Are you an animal-loving actor? Then you know that even in movies starring the likes of Ben Stiller, Ian McKellen, or Jim Carrey, a talented dolphin, horse, dog, or monkey can run away with the show. We’ve rounded up seven of our favorite animal actors in everything from “Mr. Poppers Penguins” to “The Lord of the Rings.” Now who’s a good boy?
Crystal the Monkey
There’s no monkeying around when this little lady hits the set—she’s a professional! Named in 2012 as one of television’s highest paid actors, audiences know Crystal from feature comedies like the “Night at the Museum” franchise and “The Hangover Part II,” as well as television series “Community” and “Animal Practice.”
Cosmo the Dog
This talented Jack Russell terrier made such an impact on set that “Beginners” star Ewan McGregor wrapped shooting and adopted a dog of his own. Cosmo has also had starring turns in “Hotel for Dogs” and “Paul Blart: Mall Cop.”
Buddy the Wonder Dog
While there’s been many incarnations of Buddy, the heroic dog of the “Air Bud” franchise, this big guy originated the role in 1997 as the basketball playing prodigy pup. Sadly, it was his only appearance in the series before his death to cancer.
Winter the Dolphin
Winter played herself opposite Morgan Freeman, Ashley Judd, Harry Connick, and others in the autobiographical “Dolphin Tale” and “Dolphin Tale 2.” These heartwarming Warner Bros. releases follow a dolphin who loses its tail in a crab trap, is saved, and gets equipped with a prosthetic.
Mr. Popper’s Penguins
We didn’t think it could be done, but as the film’s six titular arctic cuties, trainer Larry Madrid’s eight Gentoo penguins steal the spotlight from Jim Carrey in this 2011 family flick.
Blanco the Horse
This beautiful Equine actor from “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy brought Gandolf the White’s iconic Shadowfax to life.
Bailey and Misha the Cats
Ben Stiller and Robert De Niro get top billing in “Meet the Parents” and its sequels, but as a toilet trained kitty, Jinx is any animal lover’s shining star. He was brought to the screen by two five-year-old Himalayan cats named Bailey and Misha.
Think you can outshine an animal co-star? Check out our audition listings for your chance!