Jensen Ackles is a versatile actor who has captivated audiences with his powerful performances in both film and television. Starting his career at the tender age of four with TV commercials for well-known brands like Nabisco, RadioShack, and Walmart, Ackles quickly made a name for himself. However, fans most likely recognize Ackles from his long-running stint as Dean Winchester on Supernatural.
Ackles consistently pushes boundaries by exploring different genres and roles, showcasing the undeniable likability and earnestness that make him more than just another celebrity heartthrob. Fans eagerly await new projects that show the versatility and vibrancy of Ackles' incredible acting talent.
This article was updated by Christopher Raley on February 11, 2025: Jensen Ackles has had a presence on TV for several decades now. With his work on Supernatural as well as other shows, he has gathered a fan base who look forward to his next projects. Five more of his great roles have been added to this list, and it has been updated to conform to CBR's current publishing standards.
The Boys Season 5 confirms what fans were hoping for with Soldier Boy as the award-winning Prime Video series winds down.
15
Blonde Is a 2001 TV Movie About Marilyn Monroe
Ackles Plays Edward G. Robinson Jr. (Eddie G.)
The made-for-TV movie, Blonde was released in 2001 in two parts. Based on Joyce Carol Oates's novel of the same name, the movie explores Marilyn Monroe's (Poppy Montgomery) life mostly through fiction mixed with real-life events. Using this as a template, viewers see Monroe's three marriages (with Bucky Glazer, Joe DiMaggio, and Arthur Miller), her career with 20th Century Fox, and her relationship with her parents.
Eddie G. (Ackles) was the close friend of Charles "Cass" Chaplin Jr. (Patrick Dempsey). Seeing the two Hollywood heart throbs' antics as Monroe's occasional lovers is something Netflix's 2022 adaptation just couldn't match. At one point, Monroe is reclining with Cass, who is drinking, while Eddie G dances in a Black Beard robe. The Dempsey/Ackles buddy performance can't be topped, which is why this entry starts the list at number 15.
Tracker is a recent show that premiered on CBS in February 2024 and was greenlit for a second season in March, which began airing in October 2024. The show follows Colter Shaw (Justin Hartley), a survivalist and tracker who travels the country helping law enforcement and families find people who are missing. Naturally, this puts Colter at the heart of a number of mysteries that have combined to make Tracker the most-watched show on TV.
Jensen Ackles has become an increasingly key part of the show, playing Colter's estranged brother, Russell. Russell shows up in the penultimate episode of Season One, denying his involvement in their father's death (which Colter suspected) and proving himself a capable tracker and rewardist. He proves this again in Season Two, where Ackles owns the role to such an extent that some fans think Hartley looks boring by contrast.
Based on the novel by Jeffery Deaver, Tracker is an action-drama series created for CBS by Ben H. Winters. Traveling across the United States in his RV, Colter Shaw is a lone wolf with a fractured past who spends his time helping solve mysteries and police cases in every town he crosses.
Starting in 2021, Jensen Ackles began voicing Batman, and in 2024, he participated in all three parts of Justice League: Crisis on Infinite Earths. In these animated movies, the Justice League heroes confront the Anit-Monitor, who is traveling across the multiverse, destroying all the different earths. In an attempt to fight back, the Monitor recruits heroes from across the multiverse.
Any actor who steps into the voice role of Batman does so in Kevin Conroy's shadow. Conroy embodied that voice of the Dark Knight starting with Batman: The Animated Series and continuing with several other projects. Ackles continues the Caped Crusader's deep voice, though his smooth voice offers a contrast to Controy's more rugged voice. While it may be impossible to reach the same level as Conroy, Ackles does an admirable job.
The Long Halloween was released in 2021 and is broken up into two parts. As an adaptation of the legendary comic by Josh Loeb and Tim Sale. The story opens with Carmine Falcone approaching Bruce Wayne with help laundering money (which Wayne declines) and is followed by the murder of Johnny Viti. Newly elected district Attorney Harvey Dent, Commissioner Gordon, and Batman are united in their resolve to take down the mob boss legally.
Batman The Long Halloween: The Last Halloween comes nearly 30 years after the original, and there's a lot to remember before reading the new sequel.
Thus begins the long saga that has inspired at least two live-action films (The Dark Knight and The Batman). However, this two-part animated movie is the first faithful adaptation and an auspicious place for Ackles to voice the Dark Knight. Ackles' contribution as the voice of Batman unquestionably helps make this film a fan favorite as he captures both the dark urgency of the title character and the brooding melancholy of Bruce Wayne.
Held hostage by the powerful Falcone crime family, Gotham City is rife with crime and corruption. Adding to the chaos is the mysterious Holiday killer, who has been targeting the underworld and leaving a trail of terror - and body bags.
At a Supernatural fan convention in New Orleans, Jensen Ackles mentioned that he would be reprising his role as Soldier Boy for the spin-off show Gen V. He didn't realize that his appearance was supposed to be a secret. But Showrunner Eric Kripke said that the accident probably created more interest in the show, explaining, "Hey, man, at the end of the day, whatever puts more butts in the seats is cool with me."
