We all have our favorite actors, the ones we eagerly follow when they announce their newest roles.
But whose face seems to constantly pop up in Hollywood blockbusters or hit TV series?
If you guessed Tom Hanks, Morgan Freeman, Robert De Niro, or Julia Roberts, you’d be mistaken.
While these stars boast impressive resumes, they don’t even crack the top ten.
Hollywood churns out thousands of movies and TV shows annually, making it one of the busiest industries in the world and requiring an extensive pool of performers.
While many actors work tirelessly, some have left an unparalleled legacy with an extraordinary number of acting credits.
30. Bette Davis
Bette Davis, born Ruth Elizabeth Davis in 1908, remains one of Hollywood’s Golden Age legends.
Spanning nearly 50 years, her career featured 124 acting credits, showcasing her versatility in various genres and her mastery of portraying sharp, cold characters.
Davis debuted in Bad Sister (1931) and became iconic for roles in All About Eve (1950) and What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? (1962). She won two Oscars, for Dangerous (1935) and Jezebel (1938), solidifying her legacy.
29. Nicolas Cage
Born Nicolas Kim Coppola in 1964, Nicolas Cage carved his path in Hollywood by stepping out of his famous family’s shadow.
Nicolas Cage, ‘Leaving Las Vegas’ (Best Actor, 1995) #Oscars #oscarsclip pic.twitter.com/t0QuwAgINu
— oscarsclip 🎀 (@oscarsclip) March 20, 2022
Cage, the Best Actor Oscar winner for Leaving Las Vegas (1995), became one of the ’90s top stars with hits like Con Air (1997) and Face/Off (1997).
With 125 credits and recent standout performances like The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent (2022), Cage remains as industrious as ever.
28. Robert Mitchum
Robert Mitchum, a pillar of classic noir cinema, rose to fame in the 1940s and earned acclaim for his Oscar-nominated performance in The Story of G.I. Joe (1945).
Known for roles in River of No Return and The Night of the Hunter, Mitchum’s 132 credits solidified him as one of Hollywood’s Golden Age stars.
27. Myrna Loy
Myrna Loy was a versatile star of Hollywood’s Golden Age, famed for her effortless ability to adapt to various genres and styles.
Born in Helena, Montana, she shone brightest in the 1940s with hits like The Best Years of Our Lives and The Thin Man series. Known for her poise and charm, she became a household name despite never earning an Oscar nomination.
Her roles alongside acting legends like Cary Grant and William Powell solidified her reputation as one of cinema’s most beloved stars.
Loy’s on-screen charisma and ability to balance drama and comedy earned her 141 acting credits in an illustrious career spanning several decades.
26. Robert Duvall
Robert Duvall began his career with a memorable debut as Boo Radley in To Kill a Mockingbird (1962), a performance that hinted at the greatness to come.
Over his career, Duvall earned acclaim for his nuanced portrayals of complex characters, often in collaboration with iconic directors like Francis Ford Coppola in The Godfather series and Apocalypse Now.
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Duvall won an Academy Award for Best Actor in Tender Mercies and has consistently delivered compelling performances in films like The Judge and Open Range. With 146 acting credits, he has become one of the most respected actors in Hollywood history.
25. Jackie Chan
Jackie Chan, a global icon, has revolutionized action cinema with his innovative stunts and comedic timing.
Born in Hong Kong, Chan began his career at just eight years old, quickly becoming a staple in martial arts films.
His breakout came with the Police Story franchise, and his international fame soared with Hollywood hits like Rush Hour and Shanghai Noon. Chan’s exceptional work ethic and talent earned him numerous accolades, including an honorary Oscar in 2016.
His influence on action and comedy cinema remains unmatched, and with 152 acting credits, he continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
24. Anthony Hopkins
Anthony Hopkins celebrated for his commanding screen presence, gained worldwide recognition as Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs, a role that earned him an Academy Award.
