LeBron Jameshas often been compared toMichael Jordan, but it is Michael Jordon who just came out on top In what might be the most important category of all time. According to the movie going public,Michael Jordan’s performance in the 1996 classicSpace Jamis considered to be the best ever big-screen appearance by a sports star in a movie.LeBron Jamesalso made the list forTrainwreck, but he placed fourth. Maybe that will change after he stars inSpace Jam 2?
The list was determined by a recent poll conducted byFandangowith more than 1,000 people voting for who they thought should come out on top. There is a lot of love from 90s kids forSpace Jam, so it isn’t that surprising thatMichael Jordanwon this race.LeBron Jameslanded in the number four spot for his work in theAmy SchumercomedyTrainwreck. Ironically,LeBron Jamesis currently attached to star in aSpace Jam sequelwithFast and FuriousdirectorJustin Linat the helm.
Space Jamwas amajor eventwhen it was released in 1996, asMichael Jordanwas one of the biggest stars on the planet at the time, even though he had little acting experience outside of commercials. Plus, it served as a bit of a revamp for theLooney Tunes. The movie was a reasonable success at the box office, bringing in $230 million worldwide, but it has remained something of a cult classic for those who grew up with the movie. Outside of other NBA stars, the movie also featuredBill Murray,Wayne Knightand the voice ofDanny DeVito.
The number two spot on the list went toMike Tysonfor his very brief, but apparently very memorable and lovable, cameo inThe Hangover. The number three spot went toAndre the Giantfor his unforgettable work as Fezzik inThe Princess Bride. Given that a wrestler made it onto the list, it is a little surprising thatDwayne “The Rock” Johnsondidn’t make his way into the frey. But maybe that has to do with him being more of a movie star than he ever was a wrestling star. Also absent from the list is “Rowdy"Roddy Piperfor his work inThey Live.
Some of the other sports stars who made the list includeDan Marinofor playing himself inAce Ventura: Pet Detective.Tom Bradyalso managed to squeak in at number nine for his work inTed 2, which was very brief. That probably had more to do withTom BradybeingTom Bradythan it did with his actual work in the movie. Also,Shaquille O’Nealmanaged to make the list at number seven for his role in the 1996 movieKazaam, where he played a genie. For the record, that movie currently has a 6 percent approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. And don’t think that the ladies got left behind. Fighter Gina Carano landed at number 6 for her memorable role in this year’s blockbuster hit Deadpool. And MMA all-star Ronda Rousey squeezed her way in at number ten on sure charisma alone, as she’s one of the few highlights in the otherwise forgetableEntouragemovie. You can check out the full list for yourself below.
Best Big-Screen Performance by a Sports Star.
1.Michael Jordan-Space Jam
2.Mike Tyson-The Hangover
3.Andre the Giant-The Princess Bride
4.LeBron James-Trainwreck
