Film stardom is a rollercoaster ride of surprises. That’s why it’s no wonder that more and more movie stars are making their way to the small screen. Who needs to chase after the next big movie breakthrough when you can have a steady gig on a popular TV series? Networks, channels, and streaming services are always on the hunt for fresh talent, making television the go-to place for stability and excitement.
Let’s dive into the fascinating world of celebrities who made the leap from movies to television. Take a moment to marvel at the likes of Chris O’Donnell, James Spader, Jennifer Beals, and Christian Slater. These stars managed to find incredible success on the small screen, proving that you don’t always need a flashy superhero role to shine. Join us as we celebrate the careers of these ’90s icons and discover how they found a second home on television.
1. Kevin Costner
Kevin Costner’s rise to Hollywood stardom was lightning-fast, thanks to the success of films like The Untouchables, Bull Durham, and Field of Dreams in the late ’80s. However, it was his directorial and starring role in Dances with Wolves in 1990 that truly catapulted him to becoming one of the biggest stars in the world. Winning seven Academy Awards and grossing over $400 million, this movie became the pinnacle of his career. Despite still appearing in films occasionally, Costner’s star power has waned over time.
But that doesn’t mean he’s not still making waves in the entertainment industry. Costner currently holds a prominent role in Yellowstone, one of the biggest shows on television right now. Playing the character John Dutton has solidified his position as one of the most notable actors of his generation. Being the face of a show of Yellowstone’s magnitude will only add to his legacy, especially as the show expands with spinoffs and prequels.
However, it seems that Costner’s time on Yellowstone may be coming to an end. According to Deadline’s report in February 2023, the show might conclude largely due to Costner’s desire for shorter shooting schedules. But fans need not worry, as a new series led by Matthew McConaughey is rumored to take over as the centerpiece of the ever-expanding Yellowstone franchise.
2. Michael J. Fox
Michael J. Fox made a successful transition from being a sitcom star in Family Ties to becoming a popular actor at the box office, thanks to the iconic movie Back to the Future. Although he never quite reached the same level of success as the Back to the Future franchise brought him, Fox remained a well-known figure in the 90s. Films like Doc Hollywood, Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey, The American President, and the charming Stuart Little ensured his continued fame.
However, after only seven years since the end of Family Ties, Fox found himself returning to television. He portrayed the character of Mike Flaherty in over a hundred episodes of Spin City. It’s difficult to predict what direction his career would have taken if it weren’t for his debilitating Parkinson’s disease. Despite the challenges, Fox prioritized the more important aspects of life and has managed to lead a fulfilling existence with his wife and four children.
In 2013, Fox made a remarkable comeback to television with The Michael J. Fox Show, which lasted for one season. Additionally, he has made several guest appearances on various shows throughout the years.
3. Danny DeVito
In the 1970s, Danny DeVito started off with small roles in both film and television. However, it was his role in the often overlooked sitcom, Taxi, that really brought him into the national spotlight. Once Taxi ended, DeVito effortlessly transitioned from the small screen to the big screen. He became involved in various projects throughout the 80s, such as Terms of Endearment, Romancing the Stone, Twins, and The War of the Roses. The 90s were equally kind to DeVito, as he appeared in notable films like Batman Begins, Get Shorty, Hercules, and The Rainmaker, ensuring his continued presence in the public eye.
Despite his ongoing success in Hollywood films, there is one role from the past few decades that has truly defined DeVito’s career: Frank Reynolds in the seemingly never-ending cringe-worthy sitcom, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. Regardless of how his latest film performs at the box office, It’s Always Sunny patiently awaits DeVito’s return, solidifying its significant place in his professional life.
4. James Spader
James Spader has had a remarkable career with many different phases. He started off in the ’80s as part of the Brat Pack, starring in popular movies like Pretty in Pink and Wall Street. He showed his versatility by taking on unconventional roles in movies like Sex, Lies, and Videotape, Storyville, and Secretary.
But it was his role as Alan Shore on The Practice and Boston Legal that really made him a household name. From 2003 to 2008, Spader became a big television star and even won three Emmy awards for his performance.
In 2013, Spader embarked on another exciting chapter of his career when he took on the role of Raymond “Red” Reddington in the hit crime drama The Blacklist. The show has been picked up for a 10th season, so it looks like Spader will be playing Red for a while longer. Although he’s focused on television, he has made a few appearances in films like The Homesman and Avengers: Age of Ultron.
It’s clear that Spader is still in high demand and enjoying success in his career. He’s not just a talented actor, but also a versatile one who isn’t afraid to take on challenging roles.
5. Kiefer Sutherland
Kiefer Sutherland, son of famous actor Donald Sutherland, made a name for himself in the 80s with movies like Stand by Me, The Lost Boys, and Young Guns. By his mid-20s, he was already a rising star in the acting world. Throughout the 90s, Sutherland worked at an incredible pace, taking on diverse projects such as Flatliners, A Few Good Men, A Time to Kill, and Dark City, among others.
