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These athletes pulled off shockingly successful careers in entertainment 
Xinhua/Sipa USA

These athletes pulled off shockingly successful careers in entertainment 

Forget retirement! These legendary athletes traded their playbooks for scripts and microphones. 

 
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The Rock

The Rock
© Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

After laying the smack down in the wrestling ring, this electrifying athlete body-slammed his way straight onto Hollywood's A-list. The Rock's charisma and comedic timing have made him one of the biggest box office draws on the planet, proving he's more than just muscle.

 
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John Cena

John Cena
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You might not have seen him coming, but this wrestling superstar has become a surprisingly versatile and hilarious actor. John Cena has charmed audiences in everything from action flicks to comedies, and even reality TV, proving he has serious range beyond the squared circle.

 
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Shaq

Shaq
© Peter Casey-Imagn Images

Shaq's presence isn't just felt on the basketball court; he has also been a force in movies, music, and, especially, sports commentary!

 
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Michael Jordon

Michael Jordon
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While his greatest success was on the hardwood, Michael Jordan still managed to star in the beloved film Space Jam and build a massive global brand that transcends the sports world. His influence and marketability have made him an entertainment icon far beyond the NBA. 

 
Arnold Schwarzenegger
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Before he was terminating bad guys on screen or serving as governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger pumped iron to become a legendary bodybuilder. His thick accent and one-of-a-kind physique were surprisingly perfect for action movies, which launched him into superstardom.

 
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Terry Crews

Terry Crews
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This former NFL linebacker might be intimidating on the field, but he's become an absolute comedic powerhouse in Hollywood. Terry Crews' infectious energy and willingness to be silly have made him a fan favorite in hit movies and TV shows.

 
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Deion Sanders

Deion Sanders
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"Prime Time" didn't just dominate two sports; he also brought his electric personality to broadcasting, coaching, and commercials. His undeniable flair made him a natural fit for entertainment, which has kept him in the spotlight long after his playing days came to an end.

 
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Hulk Hogan

Hulk Hogan
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Beyond the wrestling ring, Hulk Hogan ran wild through pop culture with movies, TV shows, and even a reality series. This iconic wrestler perfectly parlayed his larger-than-life persona into sustained fame. 

 
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LeBron James

LeBron James
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Already known as a king on the court, LeBron James has seamlessly branched into Hollywood, starring in Space Jam and producing numerous TV shows and docuseries. His entertainment empire continues to grow, proving his talents aren't limited to hoops.

 
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Conor McGregor

Conor McGregor
© Angelina Katsanis-Pool via Imagn Images

While known for his outrageous persona in the octagon, Conor McGregor has parlayed his undeniable showmanship into major endorsements and even an acting role. His unique blend of bravado and charisma makes him a captivating figure, both in and out of the ring.

 
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Tony Hawk

Tony Hawk
© Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Tony Hawk didn't just innovate tricks; he built a massive entertainment empire around his name, including hugely successful video games, TV shows, and documentaries. This legendary skateboarder transcended his sport to become a household name.

 
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Michael Strahan

Michael Strahan
© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

From sacking quarterbacks to charming audiences on morning television, Michael Strahan's post-NFL career has been a phenomenal success. His infectious smile and natural ease in front of the camera have made him a beloved talk show host. 

 
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Mike Tyson

Mike Tyson
Alberto E. Tamargo/Sipa USA

From the boxing ring to Hollywood, Mike Tyson's magnetic, often unpredictable personality has made him a bona fide entertainment spectacle. He's charmed audiences in major film cameos, embarked on successful one-man stage shows, and remains a captivating cultural figure far beyond his fighting days.

 
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Charles Barkley

Charles Barkley
© Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Charles Barkley has become an entertainment sensation as an unfiltered, hilarious, and beloved analyst on Inside the NBA. We look forward to his takes every season. 

 
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Tom Brady

Tom Brady
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The greatest quarterback of all time has effortlessly transitioned into a massive media personality, from starring in high-profile commercials to launching his own content ventures. With a multi-million dollar broadcasting deal with Fox Sports, Tom Brady's future in entertainment will be as legendary as his playing career.

 
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Chad Johnson

Chad Johnson
© Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

Known for his over-the-top personality on and off the football field, Chad "Ochocinco" Johnson became a reality TV staple, famously appearing on Dancing with the Stars, The Ultimate Catch, and Inside the NFL. His entertaining antics and unfiltered presence have made him a crossover sensation.

Jacquez Printup

Jacquez Printup has been writing about all things entertainment, including reality TV, pop culture, and celebrity news, since his time as a student at Ohio University. Since graduating, he's continued binging seasons of "Vanderpump Rules" and “Big Brother” and talking about them online. His writing has been featured in publications like ScreenRant, Yahoo, RealityTea, Yardbarker, and in the popular television series "The Real Housewives of Atlanta

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