Movie Cameos You Probably Missed
Plenty of us love nothing more than settling down with a good movie. Sure, we might not always know what to expect, but we usually have a pretty good idea about who’s going to be in the thing, right? After all, movie studios love to use their names to get us hooked from the start.
While that might often be the case, the movie cameos you probably missed might have slid under the radar. From clever makeup to blink-and-you-miss-it moments, there are plenty of times our favorite stars were right under our noses, and we didn’t realize it.
The Jonas Brothers were actually the ones behind the serenading cherubs in Night at the Museum 2
- Movie: Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian
- Release Year: 2009
- Forgotten Cameo: Jonas Brothers
It might be no secret that Nick Jonas has spread his wings in recent years and turned his hand to acting. In recent years, the musician has appeared in some huge flicks, such as the action comedy ‘Jumanji’ reboot and the rom-com ‘Love Again.’ Still, the Jonas Brothers as a group are no strangers to the big screen.
What started as starring roles in the musical comedy ‘Camp Rock’ turned into a brief cameo in 2009’s adventure movie ‘Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian.’ If you thought the cherubs looked familiar in the second film, that’s because they’re actually the Jonas Brothers serenading Amelia and Larry - played by Amy Adams and Ben Stiller, respectively.
Jeff Bezos apparently pleaded “for years” for a part in a Star Trek movie
- Movie: Star Trek Beyond
- Release Year: 2016
- Forgotten Cameo: Jeff Bezos
When we think of Jeff Bezos, there’s a good chance most of us picture the billionaire businessman and the man behind Amazon. After all, he has been in the game for decades and has even been named as the wealthiest person on the planet in the past. What we probably don’t expect to see is his funner side.
Things took a turn when the billionaire appeared in the sci-fi hit ‘Star Trek Beyond.’ Here, Jeff took on the role of an alien Starfleet official, but that’s not all. Amazingly, it’s said Jeff was the one who begged “for years” to be in one of the movies because he was such a fan, finally getting his moment in 2016.
Michael Jackson was the one to ask about playing Agent M in Men in Black II
- Movie: Men in Black II
- Release Year: 2002
- Forgotten Cameo: Michael Jackson
If you didn’t have the ‘Men in Black’ theme tune stuck in your head already, there’s a good chance you might have now. What about having a song by the King of Pop in your head? Yes, there really was a time the crossover we never expected to happen came true, but you had to be quick to spot it.
It really was the actual Michael Jackson who popped up in 2002’s sci-fi comedy ‘Men in Black II,’ and it seems the singer was the one to make it happen. Apparently, Michael loved the first one so much that he spoke to director Barry Sonnenfeld about a cameo, and that’s precisely what happened when he flashed up as Agent M.
Steven Spielberg plays the often forgotten character in The Blues Brothers
- Movie: The Blues Brothers
- Release Year: 1980
- Forgotten Cameo: Steven Spielberg
There’s a good chance most of us have seen a Steven Spielberg flick by now. After all, he’s one of the most famous directors and screenwriters ever. The thing is, most of us know him for his time behind the camera, but in 1980, that all changed when Spielberg made a cameo in the action comedy ‘The Blues Brothers.’
The movie threw just about everything into the mix, with firefighters, the police, and even the military chasing down the Blues Brothers. As everything else breaks down into chaos, a Cook County Assessor - Spielberg - obliviously carries on eating his sandwich only to be interrupted by the leading duo who arrive just in time to pay their taxes.
Nathan Fillion had long worked with James Gunn before his Guardians of the Galaxy cameo
- Movie: Guardians of the Galaxy
- Release Year: 2014
- Forgotten Cameo: Nathan Fillion
Director James Gunn and actor Nathan Fillion have long gone hand in hand. Maybe that’s why the pair teamed back up when Gunn directed 2014’s superhero movie ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’? After all, Nathan is often best known for his time as Malcolm Reynolds in the space Western ‘Firefly’ and the show’s film continuation ‘Serenity.’
If you blinked, you might have missed Nathan popping up in the first movie of the franchise, though. When the heroes arrive at Kyln, they come face-to-face with a host of inmates, including a blue thug who seemingly has something against Peter Quill (played by Chris Pratt). Ultimately, it’s Groot we have to thank for defusing things.
Not many initially realized it was Paul Reubens in Tim Burton’s Batman Returns
- Movie: Batman Returns
- Release Year: 1992
- Forgotten Cameo: Paul Reubens
Having already teamed up with director Tim Burton for the comedy movie ‘Pee-wee’s Big Adventure’ meant Paul Reubens was more than comfortable working with Burton once again in his 1992 superhero movie ‘Batman Returns.’ Still, playing Tucker Cobblepot was completely different for the actor, which might be how so many fans initially missed his cameo.
