5 Actors Who Have Played a Comic Book Hero and Villain

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In today’s world of comic book adaptations, landing a single superhero role is quite an achievement, as studios such as Marvel Studios and DC Studios extensively search for the ideal talent to embody their characters. Even well-known figures like John Krasinski and Emily Blunt can miss out on roles. Therefore, it’s surprising when an actor manages to portray not one but two superheroes. For instance, Zachary Levi plays Fandral in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Shazam in the DC Extended Universe, while Chris Evans has donned the capes for Captain America and Human Torch. However, it’s challenging to demonstrate an actor’s versatility when they only play superheroes.

In simpler terms, Robert Downey Jr. will exhibit his ability to play a villain when he appears in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Doctor Doom rather than Iron Man. However, he’s not the first actor to switch sides and portray a villainous character. The history of comic book movies is filled with actors who have played both heroes and villains.

1) Nicholas Hoult

The latest instance of an actor swapping their heroic costume for a more malevolent role is Nicholas Hoult. Kicking off his DC Universe tenure as Lex Luthor in “Superman”, Hoult offers a remarkable portrayal that leaves other villains questioning the intensity of their villainy. Luthor skillfully antagonizes Superman, making his life miserable, which contradicts Hoult’s previous comic book character’s expectations.

In my experience, Fox’s X-Men films provided me an incredible opportunity to portray Hank McCoy, the planet’s sharpest mutant, characterized by a striking blue fur coat. I often joined forces with Charles Xavier throughout these movies, but it was in X-Men: Dark Phoenix that I truly delved into his sinister side, following Mystique’s tragic demise.

2) Michael Keaton

The argument about who portrays the best live-action Batman continues unabated. Yet, it’s challenging to contradict those advocating for Michael Keaton as the top choice. Keaton’s interpretation of Batman elevated the character in movies, and his acting was exceptional, leading him to be invited back for 2023’s The Flash.

Following his retirement from superhero duties, Keaton took on a part in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Adrian Toomes, also known as the Vulture. Having harbored resentment towards Iron Man, it was Tony Stark’s young associate, Peter Parker, who got caught up in the conflict. By the end of “Spider-Man: Homecoming”, Vulture appeared to soften his stance, but he reverted his opinion about Spider-Man during an unusual showing in “Morbius”.

3) Michael B. Jordan

The Fantastic Four are set to make a comeback on the big screen following a ten-year absence due to the less-than-stellar movie Fan4stic. Directed by Josh Trank, this film was critically panned for its sloppy construction and lack of opportunities for the actors. However, Michael B. Jordan’s portrayal of Human Torch shone brightly amidst the chaos, ensuring that his future prospects in comic book roles remain strong.

Following the release of Fan4stic, Jordan’s first appearance within the Marvel Cinematic Universe was as the antagonist, Killmonger, in Black Panther a few years later. T’Challa’s cousin, who held a deep grudge against Wakanda, seized the throne from Black Panther and aimed to distribute weapons globally. Despite dying at the end of Black Panther, Killmonger resurfaced in its sequel where he provided Shuri with valuable guidance.

4) Christian Bale

Following Joel Schumacher’s Batman films adopting a more comedic approach, Christopher Nolan aimed to make it more realistic with Batman Begins. He enlisted Christian Bale as his Batman in this acclaimed series, and together they produced three highly successful movies.

In preparation for “Thor: Love and Thunder,” the Marvel Cinematic Universe approached Bale about portraying the character Gorr the God Butcher. This villain posed quite a challenge for Thor during his fourth solo film, but the witty aggression proved too overpowering even for Gorr’s Necrosword to neutralize.

5) Michelle Pfeiffer

In Tim Burton’s initial Batman film, Jack Nicholson brilliantly portrayed the Joker, often referred to as the Clown Prince of Crime. Later on in Batman Returns, the director introduced Michelle Pfeiffer to embody Catwoman. Despite appearing just once as the villain, Pfeiffer’s performance was captivating and memorable.

After a break from comic book roles, Pfeiffer found herself taking on a part in ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp’. This film had Hank Pym on a quest to locate his missing wife, Jane van Dyne, who was portrayed by Pfeiffer. In ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’, we saw Jane’s return, and she disclosed her link to Kang.

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2025-07-22 15:40