Here are some of the most notable comeback roles of famous actors.

These comeback roles not only brought these actors back into the limelight but also showcased their incredible talent and versatility.

Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man – After struggling with addiction and legal issues, Downey Jr. made a triumphant return as Tony Stark in “Iron Man” (2008), which revitalized his career and launched the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man

Brendan Fraser in The Whale – Known for his roles in “The Mummy” series, Fraser’s career had slowed down until his critically acclaimed performance in “The Whale” (2022), which earned him an Academy Award.

Brendan Fraser in The Whale

Ke Huy Quan in Everything Everywhere All At Once – After a long hiatus from acting, Quan returned with a powerful performance in this 2022 film, earning him an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.

Ke Huy Quan Comeback Roles in Everything Everywhere

Jennifer Coolidge in The White Lotus – Coolidge, known for her comedic roles, gained widespread acclaim and awards for her performance in the HBO series “The White Lotus” (2021-2022).

Jennifer Coolidge in The White Lotus

Michael Keaton in Birdman – Keaton, who was a major star in the ’80s and ’90s, made a significant comeback with his role in “Birdman” (2014), which won him critical acclaim and several awards.

Michael Keaton in Birdman

Matthew McConaughey in Dallas Buyers Club – McConaughey transitioned from romantic comedies to serious drama with his Oscar-winning role in “Dallas Buyers Club” (2013).

Mickey Rourke in The Wrestler – Rourke’s career had declined until his powerful performance in “The Wrestler” (2008), which earned him an Academy Award nomination.

Mickey Rourke in The Wrestler

Winona Ryder in Stranger Things – Ryder, a major star in the ’80s and ’90s, made a successful return to the spotlight with her role in the hit Netflix series “Stranger Things” (2016-present).

Winona Ryder in Stranger Things

John Travolta in Pulp Fiction – Travolta’s career was revitalized by his role in Quentin Tarantino’s “Pulp Fiction” (1994), which led to a series of successful films.

John Travolta in Pulp Fiction

Neil Patrick Harris in How I Met Your Mother – Harris, who was known for his role as a child actor in “Doogie Howser, M.D.,” made a major comeback with his role as Barney Stinson in “How I Met Your Mother” (2005-2014).

 

Neil Patrick Harris in How I Met Your Mother