Directors Who Started as Actors

As a total film buff, I’ve always been fascinated by actors who decide to direct. It seems like a really natural step for those who are creatively driven and want to have a bigger say in how a movie turns out. You often see these performers spending years on set, really soaking up everything about how films are made before they take the plunge. Because they’ve been the actor, they’re amazing at communicating with their cast and really understanding what it takes to deliver a great performance. I’ve put together a list of some really well-known guys who’ve made that jump from acting in front of the camera to calling the shots as a director.

Clint Eastwood

Clint Eastwood started his career as an actor in Western films, and later began directing. He became a highly acclaimed director with the award-winning film ‘Unforgiven.’ Known for his efficient approach, Eastwood often gets strong performances with just a few takes from his actors. For many years, he’s successfully balanced acting and directing, consistently producing a large body of work.

Ben Affleck

Ben Affleck first became well-known as an actor and writer, then transitioned into directing with the 2007 film ‘Gone Baby Gone.’ He established himself as a talented filmmaker with ‘Argo,’ which won an Academy Award for Best Picture. Affleck frequently stars in his own movies and also oversees the technical side of filmmaking. His films are praised for their compelling storytelling and distinctive visual look.

Bradley Cooper

Bradley Cooper established himself as a prominent actor in Hollywood before making his directorial debut with the 2018 film ‘A Star Is Born.’ The movie was critically acclaimed and highlighted his talent for directing both emotionally powerful scenes and musical numbers. He continued his success with ‘Maestro,’ a film about the life of Leonard Bernstein. Cooper is known for fully dedicating himself to every project, whether acting or directing.

Jordan Peele

Jordan Peele first became well-known as a funny performer on the shows ‘Mad TV’ and ‘Key and Peele’. He then surprised audiences with his first horror film, ‘Get Out’, which earned him an Academy Award for its screenplay. He followed this success with films like ‘Us’ and ‘Nope’, consistently blending social issues with thrilling suspense. Peele has skillfully moved from comedy to become a leading and highly respected voice in today’s horror films.

Ron Howard

Ron Howard began his entertainment career as a child, appearing in well-known TV series like ‘The Andy Griffith Show’ and ‘Happy Days’. He transitioned to directing in the late 1970s and went on to direct blockbuster films such as ‘Apollo 13’ and ‘A Beautiful Mind’. Known for his skill in handling different types of stories, from comedies to dramas, Howard is now widely regarded as one of Hollywood’s most dependable and accomplished directors.

Mel Gibson

Mel Gibson first became famous as an action movie star in films like ‘Mad Max’ and ‘Lethal Weapon’. He later transitioned to directing and even won an Academy Award for Best Director for his epic historical film, ‘Braveheart’, in which he also acted. He went on to direct visually powerful but often controversial movies such as ‘The Passion of the Christ’ and ‘Apocalypto’. His films as a director are known for their large scope and intense, often violent, scenes.

Kenneth Branagh

Kenneth Branagh is a highly skilled actor, originally trained in classical performance, who first became well-known for performing Shakespeare on stage and in films. He started directing with his adaptation of ‘Henry V’ and has since directed several other Shakespearean works. Beyond that, he’s directed big-budget films like ‘Thor’ and the live-action ‘Cinderella’. He often works with the same group of actors and prioritizes stories built around compelling characters.

Jon Favreau

Jon Favreau started his career as an actor and writer with the popular independent film ‘Swingers.’ He then transitioned into directing with ‘Made’ and played a key role in creating the Marvel Cinematic Universe by directing ‘Iron Man.’ More recently, Favreau has become a leader in using digital technology for filmmaking, as seen in his work on ‘The Jungle Book’ and ‘The Lion King.’ He continues to act while also directing major film franchises.

George Clooney

George Clooney first gained fame as a television actor on the show ‘ER’ and then became a leading film star. He later directed his first movie, ‘Confessions of a Dangerous Mind,’ and received praise for ‘Good Night, and Good Luck.’ As a director, Clooney often tackles important political and social issues with a polished and visually appealing style. He continues to be a significant presence in Hollywood, frequently producing and directing high-quality, serious dramas.