This time, Paul plays the part of a distant man who dumps his son, Oswald, in the sewers when Tucker starts to believe he’s an abomination. A group of penguins awaits, and the rest of the famous Batman villain is history. The best bit? The role became so renowned that Paul later played the character again in the series ‘Gotham.’
Dan Aykroyd made an easily missable cameo in the second installment of Indiana Jones
- Movie: Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom
- Release Year: 1984
- Forgotten Cameo: Dan Akyroyd
Just like Steven Spielberg turned up in Dan Aykroyd’s ‘The Blues Brothers,’ the actor got the chance to make a cameo in the director’s action-adventure movie ‘Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom.’ It was the second film in what would prove to be an incredible franchise for Spielberg and its stars, so how did we miss the star?
By 1984, Dan was a huge name, but his English accent, teamed with the speed he delivered his lines, meant he went largely unnoticed as Art Weber. Want to spot him? Head to the airport scene where Indy and friends are trying to escape Shanghai. If you look closely, you can even spot George Lucas and Spielberg in the background!
Pulp Fiction might help to tie Steve Buscemi’s characters together in the Quentin Tarantino universe
- Movie: Pulp Fiction
- Release Year: 1994
- Forgotten Cameo: Steve Buscemi
When you think of the drama ‘Pulp Fiction,’ there’s a good chance Steve Buscemi isn’t the first name that comes to mind. After all, John Travolta and Uma Thurman long stole the show, especially during the pair’s Jack Rabbit Slim scene. Having all eyes on the duo meant most missed Steve working as the pair’s waiter.
Amazingly, it wasn’t the first time that Steve worked with director Quentin Tarantino, having previously appeared as Mr. Pink in the crime movie ‘Reservoir Dogs.’ As the films are both known to exist in the same universe, does that mean that Mr. Pink is hiding from the police as a waiter? Quite possibly, but we may never know.
John Cena ended up as Merman Ken after bumping into Margot Robbie at dinner
- Movie: Barbie
- Release Year: 2023
- Forgotten Cameo: John Cena
The WWE has seen a handful of its stars turn to acting, including the legend that is John Cena. While plenty might have an idea about the kind of movies you can expect from the wrestler, we bet the comedy ‘Barbie’ wasn’t on the list, right? Throughout the film, we get to see a host of Barbies brought to life.
Dua Lipa first brings Mermaid Barbie to life, but toward the end, we see John step - or should that be swim? - in as Merman Ken. Amazingly, it was an accident. ‘Barbie’ star Margot Robbie admitted she bumped into John, learned they were filming in the same studio, and simply asked if he wanted to be in the film.
Daniel Craig was hiding in plain sight during his cameo in Star Wars: The Force Awakens
- Movie: Star Wars: The Force Awakens
- Release Year: 2015
- Forgotten Cameo: Daniel Craig
Of course, if there’s one role we will always know Daniel Craig for, it’s his time as the super spy lead in the spy thriller franchise ‘James Bond.’ He’s the sixth star to bring 007 to life and has gone down as one of the greatest. He might have walked away from the franchise, but Daniel is far from retired.
Still, not many know that Daniel has also been known to make cameos in recent years, too. There’s a good reason you probably missed the actor when he appeared in 2015’s sci-fi film ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ - he was dressed as a Stormtrooper. He’s the one to keep watch over Rey (played by Daisy Ridley), not that you’d know.
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s musical talents resulted in a cameo in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker
- Movie: Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker
- Release Year: 2019
- Forgotten Cameo: Lin-Manuel Miranda
There’s a good reason that you might not instantly recognize the name Lin-Manuel Miranda. Still, there’s every chance you’ve heard his work before. As well as working as an actor and filmmaker, the star also writes soundtracks, including those for the Broadway musical ‘Hamilton’ and the animated films ‘Encanto,’ ‘Vivo,’ and ‘Moana.’ Amazingly, that’s not all.
Lin-Manuel has also worked on two ‘Star Wars’ movies so far, including 2019’s sci-fi hit ‘Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.’ As a result, Lin-Manuel got to make a cameo appearance toward the end of the movie as a Resistance trooper, right when the Resistance is celebrating the fact they’ve finally defeated the Final Order.
Neil Patrick Harris makes a Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle cameo as an exaggerated version of himself
- Movie: Harold & Kumar Go To White Castle
- Release Year: 2004
- Forgotten Cameo: Neil Patrick Harris
As if we needed more of an excuse to revisit the wonder that is 2004’s buddy comedy ‘Harold & Kumar Go To White Castle.’ The idea of the film is simple. Two friends - Harold and Kumar, played by John Cho and Kal Penn, respectively - use some narcotics and find themselves with the munchies before they set off on an adventure.
They might only be trying to get to White Castle, but they face a host of comical moments along the way. One comes in the form of bumping into Neil Patrick Harris, who plays an exaggerated version of himself in the film. Bonus fact: Ryan Reynolds also makes an appearance at one point as an operating room nurse.
