Nobody is saying you can’t enjoy both Marvel and DC but it’s more or less recognised that when it comes to live-action adaptations, studios don’t really book the same actor for different roles (no, we’re not talking about you Robert Downey Jr because we love you 3000). Maybe it’s a spillover from the old days of comic-book rivalry that has also translated to the big screen, but with a 16-year-old Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) that has been releasing film after film, and DC’s film reboot underway, it’s time to relook the unique cases that have crept in.
It’s clear in Hollywood that not everybody sticks to one side of that dividing line and the recently released Deadpool & Wolverine had some truly super cameos. One of them in particular got us thinking about how many actors in the MCU have also donned spandex in the DC universe. From crossing galaxies to patrolling Gotham’s streets, these actors have brought to life some of the most iconic characters in both cinematic worlds.
This list is sorted by the number of appearances each actor has made in both Marvel and DC movies, highlighting those who have crossed over multiple times.
Do note that we’re only considering live-action movie outings, including voice acting in movies, for this list. We’re also including some actors who have upcoming roles in movies, even though the movies haven’t been released yet.
** SPOILERS AHEAD. DO NOT READ UNLESS YOU’VE SEEN DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE **
#1. Chris Evans (Appearance Count: 11)
For DC: The Losers (2010), as Captain Jake Jensen
For Marvel (MCU): Captain America: The First Avenger (2011), as Steve Rogers / Captain America; The Avengers (2012), as Steve Rogers / Captain America; Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014), as Steve Rogers / Captain America; Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015), as Steve Rogers / Captain America; Captain America: Civil War (2016), as Steve Rogers / Captain America; Avengers: Infinity War (2018), as Steve Rogers / Captain America; Avengers: Endgame (2019), as Steve Rogers / Captain America; Deadpool & Wolverine (2024), as Johnny Storm / Human Torch
For Marvel (Fox): Fantastic Four (2005), as Johnny Storm / Human Torch; Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007), as Johnny Storm / Human Torch
Starting off our list is none other than America’s ass, Chris Evans (Knives Out, Snowpiercer). He is the only one on the list with double-digit appearances and it’s no wonder because Evans is synonymous with Captain America, and Captain America is synonymous with Chris Evans.
But this was Steve Rogers’s third foray into superheroes, let’s not forget the first two Fantastic Four films. There, Evans did a very un-Captain America turn as the Human Torch. But when it comes to DC, Evans played Captain Jake Jensen in the 2010 film The Losers. With so many appearances as a superhero, it’s hard to imagine the genre without him. And most recently, in a hilarious twist audiences could not see coming, he reprised his role as Johnny Storm in Deadpool & Wolverine.
#2. Ryan Reynolds (Appearance Count: 7)
For DC: Green Lantern (2011), as Green Lantern / Hal Jordan
For Marvel (MCU): Deadpool & Wolverine (2024), as Deadpool / Wade Wilson
For Marvel (Fox): Deadpool (2016), as Deadpool / Wade Wilson; Deadpool 2 (2018), as Deadpool / Wade Wilson; X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009), as Wade Wilson, Deadpool & Wolverine (2024), as Wade Wilson
For Marvel (New Line Cinema): Blade: Trinity (2004), as Hannibal King
The Merc with a Mouth himself, Ryan Reynolds (Deadpool, The Proposal) has been a fixture in Marvel movies for years. He first appeared in Blade: Trinity, then moved on to X-Men Origins: Wolverine, where he debuted as Wade Wilson, aka Deadpool. Although the character’s portrayal in that film was widely criticised, including by Reynolds himself, it tied him to Deadpool and paved the way for Deadpool, Deadpool 2, and the just-released Deadpool & Wolverine. Ryan’s comic book roles have been hit-or-miss, as his DC film Green Lantern is infamous for its poor reception. However, both Reynolds and his Deadpool alter-ego have a blast mocking Green Lantern and X-Men Origins: Wolverine, making the self-deprecating humour almost enough to redeem the flops. It was also the movie where he met his now wife, Blake Lively.
Fans were also shocked by Wesley Snipes’ extended cameo in Deadpool & Wolverine because Reynolds first appeared in a comic book movie in the third Blade film and Snipes and Reynolds reportedly clashed on set, leading to two decades of animosity but we’re glad the paycheck… or payoff served its purpose in bringing these two back on screen again.
