Actors Who Have Starred in Both Marvel and DC Movies

Superheroes & Villains Unite

Many actors have portrayed iconic characters in both Marvel and DC movies. These actors have shown their versatility by playing superheroes and villains in two of the biggest comic book universes.

Exploring these dual roles highlights how these actors can seamlessly shift between the contrasting worlds of Marvel and DC. Let’s take a look at some of the most notable examples.

Michael Keaton

Michael Keaton first starred as Batman in Tim Burton’s Batman (1989), becoming an iconic figure in superhero history. His portrayal captured the essence of a dark, brooding Batman that fans loved.

Years later, Keaton joined Marvel’s Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017) as Vulture, a villain with a personal vendetta against the young superhero. His transformation from hero to villain showcases his incredible range as an actor.

Ryan Reynolds

Ryan Reynolds is best known for playing the wisecracking, irreverent Deadpool in Marvel’s Deadpool series. His portrayal made the character a fan favorite, bringing humor and action together seamlessly.

Before Deadpool, Reynolds starred as the Green Lantern in DC’s Green Lantern (2011). While the film wasn’t a huge success, Reynolds’ performance laid the groundwork for his future comic book roles.

Christian Bale

Christian Bale’s portrayal of Batman in The Dark Knight trilogy redefined the character with its dark, gritty realism. His performance is widely regarded as one of the best interpretations of the hero.

Bale made his mark in the Marvel universe as Gorr the God Butcher in Thor: Love and Thunder (2022). His chilling performance as the villain showcased his remarkable ability to embody complex characters.

Ben Affleck

Ben Affleck first portrayed Daredevil in the 2003 Marvel movie Daredevil, where he played the blind lawyer-turned-hero. His intense portrayal of Matt Murdock was met with mixed reviews from fans.

Affleck later became DC’s Batman in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016). His portrayal of an older, weary Batman added a unique, darker layer to the character, making him a fan favorite.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry’s portrayal of Storm in Marvel’s X-Men series became iconic, as she brought the powerful mutant with weather control to life. Her portrayal added strength and grace to the role.

In DC, Berry starred as Catwoman in Catwoman (2004). Although the film wasn’t critically well-received, her portrayal of the anti-heroine was a bold and memorable take on the character’s origin story.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett is best known for her portrayal of Queen Ramonda in Marvel’s Black Panther (2018) and its sequel, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022). Her performance brought strength and dignity to the role of the wise, regal mother.

In DC, Bassett played the villainous Amanda Waller in Green Lantern (2011), bringing her commanding presence to the role. Her ability to embody powerful characters in both universes makes her a standout actress.

Jared Leto

Jared Leto played the Joker in DC’s Suicide Squad (2016), bringing a unique, chaotic version of the iconic villain to the big screen. His portrayal sparked mixed reactions from fans and critics.

Leto switched sides to Marvel, playing the anti-hero Morbius in Morbius (2022). His portrayal of the tragic vampire is sympathetic and dark, showcasing his ability to embody complex, morally grey characters.

Tom Hardy

Tom Hardy is well known for his portrayal of Bane in DC’s The Dark Knight Rises (2012). His intimidating presence and memorable dialogue made him a standout character in the Batman universe.

Hardy later starred as Venom in Marvel’s Venom series, where he portrayed the reluctant anti-hero. His transformation into the character was met with both critical praise and commercial success.

Laurence Fishburne

Laurence Fishburne portrayed Bill Foster, a scientist, in Marvel’s Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018). His performance brought depth to the role, highlighting the character’s wisdom and knowledge of science.

In DC, Fishburne played Perry White in Man of Steel (2013). As the hard-nosed editor of the Daily Planet, Fishburne’s portrayal was instrumental in bringing realism to the film’s portrayal of Superman.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba’s portrayal of Heimdall in Marvel’s Thor series made the character a fan favorite. Elba’s commanding presence as the guardian of the Bifrost was widely praised.

Elba later starred as Bloodsport in DC’s The Suicide Squad (2021). His portrayal of the reluctant anti-hero brought both grit and depth to the character, proving his versatility in superhero films.

J.K. Simmons

J.K. Simmons is best known for playing J. Jonah Jameson in Marvel’s Spider-Man series. His performance as the gruff, determined news editor became one of the most iconic roles in superhero cinema.

Simmons also portrayed Commissioner Gordon in DC’s Justice League (2017). His portrayal of Gotham’s top lawman was both authoritative and dependable, adding a solid foundation to the film’s portrayal of Batman’s world.

Zoe Kravitz

Zoe Kravitz played Angel Salvadore in X-Men: First Class (2011), bringing her character to life with strength and energy. Her role in the Marvel universe was brief but impactful.

Kravitz later portrayed Catwoman in The Batman (2022), where her performance as the morally complex anti-hero won over critics and fans alike, showcasing her talent for playing multifaceted characters.

Michelle Pfeiffer

Michelle Pfeiffer’s portrayal of Catwoman in Batman Returns (1992) is widely regarded as one of the best depictions of the character. Her sultry and unpredictable performance is unforgettable.

Pfeiffer also played Janet van Dyne in Marvel’s Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018). Her performance as the original Wasp added emotional depth to the film, showing her range as an actress in both universes.

Zachary Levi

Zachary Levi is best known for his role as the goofy yet heroic Shazam in DC’s Shazam! (2019) and its sequel, Shazam! Fury of the Gods (2023). His performance brought humor and heart to the character.

In Marvel’s Thor: The Dark World (2013) and Thor: Ragnarok (2017), Levi portrayed Fandral, one of Thor’s allies in the Warriors Three. His portrayal added charm and camaraderie to the Asgardian team.

Fans are buzzing about The Flash multiverse’s impact on the DC universe, as the film promises to reshape timelines and introduce exciting new characters and story arcs for future films.

With new heroes and thrilling storylines coming up, the DC universe has exciting releases on the horizon that are sure to captivate fans and take the franchise to new heights.

Willem Dafoe

Willem Dafoe’s portrayal of Green Goblin in Marvel’s Spider-Man (2002) remains iconic. His ability to switch between villainous madness and vulnerability made his performance unforgettable.

Dafoe also appeared as Vulko in DC’s Aquaman (2018), where his portrayal of the wise Atlantean advisor added layers to the underwater world. His range shines in both universes.

Fans are eagerly awaiting the latest updates about the release of Spider-Man 4, as rumors continue to swirl about potential new plot details and cast announcements.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.