Top 10 Actors Who Looked Exactly like the Celebrities They Played
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VOICE OVER: Patrick Mealey
Someone give these casting directors an award! Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we're looking at actors who nailed their depictions of celebrities so much that they had us doing double takes! Our countdown includes portrayals by actors Charlize Theron, Robert Downey Jr., Lily James and more!
Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re looking at actors who nailed their depictions of celebrities so much that they had us doing double takes! We’ll be excluding renditions of political figures and world leaders however - focusing on those in the entertainment industry. What actor’s on-screen portrayal had you seeing double? Let’s chat about it in the comments.
#10: Zac Efron as Kevin Von Erich
“The Iron Claw” (2023)
For this biopic on the famed Von Erich family, Zac Efron accepted the challenge of playing professional wrestler Kevin Von Erich. The film follows the true story of the Von Erich brothers, professional wrestling mega stars in the early 1980s, as they ride the highest of highs and lowest of lows. For the role, Efron completely transformed his body by adding a massive amount of muscle to match his larger-than-life counterpart. All the dedicated training paid off, as Efron was able to completely equal the physique of Kevin in his prime. Add on the era-accurate feathery wig, and Zac Efron looked like he just walked straight out of a 1980s pro wrestling magazine!
#9: Charlize Theron as Megyn Kelly
“Bombshell” (2019)
Thanks to her impressive transformative role as serial killer Aileen Wuornos in “Monster,” we already knew that Charlize Theron was a master of mimicry. She further proved her talent in the 2019 film “Bombshell” as journalist Megyn Kelly. Theron wore some minor prosthetic pieces for the part, but it was mostly makeup that helped alter the way her face looked. Regardless, the results were shockingly accurate. Theron also stunned critics and audiences alike with her pitch perfect vocal tone and cadence. To say she nailed the role in every way would be an understatement. We for one can’t wait to see who Charlize decides to take on next!
#8: Austin Butler as Elvis Presley
“Elvis” (2022)
It’s a massive undertaking to play someone as recognizable and beloved as the King of Rock n’ Roll, Elvis Presley. Thankfully, Baz Luhrmann entrusted the titular role of his 2022 jukebox musical biopic, “Elvis,” to actor Austin Butler! Butler seriously embodied Presley in every-which-way – down to the iconic voice. It helps that he and Elvis already shared similar features - including the shape of their faces. And, with the help of stellar hair and makeup design, Austin was able to perfectly depict the legend at every stage of his career – receiving plenty of award recognition for his work. What can we say, we too are all shook up about this performance!
#7: Robert Downey Jr. as Charlie Chaplin
“Chaplin” (1992)
Thanks to a decade-plus stint playing Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it’s easy to forget Robert Downey Jr.’s other acting highlights. Fortunately, his turn as Charlie Chaplin in the early 90s is unforgettable. Yep, Downey Jr. did an A-grade job acting as the star of Hollywood’s silent era. Robert’s non-verbal language was on point. He nailed everything from Chaplin’s posture to his physical movements. Of course, he seriously looked the part as well, making for a stunning side-by-side comparison. The actor was so dedicated to the role, that he even learned tennis and violin for certain scenes. We’d say this was a performance truly worthy of the legend depicted.
#6: Rami Malek as Freddie Mercury
“Bohemian Rhapsody” (2018)
Rami Malek’s mastery of Freddie Mercury in “Bohemian Rhapsody” was so great, that he ended up walking away with the Academy Award for Best Actor for his work. It took loads of preparation, but when Rami stepped into the shoes of the Queen Frontman, he blew everyone away. A huge part of the appeal was the actor’s uncanny resemblance to Mercury. Prosthetic teeth and a mustache were really all he needed to look exactly like his subject. Add in Malek’s spot on way of walking, talking, and commanding the stage like Freddie, and you’ve got one of the most convincing depictions in modern cinema! We’d be remiss if we didn’t also shout out Gwilym Lee’s picture-perfect take on Brian May. Chef’s kiss.
#5: Lily James as Pamela Anderson
“Pam & Tommy” (2022)
When the first images from the Hulu miniseries “Pam and Tommy” were released, collective jaws dropped at the shocking resemblance stars Sebastian Stan and Lily James had with the celebrity couple they portray, Tommy Lee and Pamela Anderson. It was Lily James who had the public in the most awe however, as she and Anderson appeared to be complete doubles. The hair, the makeup, those other buxom body parts – it was all exact. Lily’s transformation into the 90’s sex symbol and animal rights activist landed her plenty of acclaim, including a Primetime Emmy nomination for the role. There’s no two ways about it, this on-screen makeover was perfect.