Known for portraying complex and often dark characters, Hopkins has delivered unforgettable performances in films like Bram Stoker’s Dracula and The Remains of the Day.
Despite his success in Hollywood, he has maintained a strong connection to his Welsh roots.
With 154 acting credits, including recent roles in The Father (2020) and Rebel Moon (2023), Hopkins shows no signs of slowing down, continuing to challenge and inspire.
23. Shelley Winters
Shelley Winters, one of Collywood’s most celebrated actresses, demonstrated her immense range in a career spanning six decades.
Beginning on Broadway before transitioning to film, Winters gained recognition with A Double Life (1947) and quickly became a box-office favorite.
She excelled in emotionally intense roles, winning two Academy Awards for The Diary of Anne Frank and A Patch of Blue. With memorable performances in Lolita and The Poseidon Adventure, Winters solidified her place among Hollywood’s greats.
Despite her stardom, she consistently embraced roles that showcased her versatility, amassing 163 acting credits.
22. Susan Sarandon
Susan Sarandon, an enduring force in Hollywood, has delivered powerful performances in a career spanning over five decades.
After her breakthrough role in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, she became a leading figure in films like Thelma & Louise, The Client, and Dead Man Walking, the latter earning her an Academy Award.
Known for her fearless choice of roles and advocacy for social causes, Sarandon remains a respected figure in the industry.
With 172 acting credits and recent work in Blue Beetle (2023), she continues to inspire audiences and actors alike.
21. Ray Milland
Ray Milland, a versatile actor and director, gained widespread acclaim for his Oscar-winning performance in The Lost Weekend (1945), a harrowing portrayal of alcoholism.
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Starting his career in British cinema, Milland transitioned to Hollywood, where he starred in classics like The Uninvited and Alfred Hitchcock’s Dial M for Murder.
Known for his charm and ability to adapt to a variety of genres, including thrillers, dramas, and comedies, Milland appeared in over 175 films.
His contributions to Hollywood spanned decades, making him a revered figure in classic cinema.
20. Michael Caine
Michael Caine, a two-time Academy Award winner, has built one of the most consistent and diverse careers in Hollywood. Known for his distinctive Cockney accent, Caine’s breakout role in Alfie (1966) established him as a leading man.
His ability to seamlessly transition between serious dramas like The Cider House Rules and blockbusters like The Dark Knight trilogy has made him a cinematic icon.
With 177 acting credits, including recent films like The Great Escaper (2023), Caine’s presence in Hollywood remains as dynamic as ever.
19. James Earl Jones
James Earl Jones, known for his powerful voice and commanding presence, has delivered unforgettable performances in a career spanning six decades.
Best known as the voice of Darth Vader in Star Wars and Mufasa in The Lion King, Jones also excelled in live-action roles like Field of Dreams and Coming to America.
As we all grieve the immense loss of actor James Earl Jones (Star Wars, The Lion King), I wanted to celebrate one his funnier milestones, reading Letterman’s best Top Ten List, reciting commercial jingles with his spectacular, powerful, booming voice. #RIPJamesEarlJones pic.twitter.com/7OCHlV7hrv
— Courtney Howard (@Lulamaybelle) September 9, 2024
His rich baritone has made him one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures. With 190 acting credits, Jones has left an indelible mark on both stage and screen, earning numerous accolades for his work.
18. Donald Sutherland
Donald Sutherland, with his towering presence and undeniable talent, has been a cinematic staple for decades.
Beginning his career in bit parts, Sutherland’s breakthrough came in The Dirty Dozen (1967) and MASH* (1970), where he showcased his versatility.
Known for his ability to transform into diverse roles, he played the menacing President Snow in The Hunger Games series, earning a new generation of fans.
With 200 acting credits, including his recent role in Miranda’s Victim (2023), Sutherland remains one of Hollywood’s most enduring talents.
