15 Famous Actors Who’ve Appeared in Both Marvel and DC Movies

15 Famous Actors Who’ve Appeared in Both Marvel and DC Movies

Hollywood actors love a good superhero role, and some lucky stars have gotten to play in both Marvel and DC universes. Fans often debate which comic book company makes better movies, but these talented performers don’t have to pick sides.

They’ve suited up for both teams, bringing iconic characters to life across different franchises. From villains to heroes, these actors prove that talent knows no boundaries when it comes to saving (or destroying) the world on screen.

1. David Dastmalchian

David Dastmalchian might not be a household name, but he’s carved out a special place in both superhero universes. As Kurt in the Ant-Man movies, he played the lovable ex-con with a thick Russian accent who helps Scott Lang pull off heists.

His comedic timing and genuine friendship with the team made him a fan favorite sidekick. Then came his heartbreaking turn as Polka-Dot Man in The Suicide Squad.

This DC character was tragic and hilarious at the same time, dealing with serious mommy issues while shooting polka dots at enemies. Dastmalchian gave the ridiculous-sounding villain real emotional depth that surprised everyone. He proves supporting characters can steal scenes just as well as main heroes.

2. Michael Keaton

When you think of Batman, Michael Keaton’s name probably comes to mind. He made Bruce Wayne famous back in 1989, wearing the cape and cowl in Tim Burton’s dark take on Gotham’s protector.

Decades later, he returned to the role in 2023’s The Flash, reminding everyone why he’s legendary. But Keaton didn’t stop at DC. He flew into the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Adrian Toomes, better known as Vulture, in Spider-Man: Homecoming.

His villain was scary, sympathetic, and totally believable. Keaton brought the same intensity to both universes, proving he can rock any superhero world.

3. Idris Elba

Standing guard at the Bifrost Bridge, Idris Elba played Heimdall in Marvel’s Thor films. His all-seeing gatekeeper was loyal, powerful, and unforgettable.

Elba gave the character dignity and strength, making every scene he appeared in feel important. Then he switched sides and joined DC’s The Suicide Squad as Bloodsport, a reluctant mercenary forced into a dangerous mission.

Unlike the noble Heimdall, Bloodsport was rough around the edges and morally complicated. Elba’s range shined through, showing he can play a god or a criminal with equal skill and charm.

4. Michael Rooker

Michael Rooker brought unforgettable swagger and grit to his role as Yondu Udonta in Guardians of the Galaxy. The blue-skinned space outlaw, armed with a whistle-controlled arrow and a gruff but endearing heart, quickly became a fan favorite.

His redemption arc and emotional farewell left audiences genuinely moved, cementing Yondu as one of Marvel’s most memorable side characters. Afterward, Rooker reunited with director James Gunn for DC’s The Suicide Squad, portraying the sharp-shooting mercenary Savant.

Though his screen time was brief, the role proved Rooker’s range and fearless commitment to characters that leave a lasting impression—no matter how short-lived.

5. Zoe Saldaña

Green-skinned and deadly, Zoe Saldaña brought Gamora to life in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. She starred in the Guardians of the Galaxy films, playing the adopted daughter of Thanos who chose good over evil.

Her performance made Gamora one of the franchise’s most beloved heroes. Before joining Marvel, Saldaña appeared in DC’s The Losers back in 2010, playing Aisha, a mysterious operative with her own agenda.

Though the film flew under the radar, it showcased her action chops early on. Saldaña proves that strong female characters belong in every universe.

6. Dave Bautista

Nothing goes over Drax’s head—his reflexes are too fast! Dave Bautista became a fan favorite as Drax the Destroyer in Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy.

The former wrestler brought humor, heart, and surprising depth to the literal-minded warrior seeking revenge. While Bautista hasn’t officially appeared in a DC film yet, director James Gunn has hinted at casting him in future DC projects.

Given their successful collaboration at Marvel, fans are excited to see what role Bautista might tackle next. His physical presence and comedic timing would fit perfectly into any superhero universe.

7. Laurence Fishburne

Laurence Fishburne has one of the most interesting crossover stories in superhero cinema. His deep, powerful voice brought the cosmic Silver Surfer to life in 2007’s Fantastic Four sequel.

Though you never saw his face, his voice gave the character an otherworldly presence that fans still remember. Years later, Fishburne switched teams and joined DC’s cinematic universe. He played Perry White, the tough newspaper editor who bosses around Clark Kent at the Daily Planet.

His performance appeared in both Man of Steel and Batman v Superman, making him a memorable part of Superman’s world. From cosmic Marvel hero to grounded DC journalist, Fishburne showed amazing range.

