Actors Who Have Written Best-Selling Books or Scripts

Hollywood is known for its incredibly talented people, and many actors aren’t just performers – they’re also writers. A surprising number of male actors have become successful authors and screenwriters, sometimes even achieving as much recognition for their writing as for their acting. They’ve proven their storytelling abilities with everything from gripping thrillers and personal memoirs to scripts that have won Academy Awards. This highlights the literary and screenwriting accomplishments of well-known actors who have made a significant impact in both the publishing and film worlds.

Ethan Hawke

Ethan Hawke began building his reputation as a writer early in his career with the publication of his novel, ‘The Hottest State,’ in 1996. The book was popular with readers and was later made into a film that Hawke himself directed. He followed up with ‘Ash Wednesday’ in 2002, which critics praised for its beautiful writing and emotional impact. In addition to novels, Hawke has been nominated for Academy Awards for his screenwriting work on the films ‘Before Sunset’ and ‘Before Midnight.’ He continues to be a successful actor while also writing graphic novels and essays.

Wentworth Miller

Wentworth Miller, famous for playing Michael Scofield in ‘Prison Break’, secretly wrote the screenplay for the film ‘Stoker’. He used the name Ted Foulke when he first submitted the script, wanting it to be evaluated based on its quality, not his celebrity. The script gained recognition in 2010 when it appeared on the Black List, a highly respected list of top unproduced screenplays. ‘Stoker’ was eventually made into a movie in 2013, starring Nicole Kidman and Mia Wasikowska. Miller has also written the screenplay for the horror film ‘The Disappointments Room’.

Hugh Laurie

Hugh Laurie is famous worldwide for playing Dr. House, but he’s also a successful author. His novel, ‘The Gun Seller,’ published in 1996, became an international bestseller. It’s a funny and exciting spy thriller about a former soldier involved in a complicated international plot. Critics loved the book’s clever humor and how it playfully parodied the thriller genre, often comparing it to the writing of P.G. Wodehouse. Throughout his comedy career in Britain, Laurie has also written scripts for television. This literary achievement remains an important aspect of his career beyond acting.

Gene Hackman

I was so surprised and impressed to learn that after retiring from acting, Gene Hackman became a novelist! He didn’t just try it, he really succeeded, especially writing historical fiction. He teamed up with Daniel Lenihan for a few books, like the exciting sea adventure ‘Wake of the Perdido Star’. Then, he started writing on his own, with ‘Payback at Morning Peak’, a Western everyone praised for feeling really authentic. He even showed he could do different genres with the thriller ‘Pursuit’ a couple of years later. It’s amazing to see how he’s become a respected author, and his books are always so detailed and gritty – you can tell he really does his research!

Justin Theroux

Justin Theroux is a successful screenwriter known for his work on popular comedies and big-budget films. He co-wrote the hit movie ‘Tropic Thunder’ and contributed to the ‘Iron Man 2’ screenplay, helping to build the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He’s also written for films like ‘Rock of Ages’ and ‘The Lego Ninjago Movie.’ Even though he often acts, Theroux continues to be a key writer in Hollywood.

Steve Martin

Steve Martin is famous for both his incredible acting career and his success as an author. He’s written several popular books, including the best-selling novella ‘Shopgirl,’ which he later turned into a movie. His novel ‘The Pleasure of My Company’ was praised for its sensitive look at mental health and feeling isolated. Martin’s memoir, ‘Born Standing Up,’ is highly regarded as one of the best books ever written about the art of stand-up comedy. He’s also a successful playwright, with plays like ‘Picasso at the Lapin Agile’ to his credit.

David Duchovny

David Duchovny, best known for ‘The X-Files,’ has also become a successful novelist. His first book, ‘Holy Cow: A Modern-Day Dairy Tale,’ was published in 2015 and quickly became a New York Times bestseller. He’s since written other novels like ‘Bucky F*cking Dent’ and ‘Miss Subways,’ which are known for their quirky mix of magical elements and dark humor. Through his writing, Duchovny often delves into themes of identity and what it means to be American. In addition to writing novels, he’s also directed several episodes of ‘The X-Files’.

