5 Steve Carell roles that changed his career forever
What's the story
Steve Carell is an extremely versatile actor who has proved his mettle in both comedy and drama. He has given the world some of the most memorable performances. Be it TV or movie, Carell's roles have left an indelible mark on the hearts of people around the world. Here are five iconic roles of his, which show just how amazing he is!
Workplace comedy
'The Office' as Michael Scott
In The Office, Carell played Michael Scott, the bumbling but lovable regional manager of Dunder Mifflin's Scranton branch. His performance brought humor and heart to the sitcom, making it the beloved show that it is. Michael Scott's awkward leadership and misguided attempts at friendship became the show's endearing qualities. Carell's ability to balance comedy with vulnerability made this character unforgettable.
Romantic comedy
'The 40-Year-Old Virgin' as Andy Stitzer
In The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Carell plays Andy Stitzer, an adorable man looking for romance in his later years. The film was a critical and commercial success, raking in over $177 million worldwide. Carell also co-wrote the screenplay, proving his genius in writing as well as acting. His innocent yet funny act of Andy struck a chord with the audience, making him a superstar of comedy films.
Dramatic transformation
'Foxcatcher' as John du Pont
Carell took up a dramatic role in Foxcatcher, playing John du Pont, the eccentric millionaire training Olympic wrestlers. From his usual comic roles, this performance was a shocker. He earned an Academy Award Best Actor nomination for this role, thanks to his bone-chilling rendition of du Pont's twisted personality. The film proved Carell can dive deeper into darker characters without losing his touch.
Indie success
'Little Miss Sunshine' as Frank Ginsberg
In Little Miss Sunshine, Carell essayed the role of Frank Ginsberg, a depressed academic who gets back on the road with his dysfunctional family. The film received critical acclaim for its offbeat story and cast performance. As Frank Ginsberg, Carell showed subtlety in dealing with issues like depression, and at the same time helped the movie with his dry wit.
Animated villainy
'Despicable Me' as Gru
Carell lent his voice to Gru in Despicable Me, charming everyone as he transitioned from an evil mastermind to a doting father. This character arc, packed with humor and heart, made the franchise a hit, with every movie making over $5 billion worldwide. This success speaks volumes about the well-executed treatment of each installment, keeping its fans across the globe hooked.