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The 35 Creepiest-Looking Actors of All Time, Ranked
When it comes to the entertainment industry, individuality can be a significant asset, and the world of weird looking actors is a testament to that. These uniquely faced performers have carved out niches for themselves with their unusual appearances, often landing roles that leverage their distinct looks to extraordinary effect. Their unconventional features truly set them apart, making them unforgettable to audiences and adding a unique flavor to the characters they portray.
Take Michael Berryman, for instance. Known for his work in horror films like The Hills Have Eyes, his striking features have made him a staple in the genre. Gary Busey, with his wild eyes and untamed persona, brings a creepy yet captivating presence to the screen. And let’s not forget Steve Buscemi, whose unforgettable face has graced a wide array of films, from Fargo to Boardwalk Empire, adding an eerie yet compelling quality to his performances.
Some performers on this list weren't always creepy. Christopher Waken and Glenn Close were both the lookers back in the day, and much beloved for compassionate portrayals of sympathetic characters. Hell, even Jack Nicholson was attractive in the golden days of the 1970s, if you can believe that. Over time, these performers have become the kind of creepy actors and actresses that give you the chills, even if they're doing something as simple as brushing their teeth (and actually, you probably should feel creeped out if you're watching someone brush their teeth, because that's f*cking weird).
Now it’s your turn to weigh in. We've put together a list of weird looking actors, and we want to hear your thoughts. Vote on the creepiest-looking actors of all time and see how your picks compare to others'. Your votes will highlight the unique and sometimes unsettling features that have made these actors memorable and iconic in their own right.
- 1
Michael Berryman's unique physical appearance, primarily due to a condition called hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia, is a tremendous asset in bringing to life sinister and eerie roles. He reached cult status as the unsettling Pluto in Wes Craven's The Hills Have Eyes. Berryman's chilling presence is further heightened by his captivating performances, effectively leaving audiences both frightened and mesmerized.
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, USA
- 2
Gary Busey brings a frenetic energy to his creepy characters, often delving into dark, unhinged mindsets. His portrayal of the supernatural villain in Silver Bullet and a maniacal gingerbread man in The Gingerdead Man showcases his ability to send chills down the audience's spine. The unpredictability of Busey's performances elevates tension and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
- Birthplace: Goose Creek, Texas, USA
- 3
Steve Buscemi's distinct facial features lend themselves perfectly to playing oddball and unnerving characters. From the deranged kidnapper in Fargo to the disturbing loner in Ghost World, Buscemi expertly projects an aura of unease and discomfort. His impressive acting range allows him to inject just the right amount of darkness into any role, resulting in truly haunting performances.
- Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York, USA
- 4
Willem Dafoe has a penchant for playing complex, tortured characters that exude a palpable sense of menace. His chilling depiction of the unhinged Bobby Peru in Wild at Heart and the enigmatic Green Goblin in Spider-Man demonstrate his ability to delve deep into the twisted psyche of his characters. His piercing gaze and unsettling smiles add an extra layer of fear to his already captivating performances.
- Birthplace: Appleton, Wisconsin, USA
- 5
With his droopy eyes and distinct character actor features, Vincent Schiavelli was a master at playing offbeat and frightening characters. His portrayal of the menacing subway ghost in Ghost exemplifies his unparalleled talent for instilling fear and unease. Schiavelli's performances consistently showcased a unique blend of intensity and subtlety that left a lasting impact on viewers.
- Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York, USA
- 6
Crispin Glover has a knack for playing peculiar and disquieting characters, utilizing his wiry frame and eccentric mannerisms to great effect. His unnerving turn as the unhinged Layne in River's Edge and the deranged Thin Man in Charlie's Angels showcase his ability to send shivers down the viewer's spine. Glover's commitment to fully embodying the darkness of his characters keeps audiences both fascinated and terrified.
- Birthplace: New York, New York, USA
