Human actors may be the main event when it comes to cinema, but animals can often steal the spotlight in movies and TV shows, too. Over the years, some animal actors have even contributed significantly to box office successes.
Lassie
It wouldn’t be right not to start this list without Lassie, played by a dog named Pal. The Rough Collie starred in many movies and TV shows, through her movie career, with it all starting with Lassie Come Home.
Rin Tin Tin
Rin Tin Tin, a German Shepherd, rose to fame in the silent film era. Discovered during World War I, he starred in over 20 films and was credited with saving Warner Bros. from bankruptcy. His success helped earn his films millions, cementing his legacy as one of the first animal actors.
Terry (Toto from The Wizard of Oz)
Terry, the Cairn Terrier who played Toto in The Wizard of Oz, is easily recognized as one of cinema’s most cherished animal stars. Despite being paid only $125 per week, Toto’s role in this timeless classic contributed to the movie’s massive box office success, which exceeded $3 million at the time.
Crystal the Capuchin Monkey
Crystal is a Capuchin monkey that’s a skilled animal actress. She has appeared in recognizable films like Night at the Museum and The Hangover Part II. She’s helped Hollywood make a lot of money throughout her career.
Chris (Beethoven)
Chris was the adorable St. Bernard from the first two Beethoven films that we just couldn’t forget about. Chris’ behavior and bond with the family were the key to the film’s success. His role showcased the enduring appeal of family-friendly animal films.
Keiko (Free Willy)
Free Willy was an iconic Orca played by Keiko. He brought attention to marine conservation while contributing to the film’s box office success. Keiko’s enchanting performance and heartfelt story earned him a place in cinematic history and highlighted the emotional depth of animal actors.
Trigger (Roy Rogers’ Horse)
What is a cowboy without his horse? Trigger, Roy Rogers’ Palomino horse, became a star in his own right, appearing in over 80 films and a TV series. Trigger’s performances contributed to the popularity of Rogers’ productions, helping to generate significant revenue during their heyday
Milo and Otis (The Adventures of Milo and Otis)
Milo And Otis
The charming duo of Milo (a tabby cat) and Otis (a pug) starred in The Adventures of Milo and Otis. This Japanese film became an international hit, grossing over $136 million worldwide. Their adventures and endearing friendship made the movie a beloved classic for audiences of all ages.
Bart the Bear
When a bear needed to be in a film, Bart was the man, or rather bear, to call. The grizzly bear was a Hollywood heavyweight in his own right, known for his roles in films like The Edge and Legends of the Fall.
Uggie
Uggie, the Jack Russell Terrier from the Oscar-winning film The Artist (2011), charmed audiences with his energetic performance. Uggie’s role received widespread acclaim, even earning him the Palm Dog Award at Cannes.
Clyde and 21 others (Marley)
Did you know that Marley, the Labrador Retriever from Marley & Me, was portrayed by 22 different dogs? A Labrador Retriever named Clyde had the most screen time. The movie is based on a true story, and Marley’s portrayal of unconditional love and chaos captures the essence of the story, making him one of cinema’s most memorable canine stars.
Talent Comes In Many Forms
These animal actors remind us that talent comes in many forms. From dogs to bears, these stars brought heart and charm to their roles, contributing to significant box-office success. Their stories highlight the unique bond between humans and animals, both on-screen and off.
Source:
11 Most Well-Paid Animal Actors In History
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