn’t care who knows it. No matter who shes put with her personality is the type that almost immediately becomes the center of attention. Films like The Heat, Ghostbusters, and Bridesmaids show a great deal of how McCarthy can be likened to the late great Chris Farley. She knows how to be outrageously funny, but can also be very serious when it’s needed.
2. Liam Neeson – The Tough but Wise Warrior
In every role he has a well-defined skill set that can be problematic for the films antagonists. Even if he portrays a villain this is still the same. In Batman Begins he’s an expert fighter and tactician, and in The Grey he’s an expert hunter and survivalist that is able to figure out the wolves that are essentially the enemy. No matter what movie he’s in, Neeson is just a big problem for his enemies.
1. Vince Vaughn – The Wisecracking Loudmouth
Be Cool, Swingers, Made, Old School, Wedding Crashers, and the list goes on. About one out of ten films you might see Vaughn be serious, but the rest of the time he is the penultimate wisecracking loudmouth that will not shut up, ever. He’s entertaining to watch but eventually many fans would like to see if his mouth can be closed with anything other than an entire roll of duct tape. Even then it might only work for a brief time.
Conclusion
Being typecast isn’t the worst thing that can happen to an actor. However, it a limiting factor that can stunt their ability and make their fans grow a bit tired of the same old thing. Most actors do branch from time to time, but it seems to be habit to go right back to their comfort zone.
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