Sometimes, magic happens when rock legends step off the stage and onto the big screen. They take their talents beyond the world of rock and roll, captivating audiences with unforgettable movie appearances.
These rock stars might be known for their electrifying performances and larger-than-life personas, but with their cameos or starring roles in films, they prove that their talents go far beyond music. Not only do they bring their unique energy to the big screen, but they also get a chance to showcase their acting chops.
Whether they’re playing themselves or taking on unexpected characters, these musicians bring their signature charisma and passion to every role they take on. In this list below, we shine a spotlight on eight beloved rock stars whose talents shine just as brightly on screen as they do on stage.
Note: The list will consist of living and non-living rock icons.
David Bowie in Labyrinth (1986)
Widely regarded as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, David Bowie stars as Jareth, the Goblin King, in the musical fantasy film Labyrinth. When 16-year-old Sarah's wish for her baby brother Toby to be taken away by Jareth is unexpectedly granted, she instantly regrets her wish. Now, she must navigate a magical labyrinth to rescue Toby from the king of goblins before time runs out.
Prince in Purple Rain (1984)
Known for his ability to blend various genres, including rock, pop, R&B, funk, soul, and new wave, Prince made his film debut in the rock musical Purple Rain, starring in the role of The Kid. The Kid is a gifted yet troubled musician struggling to make a name for himself in the Minneapolis music scene. As he struggles to navigate his career and relationships, he starts a complicated romance with a woman named Apollonia. Eventually, he realizes that in order to make it as a successful musician, he must confront his personal demons.
Mick Jagger in Performance (1970)
In this British crime drama flick, the story follows Chas, a violent gangster on the run, who seeks refuge in the home of a reclusive former rock star after killing a rival in self-defense. But as Chas becomes immersed in the rock star's world of music, drugs, and sexual ambiguity, he finds the boundaries between reality and fantasy beginning to blur. Mick Jagger (The Rolling Stones) plays the role of Turner, the flamboyant and enigmatic former rock star.
Flea in Back to the Future Part II (1989)
Flea is best known for being the founding member and bassist of the rock band Red Hot Chili Peppers. In Back to the Future Part II, the film follows Marty McFly and his friend Dr. Emmett Brown as they travel to the future to prevent Marty's future son from making a horrible mistake that would destroy the McFly family. But the duo soon realize that they have a bigger fish to fry when their arch-nemesis, Biff Tannens, steals the time-traveling DeLorean and uses it to alter history.
Flea takes on the role of Marty's coworker, Douglas J. Needles, a character that brings a bit of comic relief to the film.
Ringo Starr in Caveman (1981)
Ringo Starr is best known as the drummer for The Beatles, one of the most influential and successful bands in the history of rock music. In the comedy film, Starr portrays the role of the main character, Atouk, a caveman living in a primitive, stone-age world. While embarking on a journey of self-discovery and trying to win the affection of the beautiful yet shallow Lana, Atouk finds himself facing numerous challenges, including run-ins with wild animals.
Jon Bon Jovi in Pay It Forward (2000)
Jon Bon Jovi, the lead vocalist and founder of the rock band Bon Jovi, had starred in many movies before he took on the role of Ricky McKinney in Pay It Forward. This drama film centers around a young boy named Trevor who creates a movement of kindness by doing good deeds for three people, asking them to pay it forward. His idea spreads and leads to a ripple effect of kindness and generosity, ultimately transforming the world. Jon Bon Jovi's Ricky character is Trevor's abusive and alcoholic father who enters in and out of his life.
Steven Tyler in Wayne's World 2 (1993)
Steven Tyler, lead singer of the rock band Aerosmith, plays himself in the comedy flick Wayne's World 2. While he doesn't have a big part in the movie, his short cameo is memorable. In the film, he helps Wayne and Garth out by performing with his band at the concert they organize, aka "Waynestock."
Lenny Kravitz in The Hunger Games (2012)
Most people know Lenny Kravitz for his successful music career, but this legendary rock musician is also known for several other talents and pursuits. One being his acting career. He starred as Cinna in two of the movies in The Hunger Games film series: The Hunger Games and The Hunger Games: Catching Fire. Cinna was Katniss Everdeen's stylist and some sort of a mentor to her. Kravitz has also had roles in other movies such as The Butler and Shotgun Wedding.