Tom Hanks

Tom Hanks surprised many by becoming an author, first with a collection of short stories called ‘Uncommon Type’ in 2017. All seventeen stories in the book share a common thread: a typewriter. The collection sold well and critics praised its heartwarming feel and focus on interesting characters. In 2023, Hanks released his debut novel, ‘The Making of Another Major Motion Picture Masterpiece,’ which offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of filmmaking across many years of American history.

Jim Carrey

In 2020, Jim Carrey surprised readers with his novel, ‘Memoirs and Misinformation,’ a unique and personal work he wrote with Dana Vachon. The book quickly became a New York Times bestseller. It’s a blend of Carrey’s life story, fictional events, and satire, offering a critical look at fame, the entertainment industry, and what gives life meaning. Reviewers praised its bold ambition and how it showcased Carrey’s growth as an artist.

Billy Bob Thornton

Billy Bob Thornton accomplished something special when he won an Oscar in 1997 for writing the screenplay for ‘Sling Blade.’ He not only wrote the script – which he originally performed as a one-man play – but also directed and acted in the movie. This launched him to fame as a talented actor and writer. Throughout his career, Thornton has continued writing screenplays, frequently exploring Southern Gothic settings and deeply developed characters. His work is celebrated for its realistic dialogue and raw emotional power.

James Franco

James Franco is a well-known actor who also dedicates time to writing and studying. He’s published several books, including the short story collection ‘Palo Alto,’ which was later made into a movie about the challenges faced by teenagers. His writing often focuses on young people, feelings of being an outsider, and the hidden struggles within seemingly perfect communities. He also wrote the novel ‘Actors Anonymous,’ inspired by his life in Hollywood, and has written and directed several independent films.

Sean Penn

I have to say, Sean Penn really surprised me when he jumped into the world of novels with ‘Bob Honey Who Just Do Stuff’ back in 2018. It’s a wildly satirical story about a guy who’s both an assassin and sells septic tanks – talk about a strange combination! It definitely got people talking, not just for the bizarre premise, but for Penn’s unique writing style and his pretty pointed political observations. He followed it up with ‘Bob Honey Sings Jimmy Crack Corn,’ and while critics were pretty divided on both books, they actually sold really well. It’s clear Penn has established himself as a writer who isn’t afraid to push boundaries and stir things up, and I’m definitely curious to see what he does next.

Jesse Eisenberg

Jesse Eisenberg is a talented writer and playwright, famous for his clever and often anxious style. He first gained recognition as an author with his 2015 short story collection, ‘Bream Gives Me Hiccups,’ which was praised by both critics and readers. He’s also written successful plays like ‘The Revisionist’ and ‘The Spoils,’ which were well-received off-Broadway. His work frequently explores the worries and inner thoughts of people today. More recently, he’s moved into filmmaking, writing and directing the movie ‘When You Finish Saving the World’.

John Lithgow

John Lithgow is a successful author of both children’s books and witty political commentary. He’s written several popular picture books, including titles like ‘The Remarkable Farkle McBride’ and ‘Marsupial Sue’, which are known for their playful rhythm and teaching kids about the arts. More recently, he’s published collections of satirical poems that poke fun at politicians, with ‘Dumpty: The Age of Trump in Verse’ being a notable example. Lithgow’s talent for connecting with readers of all ages has made him a well-rounded and popular author.

Jason Segel

I’ve always loved Jason Segel, and I was really surprised and delighted to see him move into writing books after being so funny in comedy! He’s become a bestselling author, especially with the ‘Nightmares!’ series, which started in 2014 and hit the New York Times bestseller list – it’s about a kid who finds out his town is haunted by everyone’s fears, which is a really cool concept. He also co-wrote a sci-fi series called ‘Last Reality,’ so he’s really made a name for himself as an author. What I really appreciate about his writing is that it’s funny and heartfelt, and he manages to deal with some pretty big feelings in a way that younger readers can connect with.

