Top 20 Greatest Triple Threat Performers of All Time
Welcome to MsMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the Top 20 Greatest Triple Threat Performers.
For this list, we’ll be counting down our favorite performers who can act, dance, and sing with the best of them.
Did we miss any of your most beloved triple threats? Let us know in the comments below.
#20: Kate Hudson
Kate Hudson came to prominence as the sunny, bubbly Stillwater groupie Penny Lane in 2000’s “Almost Famous.” But while we’ve known for a while that Kate had the acting chops to pull off this role and others like it, her singing and dancing talents came to prominence a bit later. In 2009, she shook and shimmied to “Cinema Italiano” in “Nine”. She also later made an all-star appearance on “Glee” as one of Rachel Berry’s more formidable teachers. It’s the “Glee” performance that sells her triple threat status best – to perform “All That Jazz” this well, you’ve got to have it all.
#19: Joseph Gordon-Levitt
Ever since “3rd Rock from the Sun,” Joseph Gordon-Levitt has been charming viewers with his easy going nature and solid acting chops. He can seemingly do it all – romantic comedies, dramas, action – you name it. But he’s also not too shabby of a dancer or singer. In 2009’s “500 Days of Summer,” he shows off his moves by grooving down the street to Hall & Oates. Additionally, his rendition of “Firework” in the style of “The Cure” on Jimmy Fallon’s “That’s My Jam” show is a pretty stellar display of singing and comedy. Who knew this incredible actor was capable of having this much talent?
#18: Janelle Monae
As Janelle Monae would say, “I like that.” When Monae started their career in the music industry in 2003, they immediately impressed fans with their sultry smooth voice and slick dance moves. But they definitely didn’t stop there. Monae made their film debut as a voice actor in 2014 in “Rio 2”. Following that role, they then took to the screen in live action for projects like “Hidden Figures.” and “Moonlight.” In their role as Teresa in “Moonlight,” their empathetic and patient performance helped them shine in a very stacked cast. While they’ve already won a plethora of awards for their multiple talents, we foresee more accolades coming their way.
#17: Andrew Garfield
Top 10 Moments That Made Us Love Andrew Garfield
At the start of Garfield’s tremendous career, he was known for his earnest and weighty roles in award-winning dramas like “The Social Network” and “Silence”. And tons of people embraced his turn as Peter Parker in various “Spider-Man” movies. But in 2021, he amazed us all when he starred as Jonathan Larson in the musical “tick … tick … BOOM!” Garfield, who had never sung professionally before, took singing lessons for the role. And every session absolutely paid off. While the film doesn’t require too much dancing, he kills it when the occasion calls for it. Honestly, it's almost unfair to think of how many super talents this Spidey actor has.
#16: Catherine Zeta-Jones
The 2002 musical “Chicago” happens to be chock full of stars who are all triple threats in their own right. Renée Zellweger blows us away as Roxie Hart [xref]. Additionally, Richard Gere is delightful as a smarmy tap-dancing lawyer. [xref] But no one can do it quite like Catherine Zeta-Jones. If you ever needed proof that Zeta-Jones is one of the best performers of her generation, look no further. She nails every aspect of Velma Kelly’s character.Her underlying insecurities, absolutely killer voice and dance moves are all brought to life beautifully. What’s even more impressive about her “Chicago” role is that she was pregnant during production. It seems like the superstar is always ready to show off her talents.
#15: Ryan Gosling
Top 10 Unhinged Ryan Gosling Quotes About Playing Ken
Surprised? Then, you clearly have not watched "La La Land." Singing and handling piano duty, Ryan Gosling's contributions helped earn the musical an Academy Award for "Best Original Song," but the star's passion for music does not start and end with "La La Land." In 2007, Gosling co-founded "Dead Man's Bones," a goth folk rock outfit with a single record to its name. For the album, the "Blade Runner 2049" star handled vocals, piano, guitar, bass, and keyboards; more importantly, Gosling performed under the pseudonym "Baby Goose." Is it even possible to not love this guy?
