Some of the biggest movie stars today started in the horror genre before they made their way to international stardom. These were early experiences on screen that helped them get a taste of fame and develop talents that would prove best suited to blockbusters, award-winning dramas, and critically acclaimed films. Here’s a list of 10 Hollywood icons who also starred in memorable horror films before they became household names.
Jennifer Aniston (Leprechaun)
Before starring in Friends and becoming one of Hollywood’s most recognizable actresses, Jennifer Aniston made her film debut in the horror-comedy Leprechaun, playing Tory Redding.
Leonardo DiCaprio (Critters 3)
The first big movie role Leonardo DiCaprio was cast in was as Josh in Critters 3. Years later, he was one of Hollywood’s most revered actors, starring in such movies as Titanic, The Aviator, and The Revenant.
George Clooney (Return to Horror High)
George Clooney was cast in his first film, which was a slasher comedy called Return to Horror High, before he became an Academy Award-winning actor and director.
Renée Zellweger (The Texas Chainsaw Massacre)
Before winning two Academy Awards, Renée Zellweger was already a legend among horror films, playing opposite Matthew McConaughey in this sequel to the classic horror film.
Matthew McConaughey (The Texas Chainsaw Massacre)
Matthew McConaughey acted in one of his first roles for this horror sequel, before landing roles in great dramas and becoming an Academy Award winner for Dallas Buyers Club.
Johnny Depp (A Nightmare on Elm Street)
The first time he made the big screen, Johnny Depp starred in Wes Craven’s horror classic as Glen Lantz. The role would start a career that would encompass Edward Scissorhands, Pirates of the Caribbean, and much more.
Kevin Bacon (Friday the 13th)
Before he achieved mainstream success with movies such as Footloose and A Few Good Men, Kevin Bacon made his early film debut as one of the most memorable horror movie debuts of all time in the original Friday the 13th.
Paul Rudd (Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers)
Paul Rudd also made his feature film debut in the same year as Clueless, playing the role of Tommy Doyle in the sixth Halloween movie, before turning into an ultimate superhero in the Marvel universe.
Brad Pitt (Cutting Class)
Before he became one of Hollywood’s top actors, including Fight Club, Se7en, and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Brad Pitt starred in the slasher movie Cutting Class early in his career.
Charlize Theron (Children of the Corn III)
Before Charlize Theron’s Academy Award-winning acting and action career, she had an early screen appearance in this horror sequel, but was not credited for the role.
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