Seth Rogen

Seth Rogen became a published author in 2021 with his book ‘Yearbook,’ a collection of funny and honest stories about his life, career, and childhood in Vancouver. The book was a quick success, hitting the New York Times best-seller list and earning praise for its entertaining and open style. Rogen is also a successful screenwriter, known for co-writing popular comedies like ‘Superbad,’ ‘Pineapple Express,’ and ‘This Is the End.’ His collaborative approach to writing has significantly shaped modern film comedy.

Matthew McConaughey

Matthew McConaughey’s memoir, ‘Greenlights,’ published in 2020, was a huge hit with both readers and critics. Drawing from journals he’d kept for over three decades, the book shares his personal philosophy and reflections on life and his career. It remained a New York Times bestseller for many weeks and sold millions of copies globally. In 2023, McConaughey expanded his writing with a children’s book called ‘Just Because.’ His writing is known for being down-to-earth, wise, and told in a captivating, story-like way.

Stephen Fry

Stephen Fry is a hugely popular and respected figure in British literature and comedy, known for his bestselling books. He first gained recognition with his novel ‘The Liar’ and went on to write other well-loved titles such as ‘The Hippopotamus’ and ‘Making History’. More recently, his ‘Mythos’ series – which retells ancient Greek myths in a fresh, modern way – has become a major success, topping bestseller charts and even being turned into a stage production. Fry’s intelligent and humorous writing has secured his place as a significant literary figure.

Alan Alda

Alan Alda is a bestselling author known for his honest and insightful books, including several memoirs. His first book, ‘Never Have Your Dog Stuffed,’ shares personal stories and life lessons learned through his career. He continued with ‘Things I Overheard While Talking to Myself,’ a book about finding purpose, and ‘If I Understood You, Would I Have This Look on My Face?’, which highlights the power of empathy in connecting with others. Alda has also contributed significantly to science communication, creating essays and scripts for educational programs.

Nick Offerman

Nick Offerman, well-known from ‘Parks and Recreation,’ has become a successful author. He writes funny and thoughtful books that often explore themes of hard work, skill, and nature. His first book, ‘Paddle Your Own Canoe,’ was a bestseller that combined personal stories with helpful life advice. He continued with ‘Gumption,’ which features profiles of people he respects. His latest book, ‘Where the Deer and the Antelope Play,’ shares his experiences traveling through America’s national parks, staying true to his signature style.

Michael Imperioli

Michael Imperioli, best known as Christopher Moltisanti on ‘The Sopranos’, is also a talented writer of novels and screenplays. He released his first novel, ‘The Perfume Burns His Eyes’, in 2018. Set in 1970s New York City, the book tells the story of a teenager growing up and was praised for its vivid atmosphere and emotional depth. In addition to acting, Imperioli wrote five episodes of ‘The Sopranos’. His work often delves into the harsh realities of city life and the intricacies of human experience.

Kunal Nayyar

Kunal Nayyar, famous for playing Raj on ‘The Big Bang Theory’, wrote a popular memoir called ‘Yes, My Accent Is Real: And Some Other Things I Haven’t Told You’ in 2015. The book tells the story of his life, from growing up in New Delhi to moving to America and finding success in Hollywood. Readers and critics loved its funny and honest portrayal of what it’s like to be an immigrant and a struggling actor. It became a bestseller, giving fans a more personal look at the actor behind the character. In addition to writing his memoir, Nayyar has also contributed to several plays.

William Shatner

Throughout his long career, William Shatner has written many books. He’s best known for his ‘TekWar’ science fiction series, which he co-authored and became very popular, even inspiring a TV show and comic books. Shatner has also penned several funny and insightful memoirs, like ‘Up Till Now’ and ‘Live Long and…’, sharing stories about his life and the impact of ‘Star Trek’. He’s even written novels directly based on the ‘Star Trek’ universe, adding to its rich history. Just like his acting work, Shatner’s writing is incredibly diverse and extensive.

Bruce Campbell

Bruce Campbell is a popular actor, especially known for his work in cult films, and a successful author. He’s written several books about his time in Hollywood, starting with his bestselling memoir, ‘If Chins Could Kill,’ which is a must-read for anyone hoping to work in film. He followed that up with a humorous, fictionalized take on trying to become a leading man, ‘Make Love! The Bruce Campbell Way,’ and later shared updates on his career and life in ‘Hail to the Chin.’ Campbell’s writing is funny, often poking fun at himself, and offers a realistic look behind the scenes in the entertainment industry.