That said, Soldier Boy's short appearance and the interest it generated shows how much fans of The Boys love his character. Here, Soldier Boy is actually Cate Dunlap's (Maddie Phillips) imaginary friend, something that Marie Moreau (Jaz Sinclair) discovers when she is pulled into Cate's mind after Cate suffers a seizure. His return was so popular that Amazon created a video of Soldier Boy saying, "Only commies spill secrets, so don't be a commie!"
From the world of "The Boys" comes "Gen V," which explores the first generation of superheroes to know that their super powers are from Compound V. These heroes put their physical and moral boundaries to the test competing for the school's top ranking.
In the modern remake of the 1981 classic horror film My Bloody Valentine, Ackles stars as Tom Hanniger, who returns to his hometown ten years after a massacre claimed the lives of 22 people on Valentine's night. My Bloody Valentine 3D represents a significant departure from the lighter or more heroic roles that Ackles had previously been known for, propelling the actor deep into the horror genre. Ackles brings a profound depth to the role, portraying a character haunted by a tormented past coupled with a noticeable vulnerability.
This duality in Ackles' character makes the horror elements more engaging and adds layers to the traditional slasher narrative. Utilizing 3D effects and plenty of bloody scares, the movie innovates within the horror genre and features a strong performance by Ackles that is both emotionally and physically demanding. Ackles' compelling performance ensures that My Bloody Valentine 3D is more than just a remake, it is a reinvention that leaves a memorable mark on the horror genre, which is why it takes the tenth spot.
Tom returns to his hometown ten years after a tragic mining accident. As he arrives, a masked killer begins a bloody rampage, targeting the town on Valentine's Day. Tom must confront his past and uncover the identity of the relentless murderer.
9
Jensen Ackles' Smallville Role Highlights His Charisma
He Plays Lana's Love Interest Jason Teague
Jason Teague in conversation with a character opposite of him.
Before Supernatural, Ackles played Jason Teague in Smallville, appearing as Lana Lang's love interest for the entire fourth season. Ackles' role as the charismatic football coach added an intriguing twist to the series, which was already a popular reinterpretation of the Superman mythos. Ackles' mix of charisma and underlying tension made Jason Teague a memorable character despite his relatively short time on the show.
Slashers are a beloved part of the horror genre, and it produces tons of killers. But several horror movie serial killers are far scarier than others.
Ackles' ability to portray a versatile character who is both a romantic lead and a figure of mystery demonstrated his capacity to add layers to what could have been a simple romantic interest. Ackles played Teague with a sense of danger and unpredictability, hinting at a darker backstory that kept viewers hooked. This performance embodied Ackles' talent for creating complex characters that resonate with audiences, showcasing his early potential for leading roles in larger projects.
Growing up in the small town of Smallville, Kansas, Clark Kent harbors a secret. Sent to Earth from the planet Krypton as a baby, he possesses superhuman abilities that he must keep hidden. Under the guidance of his adoptive parents, Jonathan and Martha Kent, Clark learns to control his powers and use them for good. As he navigates the challenges of high school, friendships, and first love, he also faces threats from meteor-infected individuals and otherworldly villains. Along the way, Clark encounters familiar characters from the Superman mythos, like Lex Luthor and Lana Lang, while grappling with his true identity and destiny to become the iconic superhero, Superman.
8
Jensen Ackles Brings Captivating Anti-Hero Charm To Dark Angel
He Portrays the Anti-Hero Super Soldier Alec McDowell
Alec McDowell peers towards the camera behind a metal cage.
In the second season of James Cameron's sci-fi series Dark Angel, Ackles played Alec McDowell, a genetically enhanced super-soldier. Dark Angel was known for its dystopian setting and complex narrative. Ackles' rogue villain character provided much needed spice and interest to the show. Ackles' acting range shone through as he brought nuance to a character that might have been one-dimensional in less capable hands.
Alec McDowell was a blend of wit, charm and moral ambiguity, making him an excellent opposite to Jessica Albas's character, Max. Unfortunately, fans did not get to see deeper development of Alec's character due to the show's cancelation after the second season. Nevertheless, Ackles' performance was a standout, displaying his ability to bring deep complexity to roles that defy traditional hero archetypes.
Max is a genetically enhanced super-soldier who escapes from a covert government lab. Living in a dystopian future Seattle, she searches for her "siblings" while evading capture. Balancing a double life, Max fights injustice and uncovers secrets about her past and the organization that created her.
7
Days of Our Lives Showcases Jensen Ackles' Breakthrough Performance
Ackles Portrays Eric Brady, the Son Of Roman And Marlena
A still shows Jensen Ackles in Days of Our Lives.
One of Ackles' first major roles was as Eric Brady in the long-running soap opera Days of Our Lives. The show received critical acclaim and several Daytime Emmy Award nominations, with Ackles being nominated for Outstanding Younger Actor in a Drama Series for three consecutive years. This early recognition was a testament to his natural talent and ability to captivate audiences with his performances. Ackles' portrayal of the clean but conflicted Eric Brady exhibited his ability to manage dramatic story lines and deep character arcs.
