Having talent can go a long way in Hollywood, but the most famous singer-actors in entertainment take celebrity status to a whole other level. It’s one thing to be recognized in the music industry or to land a lead role in a film. However, having both skills means you have twice as many fans. And these famed names have accomplished that in a short period of time.
Obviously some of the most famous singer-actors in entertainment are more distinguished in one craft than the other, so they might not star in award-winning blockbusters. In fact, many singers have taken up TV as their main acting platform, performing in minor guest-roles – sometimes even as the most hated television characters of all time, which we covered in a recent article – but others have shown the world that they are a double-threat to be reckoned with.
So, let’s take a look at how the most famous singer-actors in entertainment showcased their talent, propelling them into superstardom.
8. Justin Timberlake
Let’s leave aside the fact that Mr. Timberlake has been blessed with extraordinarily good genes, and look at his career path so far. The Memphis-born hunk was a double threat as a 12-year-old, showing off his talent at the All-New Mickey Mouse Club, but consolidated his potential as an adult. His super-skills as a singer have earned him nine Grammy Awards, while winning four Emmy Awards as an actor in movies like The Social Network, Bad Teacher, and Friends with Benefits. This man knows what he’s doing, whether in front of a camera, or with a mic in his hand!
You may actually be surprised to see Justin so high on our list. Who was able to top him? Read on to find out who the seven most famous singer-actors in entertainment are today.
7. Jennifer Lopez
Granted, Jenny from the block isn’t the best singer around, but she made her thin voice count by distracting us with her dance moves. The full-package deal worked, resulting in platinum record sales and a World Music Award as Legendary Artist for her contributions to the music industry. J.Lo also enjoyed commercial success as an actress for over 15 years, making her one of the most famous singer-actors in the entertainment business.
6. Hugh Jackman
Not only did this man’s masculine look earn him the title of sexiest man alive, but Hugh Jackman is a definite double threat in Hollywood. The actor has starred in over 20 movies, including the X-men series, The Prestige, Australia, and Kate and Leopold. In 2013 he consolidated his talent as a singer by playing the role of Jean Valjean in the on-screen musical Les Misérables, which earned him an Academy Award and left us all amazed at his vocal reach. He’s also hosted the Tony Awards in addition to winning one himself, earning the respect of theatre critics and performers alike.
5. Catherine Zeta Jones
A killer combination of classic exotic beauty, roaring pipes, and acting skills, Michael Douglas’ wife has proven that her status as Hollywood royalty is legitimate. From her intense role in Traffic to her Oscar-winning performance in the musical Chicago, this lady knows where her talents lie and is not afraid to showcase them.
4. Amy Adams
Better known as one of Hollywood’s new A-listers, Amy Adams has repeatedly knocked us off our feet with her stellar acting performances in movies like The Master, The Fighter, American Hustle, and Her. For those of you who haven’t seen the Disney film Enchanted, tune in to find this fiery darling belting out notes like there’s no tomorrow.
3. Christina Applegate
The 43-year-old actress has come a long way since her days as Kelly Bundy in Married…with Children. With a knack for comedy, Christina Applegate starred in over a dozen flicks, including the Anchorman series and The Sweetest Thing. However, she also demonstrated that her voice is a force to be reckoned with, lending her pipes to numerous Broadway musicals, such as Sweet Charity. Not to mention, she did all this and also fought off breast cancer. A round of applause for this brave double-threat.
2. Jamie Foxx
From the Golden Globes to the Oscars and BAFTA Awards, this gentleman is another undisputed Hollywood gem. Action movies like The Amazing Spider-Man 2 and Django Unchained made him popular amongst the younger audience, but he’s also shown superb acting skills as the lead role in Ray, earning him several awards as Best Actor. He’s also been producing and recording music for over 20 years, the results of which are four studio albums.
1. Beyoncé
I guess Beyoncé would have to thank her father for her current superstar status, since he was the one who put her through boot-camp to discover all of her talents. Today, the multi-platinum singer has conquered the entertainment industry like no other, with 17 Grammy Awards, 75-million record sales, and a mention in Forbes’ Celebrity 100 as the highest-paid black musician in history. Over the last few years she’s also ventured into cinema, and played a noteworthy role as Etta James in Cadillac Records, as well as Diana Ross in Dreamgirls. They call her Queen B for a reason.