Michael Caine was seemingly more than happy to lend his voice to a scene in Dunkirk
- Movie: Dunkirk
- Release Year: 2017
- Forgotten Cameo: Michael Caine
Most eyes were on Harry Styles when the war thriller ‘Dunkirk’ hit the big screen as it was the singer’s film debut. Of course, he wasn’t alone, with the likes of Tom Hardy, Cillian Murphy, and Kenneth Branagh all joining the lineup as director Christopher Nolan brought his latest vision to life. What about Michael Caine?
After all, it wouldn’t be a Nolan movie without Michael, and he does appear, but you have to listen closely. He’s not actually shown on screen, but you can hear his famous cockney accent when Jack Lowden and Tom Hardy receive a radio message. Apparently, the role was to honor Michael’s appearance in the 1969 war drama ‘Battle of Britain.’
Pete Davidson was hidden beneath layers of costumes during Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
- Movie: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
- Release Year: 2023
- Forgotten Cameo: Pete Davidson
Okay, there might be a reason you didn’t know that Pete Davidson appeared in 2023’s superhero movie ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.’ No, it’s not because of the all-star leading cast. No, it’s not because of the scenes that have us looking around for the person cutting onions. Instead, it’s the incredible makeup the comedian wore in the film.
Pete is no stranger to acting, but he really pulled it out of the bag when he appeared as one of the High Evolutionary’s guards, Phlektik. He even tried to arrest Groot and Peter at one point, but that’s not all. Director James Gunn took to social media to thank Pete, who “not only voiced but actually came to visit.”
Miley Cyrus was so loved that fans voted for her to make a cameo in High School Musical 2
- Movie: High School Musical 2
- Release Year: 2007
- Forgotten Cameo: Miley Cyrus
Name a more iconic Disney Channel star than Miley Cyrus. Okay, there might be some who are in the running, but the actress and musician has done incredible things with her career after getting her big break in the sitcom ‘Hannah Montana.’ Perhaps that’s why it’s little surprise she appeared in other Disney Channel creations?
One of those moments came in 2007 when Miley appeared in the background of the musical movie ‘High School Musical 2.’ The star had already risen to fame the previous year with her Disney Channel show, and it was the fans she earned here that saw them vote on who they wanted to see in the final pool party scene.
Sandra Bullock apparently begged Dolly Parton to make a cameo in Miss Congeniality 2
- Movie: Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous
- Release Year: 2005
- Forgotten Cameo: Dolly Parton
Sure, Sandra Bullock has been in a host of productions throughout her career, but it’s hard to find one quite like the action comedy ‘Miss Congeniality.’ In fact, it was so popular that it took just five years to get a sequel in the form of ‘Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous’ that hit the big screen in 2005.
During one hilarious scene, we see FBI Agent Gracie (played by Sandra Bullock) chase down and tackle a suspicious Dolly Parton impersonator, only to find out she’s the real legendary country musician! Apparently, Sandra wrote a letter and begged Dolly to take the part, but perhaps in an interesting twist, Dolly once entered a real look-alike contest - and lost.
Glenn Close was completely unrecognizable during her cameo in Hook
- Movie: Hook
- Release Year: 1991
- Forgotten Cameo: Glenn Close
Did you know there was a time when critics hated Steven Spielberg’s 1991 fantasy movie ‘Hook’? They accused the director of being at a low point in his career - with Spielberg agreeing - but fans felt differently. Now, the film has somewhat of a cult status, with plenty praising the likes of Robin Williams and Dustin Hoffman for their roles.
Still, one most people miss is Glenn Close. Yes, the legendary actress is the one behind all that hair and makeup. She has a small part, playing one of Hook’s pirates who is accused of betting against him luring Peter Pan back to Neverland. As a result, Glenn’s character gets thrown into the Boo Box - scorpions and all.
George Lucas and Carrie Fisher both made an unexpected appearance in Hook
- Movie: Hook
- Release Year: 1991
- Forgotten Cameo: George Lucas and Carrie Fisher
It turns out the fantasy movie ‘Hook’ was filled with more cameos than we might have realized. George Lucas and Steven Spielberg have famously worked together a host of times, most notably on the action-adventure ‘Indiana Jones’ franchise. Throw actress Carrie Fisher into the mix, and what do you get? An incredible blink-and-you-miss-it double cameo.
The pair are only in the movie for a moment during one particular scene. This happens when Tinker Bell is flying around, sprinkling her fairy dust, with George and Carrie playing a couple who suddenly start to float into the air as they kiss. It’s a brief cameo, but one that makes ‘Hook’ all the more interesting when you know.
