Superhero films have become some of modern cinema’s biggest cultural phenomenons, bringing actors into the spotlight long before they became well-known performers. Both the Marvel Cinematic Universe and DC Universe were instrumental in shaping the comic book genre, providing opportunities for emerging talent to appear in blockbuster films. While many actors have gained fame for their iconic portrayals of superheroes, some had early and often forgotten roles in these universes before becoming household names.
The MCU and DCU have served as platforms for actors to showcase their talents, even in smaller roles. Since the beginning of the MCU timeline with films like The Incredible Hulk to previous entries in the DCU timeline, such as Batman Foreverseveral now-famous actors made small but memorable appearances that helped pave the way for their careers. These performances are reminiscent of how these cinematic universes often serve as springboards for Hollywood’s biggest stars.
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Jenna Ortega in Iron Man 3
As the vice president’s daughter
Before she became a horror darling Wednesday and the Scream films, Jenna Ortega appeared briefly in Iron Man 3. She played the vice president’s daughter, who has an amputated leg. Although her role was small, she presence added an emotional layer to the vice president’s arcwhile secretly working with villain Aldrich Killian to find a cure for his daughter using Extremis technology.
This early appearance marked Ortega’s growing presence in Hollywood, even as a child actor. His brief screen time showed a sense of vulnerability and sweetness that differs from her later roles significantly. Ortega took on a more severe personality in several of his most famous roles, most notably in Wednesday. Spotting Ortega in Iron Man 3 it’s a reminder of how far she’s come since her humble beginnings in the MCU.
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Glen Powell in The Dark Knight Rises
As a stock trader
Before flying high in Top Gun: MaverickGlen Powell had a “blink and you’ll miss it” role in The Dark Knight Rises (2012). Powell played a young stockbroker held hostage by Bane during the attack on the Gotham Stock Exchange. Powell’s character is best remembered for being knocked out by Bane during the scene. His character was a small victim of Bane’s larger planbut it was an early taste of highly successful cinema for Powell.
Although this role in The Dark Knight Rises didn’t make Powell an overnight star, it positioned him as a actor capable of blending into high-stakes ensemble-driven projects. He later rose to fame with charismatic roles in Hidden figures and Top Gun: Maverickproving that he could excel in major films. Powell is also notable for appearing in the romantic comedy anyone besides you and the disaster movie Twisted.
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Ty Burrell in The Incredible Hulk
As Leonard Samson
Long before he became lovable goofy dad Phil Dunphy in Modern FamilyTy Burrell played Leonard Samson in The Incredible Hulk. Samson, a secondary character in the film, was Betty Ross’s boyfriend, creating tension between her and Bruce Banner. In the comics Leonard is known as Doc Samson one of Hulk’s closest allies who has his own gamma ray-induced superpowers.
This has led many to speculate that Burrell could return to the MCU in a more developed role, much like Tim Blake Nelson as Samuel Sterns in Captain America: Brave New World. Although Burrell didn’t have much time to shine The Incredible HulkHis portrait suggested his versatilitybalancing drama and subtle humor. It’s intriguing to see him in a more serious role before he became synonymous with comedic brilliance. His presence in the MCU, although short-lived, was a springboard for his later success on television.
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Octavia Spencer in Spider-Man
Like the wrestling receptionist
Before her Oscar-winning turn in The helpsOctavia Spencer appeared in Sam Raimi’s film Spider-Man (2002). Spencer played the receptionist who signed Peter Parker up for the underground fight where he tested his powers for the first time. Spencer is notable for underestimating Spider-Man, even calling him names “little fritters”. Octavia Spencer’s role was brief, but played to many of its greatest strengthsincluding his imposing presence, his dry humor and his sassy demeanor.
Although Spencer’s role was brief, his delivery stood out even in a small moment. This special appearance exemplifies how talented actors can elevate even the smallest roles. It’s a fun precursor to his celebrated performances in dramas like Hidden figures and The shape of the waterboth of which earned him Oscar nominations. Previously, she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for The Help.
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Rebel Wilson in Ghost Rider
Like a gothic witness
Rebel Wilson is known for her comedic prowess in films such as Pitch perfect. Years earlier, Wilson had a minor role in Ghost Rider (2007). Rebel Wilson appeared as a gothic-style spectator who tells a reporter of a terrifying encounter with Ghost Rider. Wilson describes the hero, specifically noting that he had a flaming skull for a head. Wilson Quirky delivery was ideal for playing witnesswho reporters refused to believe because of his crazy story.