Rob Lowe

I have to admit, I was really impressed when Rob Lowe’s memoir, ‘Stories I Only Tell My Friends,’ came out in 2011. It genuinely took everyone by surprise and became a huge bestseller! People loved how honest and thoughtful it was, giving a real look at what it’s like to navigate fame. He followed that up with ‘Love Life’ in 2014, which was another fantastic collection of stories, this time focusing more on family, his career, and getting older. What I really appreciate about his writing is that he’s a natural storyteller, and he has a unique perspective on Hollywood history. It’s no surprise his books led to a really popular live show – he’s just great at connecting with an audience.

Bryan Cranston

In his 2016 memoir, ‘A Life in Parts’, Bryan Cranston openly shared stories from his life and career. The book quickly became a New York Times bestseller, celebrated for its honest portrayal of his early hardships and journey to fame. Each chapter focuses on a different role or experience – both in his acting career and personal life. Beyond acting, Cranston is also a writer and director, having penned the screenplay for the 1999 film ‘Last Chance’. His success as an author is a testament to the same critical praise he’s earned as an actor.

Jonah Hill

Jonah Hill has become a major creative talent in Hollywood, known for his writing as well as acting. He started writing early, collaborating with Seth Rogen on the hugely popular film ‘Superbad’ when they were both teenagers. He also contributed to the writing of the successful ’21 Jump Street’ and ’22 Jump Street’ movies. More recently, in 2018, he wrote and directed the well-received film ‘Mid90s’, showcasing his skill as a director. Hill’s career has evolved from comedy to creating genuine and relatable stories focused on compelling characters.

Kumail Nanjiani

Kumail Nanjiani was nominated for an Academy Award for his original screenplay for the 2017 film ‘The Big Sick’. He wrote the script with his wife, Emily V. Gordon, drawing from their own relationship and a serious health challenge she faced. The film was both popular with audiences and highly praised by critics for its heartwarming and funny, yet dramatic, story. Before ‘The Big Sick’, Nanjiani worked as a writer and performer on TV shows like ‘The Meltdown with Jonah and Kumail’. His ability to turn his own life experiences into a story that resonated with many people cemented his reputation as a talented screenwriter.

Paul Rudd

I’ve always loved Paul Rudd as a comedic actor, but I recently learned how much he actually writes too, which is amazing! He’s a big part of the scripts for the ‘Ant-Man’ movies – he co-wrote both of them, and you can really feel his sense of humor in the way those characters interact. It’s not just Marvel either; he also co-wrote ‘Role Models’ back in 2008, and he even starred in it! Honestly, his writing has the same kind of quick wit and charm that makes him so great to watch on screen.

Dan Aykroyd

Dan Aykroyd is famous for co-creating and writing ‘Ghostbusters,’ one of the biggest movie franchises ever made. He teamed up with Harold Ramis to write the first ‘Ghostbusters’ script, uniquely combining science fiction, horror, and humor. Aykroyd also wrote or helped write other beloved films like ‘The Blues Brothers’ and ‘Spies Like Us.’ His personal fascination with the paranormal and his skills in improv comedy often shine through in his writing. Because of his influential scripts, he’s become a key figure in the history of comedic movies.

Harold Ramis

Harold Ramis, a hugely influential comedy writer and director, created some of the most memorable films of the 1980s and 90s. He helped write classics like ‘Caddyshack’, ‘Animal House’, and ‘Ghostbusters’, which all had a big impact on popular culture. He also wrote and directed ‘Groundhog Day’, a critically acclaimed film known for its smart humor and thoughtful story. Ramis’s writing was witty, satirical, and surprisingly heartfelt. His work continues to inspire comedy writers and filmmakers today.

John Cleese

John Cleese is a celebrated comedic writer responsible for some truly groundbreaking work in television and film. He’s best known as the co-creator and writer of the iconic sitcom ‘Fawlty Towers,’ frequently ranked among the best of all time. He also penned the screenplay for the hit movie ‘A Fish Called Wanda,’ earning him an Academy Award nomination. Beyond his screenwriting, Cleese has written several books exploring psychology and creativity, including his popular memoir, ‘So, Anyway…’. These accomplishments in both writing and scripting firmly establish him as a comedic master.

