Unbelievable! These 10 TV Stars Absolutely Nailed Multiple Signature Roles

Most actors can only hope to create one memorable role, but a select few have gained fame through multiple iconic television roles. While it can be challenging for performers to break away from a role that has defined a significant portion of their career, there are instances where they have achieved equal success in other roles within the same medium. Unlike films, where actors may have several large and memorable roles within a year, television often limits them to just one standout role in every ten. This is what makes it truly impressive when actors have legacies spanning across multiple television roles.

The 21st century witnessed what many consider the golden age of television. This era began with the introduction of cable and exploded with the emergence of critically acclaimed shows such as The Sopranos, The Wire, Breaking Bad, Mad Men, The West Wing, and Game of Thrones. This expansion of the television industry has allowed actors to showcase their talents in various roles across different genres. Prior to the golden age, it was rare for multiple shows of such acclaim and popularity to air simultaneously. Nowadays, actors have much more freedom and flexibility. With that in mind, here are ten television stars who have left their mark with more than one distinctive role.

Elisabeth Moss (Mad Men, The Handmaid’s Tale)

Bryan Cranston (Malcolm In The Middle, Breaking Bad)

Elisabeth Moss's acting career gained momentum after she appeared in several small film and television roles in the 1990s. Notably, she played the role of the President's daughter in The West Wing. However, her breakthrough came in 2007 when she was cast as Peggy Olson in the hit series Mad Men. In a male-dominated industry, Moss's portrayal of the determined and ambitious Peggy showcased her acting prowess, garnering widespread acclaim and multiple award nominations.

Fast forward ten years, Moss landed the lead role of Offred in the adaptation of Margaret Atwood's renowned dystopian novel, The Handmaid's Tale. This role proved to be a turning point in her career, as Moss's exceptional performance earned her an Emmy and a Golden Globe. Today, she is widely recognized for her portrayal of Offred, solidifying her status as one of the industry's finest talents.

Few could have predicted that the actor most famous for his role as dad Hal in the beloved family sitcom Malcolm in the Middle would turn out to be the perfect fit for Walter White. Bryan Cranston's involvement in The X-Files, produced by Breaking Bad creator Vince Gilligan, ultimately led to him landing the iconic role. Despite Walter White's status as one of the most unforgettable characters of all time, Cranston's enduring popularity as Hal has generated excitement for a Malcolm reunion (which is currently in the works), solidifying his place as one of comedy's most cherished fathers.

Gillian Anderson (The X-Files, Sex Education)

Many iterations of The X-Files since 1993 have provided Gillian Anderson with the opportunity to portray the renowned FBI Special Agent Dana Scully in the beloved science fiction series. Through her remarkable portrayal of a skeptic investigating paranormal phenomena, Anderson has garnered numerous accolades and widespread acclaim. Despite the likelihood of being perpetually associated with this iconic role, Anderson successfully ventured into new territory when she joined the cast of Netflix's Sex Education as the unbounded sex therapist Jean Millburn. This role introduced Anderson to a whole new generation of television fans, who have embraced her warmly. She has since gained popularity across audiences of all ages and continues to attract exciting new opportunities.

John Krasinski (The Office, Jack Ryan)

Without a doubt, John Krasinski has emerged as one of the biggest names in Hollywood today. However, his journey to stardom can be traced back to his humble beginnings with the beloved American adaptation of The Office. Despite initial criticism during its first season, The Office defied expectations and achieved remarkable success, propelling both Krasinski and Steve Carrel into the realm of stardom. While Krasinski's portrayal of Jim may forever be associated with him, his recent and ongoing portrayal of the iconic Jack Ryan has reignited his popularity, this time within the action genre. This role has afforded him the opportunity to showcase his versatility and serves as a fitting continuation of his time on The Office.

