So many musicians’ careers have not only been limited to music—as a vast amount of them have also made a name for themselves on the silver screen in the movie business. Frank Sinatra, Justin Timberlake, and Lady Gaga are just a few names that come to mind. However, many musicians who have undergone this career pivot have had it be ephemeral.
Whether it be for scheduling reasons, studio disagreements, or lack of success; it’s hard to be both a decorated musician and actor. Especially, if one is doing it at the highest of levels. That being so, amid the countless musicians who have tried their hand at the craft, here are three who are known for their movies just as much as their music.
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Initially known for the 1966 hit, “Viet Nam Blue,” Kristofferson would go on to become a singer/songwriter to write, record, sing, and produce some of the biggest hits in 20th-century country music. Although, Kristofferson’s knack for storytelling reached beyond his guitar frets. In 1971, Kristofferson starred in Dennis Hopper’s 1971 classic, The Last Movie.
After his performance in Hopper’s film, the phone calls kept coming in. Between 1971 and 1976, Kristofferson was in seven movies, and this was before he starred in the biggest hit of his film career—A Star Is Born. Still considered his best role, Kristofferson gave a phenomenal performance as John Norman Howard, a troubled rock-n-roller at the end of his rope. The performance landed Kristofferson a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Leading Role. Despite the fact he did not win, his performance was one for the ages and influenced Bradley Cooper’s role in the 2018 remake.
Kris Kristofferson’s co-star in A Star Is Born, Barbra Streisand, is just as famous for her films as she is for her music. Funny Girl and Hello, Dolly! are two of her notable films alongside A Star Is Born. Given her phenomenal on-screen skills, Streisand is among a decorated group of artists in the EGOT club.
Funny Girl launched Streisand’s film career, as she went on to win the 1968 Academy Award For Best Actress in A Leading Role. Beginner’s luck? Not at all. Following Funny Girl Streisand would go on to star in films alongside Robert Redford, Jeff Bridges, Seth Rogen, and countless other iconic movie stars. A generational talent, Streisand’s filmography is arguably better than her music career.
Often considered the “Goddess of Pop,” Cher’s accolades extend far beyond the realm of music. Staring in hit movies such as Moonstruck and Burlesque, Cher has been a giant in the movie industry for as long as anyone can remember. Most recently starring in Mama Mia! Here We Go Again in 2018, Cher also has a horror movie in the works called Little Bites.
Her performance in Moonstruck landed her the 1988 Academy Award For Best Actress in A Leading Role. Additionally, she also holds multiple Golden Globes, an Emmy, and countless other awards for her work in film and television. Needless to say, Cher is one of those people who is seemingly good at whatever she does. Both her voice and charisma have placed her as a staple in both music and movies.
Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
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