#3. Sean Gunn (Appearance Count: 6)
For DC: The Suicide Squad (2021), as Weasel (voice), Calendar Man; Creature Commandos (2024), as Weasel (voice), GI Robot (voice); Superman (2025), as Maxwell Lord
For Marvel (MCU): Guardians of the Galaxy (2014), as Kraglin Obfonteri; Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017), as Kraglin Obfonteri; Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023), as Kraglin Obfonteri
Sean Gunn (Gilmore Girls, The Belko Experiment) portrays our favourite honorary Guardian of the Galaxy in the Marvel franchise and also surprisingly provides the voice of many DC characters and has been confirmed to be taking on the role of Maxwell Lord in the upcoming Superman reboot.
What will shock you even more is that this isn’t counting the times Gunn donned a motion capture suit to portray characters like Rocket Racoon, Groot, and even Thanos himself at one point. While he didn’t end up providing the voices for them, having Gunn on set as these characters likely helped the other actors connect better with them in emotional scenes.
#4. J.K. Simmons (Appearance Count: 6)
For DC: Justice League (2017), as Jim Gordon
For Marvel (Sony): Spider-Man (2002), as J. Jonah Jameson; Spider-Man 2 (2004), as J. Jonah Jameson; Spider-Man 3 (2007), as J. Jonah Jameson; Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019), as J. Jonah Jameson; Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021), as J. Jonah Jameson
Yes, we’re shocked too. J.K. Simmons (Whiplash, Juno) first appeared in a Marvel film when he stepped into the role of J. Jonah Jameson for the first three Spider-Man films from the days before the MCU. He’s been yelling “PARKER!” a lot more than we realised. He then messed around, won himself an Oscar, and appeared as Jim Gordon in Justice League. Now, he’s back in the world of Spidey. Simmons returned to the role of Jameson alongside new Spider-Man Tom Holland in the new film series.
#5. Idris Elba (Appearance Count: 6)
For DC: The Suicide Squad (2021), as Bloodsport / Robert DuBois
For Marvel (MCU): Thor (2011), as Heimdall; Thor: The Dark World (2013), as Heimdall; Thor: Ragnarok (2017), as Heimdall; Avengers: Infinity War (2018), as Heimdall; Thor: Love and Thunder (2022), as Heimdall (cameo)
Idris Elba (Beasts of No Nation, The Losers), known for his role as the all-seeing Heimdall in Thor, took on a more grounded but equally badass character as Bloodsport in The Suicide Squad. Elba’s ability to transition from the mythic gates of Asgard to the gritty battlegrounds of Belle Reve showcases his incredible range. He brings a powerful presence to every role, whether he’s wielding a sword or a high-tech arsenal. He also has a short cameo in Thor: Love and Thunder but we’re not counting that for the purpose of this list. With five superhero films under his belt, Elba has become a staple in both universes, proving his mettle as a versatile actor.
#6. Nathan Fillion (Appearance Count: 5)
For DC: The Suicide Squad (2021), as T.D.K.; Superman (2025), as Guy Gardner / Green Lantern
For Marvel (MCU): Guardians of the Galaxy (2014), as Monstrous Inmate; Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023), as Karja; Deadpool & Wolverine (2024), as Headpool (voice)
Nathan Fillion (Castle, The Rookie) is no stranger to playing multiple roles in comic book movies, from T.D.K. in The Suicide Squad to Karja in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Most recently, he voiced the wisecracking Headpool in Deadpool & Wolverine. Fillion’s roles are always a treat, whether he’s lending his voice to a disembodied Deadpool head or getting hilariously obliterated in the DC anti-hero romp. His charm and comedic timing make every appearance memorable, no matter how brief. Coming up, he’ll portray Guy Gardner / Green Lantern in the upcoming Superman (2025), adding another iconic character to his comic book repertoire.
