From Sylvester Stallone to Barbara Mori: Hollywood stars in Bollywood
Hollywood and Bollywood may be worlds apart, but over the years, the two industries have crossed paths in fascinating ways. From cameos in masala entertainers to pivotal roles in serious dramas, several Hollywood actors have stepped into Indian cinema, leaving audiences surprised and delighted. Here’s a look at 8 international stars who found themselves on the big screen in India.
Sylvester Stallone – Kambakkht Ishq (2009) In this Akshay Kumar–Kareena Kapoor film, the Rocky and Rambo icon made a brief appearance. In a rescue scene, Stallone played himself, giving Bollywood a real Hollywood punch.
2/8
Denise Richards – Kambakkht Ishq (2009) In the same movie, Bond girl Denise Richards made a brief but glitzy appearance as Akshay Kumar's love interest, giving the production even more Hollywood glitz.
3/8
Ben Kingsley – Teen Patti (2010) In this gambling and probability-focused thriller, the Oscar-winning actor, best known for his portrayal of Gandhi, played a maths professor opposite Amitabh Bachchan.
4/8
Clive Standen – Namastey London (2007) Clive Standen played Katrina Kaif's British fiancé in this romantic drama about love between cultures, which starred Akshay Kumar, before he became well-known for Vikings.
Toby Stephens – The Rising: Ballad of Mangal Pandey (2005) In this period drama starring Aamir Khan, the British actor, best known for playing the villainous Bond in Die Another Day, played Mangal Pandey's close friend Captain William Gordon.
6/8
Rebecca Breeds – Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013) The Australian actress played Stella, Milkha Singh’s love interest in Melbourne, in this celebrated biopic starring Farhan Akhtar.
7/8
Barbara Mori – Kites (2010) In this cross-border romance, the Mexican actress swept Bollywood by storm opposite Hrithik Roshan. In India, Mori gained popularity despite receiving conflicting reviews.
8/8
Paul Blackthorne – Lagaan (2001) In Ashutosh Gowariker's Oscar-nominated epic, the British actor played the villainous Captain Russell, in which the British are challenged to a cricket match by the villagers.
