Top 10 Movies and TV Shows Starring Woody Harrelson

Woody Harrelson, a Texas-born actor, has captivated audiences since his breakthrough role in the beloved sitcom Cheers (1985). Despite his impressive filmography, many of his performances have been overshadowed, showcasing the depth and versatility he brings to different characters. Harrelson’s journey from uncredited extra in early films to a celebrated actor highlights his evolution in the entertainment industry.

Harrelson’s talent began to shine significantly after Cheers, as he took on roles in iconic films such as White Men Can’t Jump (1992), Indecent Proposal (1993), and Natural Born Killers (1994). His unique vocal delivery and charming Texan accent earned him a dedicated fanbase. As his career progressed, the actor consistently took on projects that showcased his range and solidified his reputation as a respected performer, solidifying his status in the entertainment realm.

10 Natural Born Killers (1994)

Woody Harrelson as Mickey Knox

In Natural Born Killers, directed by Oliver Stone and featuring a storyline by Quentin Tarantino, Harrelson played Mickey Knox, marking a pivotal moment in his career. This role allowed him to break free from the comedic mold established in Cheers and explore darker themes in a crime drama.

The film’s controversial blend of violence and dark humor, characteristic of Tarantino’s storytelling, created an unforgettable cinematic experience. Harrelson’s performance in this film is a testament to his versatility, paving the way for future acclaimed projects such as No Country For Old Men and True Detective.

9 The Hunger Games (2012)

Woody Harrelson as Haymitch Abernathy

As Haymitch Abernathy in The Hunger Games series, Harrelson brought depth to the character of a former champion turned mentor to Katniss Everdeen, played by Jennifer Lawrence. His portrayal traversed emotional landscapes, showcasing his ability to tackle complex characters even within high-profile franchise films.

Spanning from the original film in 2012 to the final installment in 2015, Harrelson’s portrayal stood out amidst the blockbuster landscape, further solidifying his status as a versatile actor capable of nuanced performances.

8 White Men Can’t Jump (1992)

Woody Harrelson as Billy Hoyle

White Men Can’t Jump remains one of Harrelson’s defining early works, representing his strength in comedy. Co-starring with Wesley Snipes, Harrelson’s character, Billy Hoyle, embodied the struggles of an ex-college basketball player hustling on the streets while facing his own personal demons.

Despite its comedic nature, this film effectively blended humor with heartfelt moments, and Harrelson’s strong chemistry with Snipes contributed to its enduring status as a cult classic.

7 No Country For Old Men (2007)

Woody Harrelson as Carson Wells

No Country for Old Men is often hailed as one of the greatest films ever made, featuring Harrelson in a supporting role as Carson Wells. While his screen time is brief compared to heavyweights like Tommy Lee Jones and Javier Bardem, Harrelson’s performance was impactful, encapsulating the grit and intensity of the narrative.

Wells serves as a precursor to the roles Harrelson would explore in subsequent projects, exemplifying his knack for portraying complex characters caught in morally ambiguous situations.

6 True Detective (2014-Present)

Woody Harrelson as Detective Marty Hart

HBO’s True Detective, particularly its inaugural season, marked a significant highlight in Harrelson’s television career. His role alongside Matthew McConaughey as Detective Marty Hart earned him critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, reinforcing his capability within the crime drama genre.

This series not only showcased his talent for portraying dark, layered characters but also set the stage for similar roles in films, further establishing his prominence in dramatic storytelling on both the small and big screens.

5 Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri (2017)

Woody Harrelson as Bill Willoughby

Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri received widespread acclaim, with Harrelson’s performance as Bill Willoughby earning him significant recognition in the acting community. This crime drama explored themes of grief and justice, showcasing a side of Harrelson that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike.

The film won numerous awards, affirming its impact and Harrelson’s ability to deliver a heartfelt and multifaceted performance, making it essential viewing for fans of serious cinema.

4 The Messenger (2009)

Woody Harrelson as Captain Tony Stone

An image of Woody Harrelson in the 2009 movie The Messenger

The Messenger stands out among Harrelson’s body of work due to its more profound character study. His portrayal of Captain Tony Stone earned multiple award nominations, highlighting his capacity for delivering poignant performances in emotionally charged narratives.

Recognized via the Independent Spirit Awards and critically lauded, The Messenger underscores Harrelson’s ability to convey a depth of emotion often not explored in blockbuster roles, solidifying its place within his most significant works.

3 The People Vs. Larry Flynt (1996)

Woody Harrelson as Larry Flynt

Larry sits at his desk with Althea in The People vs. Larry Flynt

In The People Vs. Larry Flynt, Harrelson delivered a career-defining performance that garnered him an Academy Award nomination. This biographical film provided insight into the life of the controversial publisher and free speech advocate and offered Harrelson a unique platform to showcase his dramatic range.

His embodiment of Flynt through key moments spanning decades was met with critical acclaim, establishing Harrelson as a serious actor capable of tackling complex roles within socially relevant narratives.

2 Zombieland (2009)

Woody Harrelson as Tallahassee

While not the most critically acclaimed, Zombieland may be the most iconic portrayal of Harrelson’s career. His character, Tallahassee, brilliantly blends humor and action, showcasing his comedic timing and strong screen presence. The film’s unique take on the zombie genre allowed Harrelson to straddle the line between absurdity and seriousness.

The film has cultivated a dedicated following, with Harrelson’s performance standing out as a quintessential example of his ability to transition effortlessly between genres.

1 Cheers (1985-1993)

Woody Harrelson as Woody Boyd

Cheers remains a cornerstone of Harrelson’s legacy, establishing him as a household name during its original run. His portrayal of bartending naive but loveable Woody Boyd earned him both an Emmy Award and a Comedy Award, showcasing his comedic prowess.

Even as Harrelson has ventured into various genres, his work in this classic sitcom is still considered definitive. The character’s charm and depth reflect the unique mannerisms that have defined his film career, making Cheers not only essential viewing but pivotal in understanding the trajectory of Harrelson’s remarkable career.

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