Various actors with immense talent remain not known enough. These actors consistently deliver powerful performances but don’t get the spotlight they deserve. Why? Because movie stars and blockbuster roles continuously dominate worldwide cinema.
Many actors are famous; however, this doesn’t mean they are excellent acting craftsmen. It’s similar to the music business – David Bowie never sold more copies than Taylor Swift, even though he was a musical genius.
Therefore, let’s highlight some of the most underrated actors who undoubtedly deserve more recognition.
Mykelti Williamson
Best known to many as Bubba from Forrest Gump, Mykelti Williamson is far more than a single iconic role. He has built a career defined by authenticity, quiet power, and an ability to ground even the most heightened stories in human truth.
Williamson often plays soldiers, fathers, mentors, or authority figures, but he always brings depth. His performances feel honest rather than theatrical, which is precisely why they linger. Mykelti Williamson has an unforgettable presence, and many films would lose their emotional core without him.
Mykelti was also cast to play alongside Al Pacino in Heat. The moment Al met him, he told him that he was robbed of an Oscar nomination for his role in Forrest Gump.
Best Roles In: Forrest Gump, Heat, Fences, The Purge: Election Year, Ali, Con Air, 24
Paul Dano
Playing a teen in Little Miss Sunshine or a preacher in There Will Be Blood, Paul Dano conveys layers of emotion beneath calm exteriors. His performances are a study in subtlety and psychological complexity.
Even though he consistently works with A-list directors, Dano is often overshadowed by famous co-stars. Nevertheless, his choices showcase a commitment to artistic value over fame. Yes, we all love Tarantino’s movies, but we all know what he said about Dano isn’t true at all.
Best Roles In: There Will Be Blood, Little Miss Sunshine, 12 Years a Slave, Love & Mercy, The Fabelmans, Looper
Andrew Scott
One of the most underrated actors of all time, Andrew Scott, is a master of complexity and emotional vulnerability. He gained international attention as the “Hot Priest” in Fleabag, but his talents go far beyond that viral role.
In various roles, he reveals his ability to shift between charm and devastation. Moreover, Scott is equally great in film, TV shows, and theater. However, despite critical praise, he still doesn’t get the mainstream roles he undoubtedly deserves.
Best Roles In: Fleabag, Pride, All of Us Strangers, Sherlock, Blue Moon, Ripley, Hamlet
Michael Shannon
A force of nature on screen, Michael Shannon often portrays intense, morally ambiguous characters. From Take Shelter to Revolutionary Road, his ability to internalize chaos and deliver it with style is unmatched. That’s why it’s surprising that he’s been on the list of underrated actors for years.
Although frequently praised by critics, he remains a character actor in the public eye. His quiet dominance deserves the same admiration as Hollywood’s biggest stars.
Best Roles In: Revolutionary Road, Nocturnal Animals, 99 Homes, Death by Lightning, Take Shelter, George & Tammy, The Shape of Water
Mark Rylance
A rare group of actors plays Shakespearean characters perfectly, and one of them is Mark Rylance. He’s a master of acting, with a theatrical background and high-quality film work.
Rylance won an Oscar for Bridge of Spies, but his turns in Dunkirk, The Outfit, and Bones and All reveal even more layers of brilliance. He often opts for roles that prioritize humanity over heroics. Still, many viewers don’t realize how central he is to the emotional weight of these films.
Best Roles In: Bridge of Spies, Bones and All, Wolf Hall, The Government Inspector, Dunkirk, The Outfit
David Thewlis
Perhaps best known for Harry Potter, but his range extends far beyond fantasy. In films like Naked and series like Fargo, David Thewlis reveals a fearless ability to showcase tenderness and menace.
Thewlis consistently chooses character-driven roles that demand empathy and complexity. His work maybe isn’t a hidden treasure waiting to be rediscovered since he’s acclaimed and known. However, he’s still one of those underrated actors who haven’t got the deserved worldwide recognition.
Best Roles In: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2, Fargo, Naked, Landscapers, Divorcing Jack, Kingdom of Heaven
Stephen Dillane
From Game of Thrones to The Hours, Stephen Dillane delivers a quiet storm of intensity in every performance. His calm, introspective style is deeply affecting and often haunting. He brings a Shakespearean weight to modern roles, making each word feel deliberate and meaningful.
Even though often overlooked in ensemble casts, his contributions are crucial for their success. Dillane doesn’t chase fame, but rather the emotional truth of each character.
Best Roles In: Game of Thrones, The Hours, Darkest Hour, Spy Game, John Adams, The Tunnel
Eddie Marsan
Eddie Marsan is one of the most dependable and transformative character actors. He brings quiet strength and crafted vulnerability to roles in films like Happy-Go-Lucky, Ray Donovan, The Illusionist, etc. He excels even more in roles that reflect the struggles of ordinary people.
Even though Marsan’s face is familiar, his name rarely comes up in mainstream conversations. On the other hand, maybe this is precisely what makes him entirely authentic among all actors.
Best Roles In: Happy-Go-Lucky, Ray Donovan, The Illusionist, The Pact, Still Life, Filth, Tyrannosaur, Vera Drake, 21 Grams, Junkhearts
Michael Peña
One of the most underrated actors in Hollywood, Michael Peña, infuses his roles with wit, sincerity, and surprising emotional depth. Best known for supporting roles in films like Crash, End of Watch, and Ant-Man, he often steals scenes with charm and gravitas.
Peña’s comedic timing is exceptional, but he’s just as effective in dramatic roles. Nevertheless, he’s rarely given the spotlight as a leading man. Still, he manages to impress audiences and critics, even by appearing for a short time on screen.
Best Roles In: All Her Fault, Crash, End of Watch, Ant-Man, American Hustle, Fury, Walkout
Toby Jones
Toby Jones is capable of disappearing into characters with precision. Whether he’s playing Truman Capote or a lovable eccentric, Jones brings intellectual depth and emotional complexity to every role.
His work often flies under the radar due to the supporting nature of his roles. Yet his impact is undeniable, and hopefully, directors will give him even more chances. No matter how big or small the role, he always remains excellent.
Best Roles In: Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, Infamous, The Hunger Games, The Painted Veil, Marvellous, Mr Bates vs. The Post Office, Wayward Pines, Detectorists, The Girl
Final Words on Underrated Actors
In an industry that’s obsessed with celebrities and red carpets, these underrated actors remain true to the acting craft. Their careers are intimate and under the radar, but also unforgettable.
We all understand the business side. However, these actors still deserve a lot more attention. Watch them in TV shows, movies, and also in the theater if possible. Moreover, if you want to explore further, check out my list of underrated actresses whose craft also deserves a lot more attention.
framebyframecritic 