Top 10 Actors Who Are Exactly Like Their Characters

Associated with characters who revel in f-bombs and angry speeches, Samuel L. Jackson is one of the most recognizable actors in modern movies. By all accounts, the movie star holds the same intensity on screen as he does off. Whether he’s in a blockbuster or a Tarantino film, he puts his all into every single project. Jackson lives and breathes his profession with all of his natural personality on display. You could say that he plays slightly exaggerated versions of himself, always able to bring passion and anger to any role. In his storied and record breaking career, the performer finds new ways to bring out his larger-than-life persona.

From his early "Saturday Night Live" days to his films, Adam Sandler always plays similarly hilarious leading men, often struggling to be family men. In movies like "Grown Ups," Sandler invites his entire comedy contact list to vacation together on film. Considering that his wife Jackie and kids also appear in his comedies, the actor has made his real family and friends an integral part of his success. It's no wonder that the performer appears so relaxed on screen, along with his super casual wardrobe that comes straight from his everyday life. Living the dream, the movie star is nothing short of an authentic and funny presence.

Jack Nicholson is always sly and rebellious to his core. His early film roles showcase his inner wild child, from countercultural lawyers to irreverent mental patients. Each of Nicholson's characters feature his wry smile and charismatic demeanor. In middle age, the legend displayed his more charming and playboy side in the 80s and 90s. All the while, his movie star lifestyle bridges the gap between his leading men and his confident personality. Sitting courtside at Lakers games, the performer is one of the faces of Los Angeles and Hollywood fame. It never completely went to his head, as his entire career feels like an extension of his original screen presence.

To most people, Emma Watson will always be Hermione from the "Harry Potter" films. Growing up alongside the character, it's difficult to separate her from the iconic role. The part highlights Watson's intelligence and empowering personality, arguably leading to her future position as an activist. Belle in "Beauty in the Beast" gives her another chance to be a positive female role model. In her work as a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador, the actress remains a champion for feminism and women's rights. Showing that she isn't just an onscreen hero, the performer reminds everyone that she has a similar magic in her real life pursuits.

In "Twilight," Kristen Stewart personifies a shy and introverted character. Most video evidence points to the performer being of a similar ilk, never one to crave the spotlight. In her emergence as an acclaimed dramatic actor, Stewart's roles use her subdued characteristics as an asset. Through her work in art films and other indie projects, the performer’s true colors shine even more in naturalistic and awards-worthy performances. Experimenting with more diverse roles such as Princess Diana, the artist explores every one of her new parts without alienating her audience. As her career only grows, her choices make her a relatable leading woman for proudly alternative and introspective crowds.

By all accounts, Jason Bateman is not a criminal mastermind like his character in "Ozark." But his ability to play similarly dry and ingenious characters comes from a similarly grounded place. As an integral creative force for the Netflix show, the actor has more than enough brains to power an award-winning program. In terms of his humor, Bateman cultivates a familiar persona in a majority of his other film and TV projects. Comedy films like "The Switch" and "Game Night" give the performer ample opportunity to utilize his wise-cracking and intelligent comedic presence. Ultimately, the performer's characters feel believable because of his actual personality.

A massive comic voice, Seth Rogens is widely known as the go-to stoner comedy hero. His roles in Judd Apatow movies put him on the map, with “Knocked Up” being a breakout part for him. In both lead and supporting characters, Rogen always demonstrates a laidback and quippy comedy style that feels straight out of his own life. Keeping a tight-knit group of creatives around him, Rogen and his childhood buddy Evan Goldberg have been writing together forever. Expanding into dramatic films and television, the actor always seems to have a twinkle in his eye that’s both goofy and sincere.

Known primarily as the "Merc with a Mouth," Ryan Reynolds has a slew of earlier roles that also showcase his sardonic and dry comedy delivery. His stints in rom-coms like "Definitely, Maybe" and "Just Friends" reveal his softer side while still showing off his twisted sense of humor. Finally with "Deadpool," Reynolds' comic timing reached its apex. While he's famous for mouthing off as the wise-cracking superhero, he seems to be subversive and uniquely gifted beyond his film parts. His various media appearances only prove that the actor doesn't stop being funny when he leaves a movie set. Whether he's suiting up for a sequel or pranking his wife Blake Lively, the star appears to be a born comedian in all aspects of his life.

Simply put, April Ludgate from "Parks and Recreation" is Aubrey Plaza. Except that the actress doesn't live in Indiana. Her distinct and awkward comedy stylings make her one of the funniest actresses in the industry. Most of Plaza's characters don't fall far from the tree, displaying the same eccentric qualities that she shows off in everyday life. Even her appearances in films like "Safety Not Guaranteed" have the same idiosyncratic energy as the actual performer. Whether you watch her in a movie or on television, her distinctive humor shines through in everything she does.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

Zach Galifianakis
His Eccentric Characters Flow Freely from His Funny Personality & Stand-Up

Michael Cera
Perfecting a Sheepish Comic Presence, Cera’s Lovably, Shy Persona Plays into His Stardom

Robert Downey Jr.
Downey’s Witty & Dry Humor Directly Infuses His Tony Stark Role

Larry David
His Unfiltered Comedy & Personality Blurs the Line Between Character & Reality

Drew Barrymore
Barrymore’s Lovable & Genuine Personality Fuels Her Many Rom-Com Characters

Matthew McConaughey’s journey from “Dazed and Confused” to “Dallas Buyers Club” continually makes use of his natural charms. The Texan infuses every one of his roles with a genuine charisma. Capable of delivering a great monologue on screen, the actor’s eloquence extends to everyday life as he motivates his fellow artists or his favorite football team. There are few people in the industry as natural in off-the-cuff situations as McConaughey, constantly proving how versatile and gifted he is. Whether he’s making blockbusters or firing up a crowd, the performer exhibits the same characteristics that make him a bankable superstar.

Did we miss one of your favorite actors? Let us know in the comments below.