Wilson’s performance stood out in his short scene, providing a brief moment of levity in the dark supernatural film. This special appearance marked one of her first on-screen appearances in Hollywood. It’s fascinating to see how his natural comedic instincts were already evident, setting the stage for his later success in comedy films like Bridesmaids and Last year.
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Jenna Coleman in Captain America: The First Avenger
Like Connie
Jenna Coleman is beloved for her role as Clara Oswald, Doctor Who for the Eleventh and Twelfth Doctors. Before that, Coleman had a small but memorable role in Captain America: The First Avenger. Coleman played Connie, one of Bucky Barnes’ girlfriends who visited the Stark Expo with Steve Rogers. She later reappears as a nurse and tries to seduce Captain America.
Jenna Coleman’s brief role exuded charm and energy, commanding attention even in a crowded scene. Although her character was small, it’s a delightful Easter egg for those who later fell in love with her work on British television. His appearance in the MCU demonstrates how even Smaller roles can serve as stepping stones for rising stars. Coleman found much success in subsequent roles, including The Sandman and Victory.
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Zoë Kravitz in X-Men: First Class
Like an angel
Before his prominent roles in Big little lies and as Catwoman in BatmanZoë Kravitz appeared in X-Men: First Class as Angel Salvadore. Kravitz’s angel was memorably introduced during the strip club scene when Xavier and Eric are scouring the world for mutants. Your character defected to the villain’s sidejoining Sebastian Shaw’s Hellfire Club.
Kravitz’s role demonstrated her cool, bold presence, hinting at the magnetic performances she would deliver later in her career. Her portrayal of Angel stood out among the cast, making her one of the most memorable characters despite her limited screen time. This role was a early example of his ability to bring depth to morally complex figures. It was a perfect precursor to the morally complex Selina Kyle, whom Kravitz was widely praised for embodying in Matt Reeves’ film. The Batman.
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David Harbor in Suicide Squad
As Dexter Tolliver
Before he became famous for playing Sheriff Hopper in Stranger Things or the Red Guardian in Black WidowDavid Harbor had a minor role in Suicide Squad (2016). David Harbor played Dexter Tolliver, an inviolate government employee in the formation of the titular Suicide Squad. Dexter Tolliver appeared during the iconic bar scene alongside Amanda Waller and later in the office when team members are officially introduced.
Harbor’s role was momentary but effective, lending gravitas to the political debates surrounding Task Force X. His commanding presence hinted at the star power he would later unleash on larger projects. It’s a fun detail to revisit, seeing Harbour’s early connection to the superhero genre before his starring roles. It’s notably less bombastic than his other roles, especially Red Guardian, who returns to the MCU in Rays*.
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Jon Favreau in Batman Forever
As an employee of Wayne Enterprises
Jon Favreau is now a household name for his work in the MCUboth as a director and as Happy Hogan. Favreau is also celebrated for his work on The Mandalorian and others Star Wars show. Early in his career, Faveau had a small role in Batman Forever (1995). He appeared as Bruce Wayne’s assistant, although he was uncredited. Faveau can be seen in the scenes where Bruce Wayne visits the company.
Favreau first appears on the far right when Bruce is walking through the lab, and again on the far left when Bruce is watching the CCTV of Ed Nigma killing Fred Stickley. Favreau’s small role is a fascinating footnote in his career, especially considering his later role as Happy Hogan and his contributions to superhero cinema. It’s a reminder of his humble beginnings in Hollywood, before becoming a visionary director and actor in his own right.
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Doug Jones in Batman Returns
Like the skinny clown
Doug Jones is celebrated for his creature performances in Pan’s Labyrinth and The shape of the water. Often hidden beneath impressive prosthetics and makeup, Jones had a rare appearance as a human in Batman Returns (1992). Jones played Thin Clown of the Penguin’s Red Triangle gang. He is most memorable for fighting Batman in the thrilling Batman Returns opening scene and placement of the Bat Mobile control device on Batman’s trusty steed.
Doug Jones’ uncanny physicality and expressive movements made even this small role stand out. Batman Returns memorable. Your presence in Batman Returns foreshadowed his future as a reference actor for fantastic and mysterious characters. It’s a fun nod to his early career for fans of his lateHis acclaimed work in several Guillermo Del Toro filmsincluding the comic book movie hell boyboth of which earned Jones immense critical acclaim.