Movie stars who gave Oscar-worthy performances on TV shows

Actors are not born, they are made by giving enormous performances and getting recognized for it for years. 

And today, we’ll talk about those actors who, apart from films, have delivered such outstanding performances in TV shows that they’re not just Oscar-worthy but even beyond that.

Let's discover some movie actors who truly shone on the small screen:

Cillian Murphy (Peaky Blinders)

Cillian Murphy's deadpan portrayal of Thomas Shelby in Peaky Blinders from West Birmingham became iconic over its six-season run.

His performance amazed the audience. He combined intensity, emotion, and ruthlessness, perfectly fulfilling everything the role demands.

The 49-year-old actor's performance shows the world that he doesn’t need an Oscar; Oscar needs him.

Matthew McConaughey (True Detective)

When McConaughey joined HBO’s True Detective in 2014, audiences saw a whole new side of him.

His role as Rust Cohle, a brooding detective haunted by his past, became one of the most memorable TV performances of the decade.

His intensity, philosophical monologues, and emotional depth gave the show its core.

Many fans still argue it’s his finest role, even compared to his Oscar-winning turn in Dallas Buyers Club.

Tom Hardy (Peaky Blinders)

Tom Hardy as Alfie Solomons is the best casting of the whole Peaky Blinders.

The 48-year-old actor gave his best, even though he didn't appear in every episode of Peaky Blinders, His acting prowess overshadowed his co-actors.

He portrayed the unpredictable Jewish gang leader Alfie Solomons in the show, delivering a memorable performance that easily felt Oscar-worthy.

Henry Cavill (The Witcher)

Best known as Superman on the big screen, Henry Cavill surprised fans with his deep commitment to Netflix’s The Witcher.

As Geralt of Rivia, Cavill delivered a layered performance that mixed strength, wit, and vulnerability.

His husky voice, physicality, and subtle emotional moments made the character stand out, winning praise even from die-hard fans of the books and games.

Jude Law (The Young Pope)

Jude Law’s turn as Pope Pius XIII in The Young Pope was bold, daring, and unforgettable.

Jude Law played a complex character who was both religious and deeply flawed.

He combined charm with a sense of threat, which made his performance engaging and unsettling for the audience.

His role proved that he could command attention on television just as powerfully as he does in movies.