You have to listen closely to hear Bradley Cooper’s cameo in 10 Cloverfield Lane
- Movie: 10 Cloverfield Lane
- Release Year: 2016
- Forgotten Cameo: Bradley Cooper
Millions of people were instantly gripped by the sci-fi horror ‘10 Cloverfield Lane’ when we learned just how mysterious the movie was set to be. After all, we knew little about the story, apart from the fact a woman - played by Mary Elizabeth Winstead - wakes up in a bunker with two men who tell her the Earth is now inhabitable.
It was the second movie in the franchise, but many were left wondering how Bradley Cooper could make an appearance if there were only three people locked in a bunker. The workaround? He’s the recent ex of Mary’s character on the phone. Apparently, producer J.J. Abrams was the one to get the actor on board.
David Beckham was easy to miss during his time in The Man from U.N.C.L.E.
- Movie: The Man from U.N.C.L.E.
- Release Year: 2015
- Forgotten Cameo: David Beckham
Director Guy Ritchie is no stranger to making a host of incredible movies, but one of his most underrated might be the spy thriller ‘The Man from U.N.C.L.E.’ The film saw some incredible names sign up to the adaptation, but one of the briefest cameos had people wondering if they could believe their eyes.
Yes, that really was soccer legend David Beckham bringing the Russian character to life. It wasn’t the last time they worked together, but it did mark David’s acting debut playing someone other than himself. Sadly, there was meant to be a sequel, but it’s never come, meaning we’ll likely never learn more about the brief character.
Matt Damon’s cameo in Thor: Ragnarok was kept top secret until the film’s release
- Movie: Thor: Ragnarok
- Release Year: 2017
- Forgotten Cameo: Matt Damon
If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that Marvel knows how to slip more than one cameo into its movies. After all, with so many superheroes and villains - and fans of the franchise - it might be little surprise that people want to get in on the action. Chris Hemsworth has done incredible things while bringing Thor to life.
That’s why the character has earned a host of his own movies, such as 2017’s superhero ‘Thor: Ragnarok.’ During one scene, we get to see Loki’s (played by Tom Huddleston) hilarious play about his triumphs and heroic sacrifice. Still, the guarded secret of it all was the fake Loki in the play was actually played by Matt Damon.
Luke Hemsworth was the perfect step-in for fake Thor in Thor: Ragnarok
- Movie: Thor: Ragnarok
- Release Year: 201
- Forgotten Cameo: Luke Hemsworth
It turns out 2017’s ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ was filled with more cameos than many of us ever realized, and we have the hilarious fake play scene to thank for it all. Sure, Chris Hemsworth might be the star of the film, but that didn’t mean there was no room left for his acting brother, Luke Hemsworth.
This time, it was Luke’s turn to play the part of fake Thor during the show, with the brothers’ likeness making for the perfect stand-in. Interestingly, this wasn’t the actor’s final time in the franchise, as Luke and Matt Damon reprised their cameos for 2022’s ‘Thor: Love and Thunder.’ Even better, actor Sam Neill is the one behind fake Odin.
High Fidelity’s dream sequence led to the perfect Bruce Springsteen cameo
- Movie: High Fidelity
- Release Year: 2000
- Forgotten Cameo: Bruce Springsteen
When you think of Bruce Springsteen, there’s a good chance you think of his musical career and not his acting credits. Still, it seems Bruce might have a sense of humor as he added something magical to the rom-com ‘High Fidelity’ in 2000. The film, loosely based on a novel by the same name, follows Rob (played by John Cusack).
During one scene, Rob wishes that he could handle all his past girlfriends just like Bruce does in his song ‘Bobby Jean.’ Of course, it made perfect sense that the musician would play himself in a dream sequence to give Rob the advice he needs to hear - all while playing some incredibly catchy guitar riffs.
Jim Carrey somehow makes a cameo in his own starring movie Liar Liar
- Movie: Liar Liar
- Release Year: 1997
- Forgotten Cameo: Jim Carrey
Okay, it might sound completely out there to have the star of the movie make a cameo, but that’s somehow precisely what happens with Jim Carrey and the comedy movie ‘Liar Liar.’ Cast your mind back to Fletcher Reede and the moment he gets injured at the airport, only for his family to shove through the crowd.
If you look in the background, you should spot a grinning firefighter hiding behind sunglasses who just so happens to be Fire Marshall Bill - played by Jim Carrey. The character is from the comedy series ‘In Living Color,’ which has us wondering how many other of Jim Carrey’s movies and shows seemingly exist in the same universe.
Stephen Colbert was a huge LOTR fan before his The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug cameo
- Movie: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug
- Release Year: 2013
- Forgotten Cameo: Stephen Colbert
If you’ve been paying attention, you might have noticed that comedian Stephen Colbert is a pretty big ‘Lord of the Rings’ fan. In fact, director and screenwriter - and the one behind the trilogy and the spin-off ‘Hobbit’ franchise - said Stephen is the biggest “Tolkien geek” he has ever met. Finally, Stephen got to join the fun in 2013.
