There’s almost nothing better than your favorite celebrity suddenly popping up during a great movie, appearing for just a few minutes—or even a few seconds—to offer viewers a tease of their talent. These blink-and-you’ll-miss-them moments often leave a lasting impression, proving that sometimes, less truly is more in the world of cinema. From unexpected dramatic turns to self-aware comedic jabs, these brief appearances transcend mere fan service, embedding themselves into the fabric of pop culture and sparking endless discussion among cinephiles and casual viewers alike.
While some cameos are just for fun, like the onslaught of appearances in the July 2025 Netflix release “Happy Gilmore 2,” others add a layer of emotional significance for audiences. Consider legendary blues artist Buddy Guy being featured in the mid-credits scene of April 2025’s “Sinners,” adding even deeper poignance to its ending and celebrating a proud history of Black artistry. Or the brief appearance of Elaine Hendrix in August 2025’s “Freakier Friday,” a reunion with star Lindsay Lohan after first appearing together in 1998’s “The Parent Trap”—and a source of deep nostalgia for anyone who grew up in the ’90s. The circumstances leading up to these bit parts always differ, ranging from spontaneous, last-minute additions born from friendship to long-envisioned moments that producers move mountains to make happen.
In the sprawling universe of film, a well-placed cameo can redefine a scene, offer a knowing wink to the audience, or even provide a crucial narrative beat. We’re diving deep into some of the most memorable and impactful brief appearances by major movie stars—and even some unexpected faces—who, despite their limited screen time, left an indelible mark. These are the moments that truly exemplify the power of a perfect, punchy cameo, showcasing unparalleled talent and surprising viewers in the most delightful ways.
1. Stephen King – “Creepshow” (1982)
Stephen King, an icon best known for his chilling stories, stepped into a different spotlight in “Creepshow,” venturing into the horror genre as a performer himself. This anthology film brilliantly weaves together various terrifying tales, one of which, based on King’s short “Weeds,” centers around the unfortunate character of Jordy Verrill. King himself embodies Verrill, portraying a man whose curiosity leads him down a gruesome path after he touches a meteorite.
The author’s portrayal of Jordy Verrill allows him to experience a scary story from the inside out, offering a unique meta-commentary on his own craft. As his farmer character starts to experience negative side effects from the mysterious extraterrestrial object, King fully commits to the increasingly grotesque transformation. This role provided a rare glimpse of the master storyteller not just as the architect of nightmares, but as one of their victims.
It’s more than just a novelty; King’s performance in “Creepshow” genuinely adds to the film’s eerie atmosphere and thematic depth. With this gruesome tale, he demonstrates a surprising aptitude for acting, leaving viewers to ponder if he could have pursued a career as a performer in another life. His self-aware participation in his own brand of horror solidified this cameo as a truly special and unforgettable moment in genre cinema.
2. Brett Favre – “There’s Something About Mary” (1998)
“There’s Something About Mary” lives up to its title by presenting a protagonist, played by Cameron Diaz, who possesses an irresistible charm that captivates everyone she meets. Among her past romantic interests, audiences are treated to a truly unexpected revelation near the film’s climax: none other than NFL quarterback Brett Favre. His appearance is a complete surprise, adding a layer of comedic genius to the movie’s already outrageous narrative.
Favre shows up at the last minute, proving to be one of Mary’s more wholesome suitors, a stark contrast to some of the other eccentric characters vying for her affection. The sheer shock of seeing a renowned professional athlete appear in such a high-profile romantic comedy creates an instant laugh and an unforgettable twist. It cleverly suggests that even famous sports figures are not immune to Mary’s allure, grounding the fantastical premise in a humorous touch of reality.
Playing himself during one of his early heydays, Favre’s cameo is perfectly timed and utilized by the Farrelly brothers. They skillfully leverage his topical fame to create a moment that is both genuinely funny and somewhat believable within the film’s heightened reality. This brief, yet impactful, appearance perfectly encapsulates the movie’s irreverent humor, solidifying its place as one of the most surprising and effective celebrity cameos in modern comedy.