However, it was in 2001 that Sutherland landed the role that would define his career: Jack Bauer in 24. In today’s era of streaming television, it’s hard to fully grasp just how massive of a success 24 was. At a time when most shows (excluding HBO) followed a similar formula, 24 stood out by unfolding in real-time and completely shaking things up. It was intense, highly acclaimed, and a major hit for Fox. Even now, Sutherland remains a prominent figure on television, with shows like Designated Survivor, The First Lady, and Rabbit Hole further cementing his small-screen credentials.
6. Kathy Bates
Kathy Bates has managed to break free from the usual limitations associated with being a “character actor” through her remarkable performance in the 1990 film Misery. This breakthrough role set the stage for a decade filled with notable achievements. Films like Fried Green Tomatoes, Dolores Claiborne, Titanic, Primary Colors, and The Waterboy contributed to her growing reputation in Hollywood.
However, Bates’ success extends beyond the silver screen. While she continues to make appearances in movies such as Richard Jewell and The Highwaymen, she has also made a significant impact on television. It’s no surprise that she has been nominated for an impressive 14 Emmy awards. From her lead role in the critically acclaimed but short-lived series Harry’s Law, to her memorable performances in multiple seasons of American Horror Story, Bates has left her mark on the small screen.
In addition to her television work, Bates has made guest appearances in a variety of shows, ranging from The Office and American Dad! to Feud: Bette and Joan and Six Feet Under. Her versatility and talent have allowed her to explore a wide range of roles and genres, further solidifying her status as a respected and accomplished artist.
7. Kevin Bacon
Kevin Bacon is not only known for his impressive filmography, but he has also become the inspiration for a popular game that connects Hollywood stars to him in just six steps. While movies like Friday the 13th, Diner, and Footloose showcased his talent, it was in the 1990s that Bacon truly shined. Tremors, Flatliners, JFK, A Few Good Men, Apollo 13, Sleepers, and Wild Things were just a few of his hits during that decade.
Although Bacon’s movie appearances have decreased in recent years, his television career has been thriving. It was a significant moment when he transitioned to the small screen in 2013 for the show The Following. Following that, he starred alongside Aldis Hodge and Jonathan Taylor in Showtime’s underrated crime drama City on a Hill. It seems that Bacon, having witnessed his wife Kyra Sedgewick’s success on The Closer, was ready to join in on the action. It’s understandable why he made the move.
8. Laurence Fishburne
Laurence Fishburne, a seasoned actor, has been actively involved in stage, screen, and film since the 1970s. His extensive acting career spans several decades, boasting an impressive number of credits. From starring in Apocalypse Now, Pee Wee’s Playhouse, A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors, to his portrayal of Othello, Fishburne’s diverse roles are truly remarkable.
In the ’90s, Fishburne reached the pinnacle of his career with standout performances in Boyz n the Hood, What’s Love Got to Do With It, and The Matrix, propelling him to stardom.
While Fishburne continues to work consistently in films, his days of taking on lead roles in major motion pictures have mostly passed. However, he doesn’t seem to mind as television has become a welcoming platform for him. Shows like CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Black-ish, MacGruber, and Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur are just a few of the many television credits he has amassed in recent decades.
9. Christina Ricci
Christina Ricci had a major presence in the ’90s, appearing in various blockbuster films. Even before reaching the age of 10, she acted alongside Cher and Winona Ryder in the 1990 film Mermaids. Shortly after, she gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of Wednesday Addams in The Addams Family the following year. Throughout the rest of the ’90s, Ricci continued to star in successful movies such as Sleepy Hollow, Casper, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, and The Ice Storm.
In 2011, Ricci made a transition from the big screen to television with Pan Am, marking a significant turning point in her career. Although she currently has a role in The Matrix Resurrections, it’s worth noting that her part is more of a brief appearance than a substantial role. However, she has experienced an impressive career resurgence through leading roles in diverse projects like The Lizzie Borden Chronicles, Z: The Beginning of Everything, Yellowjackets, and the Wednesday spin-off of the Addams Family franchise.
10. Christian Slater
Christian Slater had a string of smaller roles in the late ’80s before he truly made a name for himself in the 1990s. Movies like Young Guns II, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, True Romance, Interview with the Vampire, and Broken Arrow catapulted him from an up-and-coming actor to a bona fide star. However, his film career hasn’t been as successful in the decades that followed. Luckily, he has more than compensated for it with his work on television.
After appearing in shows like My Own Worst Enemy, The Forgotten, and Breaking In, Slater finally found a role that truly captivated him with the lead character in Mr. Robot. He has been a part of all four seasons of this immensely popular show. Additionally, he has also become a sought-after actor for limited series, with credits like Dirty John and Dr. Death on his resume.
11. Laurence Fishburne