#4: Val Kilmer as Jim Morrison
“The Doors” (1991)
Turns out Val Kilmer was up for the part of Jim Morrison before he even knew there was going to be a movie about Jim Morrison. That’s because director Oliver Stone considered Kilmer for the part after noticing the actor’s likeness to the Doors frontman in 1988’s “Willow.” Of course, Kilmer jumped at the opportunity. Val took the role seriously and even dropped some weight to enhance the resemblance. We’d say it worked! It’s also reported that the actor went “method” a full year before filming even began. Apparently, he dressed and behaved like Jim during the day, all while learning to sing his songs. Heck, members of the Doors were said to be unable to distinguish between the two singing voices. We’d say that’s a job well done!
#3: Michelle Williams as Marilyn Monroe
“My Week with Marilyn” (2011)
Marilyn Monroe has been portrayed on film by several talented actresses over the years. This includes a committed turn by Ana de Armas in 2022’s “Blonde.” However, it’s Michelle Williams’ take on the singular star that is truly striking! In “My Week with Marilyn,” Williams plays the blonde bombshell during the time she was shooting “The Prince and the Showgirl.” The movie also delves into Marilyn’s alleged affair with her personal assistant. Through these aspects, Williams was able to channel Monroe as both a talented actor and singer, not to mention tender lover. And, she did all this while looking and sounding the part!
#2: James Franco as James Dean
“James Dean” (2001)
Not only do James Franco and James Dean share the same name, but they also share an undeniable resemblance. So, Franco became the perfect choice to play the rebel without a cause in the 2001 made-for-TV movie about Dean’s life. And he didn’t disappoint. Franco was able to fully encapsulate Dean’s swagger by expertly mimicking his movements and overall attitude. It also didn’t hurt that he could look cool while riding a motorcycle. It truly was the role that was meant to be. Of course, Franco would go on to convincingly portray another… notable actor years later. Oh, hi Tommy Wiseau!
#1: Jamie Foxx as Ray Charles
“Ray” (2004)
It’s the Oscar-winning portrayal that still blows our minds. While Jamie Foxx has a passing resemblance to soul music pioneer Ray Charles, we were not ready for the actor’s picture-perfect representation in the film “Ray.” Foxx may not have done the singing in the film, but trust us, he does everything else to a tee. From the head movements to the overall mannerisms, you’d swear you were watching the real Ray Charles on the screen. Jamie Foxx’s Ray Charles stands as the actor-to-performer duplication to beat all others! And if you don’t agree, maybe you should hit the road, Jack.
#10: Zac Efron as Kevin Von Erich
“The Iron Claw” (2023)
For this biopic on the famed Von Erich family, Zac Efron accepted the challenge of playing professional wrestler Kevin Von Erich. The film follows the true story of the Von Erich brothers, professional wrestling mega stars in the early 1980s, as they ride the highest of highs and lowest of lows. For the role, Efron completely transformed his body by adding a massive amount of muscle to match his larger-than-life counterpart. All the dedicated training paid off, as Efron was able to completely equal the physique of Kevin in his prime. Add on the era-accurate feathery wig, and Zac Efron looked like he just walked straight out of a 1980s pro wrestling magazine!
#9: Charlize Theron as Megyn Kelly
“Bombshell” (2019)
Thanks to her impressive transformative role as serial killer Aileen Wuornos in “Monster,” we already knew that Charlize Theron was a master of mimicry. She further proved her talent in the 2019 film “Bombshell” as journalist Megyn Kelly. Theron wore some minor prosthetic pieces for the part, but it was mostly makeup that helped alter the way her face looked. Regardless, the results were shockingly accurate. Theron also stunned critics and audiences alike with her pitch perfect vocal tone and cadence. To say she nailed the role in every way would be an understatement. We for one can’t wait to see who Charlize decides to take on next!
#8: Austin Butler as Elvis Presley
“Elvis” (2022)
It’s a massive undertaking to play someone as recognizable and beloved as the King of Rock n’ Roll, Elvis Presley. Thankfully, Baz Luhrmann entrusted the titular role of his 2022 jukebox musical biopic, “Elvis,” to actor Austin Butler! Butler seriously embodied Presley in every-which-way – down to the iconic voice. It helps that he and Elvis already shared similar features - including the shape of their faces. And, with the help of stellar hair and makeup design, Austin was able to perfectly depict the legend at every stage of his career – receiving plenty of award recognition for his work. What can we say, we too are all shook up about this performance!
