From Abraham Lincoln to Nelson Mandela: 10 actors who've played iconic politicians

10 actors portraying iconic politicians: From Abraham Lincoln to Nelson Mandela

Over the years, a multitude of talented actors have stepped into the shoes of politicians, bringing their charisma and depth to the screen. Among them, luminaries such as Daniel Day-Lewis and Idris Elba and others have left an indelible mark. These actors, along with others like Anthony Hopkins, Meryl Streep, and Kevin Spacey, have demonstrated their prowess in bringing the complexities of political leadership to life on screen, captivating audiences with their talent and conviction.

1. Daniel Day-Lewis

In the film 'Lincoln', Daniel Day-Lewis delivered an exceptional portrayal of Abraham Lincoln, depicting the final four months of his life leading up to his assassination in 1865.

2. Josh Brolin

In the Oliver Stone-directed film 'W.', Josh Brolin took on the role of George W Bush, depicting the journey of the former Texas governor as he navigates his relationship with his father. Despite his portrayal being lauded, Brolin startled his fans when he admitted to USA Today that he contemplated turning down the role due to his political convictions.

3. Bryan Cranston

Bryan Cranston embodied the role of former President Lyndon B Johnson in the 2016 biographical drama film 'All the Way', directed by Bryan Roach.

4. Meryl Streep

Meryl Streep portrayed former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in 'The Iron Lady', a film that chronicles her life and career as the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Thatcher served in this role for 11 years until her resignation.

5. Frank Langella

Adapted from the 2006 play of the same title, 'Frost/Nixon' featured Frank Langella in the role of Richard Nixon, the 37th President of the United States. Langella shared the screen with a talented ensemble cast including Michael Sheen, Kevin Bacon, Rebecca Hall, Oliver Platt, Sam Rockwell, and Patty McCormack, among others.

6. James Marsden

James Marsden, discussed his portrayal of John F Kennedy in the 2013 film 'The Butler', as per Vulture, "I knew some stuff about Kennedy, my father is a big Kennedy buff, so he helped fill me in as well. Definitely a crash course, but it was great." Directed by Lee Daniels, the historical drama centers on Cecil Gaines, a butler at the White House who served during Dwight D Eisenhower's administration.

7. Julianne Moore

Jay Roach's 2012 film 'Game Change' depicted the story of Sarah Palin, portrayed by Julianne Moore, during her tenure as the governor of Alaska. The film also featured notable actors such as Woody Harrelson, Ed Harris, Peter MacNicol, Jamey Sheridan, Sarah Paulson, and Ron Livingston, among others.

8. Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington took on the role of American Muslim minister and human rights activist Malcolm X in the 1992 film 'Malcolm X'. His portrayal garnered critical acclaim, earning him various accolades such as the Best Actor Award at the Chicago Film Critics Association Awards and Best Male Performance at the MTV Movie Awards.

9. Idris Elba

In the 2013 film 'Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom', based on the 1994 autobiographical book, Idris Elba took on the role of South African leader Nelson Mandela. Directed by Justin Chadwick, the film chronicles Mandela's journey from his early life to becoming the first Black head of state of South Africa in 1994. 

10. Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman joined the cast of Clint Eastwood's 'Invictus' and took on the role of Nelson Mandela in the film.