Unexpected Career Paths: Top 9 Actors Who Surprised Everyone After The Wire

1. Idris Elba: From Drug Lord to Action Star

Idris Elba, known for his role as Russell 'Stringer' Bell in The Wire, transitioned from playing a drug lord to becoming a prominent action star in Hollywood. With notable performances in franchises like Pacific Rim and the Fast & Furious series, Elba's commanding presence on screen has solidified his status as a versatile actor.

Idris Elba looking serious as Stringer Bell in The Wire.

2. Lance Reddick: From Police Officer to Hotel Concierge

Lance Reddick, who portrayed Lt. Cedric Daniels in The Wire, surprised audiences by taking on the role of Charon, the suave concierge in the John Wick movies. His transition from a tough police officer to a sophisticated hotel employee showcases his range as an actor.

Cedric Daniels looking serious in The Wire

3. Dominic West: From Hot-Headed Detective to Prince

Dominic West, best known for his role as Jimmy McNulty in The Wire, made a surprising career move by portraying Prince Charles in the acclaimed series The Crown. West's journey from a hot-headed detective to royalty highlights his versatility and ability to tackle diverse roles.

Prince Charles (Dominic West) smiles while looking out the window in The Crown.

4. Michael B. Jordan: From Young Drug Dealer to Superhero

Michael B. Jordan's breakout role as Wallace in The Wire led to his transformation into a superhero in the Black Panther movies. Jordan's journey from playing a young drug dealer to embodying the complex character of Erik Killmonger showcases his evolution as an actor.

Michael B. Jordan as Wallace in The Wire season 1

5. Aidan Gillen: From Corrupted Politician to Master Manipulator

Aidan Gillen, known for his role as Tommy Carcetti in The Wire, surprised audiences with his portrayal of the manipulative Petyr 'Littlefinger' Baelish in Game of Thrones. Gillen's transition from a corrupted politician to a master manipulator demonstrates his ability to tackle complex and intriguing characters.

Aidan Gillen looking at someone as Littlefinger in Game of Thrones season 4 episode 8

6. Michael K. Williams: From Iconic Robber to Crime Syndicate Leader

Michael K. Williams, famous for his role as Omar Little in The Wire, continued his success by portraying the crime syndicate leader Chalky White in Boardwalk Empire. Williams' ability to embody complex and iconic characters solidified his reputation as a versatile and talented actor.

Michael K. Williams as Omar Little in the Wire.

7. Seth Gilliam: From Detective to Survivor

Seth Gilliam, who played Ellis Carver in The Wire, surprised audiences with his role as Father Gabriel Stokes in The Walking Dead. Gilliam's transformation from a detective to a survivor in a post-apocalyptic world showcased his adaptability and range as an actor.

Seth Gilliam as Father Gabriel in The Walking Dead season 8 premiere

8. Amy Ryan: From Port Officer to Office Receptionist

Amy Ryan, known for her role as Beatrice 'Beadie' Russell in The Wire, transitioned to playing the office receptionist Holly Flax in The Office. Ryan's shift from a port officer to a comedic character in a workplace setting highlighted her versatility and comedic timing.

Amy Ryan as Beadie Russell in The Wire

9. Chad Coleman: From Gym Owner to Zombie Fighter

Chad Coleman, who portrayed Dennis 'Cutty' Wise in The Wire, surprised audiences by becoming a zombie fighter in The Walking Dead. Coleman's transition from a gym owner to a survivor in a post-apocalyptic world showcased his ability to tackle intense and action-packed roles.

Chad L. Coleman in The Walking Dead walking with black rifle