3. **Buster Keaton – “Sunset Boulevard” (1950)
Billy Wilder’s “Sunset Boulevard” is a masterful blend of mystery, dark comedy, and a scathing indictment of classic Hollywood’s darker side. At its heart is Gloria Swanson’s character, Norma Desmond, a faded silent film star grappling with the harsh realities of her lost stardom. In one particularly poignant scene, Desmond hosts her acting friends for a card game, setting the stage for a hard-hitting portrayal of forgotten glory.
Among these “acting friends” is a man who bears a striking resemblance to Buster Keaton, and indeed, it is the legendary screen comedian himself. Keaton, willing to poke fun at his own image and past fame, appears as one of the “waxworks”—a term famously used to describe Desmond’s collection of aging performers. While he is not technically playing himself, Keaton effectively portrays another aging artist, mirroring the central themes of the film and adding a profound layer of authenticity to this legendary production.
This small cameo speaks volumes, serving as a powerful visual metaphor for the transient nature of fame and the often-cruel fate of stars in the old Hollywood system. Keaton’s understated presence, combined with his iconic status, makes his brief appearance incredibly impactful. It is a subtle nod to the audience, reminding them of the real-life struggles that many silent era stars faced, and it deepens the film’s critique of an industry that could build up and then discard its brightest talents with such callousness.
4. Lemmy Kilmister – “Airheads” (1994)
The 1994 comedy “Airheads” plunges viewers into the chaotic world of a rock band that resorts to holding a radio station hostage to get their music heard. Amidst the pandemonium, Brendan Fraser’s character, Chester, reveals a surprising aspect of his past, inspiring others in the crowd to share their own hidden secrets. It’s during one of these moments that the inimitable Lemmy Kilmister, frontman of Motörhead, makes an appearance, elevating the film’s rock cred significantly.
What makes Kilmister’s cameo even funnier is that the movie itself references the singer earlier, setting up a delightful meta-moment for rock fans. In his brief turn, the legendary frontman claims that he was once a magazine editor back in school, a hilarious and unexpected backstory for a man synonymous with hard rock and rebellious energy. This juxtaposition of his iconic persona with such a mundane past is pure comedic gold, showcasing the film’s clever humor.
“Airheads” isn’t just a tribute to rock history; it actively includes people who were integral to the genre’s legacy. By having a metal icon like Lemmy Kilmister appear and make fun of himself, the film demonstrates that even a Motörhead has a soft side, or at least a humorous self-awareness. His presence adds a genuine touch of rock authenticity and a memorable comedic beat, proving that the movie understood and celebrated the genre it lampooned.
5. Hunter S. Thompson – “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” (1998)
Johnny Depp’s portrayal of Raoul Duke in “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” is so utterly convincing that audiences might almost believe they are watching the real Hunter S. Thompson brought to life. This makes it all the more bizarre and brilliant when the actual man behind the myth makes a fleeting appearance in the film. The movie, a surreal adaptation of Thompson’s iconic book, perfectly captures the chaotic and hallucinatory essence of his writing, and his cameo only intensifies this feeling.
In a flashback scene, the main hero, Duke, spots a familiar face at a party, a subtle and quick glimpse that blinkers might miss. The movie doesn’t dwell on this appearance, which is part of its genius; Thompson simply blends into the background, looking very much at home amidst the story’s blend of real and absurd imagery. His nonchalant presence plays perfectly into director Terry Gilliam’s surreal vision, blurring the lines between fiction and reality, and further immersing the audience in Duke’s drug-fueled odyssey.
This meta-moment is a treat for fans of the original work and a testament to Gilliam’s unique directorial style. You might find yourself rewinding the film, needing to watch a second time to confirm what your eyes just registered. Thompson’s brief but impactful appearance contributes significantly to the film’s overall sense of hallucinatory authenticity, confirming that Terry Gilliam’s adaptation doesn’t disappoint with these kinds of self-referential, mind-bending touches. It is a legendary moment that perfectly complements the film’s deeply unconventional narrative.
