The 5 Most Famous Animals In Hollywood
Actors have the skills to transport us to a whole new world, and as humans, we’ll never tire of watching new stories unfold. So, there’s no surprise we’re also obsessed with the people behind the greatest films and TV shows.
However, humans aren’t the only ones winning our hearts on the big screen! Animals have been taking the acting world by storm for decades. From side character roles to main parts, we’ve fallen in love with cute furry friends repeatedly.
Some animal actors stunned us more than others. In this article, we’re looking at the five most famous animals in Hollywood! Whether you’re curious about animals and acting or looking for a specific name, keep reading. We’ve got all the info you need to know.
Ready to learn something new? Scroll down to find out more.
1. Toto, also known as Terry
There’s no place like home, there’s no place like home…
Sound familiar? If you’ve watched The Wizard of Oz (1939), you’ll recognise these famous lines and you’ll also remember the first star on our list: Terry, a Cairn Terrier, who played Toto in the film.
Born in 1933, an agent found Terry in the kennel, and she made her on-screen debut in Bright Eyes (1934). Like her human co-stars, Terry had to audition for this film, and thanks to her expert training, she made the cut. Betway studies have proven that dogs feel more relaxed when listening to folk music, and we wonder if her trainers gave her a quick listen before her audition.
From this film onwards, Terry continued to book roles. Her most famous is The Wizard of Oz, where she was paid $125 per week for her part, which was a staggering fee for the 1930s!
2. Leo the lion
Have you noticed a lion appearing on screen before the movie starts?
No, we’re not talking about hallucinations! We’re talking about the MGM lion, who introduces the studio’s films. Leo the lion is the mascot for this iconic film studio. Born in Dublin Zoo, this lion became an international icon thanks to his quick studio appearance.
Until 2021, Leo still appeared before every new release, and you can find him in all older films. After 2021, the film studio switched to a CGI lion logo. However, this refreshed mascot was designed based on Leo the lion, so his impact is still going strong at MGM.
3. The Taco Bell dog
While most famous actors are known for their iconic film roles, our next is renowned for their commercial work…
Remember the 90s Taco Bell advert? Of course, you do! Who could forget the cheeky Chihuahua with the human voice? Both cute and funny, this role was played by Gidget the dog. Gidget was the face of the Mexican food chain from 1997 to 2000, and we’ve still not forgotten her.
Though Gidget is known best for her commercial work, she was also in an insurance company commercial and featured in Legally Blonde 2.
4. Crystal the capuchin monkey
How many animals can say they started their career in a Disney film?
Well, this is the truth for Crystal the capuchin monkey. Born in 1994, this monkey scored her first role as a baby in George of the Jungle (1997). But this wasn’t the only film Crystal starred in, her most famous role was as Dexter from the Night at the Museum trilogy. She even appeared in The Hangover Part 2 as a drug dealer! Crystal is not just a pretty face.
Crystal also appeared in various television shows, including a recurring part on Community and the main part in Animal Practice.
5. Keiko the whale
We’re moving to the seas now, as our fifth and last famous animal is Keiko the whale.
Recognise Keiko? This male killer whale spent most of his life in captivity, and you might have seen him performing at amusement parks or aquariums. However, this wasn’t what launched him to fame.
Keiko’s big break was in 1993 in Free Willy. In this film, he befriends a small boy at an adventure park — a role that mimics his real life. This led to campaigns for his freedom, and in 2002 he was released into the wild. Sadly, Keiko had to return to human care as he didn’t have the upbringing to live with wild whales.
The takeaway
Do you remember any of these talented animals? Or are you now on a mission to watch their films? Let us know which famous animal is your favourite in the comments!