17. Danny Glover
Danny Glover’s career, spanning over 35 years, has been defined by his compelling performances and his commitment to social activism.
His breakout role in Places in the Heart (1984) established him as a force to be reckoned with, but it was his role as Roger Murtaugh in the Lethal Weapon series that cemented his place in Hollywood.
Glover’s versatility shines in projects ranging from The Color Purple to The Last Black Man in San Francisco.
With 205 acting credits, Glover continues to deliver heartfelt performances and advocate for change.
16. Vincent Price
Vincent Price, the master of horror, captivated audiences with his distinctive voice and commanding presence.
Known for his chilling performances in films like House of Wax and The Fly, Price was also a skilled actor in dramas such as Laura.
His collaborations with directors like Roger Corman led to a series of successful Edgar Allan Poe adaptations, further solidifying his status in cinema history.
Even in his later years, he appeared in notable films like Edward Scissorhands, bringing his total credits to 210.
15. Samuel L. Jackson
Samuel L. Jackson, one of Hollywood’s most recognizable and prolific actors, has a career that spans over five decades.
Known for his sharp wit and commanding presence, Jackson became a household name with films like Pulp Fiction, earning him an Oscar nomination.
As Nick Fury, he became a cornerstone of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, appearing in multiple films and Disney+ series.
With 215 acting credits, Jackson’s consistent work ethic and unmatched charisma have solidified his legacy in film history.
14. Louis Gossett Jr.
Louis Gossett Jr. rose to prominence with his Oscar-winning role as Gunnery Sergeant Foley in An Officer and a Gentleman.
A trailblazer for African-American actors, Gossett earned recognition early on with his role in Roots (1977), which won him an Emmy.
With a career spanning over six decades, he has consistently brought depth to his roles in films like Toy Soldiers and the recent The Color Purple (2023).
His impressive 211 acting credits highlight his enduring talent and dedication to storytelling.
13. Robert Loggia
Robert Loggia, with his gruff voice and commanding screen presence, appeared in a wide range of films across a career spanning six decades.
@ed_collects The Life and Death of Robert Loggia #robertloggia #legend #actor #talented #gonetoosoon #sad #scarface #franklopez ♬ original sound – Ed Collects
Known for standout roles in Scarface and Big, he seamlessly transitioned between dramas, thrillers, and comedies.
His role in Independence Day cemented his place as a beloved character actor. With 234 acting credits, Loggia’s versatility and dedication made him one of Hollywood’s most prolific performers.
12. Ward Bond
Ward Bond was one of Hollywood’s most reliable supporting actors, known for his rugged demeanor and strong screen presence.
Often cast as cowboys, lawmen, or military figures, Bond became a staple in Westerns and collaborated frequently with John Ford in classics like The Searchers and The Quiet Man.
Bond also had memorable roles in non-Westerns like It’s a Wonderful Life and The Maltese Falcon.
With 278 acting credits, Bond’s career cemented his place as a dependable figure in Hollywood’s Golden Age.
11. Michael Ironside
Michael Ironside is known for his intense performances and distinctive voice, often portraying tough, authoritative characters.
With standout roles in Scanners and Total Recall, he became a prominent figure in science fiction and action films.
Ironside’s versatility allowed him to balance big-budget hits like Top Gun with character-driven roles in films like The Machinist.
With 285 acting credits and continuous work, Ironside remains a prolific presence in film and television.
10. Christopher Lee
Sir Christopher Lee was a master of portraying villains and larger-than-life characters.
His portrayal of Count Dracula in Hammer Horror films made him an international star, while his later work in The Lord of the Rings and Star Wars introduced him to new generations. Known for his commanding presence, Lee also appeared in Tim Burton’s films and was a trained opera singer.
With 288 acting credits, Lee’s career spanned decades and genres, leaving a monumental legacy.
9. Mickey Rooney
Mickey Rooney’s career spanned nearly a century, making him one of Hollywood’s most enduring stars.
