Top 5 WWE Superstars Who Transformed into Movie Stars — Who Did It Best?

From the Ring to the Red Carpet: The Evolution of top 5 WWE Superstars turned-Hollywood Stars

Over the past decade, a clear trend has emerged: pro wrestling has become not just physical entertainment but a launching pad into mainstream Hollywood. A handful of WWE stars have made a seamless leap into film, and sometimes even passed the big-name torch. Though legends like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and John Cena epitomize this trend, they stand on the shoulders of even earlier trailblazers.

Below are the top 5 WWE superstars turned-Hollywood Stars:

1. Hulk Hogan: Wrestling’s First Hollywood Pioneer

Without Hulk Hogan (Terry Bollea), it’s unlikely that Dwayne Johnson would have enjoyed such widespread recognition. In the 1980s, Hogan’s larger-than-life persona carried the wrestling industry, eventually earning him a spotlight in Rocky III as Thunderlips—his first major scripted appearance on film. He later led his own movie, No Holds Barred, and many fans tuned into his family reality show Hogan Knows Best, solidifying his crossover impact.

2. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson: The Reigning Hollywood Champion

Johnson has evolved into one of Hollywood’s highest-paid and most charismatic stars. From early roles in The Mummy Returns and The Scorpion King to headlining blockbusters in the Fast & Furious, Jumanji, and Moana franchises, his transition has been nothing short of spectacular. Often dubbed “The People’s Champion,” his appeal spans action, comedy, and family films.

3. Dave Bautista: The Dramatic Chameleon

Dave Bautista, originally known as Batista, initially landed in Hollywood with Guardians of the Galaxy as Drax—an outspoken, literal-minded alien whose comedic timing won audiences over. Since then, he’s proven his dramatic range in critically acclaimed films like Blade Runner 2049 and Dune, challenging preconceived notions about wrestlers and acting chops.

A recent milestone recognized him for surpassing even The Rock and Cena in Hollywood success, marking a turning point in crossover credibility.

4. John Cena: Comedy King with Action Flair

Cena brings notable versatility to the table. Known for his “Never Give Up” ethos, he has starred in comedies like Blockers, action flicks like F9, and boasts his own popular series already. His embrace of self-parody and comedic wit makes him unique among wrestling-to-acting stars.

5. Paul Wight (Big Show): Limited but Memorable Roles

At seven feet tall and tipping the scales at nearly 500 pounds, Paul Wight found niche roles such as “Huge Santa” in Jingle All the Way and portrayed exaggerated versions of himself, like in The Big Show Show. While theatrical range may be limited by his size, his presence leaves an impact.