Robert Redford

Robert Redford was a major movie star throughout the 1900s, and later became a successful director. He won an Oscar for his first film as director, ‘Ordinary People,’ a story about a family coping with loss. Redford also created the Sundance Institute to help independent filmmakers and directed movies such as ‘A River Runs Through It.’ His films often explore connections between people and the importance of protecting the environment.

Danny DeVito

Danny DeVito is a well-loved comedic actor who first became famous on the TV show ‘Taxi’. He later started directing movies, beginning with the darkly funny ‘Throw Momma from the Train’ and continuing with ‘The War of the Roses’. DeVito’s films are known for their distinctive look and his clever, often unusual, sense of humor. He’s enjoyed a successful, long-lasting career as both an actor who can play many different roles and a skilled director.

Warren Beatty

As a film buff, I’ve always been fascinated by Warren Beatty. Before he started directing, he was already a huge star, both in front of and behind the camera as a producer. He actually won an Oscar for directing ‘Reds,’ a really ambitious historical drama – and he also wrote and starred in it! What’s interesting about Beatty is he’s a real perfectionist, and he doesn’t rush things; there are often long gaps between his films. A lot of his work as a director seems to really dig into what it means to be famous and the weight of historical events.

John Cassavetes

John Cassavetes was a working actor who earned enough money to finance his own films. He’s often called the founder of American independent cinema, known for movies like ‘Shadows’ and ‘A Woman Under the Influence.’ Cassavetes directed using a lot of improvisation, aiming for a very realistic and emotional feel. Today, many filmmakers still admire his commitment to artistic vision, even if it meant prioritizing creativity over making a lot of money.

Orson Welles

Orson Welles started his career as a popular performer on radio and the stage before moving to Hollywood. He quickly made a name for himself by writing and directing his first film, ‘Citizen Kane,’ which is often considered a cinematic masterpiece. Welles was a groundbreaking director, famous for his creative camera work and use of deep focus. Even though he faced difficulties with the Hollywood studio system, he continued to pursue challenging and ambitious film projects throughout his career.

Kevin Costner

Kevin Costner became a major movie star in the 1980s and 90s, and then surprised audiences by directing ‘Dances with Wolves.’ The film was a huge hit with both critics and audiences, winning seven Oscars, including the award for Best Director. Since then, Costner has directed other films, such as the Western ‘Open Range’ and his ambitious ‘Horizon’ project. He’s known for a directing style that often highlights classic American themes and the Western genre.

Woody Allen

Woody Allen began his career as a comedian and writer before becoming a well-known actor and director. Over the years, he’s directed more than fifty films and is famous for being incredibly productive. He won several Academy Awards for ‘Annie Hall,’ a film that changed the way romantic comedies were made. His movies are often marked by smart conversations and are frequently set in New York City.

Rob Reiner

Rob Reiner first became well-known as an actor, playing Michael Stivic in the popular sitcom ‘All in the Family’. He then moved into directing in the 1980s with the funny and influential film ‘This Is Spinal Tap’. He continued to direct several of the decade’s most beloved movies, including ‘The Princess Bride’ and ‘When Harry Met Sally’. Throughout his directing career, he’s successfully worked across many different types of films.

John Krasinski

John Krasinski first gained fame playing Jim Halpert in the American version of ‘The Office’. He then transitioned into directing, starting with smaller films before achieving widespread recognition with the successful horror movie ‘A Quiet Place’. He both directed and starred in ‘A Quiet Place’ with his wife, Emily Blunt, and also returned to direct the sequel. He’s now known as a director who can create incredibly suspenseful and emotionally engaging films.

Ben Stiller

Ben Stiller is a well-known comedic actor who began directing films early in his career. He’s known for directing popular comedies like ‘Reality Bites’ and ‘Zoolander’, and the successful action comedy ‘Tropic Thunder’. More recently, he’s earned praise for directing dramatic TV series, including ‘Severance’.

Jason Bateman

Jason Bateman started acting as a child and has been a familiar face on television ever since. He eventually moved behind the camera, first directing episodes of the shows he starred in, like ‘Arrested Development’ and ‘Ozark’, and later directing feature films such as the comedies ‘Bad Words’ and the drama ‘The Family Fang’. He’s known for his careful and detailed directing, and his talent for blending dark humor with more serious subjects.