#7: Robert Downey Jr. as Charlie Chaplin
“Chaplin” (1992)
Thanks to a decade-plus stint playing Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it’s easy to forget Robert Downey Jr.’s other acting highlights. Fortunately, his turn as Charlie Chaplin in the early 90s is unforgettable. Yep, Downey Jr. did an A-grade job acting as the star of Hollywood’s silent era. Robert’s non-verbal language was on point. He nailed everything from Chaplin’s posture to his physical movements. Of course, he seriously looked the part as well, making for a stunning side-by-side comparison. The actor was so dedicated to the role, that he even learned tennis and violin for certain scenes. We’d say this was a performance truly worthy of the legend depicted.
#6: Rami Malek as Freddie Mercury
“Bohemian Rhapsody” (2018)
Rami Malek’s mastery of Freddie Mercury in “Bohemian Rhapsody” was so great, that he ended up walking away with the Academy Award for Best Actor for his work. It took loads of preparation, but when Rami stepped into the shoes of the Queen Frontman, he blew everyone away. A huge part of the appeal was the actor’s uncanny resemblance to Mercury. Prosthetic teeth and a mustache were really all he needed to look exactly like his subject. Add in Malek’s spot on way of walking, talking, and commanding the stage like Freddie, and you’ve got one of the most convincing depictions in modern cinema! We’d be remiss if we didn’t also shout out Gwilym Lee’s picture-perfect take on Brian May. Chef’s kiss.
#5: Lily James as Pamela Anderson
“Pam & Tommy” (2022)
When the first images from the Hulu miniseries “Pam and Tommy” were released, collective jaws dropped at the shocking resemblance stars Sebastian Stan and Lily James had with the celebrity couple they portray, Tommy Lee and Pamela Anderson. It was Lily James who had the public in the most awe however, as she and Anderson appeared to be complete doubles. The hair, the makeup, those other buxom body parts – it was all exact. Lily’s transformation into the 90’s sex symbol and animal rights activist landed her plenty of acclaim, including a Primetime Emmy nomination for the role. There’s no two ways about it, this on-screen makeover was perfect.
#4: Val Kilmer as Jim Morrison
“The Doors” (1991)
Turns out Val Kilmer was up for the part of Jim Morrison before he even knew there was going to be a movie about Jim Morrison. That’s because director Oliver Stone considered Kilmer for the part after noticing the actor’s likeness to the Doors frontman in 1988’s “Willow.” Of course, Kilmer jumped at the opportunity. Val took the role seriously and even dropped some weight to enhance the resemblance. We’d say it worked! It’s also reported that the actor went “method” a full year before filming even began. Apparently, he dressed and behaved like Jim during the day, all while learning to sing his songs. Heck, members of the Doors were said to be unable to distinguish between the two singing voices. We’d say that’s a job well done!
#3: Michelle Williams as Marilyn Monroe
“My Week with Marilyn” (2011)
Marilyn Monroe has been portrayed on film by several talented actresses over the years. This includes a committed turn by Ana de Armas in 2022’s “Blonde.” However, it’s Michelle Williams’ take on the singular star that is truly striking! In “My Week with Marilyn,” Williams plays the blonde bombshell during the time she was shooting “The Prince and the Showgirl.” The movie also delves into Marilyn’s alleged affair with her personal assistant. Through these aspects, Williams was able to channel Monroe as both a talented actor and singer, not to mention tender lover. And, she did all this while looking and sounding the part!
#2: James Franco as James Dean
“James Dean” (2001)
Not only do James Franco and James Dean share the same name, but they also share an undeniable resemblance. So, Franco became the perfect choice to play the rebel without a cause in the 2001 made-for-TV movie about Dean’s life. And he didn’t disappoint. Franco was able to fully encapsulate Dean’s swagger by expertly mimicking his movements and overall attitude. It also didn’t hurt that he could look cool while riding a motorcycle. It truly was the role that was meant to be. Of course, Franco would go on to convincingly portray another… notable actor years later. Oh, hi Tommy Wiseau!
#1: Jamie Foxx as Ray Charles
“Ray” (2004)
It’s the Oscar-winning portrayal that still blows our minds. While Jamie Foxx has a passing resemblance to soul music pioneer Ray Charles, we were not ready for the actor’s picture-perfect representation in the film “Ray.” Foxx may not have done the singing in the film, but trust us, he does everything else to a tee. From the head movements to the overall mannerisms, you’d swear you were watching the real Ray Charles on the screen. Jamie Foxx’s Ray Charles stands as the actor-to-performer duplication to beat all others! And if you don’t agree, maybe you should hit the road, Jack.