#7. Willem Dafoe (Appearance Count: 5)
For DC: Aquaman (2018), as Vulko
For Marvel (Sony): Spider-Man (2002), as Green Goblin / Norman Osborn; Spider-Man 2 (2004), as Green Goblin / Norman Osborn; Spider-Man 3 (2007), as Green Goblin / Norman Osborn; Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021), as Green Goblin / Norman Osborn
Willem Dafoe (The Lighthouse, The Florida Project) is well-known for his creepy and intense portrayal of the Green Goblin in Spider-Man (2002), a role that sent chills down our spines. He brought a different kind of wisdom and authority as Vulko in Aquaman, proving his versatility. Dafoe’s ability to switch from menacing villain to trusted advisor showcases his incredible range. His performances are always compelling, making him a standout in any universe he inhabits.
#8. Josh Brolin (Appearance Count: 5)
For Marvel (MCU): Guardians of the Galaxy (2014), as Thanos; Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015), as Thanos; Avengers: Infinity War (2018), as Thanos; Avengers: Endgame (2019), as Thanos
For Marvel (Fox): Deadpool 2 (2018), as Cable
While both of Josh Brolin’s (Dune: Part One, No Country For Old Men) roles are technically Marvel, they are distinct enough to be noteworthy. He played Thanos in Guardians of the Galaxy, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Avengers: Infinity War, delivering a performance that was both terrifying and oddly sympathetic. Brolin then switched gears to portray the grizzled time-traveller Cable in Deadpool 2, showcasing his ability to handle both epic and comedic tones. With five major Marvel roles, Brolin has left an indelible mark on the superhero genre.
#9. Halle Berry (Appearance Count: 5)
For DC: Catwoman (2004), as Patience Phillips / Catwoman
For Marvel (Fox): X-Men (2000), as Storm / Ororo Munroe; X2: X-Men United (2003), as Storm / Ororo Munroe; X-Men: The Last Stand (2006), as Storm / Ororo Munroe; X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014), as Storm / Ororo Munroe
Yes, we need to talk about the Catwoman film. Back in 2005, Halle Berry (Die Another Day, Monster’s Ball) starred as Patience Phillips, a character that deviated significantly from the iconic Selina Kyle. The movie focused more on the visual appeal of the catsuit and whip rather than staying true to the character’s roots. Fortunately, Berry redeemed her comic book credentials with her portrayal of Storm in the successful X-Men franchise, appearing in four of the films. Her ability to navigate both roles highlights her versatility and enduring star power.
#10. Henry Cavill (Appearance Count: 4)
For DC: Man of Steel (2013), as Superman / Clark Kent; Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016), as Superman / Clark Kent; Justice League (2017), as Superman / Clark Kent
For Marvel (MCU): Deadpool & Wolverine (2024), as Wolverine / Logan (cameo)
Henry Cavill (Man of Steel, Justice League) need no introduction, famously known for his role as Superman. The Man of Steel himself was also just revealed in Deadpool & Wolverine to be a variant of Wolverine. While the role could have just been a cheeky cameo, there’s always a possibility of Cavill entering the MCU now. Imagine the Man of Steel trading his cape for adamantium claws – it’s a wild thought, right?
#11. Tom Hardy (Appearance Count: 4)
For DC: The Dark Knight Rises (2012), as Bane
For Marvel (Sony): Venom (2018), as Eddie Brock / Venom; Venom: Let There Be Carnage (2021), as Eddie Brock / Venom; Venom: The Last Dance (2024), as Eddie Brock / Venom
Tom Hardy (Inception, Mad Max: Fury Road) broke the Bat as Bane in The Dark Knight Rises, delivering a performance that was both physically and psychologically intimidating. He then became the anti-hero Venom in Venom, bringing a chaotic energy to the character. Hardy’s ability to dive into complex, physically demanding roles makes him a standout in both franchises. He is also set to reprise his role as Eddie in the upcoming film, Venom, The Last Dance. We’re unsure whether to count his very short cameo in the post-credits scene of Spider-Man: No Way Home, where he briefly showed up to confirm that his character was in fact part of the MCU, but we’re counting it as five appearances.
#12. Taika Waititi (Appearance Count: 4)
For DC: Green Lantern (2011), as Thomas Kalmaku; The Suicide Squad (2021), as Ratcatcher 1
For Marvel (MCU): Thor: Ragnarok (2017), as Korg; Thor: Love and Thunder (2022), as Korg (cameo), Avengers: Endgame (2019), as Korg (cameo)
Taika Waititi (Jojo Rabbit, What We Do in the Shadows) is a big-time director these days. In the MCU, he tackled Thor: Ragnarok and directed Thor: Love and Thunder. He also cast himself in a small role in Ragnarok as Korg, the beloved gentle giant. He’s also had small roles in Thor and Avengers: Endgame.
