10+ Hollywood Stars Who Don’t See Gender When Taking On New Roles

Since the Elizabethan era, actors have long challenged themselves by taking on roles of different genders. From breaking down gender stereotypes to entertaining audiences with their imaginative performances, these actors have proven their versatility and talent. Despite the challenges of convincingly portraying characters of the opposite gender, some have succeeded in doing so, earning recognition and prestigious awards. Here is a list of a few exceptional actors who have skillfully portrayed characters at both ends of the gender spectrum.

1. Michael J. Fox in Back to the Future Part II

2. Amanda Bynes in She’s the Man

3. Gwyneth Paltrow in Shakespeare In Love

4. Martin Lawrence in Big Momma’s House

5. Glenn Close in Albert Nobbs

6. Hugo Weaving in Cloud Atlas

7. Cillian Murphy in Breakfast On Pluto

8. Meryl Streep in Angels in America

9. John Lithgow in The World According to Garp

10. John Travolta in Hairspray

11. Tilda Swinton in Suspiria

12. Patrick Swayze in To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything!

Bonus: Taylor Swift in The Man music video

Other actors don’t hold back when it comes to transforming for a role. So much so, some even become unrecognizable. See it for yourself!

• 10+ Movie Stars Whose Complete Dedication to Their Craft Made Them Become Unrecognizable
• 15+ Times Actors Got a Complete Makeover for Their Roles
• 15 Actors Who Became Unrecognizable With Their Character’s Makeup On
• 12 Hollywood Stars Who Completely Disappeared Behind Makeup For Their Roles