For years, the action landscape remains one of the most profitable and entertaining genres in the film industry, giving us several action icons to admire. Among these action stars, Arnold Schwarzenegger’s name remains the most prominent among the general audience. Following his influence in the genre, many other actors aren’t too far from him in this field.
Apart from Arnold Schwarzenegger, there are other 7 action stars who have cemented themselves in the top. This list does not include many prominent A-listers, including Charlize Theron, Harrison Ford, and even Tom Cruise. But considering how many influential stars have risen throughout the years in the action landscape, it isn’t surprising that many big names will be missing out
7 most prominent figures in the action landscape other than Arnold Schwarzenegger
1. Keanu Reeves
After finding his foot in the industry through 1989’s Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure, Keanu Reeves has been involved in several action classics throughout his career. Although The Matrix initially launched the actor to the top following its breathtaking actions and world-building, it was 2014’s John Wick, which would cement Reeves as one of the best action heroes of our time.
2. Jackie Chan
Following his decades-long prominence in the industry and success, it’s no wonder why Jackie Chan is deemed one of the greatest action stars of all time. From repeatedly putting his life in danger due to his determination in perfecting the action sequences, the actor has become a global icon, and for all the right reasons. With the actor returning for the fourth entry in the beloved Rush Hour franchise, which initially launched the actor’s career in Hollywood, it’s evident that even at the age of 69, the Rush Hour star isn’t shying away from challenges.
3. Sylvester Stallone
Being one of the most fierce rivals of Arnold Schwarzenegger back in his heyday, not only Stallone cemented himself as one of the best action stars. he also found his footing in the realm of writing and directing. Sylvester Stallone has also been involved in numerous classics like Rambo, with the most prominent one being Rocky, which even earned him an Oscar Win for Best Picture and spawned an iconic franchise.
4. Bruce Willis
Among all the critically acclaimed projects he has been involved in, the Die Hard franchise and The Fifth Element remain some of Bruce Willis’ most beloved works, which cemented him as an icon in the action landscape. Although the recent years haven’t been easy for the actor and his fans, following the actor being diagnosed with FTD, considering his contribution to the genre, Willis will always remain as one of the very best.
5. Bruce Lee
Despite tragically passing away at a pretty young age, it didn’t stop Bruce Lee from making his mark as one of the top action stars of all time. Being an exceptional martial artist himself, the actor continues to influence upcoming action stars and a plethora of action fans, following his contribution to this genre with releases including Enter the Dragon and Fist of Fury.
6. Jason Statham
In the modern-day landscape of action, Jason Statham’s magnetic charm remains unmatched. The actor has been involved in several classics, including The Transporter, The Expendables, and the Fast and Furious franchise. But it seems that The Transporter films acted as a precursor to his entrance into the Fast and Furious franchise, where he soon emerged as one of the fan favorites. Despite making his entrance as a villain, following the audience’s response, his character Shaw would soon become one of the good guys in the next installment, cementing his place in the franchise.
7. Clint Eastwood
Considering the actor’s influence in the Western landscape and his involvement in some of the most influential Westerns ever made, Clint Eastwood’s contribution to this genre is undeniable. Apart from playing one of the most badass protagonists in entertainment, the Man with no name has made a name for himself when it comes to filmmaking and has garnered four Oscars under his belt. Even at 93, the actor keeps on proving why he is the very best in this field, as he continues to deliver, with his latest release being 2021’s Cry Macho.
Although these are some of the most prominent names in the action landscape presently, they aren’t the only ones who’ve been entertaining us for years, as there are plenty of other actors to include in a single list.
Source: Ranker