6. Keith Richards – “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End” (2007)
Captain Jack Sparrow, with his flamboyant style and rebellious spirit, has always been depicted as being halfway to a rockstar, making it incredibly fitting that a real rock legend would make an appearance in the “Pirates of the Caribbean” sequel. Keith Richards, the iconic guitarist from The Rolling Stones, steps onto the screen to play the enigmatic Captain Teague. This casting decision was a stroke of genius, fueled by the long-standing rumor that Richards was the real-life inspiration for Johnny Depp’s portrayal of Sparrow.
Captain Teague is not just any character; he is Sparrow’s father, providing a familial link that adds an unexpected depth to Jack’s chaotic personality. Richards effortlessly embodies the role, lending a grizzled, world-weary gravitas to the Pirate Lord of Madagascar. He even plays a guitar, a subtle nod to his real-life persona, but more importantly, he brings a cool and effortless energy to his limited screen time, becoming a convincing cast member despite his brief appearance.
This cameo is both high-profile and perfectly suited for the “Pirates” film series, known for its larger-than-life characters and fantastical elements. Seeing a Rolling Stone in such an iconic role, wearing his period costume with such natural ease, makes audiences pinch themselves in disbelief and delight. Richards doesn’t have to do much to make an impact; his mere presence, coupled with the reveal of his character’s relationship to Jack, solidifies this as a truly memorable and fitting celebrity appearance that resonated deeply with fans.
7. Paul Rudd, Ugly Sonic, Darkwing Duck, etc. – “Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers” (2022)
The live-action/animated hybrid film “Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers” is a veritable treasure trove of pop culture references and, most notably, an avalanche of blink-and-you’ll-miss-them cameos. While the main characters, Chip and Dale, drive the narrative, it’s hard not to salute the countless guest appearances that flood the screen, paying homage to decades of entertainment. These appearances range from live-action stars to a plethora of animated guests, creating a truly unique cinematic experience.
The film truly opens the floodgates for these meta-moments when Chip and Dale find themselves at a fan convention, a perfect setting for an explosion of familiar faces. It’s almost unbelievable how many legends from film, television, and video games make an appearance. The infamous Ugly Sonic, born from the initial design backlash of the “Sonic the Hedgehog” movie, arrives to take a stand, giving fans another reason to laugh and celebrating the internet’s peculiar brand of humor.
Even established actors like Paul Rudd get in on the fun, poking fun at his “Ant-Man” role in a moment specifically crafted for Marvel Cinematic Universe stans. The credit sequence provides a final flourish, with Darkwing Duck making a last-minute plea to be recognized as the best part of this star-studded cast. The sheer volume and clever integration of these cameos—like Channing Tatum as Gambit, mentioned later in the context—make “Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers” a masterclass in fan-centric storytelling, a film that would require another “Top 50 list” just to cover all its surprising appearances.
8. Brad Pitt – “The Lost City” (2022)
When a high-stakes adventure unravels into chaos, there’s often a need for a hero to swoop in and save the day. In “The Lost City,” that hero arrives in the form of tough-guy expert agent Jack Trainer, portrayed by none other than the charismatic Brad Pitt. His casting alone sets up expectations of a formidable presence, ready to tackle any challenge with grit and undeniable star power.
Yet, what makes this cameo particularly memorable is how it brilliantly subverts those very expectations. While Pitt is renowned for his heroic roles, his screen time here is remarkably brief, leading to an unexpected twist. His mission, contrary to what audiences might anticipate, doesn’t go as planned, culminating in his character suffering a serious injury that swiftly removes him from the thick of the action. This reversal is a clever comedic touch, echoing the actor’s similar self-aware appearance in “Deadpool 2.”