8. Sean Gunn

Behind the scenes and on screen, Sean Gunn has done double duty in the Marvel universe. He played Kraglin Obfonteri, Yondu’s loyal first mate, while also performing motion-capture for Rocket Raccoon.

His physical work helped bring one of Marvel’s most popular characters to life. Gunn then hopped over to DC, playing the bizarre creature Weasel in The Suicide Squad and the Peacemaker series.

The character was weird, funny, and totally unexpected. Sean’s versatility shows he can handle any role, whether he’s acting with his face or just his body movements.

9. Hugo Weaving

Hugo Weaving is a master at playing mysterious characters behind masks. His portrayal of V in the 2005 DC film V for Vendetta became legendary. Wearing a Guy Fawkes mask throughout the entire movie, he created an unforgettable revolutionary character using only his voice and body language.

Six years later, Weaving became one of Marvel’s most terrifying villains. As Red Skull in Captain America: The First Avenger, he wore heavy makeup and prosthetics to transform into the Nazi villain.

His sinister performance made Captain America’s first enemy truly frightening and memorable for audiences worldwide. Both roles required acting without showing his actual face, proving his incredible talent.

10. Nathan Fillion

Firefly fans rejoiced when Nathan Fillion appeared in DC’s The Suicide Squad as T.D.K., an arms dealer with detachable limbs. Though his role was small, Fillion made it memorable with his signature charisma.

He’s also set to play Guy Gardner, the Green Lantern, in DC’s upcoming Superman film. On the Marvel side, Fillion had a cameo in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and voiced characters in animated projects.

His ability to bounce between universes shows his range and popularity. Whether he’s cracking jokes or wielding a power ring, Fillion always entertains.

11. Frank Grillo

Brock Rumlow, also known as Crossbones, was Frank Grillo’s menacing Marvel character. He appeared in Captain America: The Winter Soldier and Civil War, playing a Hydra operative with a serious grudge against Steve Rogers.

Grillo made the villain intimidating and unpredictable. Now he’s joined James Gunn’s new DC universe as Rick Flag Sr., a character connected to the Suicide Squad legacy.

The role gives Grillo a chance to play a more complex character with different motivations. His tough-guy persona works perfectly in both comic book worlds, making him a natural fit wherever he lands.

12. Pom Klementieff

Adorable and powerful, Pom Klementieff’s Mantis became a breakout star in the Guardians of the Galaxy films. Her empath abilities and innocent personality brought humor and heart to the team.

Klementieff’s chemistry with the cast made Mantis feel like family. She’s now confirmed to appear in James Gunn’s upcoming DC film Superman, though her specific role remains a mystery.

Fans are excited to see what character she’ll bring to life in the DC universe. Klementieff has proven she can handle quirky, memorable roles, so expectations are high for her DC debut.

13. Tommy Lee Jones

Tommy Lee Jones started his superhero journey playing one of Batman’s most famous villains. His version of Two-Face in 1995’s Batman Forever was wild and over-the-top, matching the colorful style of that era.

With half his face scarred, he brought the split-personality villain to life alongside Jim Carrey’s Riddler. Sixteen years later, Jones joined Marvel’s universe with a completely different type of character.

Colonel Chester Phillips was a no-nonsense military officer who initially doubted Steve Rogers could become a super soldier. His gruff, sarcastic performance added humor and heart to Captain America’s origin story. Jones showed he could play both crazy villain and tough mentor equally well.

14. Bradley Cooper

You might not see his face, but Bradley Cooper’s voice gave Rocket Raccoon his sharp wit and heart in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The trash-talking, weapons-loving raccoon became one of Marvel’s most beloved characters.

Cooper’s perfect mix of humor, grit, and emotion made Rocket impossible not to love. His vocal performance added depth and humanity to a CGI creation, making Rocket an instant fan favorite.

Now, Cooper brings his voice talents to DC’s Superman (2025), officially portraying Jor-El, Superman’s Kryptonian father. His casting proves that voice acting can deliver just as much power and presence as any live-action role.

15. Chris Evans

Before becoming Captain America, Chris Evans actually played a different Marvel hero. He brought the fiery Johnny Storm to life in the Fantastic Four movies back in 2005 and 2007.

Most people forget about this early role because his Captain America performance became so iconic. What many fans don’t realize is that Evans also appeared in a DC movie called The Losers.

He played Jake Jensen, a tech-savvy soldier with a funny personality. This 2010 action film came out before he landed the Captain America role that would make him a household name. Evans proved he could handle both comedy and serious action across different comic book universes.