10 Great Metal Musicians Who Surprisingly Are Also Fantastic Actors

When metal goes Hollywood, the results can be as electrifying as a guitar solo. From the stage to the screen, a number of metal musicians have proven that their talents extend far beyond music. In this article, we will take a look at Ten metal stars who have made their mark in the film industry.

1. Henry Rollins (Black Flag/Rollins Band)

Henry Rollins is a name synonymous with punk rock and hardcore music, but his talents don’t stop at the microphone. As the frontman for Black Flag and later the Rollins Band, Rollins has been well involved in the music scene since the early ’80s. 

Rollins’ acting career is just as impressive. He has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Notable roles include a small part in the Al Pacino and Robert De Niro epic “Heat,” where he played a bodyguard. He also portrayed a white supremacist in the TV show “Sons of Anarchy” and a cop in the action blockbuster “Bad Boys II.” Rollins took center stage in the under-appreciated horror film “The Devil’s Tomb” and fought off cannibals in the slasher “Wrong Turn II: Dead End.” His diverse roles show just how good he is at adapting to various genres, making him a standout in both music and film.

2. Marilyn Manson

Marilyn Manson, known for his controversial and theatrical persona, has made a significant impact on both the music and film industries. As the lead singer of his eponymous band, Manson’s shock rock style has made him popular amongst fans. 

Manson’s acting career mirrors his music in its intensity and darkness. He is best known for his role as an imprisoned white supremacist in the TV show “Sons of Anarchy.” Manson has also appeared in smaller films such as the horror flick “Rise: Blood Hunter.” Although his title role in the long-muted “Phantasmagoria: The Visions Of Lewis Carroll” has yet to see the light of day after years of false starts, his contributions to the film industry remain noteworthy.

3. Dani Filth (Cradle Of Filth)

Dani Filth, the frontman of the extreme metal band Cradle of Filth, is known for his chilling aesthetics and grotesque music videos. His band’s music often explores themes of horror and the macabre, making Filth a perfect fit for the horror genre in film. 

Filth’s venture into acting includes starring in the 2001 British horror film “Cradle Of Fear.” This gruesome, blood-soaked homage to cult 1970s portmanteau frightfests features Filth in the role of ‘The Man,’ a character on a murderous rampage. The film also includes cameos from other band members.

4. Maynard James Keenan (Tool)

Maynard James Keenan, the enigmatic frontman of Tool, A Perfect Circle, and Puscifer, is a multifaceted artist with a passion for both music and acting. 

Keenan’s acting roles are as eclectic as his musical projects. He played Satan alongside Jello Biafra and Dee Dee Ramone in the forgettable comedy “Bikini Bandits.” Additionally, he had a role in “Crank: High Voltage” alongside Danny Lohner and Chester Bennington, although it was a small part. 

5. Fred Durst (Limp Bizkit)

Fred Durst, the frontman of the nu-metal band Limp Bizkit, has made a name for himself both in music and film. Known for his energetic performances and rap-rock style, Durst has been a prominent figure in the late ’90s and early 2000s music scene. 

Durst’s foray into the film industry includes roles both behind and in front of the camera. He directed the moderately well-received drama “The Education Of Charlie Banks,” starring Jesse Eisenberg and Ice Cube, as well as “The Longshots.” On the acting side, Durst appeared in films such as “Sorry Haters” and “Population 436.” While his 1.5-second-long role in “Zoolander” might not count for much, his contributions to film demonstrate his versatility and willingness to explore different creative outlets.

6. Nergal (Behemoth)

Nergal, the frontman of the Polish blackened death metal band Behemoth, is known for his powerful stage presence and dark, intense music. 

Nergal’s acting career, though limited, is intriguing. He appeared in the Polish time-travel comedy “AmbaSSada,” playing N*** foreign minister Joachim von Ribbentrop. While the film’s quality and humor may be debatable, Nergal’s performance adds a unique twist to his already diverse career. 

7. Lemmy (Motörhead)

The late Lemmy Kilmister, the legendary frontman of Motörhead, is an icon in the world of heavy metal. Known for his gravelly voice, mutton chops, and hard-living lifestyle, Lemmy’s influence on rock and metal is immeasurable. 

Lemmy’s acting career, though not as extensive as his musical one, is filled with memorable appearances. He made his film debut in the 1984 cult classic “Eat the Rich,” where he played a character named Spider. Lemmy also appeared in the 1990 horror-comedy “Hardware,” . His most notable role, however, was in the 1994 film “Airheads,” where he played himself, delivering the iconic line, “I was editor of the school magazine!” Lemmy’s larger-than-life persona translated seamlessly to the screen, making his cameos a treat for fans.

 8. Corey Taylor (Slipknot/Stone Sour)

Corey Taylor, the frontman of Slipknot and Stone Sour, is known for his powerful voice and dynamic stage presence. His ability to switch between aggressive screams and melodic singing has made him one of the most versatile vocalists in modern rock and metal.

Taylor’s acting career includes roles that showcase his range as a performer. He made his film debut in the 2014 horror movie “Fear Clinic,” playing Bauer. Taylor also appeared in the 2016 horror anthology “Officer Downe,” based on the graphic novel of the same name. 

9. Glenn Danzig (Misfits/Danzig)

Glenn Danzig, the founder of the Misfits and later the band Danzig, is a influential figure in punk and metal. His deep, powerful voice and dark, gothic aesthetic have made him a standout performer. 

Danzig’s foray into acting includes roles that align with his dark persona. He appeared in the 1998 film “The Prophecy II,” playing the angel Samayel. Danzig also had a cameo in the 2001 film “The Crow: Salvation.” More recently, he directed and starred in the 2019 horror anthology film “Verotika,” based on his own comic book series. 

10. Alice Cooper

Alice Cooper, the godfather of shock rock, has been a trailblazer in the music industry for decades. Known for his theatrical stage shows featuring guillotines, electric chairs, and fake blood, Cooper’s influence on rock and metal is profound. His hits like “School’s Out” and “No More Mr. Nice Guy” remain staples of classic rock radio.

Cooper’s acting career is as colorful as his music. He made his film debut in the 1978 musical comedy “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” playing the villainous Father Sun. Cooper also appeared in the 1984 horror film “Monster Dog” and had a memorable cameo in the 1992 comedy “Wayne’s World,” where he famously explained the history of Milwaukee. His other notable roles include appearances in “Freddy’s Dead: The Final Nightmare” and “Dark Shadows.