Cover Lebron James and Bill Hader in 'Trainwreck' (2015) | imdb.com; Universal Pictures
Lebron James and Bill Hader in 'Trainwreck' (2015) | imdb.com; Universal Pictures
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Who would’ve thought these athletes would ever appear on the big screen?
It’s always interesting to see famous people thrive outside their discipline, especially athletes who appear alongside other famous celebrities. Aside from movies like Space Jam, there are a few more flicks that include real athletes as cast members, whether they’re there to say one line or act throughout the movie.
Tatler lists some titles you probably didn’t know featured athletes:
1. Rocky IV (1985)
Given that it’s a sports-focused movie, one would assume Rocky IV would star professional boxers in the movie like Lou Fillipo as the Las Vegas referee. Interestingly, another athlete who appeared in the movie as Apollo Creed is famous football player Carl Weathers. In the movie, his death serves as the protagonist’s inspiration.
See also: Manny Pacquiao: 5 Boxing Fights That Defined His Career In The Ring
2. Like Mike (2002)
This fun family comedy about a young orphan wishing to be as good as Michael Jordan in playing basketball, might not have the NBA legend in the actual movie, but his spirit lives on and magically gives Calvin the skill set he needs. Besides, more famous faces made cameos like the amazing Steve Nash, Allen Iverson, and Jason Kidd to name a few.
3. Trainwreck (2015)
Trainwreck is not exactly a sports-centred film but brings together a magazine writer played by Amy Schumer and an orthopaedic surgeon played by the hilarious Bill Hader. LeBron James, who takes on a supporting role in the movie a fictionalised version of himself, appears to be friends with the leading man. Apart from James, a few more athletes can be spotted including Amar'e Stoudemire, Chris Evert Lloyd, and Tony Romo.
See also: SNL's Iconic Hosts Through The Years
4. Thunderstruck (2012)
Kevin Durant stars in Thunderstruck, a family movie about a boy who magically gets Durant’s skills, leaving the basketball player in a slump. The movie puts a spin on Like Mike by putting the protagonist’s basketball idol as part of the story. Now, Durant and Brian Newall must figure out a way to switch his skills back.
5. Bend It Like Beckham (2002)
David Beckham might not have a long cameo in Bend It Like Beckham, but he does serve a significant role in the movie which will be revealed in an important scene. This romantic comedy instead tells the story of a young girl who wants to play football but is forbidden by her conservative British Indian Sikh parents.
See also: Lady Gaga And David Beckham On What It Takes To Break New Frontiers
6. There’s Something About Mary (1998)
Brett Favre made a brief appearance in the romantic comedy There’s Something About Mary as himself. What was he doing there? Well, you’ll find out when you watch the movie. Here’s a hint—it’s something to do with Mary.
See also: Top 5 Most Followed Athletes On Instagram: Lebron James, Cristiano Ronaldo And More
7. Uncle Drew (2018)
Out of all the movies Shaquille O’Neal has appeared in, Uncle Drew is one of a few that he’s delivered. It’s a fun comedy that you can binge with friends as you watch O’Neil get another chance to show off his game on the court. The twist: he’s playing an older “karate” man.
Christine Andas is a features writer and the style lead of Tatler Philippines. She mostly covers style-related content but enjoys writing about space, sneakers, and her favourite stars. She acquired a master's degree in Creative Writing at the University of Santo Tomas and has written young adult short stories which can be read online.
