In contemporary popular culture, actors can solidify their legacy by featuring prominently in major film or television franchises. These opportunities not only allow for returning roles but also enhance their prospects for critical and commercial success. Many actors have built impressive careers from these roles, often capitalizing on existing fan bases that amplify their recognition and influence. It’s noteworthy that while franchise involvement is a significant factor, numerous actors have established their reputations largely from stellar performances that initiated widely successful series.
While the competition is fierce, certain actors have emerged as definitive icons of major franchises. These performers become synonymous with their roles, such as the esteemed Harrison Ford and current standout Zoe Saldaña. They have found immense success within their respective franchises, showcasing their talent and versatility across multiple major productions.
10 Zoe Saldaña
Zoe Saldaña stands as a towering figure in Hollywood, consistently ranked among the highest-grossing actors. Over nearly two decades, she has appeared in four of the seven all-time highest-grossing films. Her journey began modestly with a small part as Anamaria in 2003’s Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, a role not reprised but significant nonetheless. The real milestones arrived in 2009 when she starred in both the celebrated Star Trek reboot and the groundbreaking blockbuster Avatar, subsequently returning for their sequels.
Saldaña’s crowning achievement might be her embodiment of Gamora from 2014 to 2023 in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), which established her as an unparalleled royalty of franchise filmography.
9 Oscar Isaac
Oscar Isaac’s career took off less than a decade ago with his striking performance in Inside Llewyn Davis (2013). He quickly became a vital part of the landscape of modern cinema, showcasing his talent in significant roles across several major franchises. Isaac gained worldwide fame as Poe Dameron in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, which paved the way for subsequent roles in franchises like Dune, X-Men, and Spider-Man. He also made his mark on television with his portrayal of Moon Knight in the MCU miniseries.
8 Pedro Pascal
Pedro Pascal has become a powerhouse in franchise filmmaking, securing notable roles within a short span. Initially gaining attention for his compelling performance as Oberyn Martell in Game of Thrones, he later starred in The Mandalorian and The Last of Us, reinforcing his reputation as a leading figure in franchise television and film.
Furthermore, Pascal’s versatility spans various blockbuster franchises, including entries in Kingsman, The Equalizer, and the upcoming MCU, where he will portray Mister Fantastic. His ascendancy marks him as a potent force within Hollywood’s dynamic landscape.
7 Andy Serkis
Famed for his groundbreaking motion capture performances, Andy Serkis is a formidable figure in franchise cinema. His portrayal of Gollum in The Lord of the Rings trilogy revolutionized the possibilities of blending acting with technology, setting new standards for character portrayal.
Building on this success, Serkis later starred as Caesar in the acclaimed Planet of the Apes reboot series. His franchise credentials extend into critical roles in the Star Wars universe and, more recently, a notable performance as Ulysses Klaue in the MCU and Alfred in The Batman, showcasing his adaptability and enduring presence in the industry.
6 Ming-Na Wen
Ming-Na Wen’s extensive career spans several iconic franchises, solidifying her status in Hollywood. Widely recognized for her role in E.R., she made a lasting impression as the voice of Mulan in Disney’s animated classic and its sequels. Wen’s contributions extend to the Star Wars franchise, where she has portrayed Fennec Shand across several series, alongside leading roles in Stargate Universe and Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D..
With additional appearances in popular television shows and a forthcoming project in 2025’s Karate Kid: Legends, Wen’s contribution to franchise filmmaking is both remarkable and diverse.
5 Harrison Ford
Harrison Ford’s legendary status is built on an extraordinary career, establishing him as a pioneer in the franchise cinema landscape. His journey began with his iconic portrayal of Han Solo in Star Wars (1977), a role he would revisit multiple times, creating enduring pop culture moments. Additionally, Ford is celebrated for his leading role in the Indiana Jones series, where he embodied the adventurous archaeologist across five films, along with notable performances as Rick Deckard in Blade Runner and Jack Ryan in film adaptations of Tom Clancy’s novels.
Continuing to evolve, Ford has ventured into television with a role in 1923 and is set to make a mark in the MCU as President Thaddeus Ross in Captain America: Brave New World, reinforcing his critical place in contemporary franchise cinema.
4 Sylvester Stallone
Sylvester Stallone’s association with film franchises is marked by his iconic portrayal of Rocky Balboa, a role he has reprised seven times, including two Creed films. His involvement in the explosive Rambo series, where he embodied the titular character across five installments, further solidifies his franchise king status.
Stallone’s illustrious career extends to leading the The Expendables series, alongside notable cameo roles in various franchises. His impressive legacy is complemented by his participation in the DCEU as King Shark, demonstrating his enduring appeal across generations and genres.
3 Jason Statham
Jason Statham is frequently heralded as a leading figure in modern action franchises. With a longstanding collaboration with director Guy Ritchie, he has starred in a portfolio of high-octane films, including The Mechanic, Crank, and The Transporter. His association with the Fast & Furious franchise, featuring prominent roles and his own standalone film in collaboration with Dwayne Johnson, further solidifies his status in action cinema.
Statham’s return in the latest The Expendables film seems poised to position him as the franchise’s new headliner, showcasing his versatility and durable appeal as a top action star.
2 Sigourney Weaver
Sigourney Weaver is undeniably a titan of the sci-fi genre, with her legacy beginning with her iconic role as Ellen Ripley in the Alien franchise, which spans four films. Following this, she transitioned into other cult classics, such as her portrayal of Dana Barrett in Ghostbusters, with additional appearances in the franchise over the years.
Weaver’s evolution continued with significant contributions to the Avatar films and an appearance in the MCU’s The Defenders, demonstrating her enduring influence and versatility. Not resting on her laurels, she is scheduled to enter the Star Wars universe in the upcoming film, The Mandalorian & Grogu, illustrating her ongoing prominence in franchise culture.
1 Samuel L. Jackson
Samuel L. Jackson stands tall as the highest-grossing actor in film history, universally recognized as a powerhouse in franchise success. His role as Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe has solidified his status, appearing in over ten films and several series, intertwining both critical and commercial successes.
Beyond the MCU, Jackson has left his mark in franchises such as Die Hard and Star Wars, where he embraced the character of Mace Windu. His continued participation in blockbuster films and potential future projects, including appearances in Kingsman and additional franchise roles, reinforce his legacy as a compelling and influential force in cinema.