Some of the public’s most controversial personalities are well-known actors—and it’s a fact that’s even underscored on social media. The amount of hateful discourse an average Twitter thread can generate is something that has to be seen to be believed. That makes it all the more refreshing to find that there are still a few actors and actresses out there that nobody seems to hate.
1. Keanu Reeves
Keanu Reeves (one of the kindest actors in Hollywood) will forever be our number one least disliked actor. Can you think of anyone who hates Keanu? Exactly. In the way that De Niro is known for playing tough guys, Keanu has made a career playing nice guys in some of the most acclaimed sci-fi and action movies of the past 30 years.
2. Jeff Goldblum
From Jurassic Park to The Fly, there’s something wonderful about the acting of Jeff Goldblum. There’s a reason you can’t help but like the guy when you see him onscreen. His unusual delivery has made him popular since the early days of his career, but over time, it became his most recognizable feature. Some people might call it endearing, and even if you don’t think it is, you have to admit that Goldblum has a quality that makes him an actor nobody hates.
3. Idris Elba
It is hard to believe that anyone could listen to a voice like that of Idris Elba and feel hate. For years, Elba has been one of Britain’s go-to actors not just for drama but also for straight-up action. Some of his recent leading roles have been in films like Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom and Harder They Fall.
4. Patrick Stewart
Sir Patrick Stewart, a cherished figure in geek culture, is not only the captain of the USS Enterprise but the leader of the X-Men. He is also one of the most beloved actors in the Star Trek fandom—and with good reason. His portrayal of Captain Jean-Luc Picard has long since made its way into the hearts of “Trekkies” everywhere. These days, though, Stewart’s work is threading into a new generation of fans as the Picard character is reimagined on the titular Star Trek: Picard show. When not performing, he spends much of his time doing social work and, more recently, advocating for pit bulls.
5. Betty White
Betty White, who was the holder of the Guinness World Record for the longest career on television by an entertainer, had an entertainment business career that spanned 79 years and made her a beloved icon. Even at 99 years old, White, who was seen as the embodiment of sweetness, was an entertainer that social media could not get enough of.
6. Chadwick Boseman
Chadwick Boseman, who died far too early, was the king of Wakanda. Though he was around a long time, acting in theater and on television in leading and guest roles, his big break, and the vehicle through which he’s now come to be known by mainstream audiences, was the immensely popular Black Panther. The man was well liked by celebs and fans.
7. Willem Dafoe
Regardless of the many villainous roles he has played, most people simply can’t bring themselves to hate Willem Dafoe. Maybe it’s because he plays evil characters so effectively and well, but Dafoe is one of the entertainment industry’s popular baddies. Even when he isn’t playing a bad guy, there’s a feeling that he’s still the cast member most likely to go ballistic by the end of the film. That said, everyone loves him.
8. Peter Dinklage
Actor Peter Dinklage, who stars in Game of Thrones, is known for his deep voice and powerful performances through the years. He plays the scheming Tyrion Lannister in the show, and fans have quickly named him their favorite character in a series known for amazing personalities. Dinklage has never let his dwarfism limit the roles he can take. He is just a lovable guy.
9. Jackie Chan
One of the world’s most identifiable martial arts figures, Jackie Chan (one of the top action icons of the ’90s) has for over 40 years been displaying a remarkable talent for the kind of dazzling, death-defying stunts that leave an audience breathless. And while his early work as a performer (mostly as an extra or stunt double) doesn’t always hint at his talents, Chan soon carved a niche for himself in Hong Kong films. He earned rave reviews for a series of performances that made him an action hero and a household name. Who doesn’t like Jackie Chan?
10. Emilia Clarke
It seems that the whole cast of Game of Thrones is made up of nice people. Ironically, one of the nicest among them is also one of the show’s meanest characters: Daenerys Targaryen, played by Emilia Clarke. Clarke is nothing like her character, who incinerates her enemies and has other mean tricks up her sleeve. But in real life, she is a sweetheart.
11. Danny DeVito
Over the last few years, Danny DeVito has become popular on the internet, part of memes and fan castings. There’s a running joke that the actor should play the MCU’s Wolverine. But all that stuff aside, DeVito is a great actor and also an all-around nice guy. “Honestly a weird looking guy, but since his personality is so lovable, it kinda works as a strength,” someone on Reddit described him. And it’s true. Plus, he doesn’t have your typical Hollywood diva personality and does a lot to support numerous other actors in their careers.
12. Paul Rudd
During the 2000s, Rudd had a historic comedic run, appearing in Anchorman, The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Knocked Up, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Role Models, I Love You, Man, This Is 40 and loads more. With an impressive career, he has made a name for himself as Hollywood’s nice guy. Everybody loves Paul Rudd! Even Nintendo. We just don’t love the Ant-Man movies so much.
13. Morgan Freeman
Morgan Freeman needs no introduction. While many agree that he is a great actor, many also agree that he is a super nice guy. The voice of God is known for his kind and gentle manner, often playing likeable characters (even when they’re villains). This is the man whom you want to narrate your life story.
14. Pedro Pascal
The Internet’s Daddy is showing up in just about every franchise these days. Known for his fatherly roles (even though he has no kids of his own) in The Last of Us and The Mandalorian, Pedro is making a name for himself as one of the nicest Hollywood actors today. There’s very little not to like about Pedro. He always looks cheerful and happy.
15. Matthew Lillard
Matthew Lillard has proven to be a nice guy both on and off screen. When he isn’t acting in some of our favourite movies and shows (like Shaggy in the Scooby-Doo movies), he is seen behind the scenes, engaging with fans and having heartfelt moments with those surrounding him. Many fans have personal stories about how Lillard took pictures with them and talked to them while out in public. The good news is that his career seems to be on the up again, so you’ll see him back on your screens soon enough. See and learn more: Lifestyle Fortress
16. Alfred Molina
Last year Alfred Molina opened up to Vanity Fair about his father, who never really cheered for his acting dreams. Molina once had the chance to manage a restaurant for a bigger paycheck, but he passed, choosing the uncertain path of the arts instead. His dad didn’t get it back then, but Molina stuck with it. Fast forward years later, and he’s a Tony and BAFTA-nominated actor, plus the unforgettable Doctor Octopus in Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man 2. Today, Molina is a star adored by fans everywhere. Can you even picture the Spider-Man films without him?
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