Neil Patrick Harris (Doogie Howser, M.D., How I Met Your Mother)

Kiefer Sutherland (24, Designated Survivor)

: Despite being just sixteen years old, Neil Patrick Harris made a breakthrough as the lead character in the popular sitcom Doogie Howser, M.D. in 1989. This role helped solidify the show's status as a beloved series amidst a saturated comedy industry. While not yet a household name, Harris was already recognizable from his time on the show. However, it was his portrayal of Barney Stinson in How I Met Your Mother fifteen years later that truly catapulted him to new levels of fame. Harris's depiction of the womanizing suit-obsessive earned him numerous award nominations and he currently has a prominent role lined up in the upcoming Doctor Who 60th-anniversary specials.

Coming from a family deeply immersed in the world of acting, Kiefer Sutherland faced immense pressure. However, he managed to secure several minor roles in the 1980s and '90s. Eventually, he was cast as the captivating Jack Bauer in the thrilling series 24. Undoubtedly, this remains his most iconic role, largely due to the unwavering heroism displayed by the counter-terrorism agent over the show's nine-year tenure. Nevertheless, it is his portrayal of Tom Kirkman in Designated Survivor that has truly impressed audiences and garnered widespread acclaim. In this role, Sutherland brilliantly portrays a cabinet member who unexpectedly assumes the presidency after a devastating attack. His exceptional performances have garnered him prestigious awards such as an Emmy, a Golden Globe, and a Screen Actors Guild Award.

Hugh Laurie (Blackadder, House)

Hugh Laurie, a legendary figure in British comedy and drama, gained immense popularity among American viewers for his role as the brilliant and acerbic doctor in the TV series House, which aired from 2004 to 2012. Not only did his portrayal of Gregory House earn him multiple award nominations, but it also brought him two Golden Globes and Screen Actors Guild Awards. Prior to this breakthrough, Laurie had already established himself in the UK with his comedic talent showcased in sketch shows and sitcoms, most notably his portrayal of Prince George in the iconic series Blackadder during its third and fourth seasons. Even today, Blackadder remains a cherished and widely celebrated period comedy, often hailed as one of the greatest sitcoms in UK television history.

Kelsey Grammer (Frasier, The Simpsons)

Originally intended to be Diane Chambers' love interest in Cheers, Dr. Frasier Crane became so beloved by viewers that Kelsey Grammar was asked to continue the role in the spin-off series Frasier, which debuted right after Cheers concluded. His portrayal of the psychiatrist catapulted him to widespread recognition in the comedy world, and his recurring part as Sideshow Bob in The Simpsons has further solidified his status as a talented voice actor. Younger audiences have particularly embraced his distinctive and haunting voice. Grammer is set to reprise his role in the upcoming Frasier reboot.

Julianna Margulies (ER, The Good Wife)

In the early stages of her career, Julianna Margulies found success in notable roles in Law & Order and The Sopranos. However, her true breakthrough came with her portrayal of Nurse Carol Hathaway in the long-running medical drama series ER, which aired for fifteen years starting in 1994. Margulies garnered critical acclaim and accolades, including an Emmy and Golden Globe, for her dedicated and compassionate depiction of the character. This remarkable achievement paved the way for further triumphs in her portrayal of Alicia Florrick in the political drama series The Good Wife. As audiences followed Florrick's journey from a disgraced politician's spouse to an empowered lawyer, Margulies showcased a fresh dimension of her talent, earning her additional awards and widespread acclaim.

Betty White (The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Golden Girls)

Betty White, the legendary actress, had a remarkable career that was catapulted by her immense popularity for her role as Sue Ann Nivens in The Mary Tyler Moore Show during the 1970s. In this role, White showcased her exceptional comedic timing and innate talent, portraying the manipulative and charming Nivens to perfection. Her stellar performance earned her two Emmys and made her a household name. However, it was her portrayal of the naive and kindhearted Rose Nylund in Golden Girls that truly propelled her to stardom. From 1985 onwards, White's mesmerizing depiction of Nylund established her as one of the all-time greats in the acting industry. Remarkably, she managed to shine even amongst the talented ensemble cast which included Bea Arthur, Rue McClanahan, and Estelle Getty.