On the flip side, he has appeared in not one but two DC films. Before his big movie break, he had a small role in Green Lantern and had an extended cameo as Ratcatcher 1 in The Suicide Squad.
#13. Christian Bale (Appearance Count: 4)
For DC: Batman Begins (2005), as Batman / Bruce Wayne; The Dark Knight (2008), as Batman / Bruce Wayne; The Dark Knight Rises (2012), as Batman / Bruce Wayne
For Marvel (MCU): Thor: Love and Thunder (2022), as Gorr the God Butcher
Christian Bale (American Psycho, The Big Short) brought an intense, brooding Batman to life in The Dark Knight Trilogy, redefining the character for a new generation of fans. Fast forward to Thor: Love and Thunder, and Bale switched sides to play the sinister Gorr the God Butcher. Seeing the man who once protected Gotham now terrorise the cosmos shows just how versatile Bale really is.
#14. Frank Grillo (Appearance Count: 4)
For DC: Creature Commandos (2024), as Rick Flagg Sr. (voice); Peacemaker (2025), as Rick Flagg Sr.
For Marvel (MCU): Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014), as Brock Rumlow / Crossbones; Captain America: Civil War (2016), as Brock Rumlow / Crossbones
Frank Grillo (The Purge: Anarchy, Boss Level) is taking on the role of Rick Flagg Sr. in both the upcoming animated Max series, Creature Commandos as well as the live-action Peacemaker next year. In the MCU, he portrayed the ruthless Brock Rumlow, also known as Crossbones.
#15. Zachary Levi (Appearance Count: 4)
For DC: Shazam! (2019), as Shazam; Shazam! Fury of the Gods (2023), as Shazam
For Marvel (MCU): Thor: The Dark World (2013), as Fandral; Thor: Ragnarok (2017), as Fandral
Zachary Levi (Chuck, Tangled) played Fandral in two Thor movies. That was a supporting role pretty far down the pecking order. These days, he’s a star. Specifically, he’s the star of Shazam! where he played the titular superhero. At least, he does when Billy Batson isn’t a mere child.
#16. Ben Affleck (Appearance Count: 3)
For DC: Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016), as Batman / Bruce Wayne; Justice League (2017), as Batman / Bruce Wayne
For Marvel (Fox): Daredevil (2003), as Daredevil / Matt Murdock
Ben Affleck (Gone Girl, Argo) suited up as the Dark Knight in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, bringing a grittier, older Bruce Wayne to the screen. But before he was brooding in the Batcave, Affleck took a crack at playing a different kind of vigilante in Daredevil (2003). His portrayal in the film might not have won over every fan, but it sure set the stage for his later redemption as Batman.
#17. Michael Keaton (Appearance Count: 3)
For DC: Batman (1989), as Batman / Bruce Wayne; Batman Returns (1992), as Batman / Bruce Wayne
For Marvel (MCU): Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017), as Vulture / Adrian Toomes
Michael Keaton’s (Spotlight, The Founder) turn as Gotham’s protector in Tim Burton’s Batman films is iconic, setting a high bar for future Caped Crusaders. Decades later, Keaton swooped into the MCU as the Vulture in Spider-Man: Homecoming, bringing a new level of menace and depth to the villain. Keaton’s ability to effortlessly switch between hero and villain roles makes him a true asset to both universes.
#18. Michelle Pfeiffer (Appearance Count: 3)
For DC: Batman Returns (1992), as Selina Kyle / Catwoman
For Marvel (MCU): Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018), as Janet Van Dyne; Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023), as Janet Van Dyne
Similarly, Michelle Pfeiffer’s (Hairspray, The First Lady) performance as Catwoman in Batman Returns is unforgettable, capturing the character’s complexity and allure. She later joined the MCU as Janet Van Dyne in Ant-Man and the Wasp, bringing a sense of wisdom and resilience to the role. Pfeiffer’s ability to portray both a seductive anti-hero and a seasoned superhero demonstrates her exceptional talent.
