Back in Time Today
Before they were household names, these 16 A-list stars made early appearances on the iconic medical drama ER. From brief cameos to memorable guest spots, these roles were stepping stones in their illustrious careers.
1. Nick Offerman
Before his iconic role as Ron Swanson, Nick Offerman had a minor part on ER, which allowed him to demonstrate his early acting chops. Known for his comedic timing and deadpan delivery, Offerman’s appearance on the show was a glimpse of his future success.
His role, though small, added a touch of humor and subtlety to the series, hinting at his potential in both drama and comedy. This early exposure was crucial in shaping his career, leading to memorable performances in television.
2. Taraji P. Henson
Taraji P. Henson graced ER with her presence in two episodes, portraying different characters: Patrice Robbins in Season 4 and Elan in Season 5. These roles showcased her remarkable versatility and emotional range, which would later become hallmarks of her career.
Before her acclaimed roles in “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” and “Empire,” Henson’s early appearances on ER were pivotal. Her ability to embody complex characters with authenticity was evident even then, laying the groundwork for future critical acclaim.
3. Eva Mendes
In her acting debut, Eva Mendes appeared in ER’s fourth season as a concerned babysitter. Her character brought a child with an E. coli infection to the hospital, setting off a tense storyline. Mendes’ portrayal of anxiety and concern was notable for its authenticity and depth.
This small role marked the beginning of her journey in the acting world, showcasing her ability to convey genuine emotion. Mendes’ performance in ER was a stepping stone that led to her becoming a prominent figure in Hollywood.
4. Chris Pine
Chris Pine made his first credited appearance on ER, playing Levine in the Season 9 episode “A Thousand Cranes.” This role came years before he became a household name with films like “Star Trek” and “Wonder Woman.”
Pine’s portrayal was earnest and compelling, hinting at his future as a leading man in Hollywood. His performance in ER laid the foundation for his career, showcasing his potential to take on diverse and challenging roles.
5. Chadwick Boseman
In the final season of ER, Chadwick Boseman appeared as Derek Taylor, the son of a boxer played by Carl Weathers. This early role came before his iconic portrayal of T’Challa in “Black Panther.”
Boseman’s performance was intense and dramatic, highlighting his ability to infuse depth into his characters. His time on ER was a stepping stone that showcased his immense talent and potential, which he would later fulfill in various landmark roles.
6. Jessica Chastain
Jessica Chastain made her acting debut on ER, portraying a 19-year-old struggling with the responsibility of caring for her brain-damaged father. In Season 10, her character’s emotional depth and complexity hinted at her future as a two-time Oscar nominee. The role was a poignant exploration of youth burdened with adult responsibilities.
Chastain’s performance was a testament to her burgeoning talent and ability to convey profound vulnerability. Her portrayal added a layer of realism to the show’s narrative. This early role undoubtedly set the stage for her successful career in Hollywood.
7. Julie Bowen
Before “Modern Family,” Julie Bowen played Roxanne Please in a nine-episode arc on ER in 1998. Her role significantly elevated her profile in the entertainment industry. Bowen’s performance was both confident and charismatic, with a touch of vulnerability that made her character relatable.
This role on ER was pivotal in her career, as it showcased her ability to handle complex, multi-dimensional characters. Her success on the show opened doors for future opportunities, leading to her eventual Emmy-winning role in “Modern Family.”
8. Eric Stonestreet
Eric Stonestreet, known for his role in “Modern Family,” guest-starred as Willie in the ER episode “Mars Attacks.” His character added a touch of humor to the intense hospital environment, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Stonestreet’s performance was both comedic and touching, hinting at his future success in the entertainment industry. His ability to blend humor with depth was evident, which later became his signature in the popular sitcom.
9. Ewan McGregor
Ewan McGregor appeared in ER’s Emmy-winning episode “The Long Way Around,” playing Duncan Stewart, a would-be robber. This intense episode involved taking hostages, including Nurse Carol Hathaway. McGregor’s portrayal was gripping and multifaceted.
This role was a precursor to his successful career in Hollywood, where he took on diverse and challenging characters. McGregor’s performance on ER highlighted his capacity to bring complexity and intensity to any role.
10. Lucy Liu
Lucy Liu portrayed Mei-Sun Leow in ER, a single mother grappling with her son’s AIDS diagnosis. This poignant episode in Season 2 showcased Liu’s ability to convey profound emotion and vulnerability.
Her performance added depth to the storyline, leaving a lasting impact on viewers. This early role was instrumental in Liu’s rise to fame, setting the stage for her successful career in film and television.
11. Shia LaBeouf
Before his Disney Channel fame, Shia LaBeouf played a wheelchair-bound boy with muscular dystrophy on ER. His portrayal was a delicate balance of adolescence and the challenges of his condition.
LaBeouf’s performance was authentic and engaging, revealing his early talent for capturing complex characters. This role laid the groundwork for his future success, highlighting his potential in both drama and comedy.
12. Anton Yelchin
At just 11 years old, Anton Yelchin delivered a heartfelt performance on ER as a boy whose parents died in a car crash. His portrayal was filled with emotion and sensitivity, highlighting his remarkable talent even at a young age.
Yelchin’s role was significant in setting the tone for his career, revealing his ability to handle emotionally charged scenes with maturity and depth.
13. Christina Hendricks
Christina Hendricks had a four-episode arc on ER as Joyce Westlake, the neighbor of Abby Lockhart. Her performance showcased her range and depth, qualities that would later define her career on “Mad Men.”
Hendricks’ role was pivotal in demonstrating her ability to inhabit complex characters, leaving a lasting impression on audiences. This early exposure contributed to her rise in Hollywood, paving the way for future success.
14. Matthew Settle
Matthew Settle played Brian Westlake, an abusive husband to Joyce on ER, intersecting with Christina Hendricks’ character. His portrayal of an intense and troubled character was both compelling and unsettling.
Settle’s performance added depth to the storyline, highlighting his ability to tackle challenging roles. This appearance on ER was instrumental in establishing his presence in the industry, showcasing his range and talent for complex characters.
15. Mena Suvari
Mena Suvari appeared as Laura, a cheerleader, in ER’s Season 3. Her role, though brief, was marked by youthful vibrancy and charm, traits that would define her breakout roles in “American Pie” and “American Beauty.”
Suvari’s performance was engaging and lively, adding a touch of lightness to the hospital drama. This early role was a stepping stone in her career, setting the stage for future success in film and television.
16. Kristin Davis
Years before “Sex and the City,” Kristin Davis played Leslie on ER, a woman who flirted with Dr. Ross in a Season 1 episode. Her performance was playful and charming, showcasing her ability to bring warmth and humor to her roles.
Davis’ role on ER was a glimpse of her future success in television, highlighting her talent for engaging and relatable characters. This appearance laid the groundwork for her iconic role as Charlotte York.