The fantasy ‘The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug’ was filled with a host of background characters, which is why it was easy for Stephen to get lost in the background. Still, if you look closely, you might just spot the Lake-town spy, forever cementing Stephen’s time in one of his favorite franchises of all time.
Mike Myers’ cameo in Bohemian Rhapsody was a clever nod to his character in Wayne’s World
- Movie: Bohemian Rhapsody
- Release Year: 2018
- Forgotten Cameo: Mike Myers
Freddie Mercury will forever be one of the greatest singers of all time, with millions of people mourning the singer of Queen’s passing in the years since. That’s why so many were on the edge of their seats to watch 2018’s biographical drama ‘Bohemian Rhapsody,’ where Rami Malek brought Freddie back to life to tell the story of Queen’s rise.
During one scene, Mike Myers looks almost unrecognizable when he brings EMI Executive Ray Foster to life. That’s not all. His character’s line about the fact “no one is going to be head-banging” to Queen’s song ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ is actually a nod to his character, in fact, head-banging to the song in the comedy ‘Wayne’s World.’
Jimmy Buffett bought Margaritaville back to life in Jurassic World
- Movie: Jurassic World
- Release Year: 2015
- Forgotten Cameo: Jimmy Buffet
Of course, if there was a franchise that was going to get people excited, it was ‘Jurassic World.’ The initial sci-fi action franchise - ‘Jurassic Park’ - took the world by storm and has long been hailed as one of director Steven Spielberg’s greatest successes. When ‘Jurassic World’ came around, it was time for director Colin Trevorrow to step up.
Still, you really needed to be paying close attention in the blink-and-you-miss-it-moment that was Jimmy Buffet’s cameo. The ‘Margaritaville’ singer has turned his tune into a chain of successful restaurants and resorts, which is why it made perfect sense for Jimmy to team up with his long-term friend, producer Frank Marshall, and run from dinosaurs with the drinks in hand.
Kristen Wiig offered the perfect amount of comedy for her voice role in Her
- Movie: Her
- Release Year: 2013
- Forgotten Cameo: Kristen Wiig
On the surface, the sci-fi romantic drama ‘Her’ is about Theodore (played by Joaquin Phoenix) and Samantha (played by Scarlett Johansson). However, there is much more to the 2013 movie - and more characters - than it seems on the outside. Throughout the story, we follow Theodore as he falls in love with the AI voice of Samantha.
Before following his heart, Theodore decides to try and make a connection with other lonely souls, ultimately finding Kitten. Although things get off to a good start, they quickly take a turn when Kitten starts talking about cats who have lost their lives. Recognize her voice? You should, as it's none other than comedy actress Kristen Wiig.
Stan Lee was known for his cameos, but many missed him in Ralph Breaks the Internet
- Movie: Ralph Breaks the Internet
- Release Year: 2018
- Forgotten Cameo: Stan Lee
It's perhaps no secret by now that Stan Lee was a man known for his cameos. That's what happens when you're the leading force behind Marvel, with the creator appearing in a host of Marvel TV shows and movies throughout the years as all kinds of background characters. It turns out they're not all of Stan's cameos.
Having a movie filled with so many references and franchises meant it was only a matter of time before Marvel characters started to appear - and where there's Marvel, there's Stan Lee. While he might have been sporting a far squarer head than the one we're used to seeing, there's no denying it's Stan once you spot him in the crowd.
Bruce Campbell proves how far you can push cameos with his appearance in Fargo
- Movie: Fargo
- Release Year: 1996
- Forgotten Cameo: Bruce Campbell
If you want a movie cameo that’s sure to get your head in a spin, it might be time to rewatch 1996’s crime comedy ‘Fargo.’ After all, things get more than a little complicated when it comes to Bruce Campbell’s appearance in it all. Of course, the star is best known for his time as Ash Williams.
However, if you look closely at one scene in ‘Fargo,’ you might just spot him. In pure cameo-ception, Carl (played by Steve Buscemi) is biding his time in a cabin when he turns on a soap opera. Here, we briefly get to see Bruce, but the twist is it’s actually a scene from an extremely obscure project of the actor’s.
Cate Blanchett was a fan of Edgar Wright’s previous movies before her Hot Fuzz cameo
- Movie: Hot Fuzz
- Release Year: 2007
- Forgotten Cameo: Cate Blanchett
While some celeb cameos have us wondering how we missed them, others are a little more obvious when it comes to how they passed us by. The latter is most certainly the case for Cate Blanchett’s time in the action comedy movie ‘Hot Fuzz.’ After all, the actress was completely hidden during her cameo scene.