Instead of becoming the central figure, the plot ingeniously shelves Trainer, making way for the everyday heroes embodied by Sandra Bullock and Channing Tatum to shine. It’s a masterful choice that elevates the main characters while providing genuine laughs. Even after being sidelined, Pitt’s character returns in the credit sequence for one last joke, ensuring his brief, yet impactful, appearance delights audiences right to the very end.
9. Quentin Tarantino – “Desperado” (1995)
While contemporary audiences might know him primarily as an acclaimed director, Quentin Tarantino once graced the screen in a number of acting roles throughout the 1990s. One of his most notable appearances adds a distinct layer of levity to Robert Rodriguez’s gritty action film, “Desperado.” Here, Tarantino steps into the shoes of a chatty bar patron, a character whose love for telling jokes provides an unexpected and humorous interlude.
His role is deceptively simple: to deliver a lengthy, engaging story that garners a hearty laugh from the assembled crowd. Tarantino, with his signature fast-talking cadence, clearly knows how to sell the dialogue, embodying the wacky and talkative customer with remarkable conviction. His performance is a testament to his understanding of character and pacing, even in a supporting, albeit crucial, comedic beat.
However, the film, true to its wild and unpredictable nature, quickly shifts gears. The comedic atmosphere is abruptly shattered as all hell breaks loose in a sudden gunfight, leading directly to the bar patron’s untimely demise. This rapid transition from humor to violent chaos is a classic Rodriguez move, and Tarantino’s cameo lends even more energetic unpredictability to this already electrifying sequence, keeping viewers guessing until the very last frame.
10. Huey Lewis – “Back to the Future” (1985)
Huey Lewis and the News are intrinsically woven into the fabric of “Back to the Future,” not just through their iconic theme song, but also through the lead singer’s surprising on-screen appearance in the first film. This clever casting decision provides an Easter egg for fans and adds an extra layer of irony to a pivotal scene in Marty McFly’s journey. It highlights how integral the band was to the movie’s cultural impact.
During the memorable audition scene, Marty McFly and his band, The Pinheads, perform for a panel of unimpressed adults. Among these stern judges is none other than Huey Lewis himself, appearing as one of the faculty members. In a truly ironic twist, Lewis’s character is the one tasked with delivering the crushing verdict to McFly, telling him that his rock music is simply “too loud.”
This moment is pure comedic gold, a self-referential nod that acknowledges Lewis’s own celebrated musical career while having him critique the very genre he helped define. It’s a funny, unexpected detail that enhances an already great scene, reminding us that sometimes, even legends can play the part of a critic, adding a delightful meta-commentary that only true fans would fully appreciate.
11. Frank Sinatra – “Around the World in 80 Days” (1956)
The 1956 Best Picture winner, “Around the World in 80 Days,” is renowned not only for its epic scope but also for its star-studded cast, featuring a delightful parade of celebrity cameos. As David Niven’s Phileas Fogg and his loyal valet Passepartout navigate their global adventure, they find themselves in a bustling saloon, a setting ripe for unexpected encounters.
This particular scene already boasts appearances from legends like Marlene Dietrich and George Raft, yet the filmmakers save a special surprise for the audience. Amidst the saloon’s lively atmosphere, a mysterious pianist plays, with only his back visible to the camera in a clever build-up to the grand reveal. The suspense is perfectly orchestrated, hinting at a significant presence without giving it away immediately.
When the pianist finally turns around, the reveal is a genuine moment of delight and surprise: it is the one and only Frank Sinatra. His brief, understated performance provides a notable boost to this cinematic epic, demonstrating his ability to command attention without overselling the part. This cameo is yet another compelling reason for audiences to revisit this classic adaptation of Jules Verne’s timeless tale, proving that even a fleeting appearance by a superstar can leave an indelible mark.
