1. David Bowie
David Bowie’s influence in the music world is unquestionable, but his passion for acting often gets overlooked. Known for his shape-shifting persona, Bowie seemed destined to become a movie star as well. He made his acting debut in The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976), which showcased his otherworldly charm and depth. Bowie had a unique ability to blend into characters, from playing the Goblin King in Labyrinth (1986) to portraying Nikola Tesla in The Prestige (2006).
Though Bowie never fully embraced a career in acting, his performances proved he had what it took to be a leading man. Many felt that had he pursued Hollywood more seriously, he could’ve rivaled the likes of Al Pacino or Robert De Niro in the ’70s. His eccentricity and talent made him a natural for the silver screen. Bowie’s sporadic forays into film only leave fans wondering what might’ve been if he had made acting a central focus.
2. Mick Jagger
Mick Jagger, the iconic frontman of The Rolling Stones, was always a figure larger than life, both on stage and off. His charisma and androgynous look made him a natural candidate for Hollywood. Jagger took his first step toward becoming a Hollywood star with Performance (1970), where he played a rock star on the run. His unorthodox acting style added a unique depth to his characters that many critics praised.
Though he had roles in films like Ned Kelly (1970) and The Man from the First Century (1973), Jagger never fully committed to acting. His music career was always at the forefront, and perhaps that’s why his Hollywood ambitions never materialized. Still, his striking presence and undeniable talent hinted at a parallel career in the movies. Mick Jagger’s potential as a Hollywood heartthrob remains one of the great “what ifs” of rock ‘n’ roll history.
3. Rod Stewart
Rod Stewart may be best known for his raspy voice and charismatic stage presence, but he was also one of the most recognizable faces of the ’70s. Known for his wild personal style and rock-star bravado, Stewart flirted with the idea of becoming a movie star. His rugged good looks and magnetic personality made him a perfect fit for Hollywood. Stewart even reportedly received offers from directors, including one to star opposite Barbara Streisand.
However, his commitment to music and his penchant for partying put acting on the back burner. Rod Stewart’s movie career could have been full of drama and romance, but he chose to keep his focus on music. Though Stewart never ventured into film, his influence in pop culture and on the silver screen is undeniable. He remains a rock legend whose potential in Hollywood will always be one of the industry’s great what-ifs.
4. Alice Cooper
Alice Cooper was one of the most daring and theatrical rock stars of the ’70s. His shock rock persona, complete with macabre stage shows, had Hollywood directors taking notice. Cooper appeared in the 1977 film Roadie alongside Meat Loaf, but this was only the beginning. His distinctive look, quirky sense of humor, and ability to play a wide range of characters made him an intriguing candidate for leading roles.
While his career never took off in Hollywood, Cooper’s acting chops were apparent in his few film roles. Many believe his transformation into a larger-than-life character made him a natural for the big screen. Unfortunately, his focus remained on rock music, and his few film appearances were often overshadowed by his outrageous performances on stage. Still, his potential as a Hollywood superstar was clear, leaving fans wondering what could’ve happened if Alice Cooper had pursued acting more seriously.
5. Grace Slick
Grace Slick, the hauntingly beautiful lead singer of Jefferson Airplane, was a trailblazer in both music and style. Her deep, commanding voice and countercultural presence made her an undeniable figure in the ’70s rock scene. Slick had an undeniable charm that could have translated into a Hollywood career. She appeared in a few short films and acted as a muse to filmmakers who admired her free-spirited nature.
Despite the offers and interest from the film industry, Grace Slick remained firmly committed to her music career. However, had she pursued Hollywood more seriously, she could’ve easily become a cinematic icon, blending her rock-star intensity with dramatic performances. Her image and voice alone would have made her an instant success on screen. Though she didn’t become a movie star, her presence in the cultural landscape of the ’70s could have easily translated into box office success.
6. Jeff Beck
Jeff Beck, the legendary guitarist, was another rock star who had the potential to become a Hollywood sensation. Known for his unparalleled skill on the guitar, Beck’s image was also one of a charismatic, enigmatic figure—traits that could easily have made him a star in the film industry. He starred in the 1975 film The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes alongside Christopher Lee, but like many of his peers, his true calling remained in music.
His involvement in films never took off, mainly due to his deep devotion to guitar playing. However, his striking looks and the intrigue surrounding his persona left many wondering if he could have become one of the ‘70s most beloved film stars. Beck’s brief foray into the silver screen could have been the beginning of a full-fledged Hollywood career, but his place in rock history kept him firmly planted in the music world.
7. Iggy Pop
Iggy Pop, the wild man of rock, was one of the most fascinating figures in the ’70s music scene. His untamed persona, raw energy, and outrageous performances had many filmmakers thinking he could become a Hollywood legend. Iggy Pop appeared in a few films, such as The Passenger (1975) alongside Jack Nicholson, where his raw, intense energy perfectly matched the gritty nature of the film.
Despite his film appearances, Pop’s commitment to his music and his chaotic lifestyle kept him from pursuing Hollywood stardom full-time. His unpredictable behavior, while a perfect fit for the screen, was often too much for the delicate balance of the film industry. Iggy Pop’s potential as a Hollywood star was undeniable, and though he didn’t follow through, his wild and captivating presence was a constant force in both rock and film culture.
