6 ACTORS WHO HAVE MASTERED THE MULTIVERSE OF ICONIC FRANCHISES

The galaxy far, far away is about to welcome another legendary actor to its ranks. During a recent interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Jude Law shared his excitement about his role in the upcoming Star Wars: Skeleton Crew. Law described the show as a thrilling, The Goonies-inspired adventure set in the Star Wars universe, where he plays a mysterious mentor guiding a group of young explorers. As anticipation builds for the series, it’s a reminder of Law’s remarkable ability to bring memorable characters to life across some of the biggest cinematic franchises.

Interestingly, while many actors have appeared in multiple franchises such as Star Wars, The Lord of the Rings (LOTR), Marvel, and Harry Potter, no single actor has ever managed to appear in all four. However, a select few have conquered three of these universes, leaving an indelible mark on each. From wizards and superheroes to Sith Lords and hobbits, these performers have proven their versatility and talent across iconic worlds.

From battling wizards to ruling Middle-earth and taking on superheroes, here are six actors who have made their mark in at least three iconic universes: Star Wars, The Lord of the Rings, Marvel, and Harry Potter.

1. Jude Law

Star Wars: Law is set to take the lead in Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, playing an enigmatic mentor figure in a story inspired by The Goonies.
Marvel: As Yon-Rogg in Captain Marvel, Law brought to life a complex and antagonistic Kree leader who tested Carol Danvers’ loyalty and strength.
Harry Potter: Jude Law played the younger version of Albus Dumbledore in the Fantastic Beasts series, showcasing the legendary wizard’s early struggles against Grindelwald.

Jude Law’s ability to seamlessly blend into fantastical worlds makes him the perfect fit for Skeleton Crew, continuing his streak of memorable roles in iconic franchises.

2. Andy Serkis

Star Wars: Portrayed the enigmatic Supreme Leader Snoke in The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi.
The Lord of the Rings: Serkis revolutionized motion-capture performance with his iconic portrayal of Gollum/Smeagol in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.
Marvel: Played Ulysses Klaue, a ruthless black-market arms dealer in Avengers: Age of Ultron and Black Panther.

Andy Serkis is the master of transformation, breathing life into characters through motion capture and delivering unforgettable performances.

3. Benedict Cumberbatch

Marvel: As Doctor Strange, Cumberbatch became the mystical powerhouse of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, appearing in Doctor Strange, Avengers, and Spider-Man: No Way Home.
The Lord of the Rings: Voiced and motion-captured Smaug and The Necromancer in The Hobbit trilogy.
Harry Potter Universe: Narrated The Tales of Beedle the Bard, bringing a slice of the wizarding world to life with his distinct voice.

From dragons to sorcerers, Cumberbatch’s roles are as diverse as they are iconic.

4. Hugo Weaving

The Lord of the Rings: Played the wise and dignified Elrond, Lord of Rivendell, in The LOTR and The Hobbit trilogies.
Marvel: Took on the role of Red Skull in Captain America: The First Avenger, becoming one of the MCU’s most memorable early villains.
Harry Potter-related: Voiced characters in The Tales of Beedle the Bard, adding a touch of Middle-earth gravitas to the wizarding world.

Hugo Weaving’s commanding presence makes him a standout in every franchise he graces.

5. Mads Mikkelsen

Star Wars: Played Galen Erso, the reluctant architect of the Death Star in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.
Marvel: Portrayed Kaecilius, the rogue sorcerer who challenged Doctor Strange in the MCU’s foray into mysticism.
Harry Potter: Took on the mantle of Gellert Grindelwald in Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore, redefining the infamous dark wizard.

Mikkelsen’s ability to portray complex, morally ambiguous characters has cemented his status as a multiverse staple.

6. Christopher Lee

Star Wars: As Count Dooku, Lee brought gravitas and menace to Attack of the Clones and Revenge of the Sith.
The Lord of the Rings: Played Saruman, the corrupt wizard and ally of Sauron in The LOTR and The Hobbit trilogies.
Harry Potter-related: While not directly in the Harry Potter films, Lee worked alongside many of its stars in various fantasy films and is often associated with similar roles.

A true legend of cinema, Christopher Lee’s towering presence loomed large in every universe he stepped into.

Masters of the Multiverse

Actors like Jude Law, Andy Serkis, and others on this list have proven that transcending universes isn’t just a coincidence—it’s a testament to their incredible talent and adaptability. With Skeleton Crew, Jude Law continues this proud tradition, showing how one actor can leave their mark across galaxies, Middle-earth, and beyond.

Which of these actors’ performances is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!