#14: Donald Glover
Top 10 Funniest Donald Glover Moments
Here’s your Renaissance man. Breaking through as a writer on "30 Rock," Donald Glover’s turn on "Community" helped establish the comedian as an on-screen presence, but Troy Barnes was just the tip of the iceberg. When not creating and starring in ambitious and groundbreaking comedy-dramas, Glover steps into the musical persona of Childish Gambino, a Grammy award-winning singer and rapper with an eclectic sense of humor and unforgettable music videos. Be it directing, writing, singing, or acting; time and time again, Glover has demonstrated there is nothing outside his wheelhouse.
#13: Barbra Streisand
No triple threat list would be complete without this complete master of stage and screen. Barbara Streisand became a Broadway success at the ripe age of 20. Eventually, she moved into the movie and music industry and became one of the best-selling artists the world has ever seen along the way. You probably know her best for her roles in films such as “Funny Girl” and “Hello, Dolly.” But she could kill it in a non-musical too, such as 1973’s “The Way We Were,” in which she has outstanding chemistry with co-star Robert Redford. There’s a reason this sensational woman is one of few people with an EGOT – she was made to be a star.
#12: Jennifer Lopez
Top 10 Best Jennifer Lopez Fashion Moments
Starting out as a backup dancer for New Kids on the Block before joining the Fly Girl dance troupe on “In Living Color,” J. Lo is the archetypal Hollywood triple threat. An accomplished singer, dancer, and actress; the multi-talented performer has amassed respectable resumes across film, TV, and music. For the most part, celebrities prioritize and become associated with one specific field, but Jennifer Lopez pursued and built a solid discography while regularly appearing in high profile films like "The Cell" and "Maid in Manhattan." And blending Latin music with pop and R&B, Lopez's stage shows are a sight to behold!
#11: Zendaya
Top 20 Memorable Zendaya Outfits
From the start of Zendaya’s career, it was clear she had the chops to make it in Hollywood. While she starred on “Shake It Up,” she demonstrated her comedic, dramatic and of course, dancing talents. Zendaya also proved she was a reliable big screen actress with her role in 2017’s “Spider-Man: Homecoming.” Within that same year, she showed off her incredible voice and dance moves in “The Greatest Showman.” Zendaya got to put all her talents together when she gave an award-winning performance in HBO’s “Euphoria”. Simply put, she’s become one of the biggest stars in the world – and we think this triple threat deserves it.
#10: Meryl Streep
The Groundbreaking Career of Meryl Streep
With more than 20 Oscar nominations to her name, Meryl Streep can act circles around nearly anyone. But can the star hold a tune? Streep's singing in 2008's "Mamma Mia!" might have only given us a taste, but the actress has proven to be far more comfortable covering country and rock over pop songs. In preparation for "Ricki and the Flash," Streep took guitar lessons from Neil Young, and the film celebrated the actress' newfound skill by having her play entire songs live. Understandably overshadowed by the celebrity's screen career, singing is merely another tool that enhances Streep's acting.
#9: Ginger Rogers
From the very beginning of Hollywood’s inception, it has paid to be a triple threat. Perhaps no one knows that better than Ginger Rogers. In the 1930s, Rogers’ partnership with Fred Astaire produced some of RKO Pictures’ best films. Her roles help put Rogers on the map as an all-star singer, dancer, and actress. Watching Rogers dance is like watching someone walk on water. Her feet just so easily glide over the dance floor. Whenever her dancing is paired with her charming acting style and warbling voice it’s hard not to be enchanted.
#8: Jamie Foxx
An Oscar-winner with two Grammys in his trophy cabinet, this "In Living Color" alumnus has released multiple studio albums and stand-up specials, and success always seems to follow. While Jamie Foxx does not sing or play the piano in 2004's "Ray," the actor can hold a note with the best of them. Joining a select group of celebrities who have won an Academy Award and topped album charts in the states, Foxx's versatility extends beyond acting and music; the stand-up comedian loves nothing more than to bust out some dance moves in front of a live audience.
#7: Hugh Jackman
Before embarking on a film career, Wolverine could be found singing and dancing in London’s West End. Trained by The Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, Hugh Jackman honed his skills as a live performer by appearing in "Beauty and the Beast," "Sunset Boulevard," and "Oklahoma;" in 2004, Jackman won multiple awards for Broadway's "The Boy from Oz." Outside of the theater, the charming celebrity has become Hollywood's go-to man for musicals, while simultaneously starring in blockbuster action franchises and hard-hitting dramas. Whether slicing villains to shreds or belting out a catchy tune, Jackman is always captivating.
