Football, the beautiful game, has captured the hearts of millions on the pitch and made its mark in the world of cinema. Many football players have transitioned from the green field to the glitzy world of movies, leaving fans in awe of their versatile talents. This article explores some of the best football movies of all time and the football players who starred in movies.
The journey of football players turned actors has left a lasting impact on the film industry. From Ronaldo’s cameo in “The Simpsons” to Cantona’s breakthrough role in “Elizabeth,” these athletes have proven their ability to captivate audiences beyond the football field.
While some have found success in their acting careers, others have made memorable appearances in films, showcasing their versatility and leaving their mark on the silver screen. So, which soccer player has a movie? Here are football players who went on to become actors:
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Pele – “Pele: Birth of a Legend” (2016)
Recognized as one of the greatest football players in history, Pele took his talents to the silver screen with his role in the 1981 film “Escape to Victory,” and played in one of the best football films.
Alongside stars like Sylvester Stallone and Michael Caine, Pele showcased his acting skills as he played a pivotal part in a group of Allied prisoners of war who played an exhibition soccer match against the Germans.
It’s one of the best football movies of all time. Pele’s acting career extended beyond this film, appearing in movies such as “A Minor Miracle” and “Hotshot.”
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Vinnie Jones – Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels
Vinnie Jones, a former Wimbledon midfielder, is one of the most prolific footballers turned actors. With over 60 film roles to his name, Jones has made a name for himself in movies such as “Snatch,” “Mean Machine,” and “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels.”
His diverse range of characters, including Marvel’s Juggernaut in “X-Men: The Last Stand” and villain “Brick” in the DC series “Arrow,” solidify his status as a versatile actor.
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Ally McCoist: From Striker to the Silver Screen
Ally McCoist, a former Scottish forward, made his mark on the silver screen with his role in the 2000 film “A Shot at Glory.” McCoist portrayed Jackie McQuillan, a former Celtic player who joins forces with club manager Gordon McLeod, played by Robert Duvall, to lead the fictional team of Kilnockie FC to their first Scottish Cup final. McCoist’s portrayal of the hot-headed striker showcased his talent beyond the football pitch.
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Neymar: La Casa de Papel
While Neymar Jr. is primarily known for his football career, he also made a cameo appearance in the popular Spanish television series “Money Heist” (La Casa de Papel). In the show’s third season, Neymar plays the role of João, a monk who joins the gang for a heist at the Bank of Spain.
This unexpected cameo surprised fans and added an extra layer of excitement to the series. While Neymar is not a full-time actor, his appearance in “Money Heist” was a memorable moment for both his fans and followers of the show.
Neymar also made a cameo appearance in the action-packed film “xXx: Return of Xander Cage.” His brief role showcased his agility and charisma, earning him praise from fans.
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Eric Cantona – “Looking for Eric” (2009)
The enigmatic French footballer Eric Cantona wowed fans on and off the pitch. In “Looking for Eric,” Cantona plays a fictionalized version of himself who appears as a mentor to the film’s protagonist. The movie beautifully captures Cantona’s unique charisma and philosophy, making it a standout football-themed film.
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Cristiano Ronaldo: The Ronaldo
If you’re curious, what movie has a football player in it? This is the answer. While not a traditional movie role, Cristiano Ronaldo opened up his life to the cameras in the documentary “Ronaldo.” The film offers an intimate look at his career, family, and the sacrifices he’s made to become one of football’s greatest stars.
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David Beckham – King Arthur: Legend of the Sword
David Beckham, a household name in the football world, is one of the football players who starred in movies. He made his foray into acting with his appearance in the 2005 film “Goal!” This FIFA-licensed creation showcased Beckham’s cameo role, further solidifying his presence in popular culture.
While his acting career didn’t progress extensively, Beckham’s appearance in “Goal!” and his later role in “Bend It Like Beckham” demonstrated his ability to captivate audiences both on and off the field.
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French football phenomenon Zinedine Zidane made a memorable appearance on the small screen in an episode of “Family Guy.” Zidane’s infamous headbutt on Marco Materazzi during the 2006 World Cup final was humorously mocked in the episode “Saving Private Brian.”
While it is unclear if Zidane provided the voice for his animated character, the scene perfectly captured the essence of the football legend’s iconic moment in a lighthearted manner.
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Paul Breitner, a former West Germany defender, took on acting roles in German-language spaghetti westerns. In 1976, he starred in “Potato Fritz,” a film that might not have been on the radar of many viewers. However, Breitner returned to the screen in 1986 in the action film “Kunyonga – Mord in Afrika.”
While his acting career may not have matched his talents as a player, Breitner’s involvement in these films showcased his versatility beyond the football pitch.
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Ian Wright, an ex-Arsenal player, ventured into the world of movies with his role in “Gun of the Black Sun.” Although the film’s reception was less than stellar, Wright played his part well in advancing the storyline. However, it became evident that Wright’s talents were better suited for the realm of punditry rather than acting.
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Football players transitioning to acting is a testament to their versatility and a treat for fans. Whether portraying fictional characters or appearing as themselves, these athletes have left an indelible mark on cinema.
So, the next time you’re wondering what movie has a football player in it or looking for the best footballers on film, check out these cinematic gems. After all, football isn’t just a game; it’s a source of inspiration and entertainment that transcends the boundaries of the pitch and the silver screen.
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