Who is the best actor in Hollywood? The best actors in film history is a great subject of debate. These are the greatest actors ever to appear on the silver screen - male only (to vote on both genders, check out this list of the greatest film actors and actresses). These gentlemen were part of some of the greatest movies of all time (or were perhaps the reason they were the best movies ever), with countless Academy Awards between them.
What are the qualities of the best actors of all time? Remember, this is not simply about the most famous actors of all time, or the most popular actors. Is it the raw emotion they show, the parts they choose, their acting methods, or simply their effortless charm and charisma? There's no denying some of these amazing actors belong on the list of the hottest male celebrities, but behind the 100 watt smiles lies the talent that defines generations of top actors. Who knows? Perhaps the number one person on this list is objectively the best actor in the world.
But seriously, who is the best actor of all time? Is it a classic actor like Marlon Brando, a comedic genius like Charlie Chaplin, a double-threat like Clint Eastwood, or a method actor like Daniel Day Lewis? There are so many choices for the greatest movie actor ever that you may have a hard time picking just one. Good thing you can vote for as many candidates for best actors ever as you'd like. Then check back to see if your favorites have made it into the top ten actors. You can also vote on the top actors of this year.
- 1
Known for his devilish grin and intense on-screen presence, Jack Nicholson is a living legend in the world of cinema. His unforgettable performances in classics like One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, The Shining, and A Few Good Men have made him one of the most celebrated actors in film history. With three Academy Awards to his name, Nicholson's status as a cinematic icon remains unchallenged.
- Birthplace: Neptune City, New Jersey, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- Age: 87
- 1One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest1,268 Votes
- 2The Shining1,231 Votes
- 3Chinatown922 Votes
- 2
Widely hailed as one of the greatest actors of his generation, Daniel Day-Lewis is renowned for his immersive method acting and complete transformation into his roles. From his emotionally charged performance in My Left Foot to his iconic portrayal of Abraham Lincoln in Lincoln, Day-Lewis's commitment to his craft is unmatched. A three-time Academy Award winner, Day-Lewis announced his retirement from acting in 2017.
- Birthplace: London, England, UK
- Nationality: Republic of Ireland, United Kingdom
- Age: 67
- 1There Will Be Blood558 Votes
- 2The Last of the Mohicans445 Votes
- 3Lincoln398 Votes
- 3
With his intense gaze and captivating screen presence, Al Pacino is undoubtedly one of the greatest actors of all time. Known for his unforgettable roles in The Godfather trilogy, Scarface, and Serpico, Pacino consistently delivers powerful performances that leave lasting impressions. His incredible body of work has earned him numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for his role in Scent of a Woman.
- Birthplace: East Harlem, New York, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- Age: 84
- 1The Godfather Part II1,411 Votes
- 2The Godfather1,394 Votes
- 3Scarface1,399 Votes
- 4
The soothing voice and calm demeanor of Morgan Freeman have made him a beloved figure in the world of cinema. From his heartfelt portrayal of a former inmate in The Shawshank Redemption to his wise presence as God in Bruce Almighty, Freeman brings grace and elegance to every role. His long and illustrious career has earned him both critical acclaim and audience adoration.
- Birthplace: Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- Age: 87
- 1The Shawshank Redemption1,636 Votes
- 2Seven1,085 Votes
- 3The Dark Knight949 Votes
- 5
British actor Anthony Hopkins mesmerizes audiences with his commanding voice and intense acting style. Known for his chilling portrayal of Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs, Hopkins has also excelled in period dramas such as Howard's End and The Remains of the Day. His prolific acting career demonstrates his versatility and adaptability to various genres.
- Birthplace: Margam, Port Talbot, Wales, UK
- Nationality: United States of America, United Kingdom
- Age: 87
- 1The Silence of the Lambs530 Votes
- 2The Elephant Man267 Votes
- 3Bram Stoker's Dracula257 Votes
- 6
Denzel Washington is a Hollywood legend with a magnetic screen presence that exudes charisma and authority. From his groundbreaking role in Malcolm X to his gritty portrayal of a crooked cop in Training Day, Washington has consistently delivered powerful performances throughout his career. A two-time Academy Award winner, he continues to be a sought-after leading man in the film industry.
- Birthplace: Mount Vernon, New York, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- Age: 70
- 1Training Day1,724 Votes
- 2Man on Fire1,799 Votes
- 3American Gangster1,296 Votes
