10 Olympians who proved they can act too: From Michael Phelps to Simone Biles

10 Olympians who’ve appeared on TV shows: From LeBron James to Serena Williams

Olympians are celebrated for their incredible achievements on the field, track, or ice, but their talents don't stop there. Beyond their athletic feats, many have ventured into the world of scripted television, demonstrating their versatility and charisma on screen. Whether they're taking on guest roles or making cameo appearances, these athletes show that their skills extend far beyond their respective sports. From dramatic roles to comedic moments, here are 10 Olympians who have made memorable contributions to scripted TV shows, proving that their star power shines just as brightly in the entertainment industry as it does in the sporting world.

1. Michael Phelps

Olympic swimming champion Michael Phelps made a memorable guest appearance on the hit TV show 'Suits' in the 2014 episode titled 'Buried Secrets'. In this episode, he played himself, embodying the one sports client that the legendary lawyer Harvey Specter had never managed to secure. The series follows the high-stakes lives of Harvey Specter and Mike Ross, two lawyers navigating the competitive legal landscape of New York City,

2. Gabby Douglas

Gabby Douglas is an American artistic gymnast renowned for her achievements with the US Women's Gymnastics team. At the 2012 Summer Olympics, she won gold medals in both the individual all-around and team all-around events. Gymnast Gabby Douglas, who overcame numerous challenges on her path to Olympic success, appeared on 'Kickin' It' to discuss perseverance, reflecting on her real-life journey. Gabby Douglas appears as herself in the episode titled 'Gabby's Gold'.

3. Serena Williams

Serena Williams, the renowned tennis champion and four-time Olympic gold medalist, made a guest appearance on 'Law & Order'. As with many episodes of SVU, (Special Victims Unit) the storyline dealt with issues of harassment and assault.

4. Michael Jordan

Michael Jeffrey Jordan, also known by his initials MJ, is an American businessman and former professional basketball player. The basketball legend made a brief appearance on 'My Wife and Kids', discussing his passion for basketball at a charity event.

5. Shaun White

Snowboarding legend Shaun White, a three-time gold medalist, made a notable cameo appearance as himself on 'American Dad' in a 2013 episode titled 'Da Flippity Flop'. Beyond this role, White has also appeared as himself in various other media like the E! reality TV show 'The Girls Next Door' as a snowboarding teacher.

6. LeBron James

Michael Jordan wasn’t the sole NBA icon to make a guest appearance on 'My Wife and Kids'. Another NBA superstar, LeBron James also showed up as himself in Season 4 Episode 19 titled 'Outbreak Monkey'. The episode involved plenty of disinfectant spray and orange juice.

7. Simone Biles

Olympic gymnast Simone Biles appeared on the series finale episode of 'Black-ish' in 2022, performing acrobatic feats in the protagonist Andre 'Dre' Johnson's dream home, showcasing her incredible skills. With her star power, it was only natural for Biles to guest star in 'Black-ish' elevating everyday moments to extraordinary levels.

8. Johnny Weir

Johnny Weir, a former Olympic figure skater, has made numerous on-screen appearances, from 'The Masked Singer' and 'Zoolander' to his own reality show, 'Be Good Johnny Weir'. However, it was his voice role in an episode of the 'Family Guy', where he tells the character Stewie that the shape of his head is "stunning", that truly left an impression.

9. Allyson Felix 

Allyson Felix, celebrated for her performance in the women's 200m sprint at the 2012 London Olympics, made a guest appearance on 'Black-ish'. In the episode, the gold medalist offered inspiring advice to the show's young female lead, encouraging her to "never be afraid to try something new."

10. Steph Curry

Basketball star Steph Curry is stepping into the world of comedy with his latest role in the new Peacock mockumentary series 'Mr Throwback'. In the show, the NBA all-star plays a fictionalized version of himself who reconnects with his sixth-grade teammate, Danny Grossman, portrayed by Adam Pally.