Jesse Lingard wouldn’t be the first professional footballer to try their hand at an acting career – and he also wouldn’t be the first to flop after taking a risk on Hollywood stardom.
Jesse Lingard could follow in the footsteps of Eric Catona and David Beckham
Jesse Lingard wouldn’t be the first professional footballer to try their hand at an acting career – and he also wouldn’t be the first to flop after taking a risk on Hollywood stardom.
The former Manchester United forward, who joined Nottingham Forest in the summer, is dreaming of staring in a blockbuster hit like Interstellar and Inception after declaring his love for the films of Christopher Nolan.
On that revelation, Daily Star Sport have taken a look at six former professionals who have swapped listening to manager to listening to directors – with mixed success.
Eric Cantona
Eric Cantona has appeared in more than 30 films since leaving Man Utd
Manchester United icon Eric Cantona was quick to swap football for films when calling time on his career, going on to star in more than 30 productions.
The Frenchman has played notable roles in English films Elizabeth and Looking for Eric as well as several French productions.
Back in 2020, Cantona starred in Netflix series Inhuman Resources, and earned rave reviews for his portrayal of Alain Delambre across all six episodes.
David Beckham
David Beckham played Trigger in King Arthur: Legend of the Sword
David Beckham played a projectionist in 2014 film The Man from U.N.C.L.E. and later as Trigger in King Arthur: Legend of the Sword – thanks to his friendship with Guy Ritchie.
The director said of his efforts: “He’s a talented actor, very confident on camera. He was quite a tasty footballer wasn’t he?”
With leading man in King Arthur, Charlie Hunnam, quipping: “I said ‘listen pal, this is my movie and I want to be the most handsome man on screen!'”
