The 1980s was a decade defined by blockbuster films, and the actors who dominated this era became household names. Their star power was undeniable, as they consistently drew crowds to theaters, helping to make some of the most iconic films of all time. Here’s a look at the top 10 box office actors of the 1980s who reigned supreme:
Top Box Office Actors of the 1980s
1. Harrison Ford
Arguably the biggest star of the 1980s, Harrison Ford starred in two of the decade’s most iconic film franchises: Star Wars and Indiana Jones. His role as Han Solo in The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and Return of the Jedi (1983) cemented his place in cinema history, while Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) and its sequels showcased his action-hero prowess.
2. Sylvester Stallone
Stallone was the face of two of the most successful franchises of the decade: Rocky and Rambo. With Rocky III (1982) and Rocky IV (1985), he became an embodiment of underdog determination, while First Blood (1982) and Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985) turned him into an action icon.
3. Eddie Murphy
The 1980s saw Eddie Murphy’s meteoric rise from Saturday Night Live to Hollywood megastardom. Films like 48 Hrs. (1982), Beverly Hills Cop (1984), and Coming to America (1988) showcased his unique ability to blend comedy and action, making him one of the top box office draws of the decade.
4. Tom Cruise
A youthful Tom Cruise burst onto the scene with Risky Business (1983), but it was Top Gun (1986) that catapulted him into superstardom. His charming, boy-next-door appeal made him a favorite among audiences, and he went on to star in hit films like The Color of Money (1986) and Rain Man (1988).
5. Arnold Schwarzenegger
The Austrian-born bodybuilder became one of the biggest action stars of the ’80s. His portrayal of the Terminator in The Terminator (1984) is legendary, and films like Commando (1985) and Predator (1987) further solidified his box office dominance.
6. Michael J. Fox
Best known for his role as Marty McFly in the Back to the Future trilogy (starting in 1985), Michael J. Fox became a beloved figure of the decade. His clean-cut image and everyman charm made him a relatable star, with Teen Wolf (1985) and other family-friendly hits helping him stay in the spotlight.
7. Mel Gibson
Mel Gibson’s portrayal of Max Rockatansky in Mad Max 2 (1981) introduced him to international audiences, but it was his role as Martin Riggs in Lethal Weapon (1987) that propelled him into Hollywood’s elite. His charismatic performances and action-packed roles made him a bankable star.
8. Chevy Chase
One of the best-known comedic actors of the 1980s, Chevy Chase starred in a string of box office hits including Caddyshack (1980), National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983), and Fletch (1985). His deadpan delivery and physical comedy made him a favorite with audiences looking for laughs.
9. Bill Murray
Bill Murray was a staple of ’80s comedy, beginning with Ghostbusters (1984), one of the decade’s most iconic films. His blend of sarcasm and wit shone through in other hits like Stripes (1981) and Scrooged (1988), making him one of the most beloved actors of the era.
10. Bruce Willis
Though Bruce Willis became a household name later in the decade, his role as John McClane in Die Hard (1988) redefined the action genre. With his relatable everyman appeal, Willis broke away from the stereotypical muscle-bound heroes, carving his niche in Hollywood.
Whether you’re looking to relive the magic of the ’80s or discover these iconic films for the first time, you can find many of the movies featuring these legendary actors at Raresunrise.com. Raresunrise specializes in locating rare and classic DVDs, making it the perfect destination for film lovers looking for hidden gems from this unforgettable era.