Sean Penn

Sean Penn is a highly respected actor, famous for his powerful roles in movies like ‘Fast Times at Ridgemont High’ and ‘Mystic River’. He also directs films, starting with ‘The Indian Runner’ and later creating the well-received ‘Into the Wild’. Penn’s films often tell the stories of people who are outsiders or are on a journey to find meaning in their lives. His directing style is known for beautiful imagery and a deep exploration of his characters.

Sylvester Stallone

Sylvester Stallone rose to international fame after creating and starring in the original ‘Rocky’ movie. He went on to direct several of the ‘Rocky’ sequels, as well as films in the ‘Rambo’ series. Later, he directed ‘The Expendables,’ a popular action film that featured a cast of iconic action heroes. Stallone is highly regarded for his skill in directing big-budget action scenes and successfully managing long-running movie series.

Edward Norton

Edward Norton is a celebrated actor who also directs films. He first directed the romantic comedy ‘Keeping the Faith’ and later returned to directing with the complex noir drama ‘Motherless Brooklyn,’ which he also wrote and starred in. Norton is known for being very involved in all parts of making a movie, and his films show a passion for intricate stories and carefully crafted historical settings.

Tim Robbins

Tim Robbins is a talented actor known for memorable performances in films like ‘Bull Durham’ and ‘The Shawshank Redemption’. He’s also a director, having helmed the comedy ‘Bob Roberts’ and earning an Oscar nomination for ‘Dead Man Walking’. Robbins frequently selects projects that align with his values and address important social and political issues. He successfully continues to work as both an actor and director in theater and film.

Tom Hanks

Tom Hanks is a hugely popular and respected actor who has been working in film for many years. He first tried directing in 1996 with the delightful musical comedy ‘That Thing You Do!’ and later directed the romantic comedy ‘Larry Crowne’. He’s also directed episodes of acclaimed series like ‘Band of Brothers’. People often describe his directing as heartfelt and focused on telling stories through well-developed characters.

Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington is a highly acclaimed actor with two Academy Awards to his name. He started his directing career with the movie ‘Antwone Fisher’ and later directed ‘The Great Debaters’. He gained significant recognition as a director with his adaptation of the play ‘Fences’, in which he also acted. Washington is known for being a strong leader on set and for bringing out the best in his actors.

James Franco

James Franco is a very active actor who has also directed many independent films and documentaries. He’s known for bringing classic books, like those by William Faulkner and John Steinbeck, to the screen. He received praise for directing ‘The Disaster Artist,’ a film about the making of a famously bad movie. As a director, Franco likes to try out different approaches and explore a wide range of topics.

Jonah Hill

Jonah Hill first became known for his funny roles in movies, but he later showed he could also handle serious acting with films like ‘Moneyball’. He then directed his first movie, ‘Mid90s’, a realistic coming-of-age story that received a lot of positive attention. More recently, he made a documentary called ‘Stutz’ about his experiences with therapy. As his career progresses, Hill has said he’s increasingly interested in focusing on directing.

Taika Waititi

Taika Waititi started his career as a comedian and actor in New Zealand and later became a celebrated director. He first gained recognition with popular independent films like ‘What We Do in the Shadows’ and ‘Hunt for the Wilderpeople,’ then went on to work with Marvel. Waititi also won an Academy Award for his writing of ‘Jojo Rabbit,’ a film he directed and acted in as well. His films are known for their distinctive combination of funny moments and genuine emotion.

Zach Braff

Zach Braff is well known for playing the main character in the popular TV show ‘Scrubs’. He also wrote and directed the acclaimed film ‘Garden State’, which deeply resonated with a whole generation. Later, he successfully used crowdfunding to make his second film, ‘Wish I Was Here’. Braff continues to work as both an actor and a director, creating films and directing episodes for television.

Charlie Chaplin

Charlie Chaplin was a hugely popular actor and a leader in the early days of silent films. He soon started directing his own movies so he could have full control over how his stories were told. Chaplin created many classic films, like ‘City Lights’ and ‘Modern Times’, and is celebrated for his hilarious physical comedy and his talent for using humor to make people think about important social issues.

