Woody Harrelson has one of the most eclectic careers in Hollywood. He started out as the lovable bartender on Cheers and grew into a powerhouse actor who can shift from comedy to intensity at the drop of a hat. Whether he’s battling zombies, leading revolutions, or stealing scenes in crime thrillers, Harrelson always brings a unique spark. Here are 10 of his most memorable roles across television and film.
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10. Cheers (1985–1993)
As Woody Boyd, Harrelson became a household name. His lovable, slightly dimwitted bartender charmed audiences with wide-eyed innocence and perfect comedic timing. The role earned him an Emmy and remains one of television’s most iconic characters. It’s where Harrelson’s career truly began, setting the stage for his evolution into one of Hollywood’s most versatile stars.
9. Money Train (1995)
In this crime thriller, Harrelson teams up with Wesley Snipes as foster brothers turned transit cops who clash with corruption and financial desperation. While the film itself had mixed reviews, Harrelson’s chemistry with Snipes (carried over from White Men Can’t Jump) kept the story engaging. His reckless, hot-headed character contrasted nicely with Snipes’ steadier role, showcasing Woody’s ability to balance drama with humor.
8. Now You See Me (2013)
As Merritt McKinney, the mentalist with a sarcastic streak, Harrelson stole scenes in this stylish heist film. His mix of wit, charm, and con-man energy made him one of the standout members of the “Four Horsemen.” Whether messing with minds or cracking jokes at his teammates’ expense, Woody gave the film much of its personality and flair.
7. Now You See Me 2 (2016)
Returning as Merritt, Harrelson doubled the fun by also playing Merritt’s estranged twin brother, Chase. His dual performance leaned into comedy while still delivering the slick charisma that made him a highlight of the first film. Though the sequel is more divisive, Harrelson’s performance was a clear high point, proving his ability to elevate any material with charm and wit.
6. Catching Fire (2013)
In The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, Harrelson reprised his role as Haymitch Abernathy, the jaded mentor with a sharp tongue and tragic past. This film allowed him to deepen the character, revealing more layers of humanity beneath the sarcasm. His dynamic with Jennifer Lawrence’s Katniss became one of the series’ emotional anchors, making Haymitch one of the most beloved figures in the franchise.
5. Zombieland (2009)
Harrelson’s Tallahassee is pure chaos — a Twinkie-obsessed, zombie-slaying cowboy who instantly became a fan favorite. Equal parts hilarious and badass, he balanced the absurdity of the premise with genuine heart. His chemistry with Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone, and Abigail Breslin helped make Zombieland more than just another zombie flick. Harrelson’s larger-than-life presence made the movie an instant cult classic.
4. Zombieland: Double Tap (2019)
A decade later, Harrelson slipped right back into Tallahassee like no time had passed. Older, grumpier, but just as trigger-happy, his comedic timing and over-the-top bravado carried the sequel. The film leaned heavily on his character’s energy, reminding audiences why Tallahassee became such a standout in the first place. It was a triumphant return that proved Woody still had it.
3. White Men Can’t Jump (1992)
As hustler Billy Hoyle, Harrelson teamed up with Wesley Snipes in one of the best sports comedies of the ’90s. His fast-talking, trash-talking streetballer not only showed off Harrelson’s comedic chops but also hinted at the dramatic range he’d later master. The chemistry between Harrelson and Snipes remains electric, making the film a timeless classic in both comedy and sports cinema.
2. War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)
In Matt Reeves’ gripping trilogy finale, Harrelson played The Colonel, a ruthless military leader embodying humanity’s desperation and cruelty. His chilling performance was layered with menace and complexity, giving the apes a truly formidable antagonist. It’s one of his darkest and most intense roles, proving his skill at playing characters who demand attention with every scene.
1. No Country for Old Men (2007)
Though his role as Carson Wells is smaller compared to the leads, Harrelson made every moment count. As a confident fixer caught in the deadly cat-and-mouse game between Javier Bardem’s Anton Chigurh and Josh Brolin’s Llewelyn Moss, Harrelson brought charisma and gravitas. His calm presence contrasted the film’s chaos, making his demise all the more haunting. It’s one of his most memorable dramatic turns.
Final Verdict
From sitcom comedy to Oscar-caliber dramas, Woody Harrelson has proven that he can’t be pinned down to a single type. He’s equally at home in blockbusters, indies, and television, always bringing that unpredictable spark. Whether you know him best as Woody Boyd, Tallahassee, or Haymitch, one thing’s certain — Harrelson is a one-of-a-kind talent whose career is only growing richer with time.
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