Ben Affleck

Ben Affleck quickly rose to fame after winning an Oscar for the screenplay of ‘Good Will Hunting,’ which he co-wrote with Matt Damon. This success propelled both actors to stardom. Since then, Affleck has written other notable screenplays, including the highly praised crime drama ‘The Town.’ He also wrote and directed ‘Argo,’ which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. His writing often explores realistic, character-focused stories, frequently set in the New England area where he grew up.

Matt Damon

I’ve always been a huge fan of Matt Damon, and I really admire his work as a writer, especially ‘Good Will Hunting’ which won an Oscar! He hasn’t stopped since then, consistently contributing to screenplays, often working with the same close friends. He even co-wrote ‘Gerry’ and the recent ‘The Last Duel,’ where he also acted. What I love about his writing is how he explores complicated friendships between men and really tough moral questions. It’s amazing how he manages to balance huge action movies with these really thoughtful writing projects – he’s just incredibly versatile.

Simon Pegg

Simon Pegg is a leading name in British comedy, best known for co-writing the hugely popular ‘Three Flavours Cornetto’ films with director Edgar Wright. These include the critically acclaimed ‘Shaun of the Dead’, ‘Hot Fuzz’, and ‘The World’s End’. He also helped write and starred in the blockbuster ‘Star Trek Beyond’ as Scotty. Pegg’s writing is celebrated for cleverly playing with and reimagining familiar genres, and for its quick, funny conversations. He’s also a successful author, having written his memoir, ‘Nerd Do Well’.

Ryan Reynolds

Ryan Reynolds was deeply involved in shaping the ‘Deadpool’ movies, even receiving official writing credit for ‘Deadpool 2’ in 2018. He was key to keeping the character’s signature humor and self-aware style, which fans loved. He also co-wrote the 2024 hit ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’. His writing style often reflects his playful public image, mixing funny moments with surprising emotional depth. This success has given him a lot of creative power over his films.

Charlie Day

Charlie Day is a key creative force behind the hit comedy ‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’. He not only co-created the show, but has also written and produced it for almost twenty years. Day is known for his bold and often outrageous humor, and for creating characters with significant flaws. In 2023, he expanded his talents by writing and directing his first film, ‘Fool’s Paradise’, proving his dedication to all aspects of filmmaking.

George Clooney

George Clooney is now well-known not just as an actor, but also as a talented screenwriter and director. He often tackles serious subjects like politics and history in his films. He received an Oscar nomination for his screenplay for ‘Good Night, and Good Luck’ and also co-wrote the political thriller ‘The Ides of March,’ which offered a cynical look at presidential campaigns. Clooney’s writing is praised for being smart, subtle, and exploring complex moral questions. He’s earned just as much critical acclaim for his directing as he has for his famous acting career.

Andrew McCarthy

Andrew McCarthy, known in the 1980s as a member of the ‘Brat Pack,’ has found success as an acclaimed travel writer and novelist. He regularly writes for ‘National Geographic Traveler’ and is the author of the popular memoir, ‘The Longest Way Home,’ and the New York Times bestseller, ‘Just Fly Away,’ a novel about family mysteries and self-discovery. His travel writing is celebrated for being deeply personal and focusing on the traveler’s inner experience. McCarthy continues to be a well-known author, often participating in literary events and conferences.

Common

Common is a talented artist known for his work as an Oscar-winning actor, musician, and bestselling author. His memoir, ‘One Day It’ll All Make Sense,’ details his childhood in Chicago and his rise in the entertainment industry. He later released ‘Let Love Have the Last Word,’ a book centered on forgiveness and self-improvement. Critics often highlight the honesty and thoughtfulness in Common’s writing, which mirrors the meaningful messages in his music and films. He consistently uses his voice to champion social justice, both through his acting and his books.

Please share your thoughts on these multi-talented actors and their literary works in the comments.

2026-02-20 03:50