Apparently, director of it all, Edgar Wright, knew that Cate was a fan of his previous work with Simon Pegg and asked the actress if she would like to appear in the 2007 hit. The sneaky cameo comes when Cate steps up as Nicholas Angel’s (played by Simon Pegg) ex-girlfriend, Janine Jackson, hidden behind a crime scene suit and mask.
Elon Musk made perfect sense for a cameo with Tony Stark in Iron Man 2
- Movie: Iron Man 2
- Release Year: 2010
- Forgotten Cameo: Elon Musk
One thing plenty of Marvel fans know is that Iron Man is rich - and not just rich, richy rich rich. That’s why it made perfect sense for the billionaire behind the superhero, Tony Stark, to bump into real-life billionaire Elon Musk during one particular scene. In fact, the moment comes in the superhero movie ‘Iron Man 2.’
It’s a brief scene, which is why it’s so easy to forget that it even happens, but it’s definitely there. In the moment, Elon talks to Tony about recent projects, with the hero even complimenting Musk’s work on “Merlin engines.” The best bit? Musk is as complementary to Tony, telling him he’s got “an idea for an electric jet!”
Rita Ora was the one to bring Mia to life in the Fifty Shades franchise
- Movie: Fifty Shades of Grey, Fifty Shades Darker, and Fifty Shades Freed
- Release Year: 2015, 2017, and 2018
- Forgotten Cameo: Rita Ora
If there was ever a romantic movie franchise that got people talking, it was ‘Fifty Shades of Grey.’ The books became best-sellers across the world, with plenty wondering how they would translate to the big screen. Of course, not everyone was happy. Still, it did see some big names join the cast - and they weren’t just the stars.
One who often slips under the radar is Rita Ora, who brings Christian Grey’s sister, Mia, to life in all three movies. It might be little surprise that most don’t realize it’s the British singer. After all, Mia only has four lines in the first film - and even one of those is completely in French.
Garrett Morris landed a cameo in Ant-Man thanks to his time on Saturday Night Live
- Movie: Ant-Man
- Release Year: 2015
- Forgotten Cameo: Garrett Morris
When 2015’s superhero movie ‘Ant-Man’ hit the big screen, it was a real turning point for the hero. After all, it marked the Marvel hero’s first appearance in the MCU, with actor Paul Rudd ultimately bringing him to life. In one scene, we get to see Scott Lang - the man behind Ant-Man - take his new suit for a test drive.
The hero lands on a car that just so happens to be driven by Garrett Morris, but where’s the connection? Garrett is known for his run on ‘Saturday Night Live,’ where he once brought Ant-Man to life in a sketch called ‘Superhero Party.’ It might seem insignificant, but it was actually the first live portrayal of the character.
Lucy Lawless had previous experience working with Spider-Man director Sam Raimi
- Movie: Spider-Man
- Release Year: 2002
- Forgotten Cameo: Lucy Lawless
Plenty of people have brought Spider-Man to life, but just as many have directed the movies. Sam Raimi was in charge of 2002’s superhero ‘Spider-Man’ film and brought to life a scene of people sharing their thoughts about the hero. Here, one woman talks about her love of the idea of a man with eight hands. That person?
Lucy Lawless. The actress is best known for bringing the lead to life in the fantasy show ‘Xena: Warrior Princess’ which just so happened to be developed by Sam Raimi and co-created by Lucy’s husband, Robert Tapert. While there’s yet to be a Xena/Spidey crossover, we have our fingers crossed it’s not been written out just yet.
A cleverly worded email saw Channing Tatum join This Is the End in 2013
- Movie: This Is the End
- Release Year: 2013
- Forgotten Cameo: Channing Tatum
Channing Tatum was quickly on the up in 2013. After all, the buddy cop action movie ‘21 Jump Street’ had just come out the year before, and most people still saw the star as a model-turned-actor who was finding his path. That’s why so many were surprised to see him in the apocalyptic comedy horror ‘This Is the End.’
So, how did Channing end up playing someone’s intimate slave toward the end of the movie? That was simple. All it took was co-director, producer, and star of it all, Seth Rogan, to reach out with a cleverly worded email to get him on board. Thankfully, Channing agreed, and we got this hilarious scene as a result.
Tom Cruise was easy to miss during his time in Tropic Thunder
- Movie: Tropic Thunder
- Release Year: 2008
- Forgotten Cameo: Tom Cruise
Okay, this might be a bit of a stretch when it comes to the definition of a cameo, but it’s easy to forget that Tom Cruise was even in 2008’s satirical action comedy ‘Tropic Thunder,’ yet here he is. The movie is simple, with five stars finding themselves in the middle of a jungle at the hands of their director.