#6: Amy Adams
Top 10 Classic Triple Threat Performers of All Time
From the very beginning of Amy Adams’ career, there was no doubt that she was a cut above many of her contemporaries. Whether you’re watching “Drop Dead Gorgeous,” “Doubt,” or her Oscar nominated performance “Junebug”, it’s impossible to take your eyes off of her. But that magnetic quality only grew in size once we finally got to see her dance and sing as well. In 2007’s “Enchanted,” Adams is nothing short of spectacular as a naive princess that gets lost in New York City. Her voice has all the Disney princess qualities you love. Adams sings, dances, and giggles her way into your heart.
#5: Neil Patrick Harris
Whether hosting or taking home the gold, this superstar is always the highlight of any show. Perhaps best known for portraying Barney Stinson on "How I Met Your Mother” and, of course, Dr. Doogie, Neil Patrick Harris is undeniably a showman, and that is nowhere more evident than "Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog" and the actor's stage work. Often cast in musicals, Harris' turn as "Hedwig and the Angry Inch's" title character netted the actor a Tony award. Alongside acting, singing, and just being the absolute greatest; Harris is also something of a magician.
#4: Rita Moreno
Top 10 Moments That Made Us Love Rita Moreno
This performer is so good, that they had to get her to star in the same movie twice. Rita Moreno was on Broadway by the time she was 13 years old. Back then, she took on small supporting roles in Golden Age musicals like “Singin’ in the Rain” and “The King and I.” Then in 1961, she blew audiences away with her portrayal of Anita in “West Side Story.” Moreno arguably delivers the most compelling performance in the film. And she proved that she still could command screens when she returned to play Valentina in the movie remake. Whether she’s acting, dancing, or singing, Moreno continuously stuns audiences.
#3: Lady Gaga
Top 20 Memorable Lady Gaga Outfits
A hugely accomplished and successful songwriter, performer and producer, Lady Gaga's unpredictable discography highlights the singer's willingness to subvert expectations and explore different genres. After landing cameos in "Sin City: A Dame to Kill For" and "Machete Kills," Lady Gaga was cast as The Countess in "American Horror Story," a role that earned the star a Golden Globe. And Lady Gaga was the perfect casting choice to play Ally in Bradley Cooper’s "A Star is Born". Ally is a young musician struggling to break into the industry, and that’s a story Lady Gaga knows all too well.
#2: Fred Astaire
Astaire is one of the greatest stars Hollywood has ever seen, with a career that spans over 76 years. Trained as a performer since he was a child, he made his Broadway debut in 1917. He’d go on to make a number of wonderful musicals with the likes of Ginger Rogers, Ann Miller, Judy Garland and more. He’s made legendary appearances in virtually every medium he’s shown up in. Astaire dazzled in the musical movie “Top Hat”, blew people away with tap dancing in multiple mediums and commanded his own TV special. Astaire’s personality as a performer is so sly and smooth that he makes everything he’s doing look easy as pie.
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
Debbie Reynolds
Good Mornin’ to This Triple Threat!
Justin Timberlake
His Acting, Singing & Dancing All Hit the Right Notes
Cher
Whether She’s Singing Her Music or Starring in “Moonstruck”, This Celeb Always Stuns Us
Kevin Bacon
This Triple Threat Can Make Any Town Dance
Emma Stone
“La la Land” Confirmed Without a Doubt That Stone Has Many Talents
#1: Gene Kelly
Gene Kelly is one of the most recognizable figures of the Golden Age of musicals and one of the most talented people, point blank, to ever grace our screens. His athletic and dynamic dancing held him apart from his contemporaries. And when you pair that with his beautiful singing voice and exuberant acting style, you can’t help but smile. To add to all of those tremendous displays of talent, Kelly’s also directed quite a few of the films he starred in as well. This legendary performer has given us plenty of movie moments that are simply timeless. “Anchors Aweigh”, “An American in Paris,” and “Singin’ in the Rain” are just a few of his crowning achievements. Kelly was truly a singular triple threat.
0
0
report
0
0
report
0
0
report