Athletes Turned Actors

The Red Lion rehearsals are in full swing here at Bristol Old Vic. Seeing this football play in action reminded us that sport and theatre have a lot more in common than it seems: huge crowds, heightened nerves, and everyone thinking they can do it better than the professionals.  

No wonder so many sportspeople turn their hand to acting. Even our own Thomas McGee in The Red Lion began in a youth footie team at Keynsham – and he’s in good company!

Bristol’s very own David “Darth Vadar” Prowse began his life as a professional weightlifter. Going on to embody the iconic Star Wars baddie, he must have enjoyed embracing some strong costume choices after pants-only wrestling.

Jason Statham was a commonwealth diving champion. Nerves of steel, sleek otter-like physique - we should have seen a career in action films coming...

Ronda Rowsy was an Olympic Judo champion. American professions wrestle, actress, former judoka and former mixed martial artist...

She's a lovely woman.  

Tough guy footballer Vinny Jones had a very promising career playing a tough guy off the pitch for Guy Richie. His opposition were grateful.

Even Sir Lewis Hamilton managed to play (you’ve guessed it) a talking car. Not a huge amount of range – but a strong start.

The Red Lion is running Thu 3 - Sat 19 Feb. 

Grab your ticket now!