Sick of their antics, he drops them here to teach them a lesson, but he’s not the only hot-headed professional. Tom plays Les Grossman, the ill-tempered studio executive, with many thinking he’s loosely based on producer Scott Rudin. Of course, the bald cap, fat suit, and chest hair mean he’s pretty much unrecognizable in the role.
Wes Craven was known to pop up in many of his Scream movies
- Movie: Scream
- Release Year: 1996
- Forgotten Cameo: Wes Craven
Slashers had been around for a long time before ‘Scream’ came along in 1996, but the film took the genre and flipped it on its head. In fact, many have praised the movie for reenergizing slashers and bringing them back into popularity, thanks to its incredible twists and turns, but what about the people behind the scenes?
Wes Craven was the director of the first four movies in the franchise and truly threw himself into it all, appearing in the first three. During the initial ‘Scream,’ you might have noticed the Freddy Kruger-esque - another slasher icon - janitor at Woodsboro High named Fred. Yup, that was Wes almost foreshadowing what was about to happen to Principal Himbry.
There were more than just extras involved when it came to Ron Jeremy in Ghostbusters
- Movie: Ghostbusters
- Release Year: 1984
- Forgotten Cameo: Ron Jeremy
The supernatural comedy ‘Ghostbusters’ probably had no idea what it was giving the world back in 1984. What it did was create a beloved franchise that has been enjoyed and rebooted throughout the years. However, the original holds a special place in most people’s hearts as we get to see the chaos unfold in New York.
While most people were distracted by the containment unit going haywire, you might want to focus on the crowd. Sure, he looks just like another extra, but that bearded man is actually Ron Jeremy. The adult movie star even released a parody movie in 2011 named after ‘Ghostbusters,’ but has since been arrested following several assault claims.
No one expected Bill Murray to make a cameo in Zombieland
- Movie: Zombieland
- Release Year: 2010
- Forgotten Cameo: Bill Murray
If you're a fan of Bill Murray, you might have spotted the actor in his cameo role long before anyone else. Even so, the heavy makeup used in the apocalyptic comedy 'Zombieland' meant it was tougher than you might expect to recognize the star underneath it all. The best bit? No one was expecting the actor to appear.
In the film, we know the group is heading to Bill's house, but it's only when they arrive they realize he's been dressing as a zombie to try and blend in. Ultimately, the actor agrees to play a prank on the rest of the group, only for them to think he's a real zombie and end his life.
Bill Murray has a much easier-to-miss cameo in Dumb and Dumber To
- Movie: Dumb and Dumber To
- Release Year: 2014
- Forgotten Cameo: Bill Murray
It seems Bill Murray is much more of a movie cameo fan than we ever realized. Still, his time in the buddy comedy film ‘Dumb and Dumber To’ is a lot more subtle than some of his others. After all, it’s pretty hard to spot who is really behind a character when you can’t even see their face.
That was the case for Bill in the film, as he wore an entire hazmat suit, complete with face mask and gloves, when he moved in as Harry’s (played by Jeff Daniels) new roommate in the movie. Here, Bill, playing Ice Pick, had to keep covered due to his love of cooking up illegal substances.
Johnny Depp was the perfect option for a 21 Jump Street cameo
- Movie: 21 Jump Street
- Release Year: 2012
- Forgotten Cameo: Johnny Depp
When it comes to movie stars, it’s tough to find someone more iconic than Johnny Depp. After all, the actor is known to bring some of the most memorable characters to life, but did you know his career really got started as a TV actor? That’s right; the police procedural series ‘21 Jump Street’ really got his career going.
That’s why the star’s cameo in the 2012 buddy cop action movie ‘21 Jump Street’ was such a great one. Throughout the movie, Johnny plays the part of an undercover cop called Tom Hanson. We finally learn his identity toward the end of the film, really tying together the actor’s time with the beloved franchise.
Ian Brown made a cameo in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban as a bit of a joke
- Movie: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
- Release Year: 2004
- Forgotten Cameo: Ian Brown
It’s not uncommon for rock stars to become big-time movie actors, but that was never the case for Ian Brown. That’s right; The Stone Roses lead singer had a very brief cameo in one of the most famous franchises of all time: ‘Harry Potter.’ He actually appeared in the third of the fantasy movies, ‘The Prisoner of Azkaban.’
Here, Ian can be seen for four seconds making tea drinking look cooler than ever as he uses his magic to stir his cup while reading ‘A Brief History of Time’ by Stephen Hawking. Apparently, Ian has no intent on turning back to acting, admitting it all started as a joke because his wife and the director knew each other.
Keith Richards was actually the inspiration behind Jack Sparrow in Pirates of the Caribbean
- Movie: Keith Richards
- Release Year: 2007 and 2011
- Forgotten Cameo: Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End and Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides
When we think of Disney, there’s a good chance most of us picture one of the princesses or the feel-good stories the studios are so used to bringing to life. While the fantasy swashbuckler franchise ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ might have all the comedy we need, largely thanks to Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow, it’s also a lot darker.
