4 Former Soccer Players That Became Actors

With so many soccer players renowned for their performance skills both with the ball but also when rolling around on the pitch faking injuries it is surprising that now that many then choose to pursue a career in front of the camera as actors in blockbuster films. 

This cannot be said about four former legendary players that have become actors. We will take a look at them now:

Eric Cantona

A former French soccer player who is known for his successful transition from the soccer pitch to the silver screen. After retiring from professional soccer, Cantona pursued an acting career and appeared in several films, including “Elizabeth” (1998) and “Looking for Eric” (2009) as well as “Sheitan” (2006), “De Force” (2011), and “You and the Night” (2013). He recently starred in the French TV film “Le Colosse aux pieds d’argile” (2022).

Vinnie Jones

Vinnie Jones, a former English soccer player who played for Wimbledon during two spells I the 1980’s and 1990’s and made a name for himself as a tough-tackling midfielder during his playing days. Following his retirement, he transitioned into acting and became known for his roles in movies such as “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels” (1998) and “Snatch” (2000) and more recently he starred in “Bullet Proof” (2022).

Pelé

Pelé, widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer player of all time, having won the World Cup with Brazil three times in 1958, 1962, 1970. He then ventured into acting after his illustrious playing career. The Brazilian legend appeared in several films, including “Victory” (1981), “Escape to Victory” (1981), and “A Minor Miracle” (1983).

David Beckham

While David Beckham is primarily known for his achievements as a professional soccer player for Manchester United, Real Madrid and LA Galaxy. He has also made appearances in films. The former English player had cameo roles in movies like “Bend It Like Beckham” (2002) and “King Arthur: Legend of the Sword” (2017).

This is proof that some soccer players can definitely make it having already garnered fame on the soccer pitch.