From his early success as a child actor in the Andy Hardy series to his later roles in films like Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Night at the Museum, Rooney’s versatility and charisma were unmatched.
He received multiple Academy Award nominations and worked across film, television, and stage. With 344 acting credits, Rooney’s incredible career remains a testament to his talent and work ethic.
8. Gertrude Astor
Gertrude Astor was a prolific actress who transitioned seamlessly from silent films to the sound era.
Known as “The Queen of the Hollywood Extras,” Astor appeared in countless films, often playing supporting or background roles that added depth to the stories.
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Her career spanned decades, with appearances in classics like All About Eve and The Sound of Music.
With 350 acting credits, Astor’s contributions to cinema exemplify the dedication of character actors.
7. John Carradine
John Carradine was a legendary character actor with a distinctive look and voice.
A frequent collaborator of John Ford, Carradine appeared in classics like Stagecoach and The Grapes of Wrath. He was also a prominent figure in the horror genre, starring in House of Dracula and The Howling.
Known for his theatrical background and Shakespearean performances, Carradine amassed 354 acting credits in a career that spanned over six decades.
6. Richard Riehle
Richard Riehle is one of Hollywood’s most familiar faces, often recognized for his warm, everyman persona.
He has consistently delivered scene-stealing performances in both film and television.
From his comedic role as Tom Smykowski in Office Space to more dramatic parts in Fried Green Tomatoes and The Man from Earth, Riehle’s versatility shines through.
With 435 acting credits, he has worked on countless projects across genres, continuing to appear in movies and TV shows well into his career.
5. Danny Trejo
Danny Trejo’s incredible life journey—transitioning from incarceration to becoming a prolific actor—makes him one of the most unique figures in Hollywood.
Often cast as a tough, tattooed anti-hero or villain, Trejo found fame with roles in Robert Rodriguez films like Desperado and Machete.
Trejo’s career spans action, comedy, and even family films, like Spy Kids. With 468 acting credits, his impressive work ethic and distinct presence have made him an enduring Hollywood icon.
4. James Hong
James Hong is a legend in Hollywood, known for his extraordinary career spanning over 70 years.
With roles ranging from serious dramas like Chinatown to beloved comedies like Airplane!, Hong has proven his versatility time and again.
His voice acting in Kung Fu Panda and his acclaimed role in Everything Everywhere All at Once further showcase his remarkable talent.
With 463 acting credits, Hong’s prolific contributions have earned him a place among the most hardworking actors in history.
3. Harry Strang
Harry Strang was a character actor who excelled in Westerns, often playing authority figures like sheriffs and lawmen.
With a career that spanned three decades, Strang appeared in numerous films and serials, adding depth to stories with his reliable performances.
From The Ghost Walks to Silver River, Strang’s presence was a staple of Hollywood’s classic era.
Amassing 520 acting credits, he exemplifies the hardworking spirit of character actors from the studio system era.
2. Eric Roberts
Eric Roberts, known for his dynamic performances, is one of the most prolific actors of all time.
Starting with his breakthrough in King of the Gypsies (1978), Roberts has maintained an astonishing pace, appearing in films across genres.
Notable performances in Runaway Train, The Dark Knight, and The Expendables showcase his range.
With over 851 acting credits and still counting, Roberts has become synonymous with versatility and dedication in Hollywood.
1. Bess Flowers
Bess Flowers, known as “The Queen of the Hollywood Extras,” holds the record for the most acting credits in film history.
Appearing in over 1,000 films, Flowers was often seen in uncredited roles as a party guest, socialite, or background character.
Her presence in iconic films like All About Eve and It Happened One Night made her a familiar face in classic Hollywood cinema.
Flowers’ unparalleled 1,045 acting credits represent an extraordinary career and dedication to the art of film.
For a closer look at the top earners in Hollywood, check out our list of the 10 highest-paid actresses.