Harold Ramis

Harold Ramis started his career as a writer and performer on ‘SCTV’ and acted in beloved comedies like ‘Ghostbusters’. He then became a successful director, known for films like ‘Caddyshack’ and ‘National Lampoon’s Vacation’. Ramis is particularly remembered for directing ‘Groundhog Day’, a comedy often ranked among the best ever made. Through his directing, he played a key role in shaping American comedy during the eighties and nineties.

Peter Berg

Peter Berg began his career as an actor, appearing in shows like ‘Chicago Hope’ and several films. He later transitioned into directing, starting with the darkly comedic film ‘Very Bad Things’. He then became known for directing big-budget action movies, often collaborating with Mark Wahlberg on successful projects like ‘Lone Survivor’ and ‘Patriots Day’. Berg’s style is characterized by a gritty, realistic portrayal of action and military themes.

Michael Keaton

Michael Keaton is a remarkably adaptable actor known for his work in a wide range of films, including comedies and superhero movies. He’s also a director, having first directed and starred in the understated drama ‘The Merry Gentleman’. More recently, he directed ‘Knox Goes Away’, a biographical film about a man coping with a terminal illness. Keaton consistently chooses projects that let him utilize his skills as both an actor and a director.

Ralph Fiennes

Ralph Fiennes is a highly respected actor, famous for his performances in films like ‘Schindler’s List’ and the ‘Harry Potter’ movies. He’s also a director, starting with his adaptation of Shakespeare’s ‘Coriolanus’. He’s since directed ‘The Invisible Woman’ and ‘The White Crow’, both of which tell the stories of real people from history. His films are known for being visually beautiful and staying true to the original stories they’re based on.

Viggo Mortensen

Viggo Mortensen is a well-known actor, famous for his dedication to roles in films like ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘Eastern Promises’. He’s also a director, having made the family drama ‘Falling’, which focuses on the complex relationship between a son and his elderly father, and the Western ‘The Dead Don’t Hurt’, demonstrating his love for classic film genres. Often, Mortensen takes on many different responsibilities on his projects, including writing and composing the music.

Dev Patel

I have to say, Dev Patel really impressed me with ‘Monkey Man.’ After breaking out in ‘Slumdog Millionaire,’ he’s become a seriously respected actor, and this film marks an incredible debut behind the camera – he directed, co-wrote, and starred in it! What struck me most was the raw energy of the action, but it wasn’t just thrills; the film really delves into important social issues happening in India. You can tell this was a passion project for Patel – he spent years developing it – and honestly, I’m really excited to see what he does next as a filmmaker. He’s definitely one to watch.

Andy Serkis

Andy Serkis is known for his groundbreaking work as a performance capture actor, notably in films like ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘Planet of the Apes’. He then transitioned into directing, starting as a second unit director on ‘The Hobbit’ trilogy before directing his own films. These include the drama ‘Breathe’, the action sequel ‘Venom: Let There Be Carnage’, and a reimagining of ‘Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle’ for Netflix.

Bryan Cranston

Bryan Cranston is a highly successful actor, famous for his roles in ‘Malcolm in the Middle’ and ‘Breaking Bad’. He’s expanded into directing, starting with episodes of his own shows and later directing the film ‘Last Chance’. He’s also directed popular series like ‘Modern Family’ and ‘The Office’, earning a reputation for his understanding of filmmaking and his strong collaborations with actors.

Steve Buscemi

Steve Buscemi is a highly respected actor, especially known for his work in independent films and his frequent collaborations with directors like the Coen brothers and Quentin Tarantino. He began directing with the film ‘Trees Lounge,’ a story loosely based on his own experiences growing up. Since then, he’s directed several films and episodes of popular TV shows such as ‘The Sopranos.’ His directing, like his acting, often centers on unusual characters and relatable, human-focused narratives.

