The allure of the rugged landscapes, the showdowns at high noon, and the tales of bravery in the face of danger have been brought to life by the best western actors who have graced the screens. This list is the ultimate roundup of actors in westerns who have donned the cowboy hat, spurred their boots, and captivated audiences with their portrayal of outlaws, lawmen, and pioneers. Crafted by western movie buffs, the collection spans from the dusty trails of classic cinema to the dramatic sagas of television series and mini-series.
The western genre, once a staple of entertainment, owes its legacy to the charisma and grit of these legendary figures. From the iconic Clint Eastwood, whose name is practically synonymous with the genre, to the rebellious allure of Steve McQueen, these actors brought an authenticity and presence that defined their cowboy characters. The list brings together a mix of those well-known for their work in film as well as those who became household names through serialized western adventures.
Now, it's time for fans to tip their hats to their favorites. Vote for the western movie stars that delivered performances that stood the test of time, shaping the genre into what it is remembered for today. Disagree with a ranking? Vote down those who might have missed the mark. Then, circle back to see which of these icons claimed the top spots as the best in the West.
- 1
Clint Eastwood, with his menacing glare and steely grit, took the reins as the quintessential antihero in spaghetti westerns like The Good, The Bad and The Ugly. This cowboy-turned-filmmaker not only ruled the box office but also earned a reputation for pushing the boundary in storytelling.
- Credits (Film): Good, Unforgiven, Dirty Harry, Million Dollar Baby, Back to the Future Part II
- 1Unforgiven469 Votes
- 2The Outlaw Josey Wales355 Votes
- 3Gran Torino492 Votes
- 2
John Wayne, the iconic and larger-than-life figure, epitomized the Wild West and etched his name in the history of the silver screen. His well-loved portrayals, like that of Rooster Cogburn in True Grit, showcased his distinctive drawl and unparalleled charisma, placing him atop the ranks of Hollywood legends.
- Credits (Film): The Searchers, The Longest Day, Stagecoach, True Grit, Rio Bravo
- 1Rio Bravo3,666 Votes
- 2The Searchers3,959 Votes
- 3True Grit3,567 Votes
- 3
Sam Elliott, with his signature bushy mustache and deep, resonant voice, became synonymous with his roles as gruff and rugged cowboys. Elliot stole hearts in films like Tombstone and even racked up several accolades for his genuine and honest depictions.
- Credits (Film): The Big Lebowski, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, Ghost Rider, Hulk, We Were Soldiers
- 1Tombstone801 Votes
- 2The Sacketts206 Votes
- 3The Quick and the Dead215 Votes
- 4
As for Ben Johnson, a genuine cowboy from Oklahoma, he brought realism and a no-nonsense attitude to his roles in classics such as The Wild Bunch and She Wore a Yellow Ribbon. His authentic presence made him a true asset to the Western genre for decades.
- Credits (Film): The Wild Bunch, Shane, The Last Picture Show, Red Dawn, The Getaway
- 5
James Stewart, known for his everyman charm, shined brightly in gun-slinging roles such as Destry Rides Again. His relatable and endearing portrayals enriched the genre, bringing a slice of Americana to Western films.
- Credits (Film): It's a Wonderful Life, Vertigo, Rear Window, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, The Philadelphia Story
- 1It's a Wonderful Life1,200 Votes
- 2Rear Window962 Votes
- 3Mr. Smith Goes to Washington843 Votes
- 6
Randolph Scott, the tall, gallant star, dominated the genre as a stalwart leading man. His contributions, such as the epic Ride the High Country, showcased both his acting chops and personal code of honor, making him an unsung hero of the Wild West.
- Credits (Film): Island of Lost Souls, Ride the High Country, Jesse James, The Tall T, Follow the Fleet
- 1Ride Lonesome219 Votes
- 2Comanche Station194 Votes
- 3The Tall T187 Votes