#19. Laurence Fishburne (Appearance Count: 3)
For DC: Man of Steel (2013), as Perry White; Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016), as Perry White
For Marvel (MCU): Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018), as Bill Foster
Laurence Fishburne (The Matrix, John Wick) has been acting since he was a child and has an extensive filmography. DC came calling first, casting him as Perry White of the Daily Planet in Man of Steel. After two DC movies, Fishburne moved to Marvel to play Bill Foster in Ant-Man and the Wasp. His presence adds a layer of gravitas to any film he’s in, making him a valued player in both universes.
#20. Randall Park (Appearance Count: 3)
For DC: Aquaman (2018), as Dr. Stephen Shin
For Marvel (MCU): Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018), as Jimmy Woo; WandaVision (2021), as Jimmy Woo
Asian Jim himself, Randall Park (Fresh Off the Boat, The Interview) did double duty in 2018, appearing in both Ant-Man and the Wasp as Jimmy Woo and Aquaman as Dr. Stephen Shin. His comedic timing and charm make him a memorable addition to any ensemble cast, whether it’s Marvel or DC.
#21. Michael Rooker (Appearance Count: 3)
For DC: The Suicide Squad (2021), as Savant
For Marvel (MCU): Guardians of the Galaxy (2014), as Yondu; Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017), as Yondu
Michael Rooker (Slither, Brightburn) is beloved as Yondu in Guardians of the Galaxy, portraying everyone’s favourite cyborg space pirate. He also brought his unique charisma to DC’s The Suicide Squad as Savant, proving he’s versatile and fun to watch. Rooker’s knack for playing complex, rough-around-the-edges characters makes him a favourite in any comic book adaptation.
#22. Angela Bassett (Appearance Count: 3)
For DC: Green Lantern (2011), as Amanda Waller
For Marvel (MCU): Black Panther (2018), as Ramonda; Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022), as Ramonda
Angela Bassett (What’s Love Got to Do with It, American Horror Story) plays Amanda Waller in Green Lantern. Later, she played Ramonda in Black Panther, a role that she reprised for the 2022 sequel Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
#23. Jared Leto (Appearance Count: 2)
For DC: Suicide Squad (2016), as Joker
For Marvel (Sony): Morbius (2022), as Dr. Michael Morbius
Jared Leto (Requiem for a Dream, Dallas Buyers Club) took on the iconic role of the Joker in Suicide Squad, delivering a controversial performance that had everyone talking. He then stepped into the Marvel universe as the living vampire in Morbius. That film was even more negatively received, although more because the film itself had a complete lack of structure and a coherent script and not due to any poor acting on Leto’s part.
#24. David Harbour (Appearance Count: 2)
For DC: Suicide Squad (2016), as Dexter Tolliver
For Marvel (MCU): Black Widow (2021), as Red Guardian / Alexei Shostakov
David Harbour (Stranger Things, Hellboy) entered the MCU as the Russian super-soldier Alexei Shostakov, a.k.a. the Red Guardian, in Black Widow, a role he will reprise for Phase 5’s Thunderbolts. Before that, he portrayed Dexter Tolliver in 2016’s Suicide Squad, a liaison between the US Government and the Suicide Squad who helps Amanda Waller get approval for Task Force X.
#25. Russell Crowe (Appearance Count: 2)
For DC: Man of Steel (2013), as Jor-El
For Marvel (MCU): Thor: Love and Thunder (2022), as Zeus
Russell Crowe (Les Misérables, Gladiator) portrayed Superman’s father, Jor-El, in Man of Steel, bringing a commanding presence to the role. He then jumped to the MCU as the Greek god Zeus in Thor: Love and Thunder. Crowe’s performances are always powerful, whether he’s delivering sage advice on Krypton or wielding thunderbolts in the Marvel universe.
There you have it, a list of actors who have successfully made their mark in both the Marvel and DC universes. Whether they’re playing heroes, villains, or somewhere in between, these actors have shown their range and dedication to bringing beloved comic book characters to life. And after the timeline shenanigans in Deadpool & Wolverine, the possibility of seeing more crossovers and unexpected cameos is higher than ever!
When Marcus is not trying to full combo a song on his favourite rhythm games, he’s either reading or watching some obscure Japanese mystery show/novel. Don’t ask him how much his Arkham Horror collection costs either, it’s his most closely guarded secret.
Natalie