12. **Angela Lansbury, Stephen Sondheim, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, & Natasha Lyonne – “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery” (2022)**
The sequel “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery” delivers a truly unique and delightful ensemble cameo, showcasing Benoit Blanc’s downtime in a way no one expected. The master detective, portrayed by Daniel Craig, finds himself engaged in a game of “Among Us,” not with random strangers, but with a truly iconic collection of famous friends.
This unlikely assembly proves to be a talented and cunning bunch, collectively outsmarting Blanc in the popular online game. The star power is undeniable, featuring the legendary actress Angela Lansbury, the revered composer Stephen Sondheim, NBA icon Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and the distinct talent of “Poker Face” star Natasha Lyonne. Each brings their unique charm to the virtual table, creating a moment that’s both humorous and genuinely surprising.
Director Rian Johnson masterfully brings the laughs, while simultaneously making the audience reel from the sheer star power on display. It’s a joy to imagine the world’s greatest detective unwinding in such a relatable yet fantastical way. Even beyond the humor, these cameos serve as a fitting and heartfelt salute to these incredible artists, celebrating their legacies in a refreshingly modern context that resonates with fans of all ages.
13. Robert Patrick – “Last Action Hero” (1993)
For anyone who experienced the cinematic phenomenon of “Terminator 2: Judgment Day,” Robert Patrick’s face, specifically as the relentless T-1000, is instantly recognizable. His iconic portrayal of the liquid metal assassin was so impactful that it earned him a memorable appearance in the meta-action movie “Last Action Hero.” This particular cameo is a masterclass in subtlety, requiring viewers to pay close attention to catch its fleeting brilliance.
The film, known for its self-aware humor and deconstruction of action movie tropes, features not one, but two blink-and-you’ll-miss-them cameos in quick succession. After Sharon Stone makes her appearance, Patrick casually strolls by the lead characters. The speed and understated nature of his walk-on make it all the more remarkable that the filmmakers secured his participation, proving that some iconic moments don’t need grand announcements.
Despite his incredibly brief screen time, Patrick effortlessly retains his cool, menacing demeanor, a silent nod to his most famous role. He doesn’t need to utter a single word to make a significant impact, allowing his mere presence to evoke the chilling memory of the T-1000. It’s a testament to the power of an iconic character and the actor who brought him to life, making this a genuinely clever and effective celebrity appearance.
14. Val Kilmer – “Top Gun: Maverick” (2022)
The highly anticipated sequel “Top Gun: Maverick” gracefully intertwines its thrilling aerial action with deeply personal themes, especially that of confronting and dealing with the past. It was only fitting, then, that Val Kilmer would return to reprise his beloved role as Tom “Iceman” Kazansky, adding an emotional anchor to Maverick’s journey.
In a moving and poignant decision, the filmmakers sensitively integrated Kilmer’s real-life health challenges into the narrative, creating a truly cathartic moment between two long-standing rivals. Maverick, seeking guidance and closure, finds himself in a powerful conversation with Iceman. This scene transcends mere acting, becoming a heartfelt exchange between two performers and their characters, laden with genuine emotion.
Kilmer’s ability to convey profound emotion through his facial expressions and his undeniable chemistry with Tom Cruise elevate this scene beyond a simple cameo; it becomes a cornerstone of the film’s emotional depth. While “Top Gun: Maverick” is celebrated for its breathtaking aerial sequences, it’s this perfectly placed and emotionally charged cameo that grounds the story, reminding audiences of the enduring bonds and powerful histories that shape its heroes.
As we’ve explored these fantastic, fleeting moments, it’s clear that a perfectly executed cameo is far more than just a famous face appearing on screen. These brief, impactful performances are woven into the very fabric of cinematic storytelling, offering unexpected twists, heartfelt reunions, and riotous laughter. They subvert expectations, pay homage to legacies, and create shared moments of surprise and delight for audiences worldwide. From a legend playing against type to an actor revisiting their most iconic role, these star appearances, despite their brevity, continue to enrich narratives and cement their place in the collective memory of movie lovers, proving that sometimes, the most memorable moments come in the smallest packages.
