Lights, Camera, Touchdown! Ranking the Most Iconic Athlete Cameos on TV

May 30

Sometimes they’re funny, sometimes they’re plain uncomfortable, but athlete cameos are always appreciated. Here are some of the best (and worst) cameos ranked based on charisma, acting ability, and cultural impact.

1. Tom Brady in Entourage (2009)

Sport: Football

Role: Himself (duh)

Performance: I mean, how could you not love this scene? The dynamic between him and Turtle will give you a good belly laugh. Tom’s acting skills don’t compare to his QB skills, but we love him anyway.

Overall Grade: 7/10

2. Terry Crews in White Chicks (2004)

Sport: Football

Role: Latrell Spencer, aggressively confident romantic interest

Performance: He committed. He was fearless. This wasn’t a cameo. This was a takeover. The NFL star delivered a performance that is unhinged in the best way possible; it is unskippable and unapologetic. Definitely worth the watch.

Overall Grade: 11/10

3. LeBron James in Trainwreck (2015)

(Mary Cybulski / Universal Pictures / Everett)

Sport: Basketball

Role: Himself (King)

Performance: He’s funny, self-aware, and shows his range. LeBron plays himself but funnier, delivering deadpan lines, playing therapist to Bill Hader, and making you think, “Wait, can he act?” This is peak athlete cameo — self-aware, memorable, and weirdly integral to the plot.

Overall Grade: 10/10

4. Serena Williams in Ocean’s 8 (2018)

Sport: Tennis

Role: Herself (but elevated)

Performance: She owned the room, making everyone feel lucky to be there. Her effortless presence shines through and elevates the scene with energy, winning our hearts.

Overall Grade: 9/10

5. Mike Tyson in The Hangover (2009)

Sport: Boxing

Role: Himself (but with a tiger)

Performance: Yes, this man punches Zach Galifianakis in the face to “In the Air Tonight.” Cinema peaked? Possibly. His acting skills leave us wondering if he knows he’s in a comedy, but his iconic presence saves him.

Overall Grade: 8/10

Emilia Del Castillo