The franchise has spawned five movies so far, including ‘At World’s End’ in 2007. Did you know that Jack Sparrow was actually based on Keith Richards, the guitarist from The Rolling Stones? That’s why he was the perfect person for the job when it came to casting the character’s father, Captain Teague, in the third and fourth movies.
David Bowie was no stranger to acting by the time Zoolander came around
- Movie: Zoolander
- Release Year: 2001
- Forgotten Cameo: David Bowie
Sure, he might forever be remembered for his time as a legendary musician, but David Bowie was no stranger to working in front of the camera. However, there’s one cameo that so many people forget from his career, and it’s largely because it was such an unexpected one to hit the big screen in 2001.
That’s right; we’re talking about the comedy ‘Zoolander.’ Who better to make a cameo as themselves to judge a walk-off between the two male models? Here, we get to see David put all his skills to good use as he ultimately challenges Hansel (played by Owen Wilson) and Derek Zoolander (played by Ben Stiller) to a competition of their own.
George Harrison was the one to save Monty Python’s Life of Brian from getting the chop
- Movie: Monty Python’s Life of Brian
- Release Year: 1979
- Forgotten Cameo: George Harrison
Even though Monty Python had two movies under their belt, it was 1979’s ‘Life of Brian’ that has long been praised as one of the most hilarious comedy films of all time. Believe it or not, but there was a time when it almost didn’t happen. Just days before production was meant to start, the movie studio got cold feet.
That’s when George Harrison stepped in. Yes, that George from the Beatles. He was apparently a huge fan of Monty Python and close with the stars, and it was George who convinced the studios to give the film a shot. Even more amazingly, George organized the $4 million (around $20 million in today’s money) they needed to film.
Cameron Diaz is almost impossible to spot in Minority Report
- Movie: Minority Report
- Release Year: 2002
- Forgotten Cameo: Cameron Diaz
Steven Spielberg has been behind some major movies, oftentimes roping in huge names in the business to bring his visions to life. That was the case for ‘Minority Report’ in 2002, with Tom Cruise, Colin Farrell, Samantha Morton, and Max von Sydow all signing up for the cyberpunk action movie. They weren’t the only ones.
Did you know Cameron Diaz makes an appearance in it all, too? Probably not - and we can’t blame you. After all, you don’t even see the actress’ entire face during her brief scene. Instead, Cameron remains mostly hidden as a businesswoman on a train. In fact, only eagle-eyed fans are likely to recognize her blonde locks.
Cameron Crowe earned a cameo in Minority Report thanks to his previous projects
- Movie: Minority Report
- Release Year: 2002
- Forgotten Cameo: Cameron Crowe
Just realized there is someone else in the ‘Minority Report’ scene with Cameron Diaz? Yup, the cyberpunk action film has two cameos in one during the actress’ scene, as she is joined by none other than director Cameron Crowe. It turns out there’s a good reason Cameron made it into the movie, and it’s all thanks to the year before.
Crowe was the one behind the sci-fi thriller ‘Vanilla Sky’ - starring Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz - and let Steven Spielberg make a cameo in the final result. It seems as a way to say thank you, Spielberg let the two stars join forces once more and become passengers in his latest project. Who would have thought?
Matt Damon wasn't even credited by his real name during his Deadpool 2 cameo
- Movie: Deadpool 2
- Release Year: 2018
- Forgotten Cameo: Matt Damon
Matt Damon is a name that's grown to reach millions across the world, but that doesn't always mean he's the star of the show. In fact, there are plenty of times when Matt is more than happy to make a cameo or two. That moment came in 2018 when the star appeared briefly in the superhero film 'Deadpool 2.'
Of course, you'd be forgiven for not recognizing the actor, who was sporting a larger frame and prosthetic nose for his brief appearance. Even in the credits, you won't see his name. Why? Matt is merely listed under the pseudonym "Dickie Greenleaf" in a nod to his time in 1999's psychological thriller ‘The Talented Mr. Ripley.’
Brad Pitt spends most of his time invisible in Deadpool 2
- Movie: Deadpool 2
- Release Year: 2018
- Forgotten Cameo: Brad Pitt
Brad Pitt’s got a face that most of us could recognize, right? After all, he’s not one of the most famous actors in Hollywood by accident - he has long shown the world the characters he can bring to life. However, if you blinked at any point in the superhero movie ‘Deadpool 2,’ there’s a good chance you missed his cameo.
That’s because Brad plays the part of a hero named Vanisher, who didn’t earn his name by accident. Instead, he can turn himself invisible and spends most of his time on screen doing just that. That’s until Vanisher is electrocuted, and we get to see his face for a brief second before it’s gone again. No, you weren’t imagining things.
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