Philip Seymour Hoffman

Philip Seymour Hoffman was considered one of the best actors of his generation. Before becoming a film director with ‘Jack Goes Boating’, he had already directed plays on stage. The film was based on a play he’d previously acted in, and it highlighted his talent for realistic and moving character studies. Hoffman was celebrated for his commitment to acting and his ability to deliver authentic performances.

Forest Whitaker

Forest Whitaker is an acclaimed actor who won an Academy Award for his roles in films like ‘The Last King of Scotland’ and ‘Bird’. Beyond acting, he’s also a successful director, known for movies such as ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and ‘Hope Floats’, as well as the TV movie ‘First Daughter’. He’s also a producer who supports other filmmakers. Whitaker is particularly skilled at directing groups of actors and crafting stories that deeply connect with audiences.

Liev Schreiber

As a real cinema fan, I’ve always admired Liev Schreiber – he’s just so incredibly versatile. Most people probably know him from his powerful performance in ‘Ray Donovan’, but he’s a fantastic stage actor too. What I didn’t know until recently was that he also directed a film! He adapted ‘Everything Is Illuminated’ with Elijah Wood, and it was really something special – beautifully shot and managed to be both funny and heartbreaking. He seems to be focusing on acting now, which is great, but he’s definitely proven himself as a talented all-rounder in the industry.

Ethan Hawke

Ethan Hawke is a well-known actor and writer who has been a consistent presence in American films since he first appeared in ‘Dead Poets Society’. Beyond acting, he’s also a director, with films like ‘Chelsea Walls’ and the documentary ‘Seymour An Introduction’ to his credit. His more recent work includes directing ‘Blaze’, a biographical film about a country music artist. Additionally, Hawke co-founded a theater company and often directs plays.

John Turturro

John Turturro is a highly respected actor who often works with acclaimed directors and is celebrated for playing memorable, distinctive characters. He’s also a director himself, having started with the award-winning film ‘Mac’ at the Cannes Film Festival. He went on to direct the musical comedy ‘Romance and Cigarettes’ and ‘The Jesus Rolls’. His films are known for their unusual music and vivid settings.

Stanley Tucci

Stanley Tucci is a popular and versatile actor known for his roles in many movies and TV shows. He’s also a director, and gained recognition for co-directing and starring in the critically acclaimed film ‘Big Night,’ a favorite among independent movie fans. Since then, he’s directed other films like ‘The Impostors’ and ‘Final Portrait,’ and is celebrated for his refined style and talent for crafting engaging stories focused on interesting characters.

Tommy Lee Jones

I’ve always been captivated by Tommy Lee Jones – he’s such a powerful and distinctive actor, and that Oscar was well-deserved! Beyond his incredible performances in films like ‘The Fugitive,’ I admire that he’s a gifted director too. He started with ‘The Good Old Boys’ for television, and then really made a statement with ‘The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada.’ I especially loved ‘The Homesman’ – it was a really unique and moving Western. You can really feel his passion for the American West and its history in all his directorial work; it’s a recurring theme that clearly fascinates him.

Emilio Estevez

Emilio Estevez first became well-known as a member of the ‘Brat Pack’ in the 1980s. He later transitioned into writing and directing, starting with the comedy ‘Wisdom.’ He gained critical praise for the drama ‘Bobby’ and also directed and starred in the popular independent film ‘The Way,’ which tells the story of a journey in Spain. Today, Estevez continues to work on projects that examine history and characters undergoing personal change.

Gene Kelly

Gene Kelly was a huge star during Hollywood’s musical heyday, famous for his amazing dancing and the way he created dance numbers. He often helped direct his own films to make sure the music and dance felt like a natural part of the story. He famously co-directed the classic film ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ with Stanley Donen. Even today, Kelly is considered a major influence on movie musicals and filmmaking.

Laurence Olivier

Laurence Olivier was a hugely popular and influential actor in both theater and film during the 1900s. He successfully directed and starred in several film adaptations of Shakespeare’s plays, notably ‘Henry V’ and ‘Hamlet,’ winning an Academy Award for both Best Picture and Best Actor for his ‘Hamlet’ work. Olivier is celebrated for making classic plays feel more like movies and for his incredible acting skills.

Please share which of these actor turned directors has made your favorite movie in the comments.

2026-01-14 14:21