Here’s a shoutout to those unexpected TV guest stars who managed to steal the show, sometimes even overshadowing the main characters. These actors, despite their fleeting appearances, made a lasting impression, from Gwyneth Paltrow’s endearing performance in Glee to Michael J. Fox’s iconic role in Scrubs. These guest stars brought something extra to the table, turning their cameos into some of the most memorable moments in TV history.
Michael J. Fox
In the list of unexpected TV guest stars, Michael J. Fox obviously comes first. His shortest role as Dr. Cassey on Scrubs, a surgeon with OCD, totally piqued the show on another level.
Gwyneth Paltrow
Gwyneth Paltrow’s Holli Holliday role on Glee was another show-stealing performance that every audience remembered, though she acted for only five episodes. Paltrow is among the first guest stars to take on Jane Lynch head-to-head and emerge from the experience feeling rejuvenated rather than defeated. Glee always benefits when strong actors take over its space.
Timothy Olyphant
The charming character of Timothy Olyphant’s Cobb Vanth was something everyone missed at a level that audiences hoped for him to return to in the show “The Mandalorian.”
Jaleel White
In the show “Family Matters,” Jaleel White’s character Steve Urkel stole the show and became an instant favorite of everyone, though he was meant to be one of the side characters.
Jim Parsons
Another side character who stole the show and even won a pair of Emmys is Jim Parsons’ character, Sheldon Cooper. The weirdness of the character and his funny yet logical dialogue stole the show, and he became one of the main characters in the whole show.
Joe Keery
Who does not know the charming high school boy from “Stranger Things”? Joe Keery’s portrayal of a jerk high schooler in season 1 as one of the main characters in season 4 is another memorable show-stealing incident that no one can ever forget.
Timothee Chalamet
The character of Elio in “Call Me By Your Name” brought an Oscar nomination to Timothee Chalamet, who was not so popular when he started the show. His outstanding emotional performance in the show led me to big projects like Dune and Willy Wonka (upcoming).
Antonio Banderas
Antonio Banderas was not so popular and a big star on the silver screen, as he only starred in Spanish movies. He received his ultimate break in “Interview With the Vampire,” casting with Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise, where he played the charming character of Armand, a vampire. Banderas’s acting in the film led him to his life’s first blockbuster, “The Mask of Zorro,” which was only the beginning of his journey as a famous actor.
Melissa McCarthy
Before Bridesmaid, McCarthy was not unknown, but her big break came through her role in Bridesmaid, from which she received a lot of offers for comedy roles perfectly crafted for her. Her comedic side and incredible acting skills totally stole the limelight from the main characters. Later, she starred in many major roles but her character in Bridesmaid will be remembered forever.
Edward Norton
Last but not least, Edward Norton’s role in “Primal Fear” was another major show-stealing character, though he was not present in the poster. His captivating acting in the film stole the attention of the audience for which the film was nominated for an Oscar. As a supporting cast member, his name in the Oscar nomination brought him major breaks in his acting career. Later, his acting got several critical acclamations from the audience as well.