This role opened doors for Ackles, allowing him to pursue further opportunities in film and television. The complex emotional journeys of soap opera characters provided Ackles with a solid foundation in handling intricate narratives and character development, skills that he would continue to refine throughout his career. Ackles' time on Days of Our Liveswas important in honing his craft and establishing his reputation as a capable and dedicated actor.
In the sixth season of Dawson's Creek, Ackles plays C.J. Braxton, Jen Lindley's boyfriend. His character stirred new waves into the well-loved teen drama series, which was known for its focus on the emotional lives of its young characters. Ackles' portrayal added depth and created an effective and captivating performance. Ackles skillfully depicted the many shades of a character dealing with personal struggles and growth, securing his status as a talented actor capable of adapting to various genres.
Gossip Girl is one of the most iconic series of the 2000s, but some episodes stand out because of their good writing, funny scenes, and great drama.
C.J. Braxton was more than just a love interest, with Ackles bringing a refined performance that highlighted issues of redemption, personal demons and the quest for a better self. This role allowed Ackles to explore the complexities of human relationships and personal transformations, further demonstrating a strong range as an actor. Ackles' performance not only enriched the narrative but also emphasized his ability to bring authenticity to his roles, cementing his place as a compelling performer in the industry.
Two childhood best friends, Dawson and Joey, go through different stages of adolescence together. Their friendship is later tested when they both start a relationship with different people.
5
Jensen Ackles Shines in Batman: Under the Red Hood
In This Entry, He Plays Jason Todd/Red Hood
In the animated film Batman: Under the Red Hood, Ackles voiced Jason Todd/Red Hood. Ackles' performance as the iconic DC character was full of vigor and emotion, bringing real brilliance to the role. The film, which delves into the darker aspects of the Batman mythos, benefited greatly from Ackles' intense and precise voice acting. DC fans highly admire this must-see direct-to-video film, with Ackles' voice acting being a significant contributor.
Ackles' rendition of Jason Todd's profound feelings demonstrated his strong acting abilities, even in an animated format. Ackles brought a raw intensity to the character, capturing the pain, anger and complexity of Jason Todd's transformation into the Red Hood. This performance highlighted Ackles' ability to convey deep emotional experiences through his voice alone, putting it a peg higher than other achievements in his career, which is why it sits at number five.
In the romantic comedy Ten Inch Hero, Ackles played Priestly, an eccentric and rebellious worker in a sandwich shop.His comedic timing and heartfelt moments made Priestly both humorous and endearing, displaying a different side of Ackles' acting abilities. Ackles' performance was a standout, contributing significantly to the film's charm and cult appeal.
Ackles' ability to nail both comedic and heartfelt scenes showed his range as an actor. Priestly, with his unique look and quirky personality, became a memorable character thanks to Ackles' dedication to the role. The film allowed Ackles to explore themes of friendship, love and self-acceptance in a light-hearted yet meaningful way, adding another dimension to his growing collection of diverse characters.
This romantic dramedy centered around a group of quirky friends working at a sandwich shop in Santa Cruz. Each struggles with love, identity, and personal growth, while their lives intertwine in unexpected ways, leading to heartfelt and humorous moments as they search for connection and happiness.
In 2020, Ackles took on a captivating role in the crime drama series Big Sky. Ackles played Beau Arlen, a tough, no-nonsense detective brought in to get to the bottom of the mysterious disappearances in the remote regions of Montana. Ackles' performance in Big Sky was notable for its intensity and profoundness, as he brought a rugged yet compassionate edge to Beau Arlen.
Ackles' depiction was memorable because it exhibited his ability to seamlessly transition from supernatural elements in his previous roles to gritty, real-world crime drama. Ackles played the character with a sense of determination and moral complexity, making Detective Arlen both relatable and compelling. Ackles' dynamic performance resonated so well with audiences and critics alike that his guest-star appearance was promoted to a series regular spot for the third season. This elevation further highlights Ackles' significant impact on the show and his continued growth as a broad and skilled actor.
Ackles joined the cast of The Boys as Soldier Boy, a parody of Captain America, in season 3. Ackles' rendition in the Amazon Prime series was praised for its edge and complexity, fitting perfectly into the show's dark and satirical take on the superhero genre. Fans were excited to see Ackles bring his charisma to the morally gray world of Soldier Boy.
Amazon's The Boys has had some explicit and raunchy moments. But they're nothing compared to what the comics has done.
Ackles' portrayal added a significant highlight to his career, earning acclaim from both fans and critics. Soldier Boy, with his flawed heroism and questionable ethics, was brought to life by Ackles' great performance. Ackles perfectly balanced the character's boastfulness with his underlying vulnerability. The newly announced spin-off series Vought Risingpromises to further highlight Ackles' talents, as his character continues to evolve and challenge traditional ideas of heroism.
The Boys: In a world where superheroes are commercialized and often corrupt, a vigilante group known as "The Boys" embarks on a mission to expose the truth and take down the superpowered beings who abuse their power. The series delves into themes of power, corruption, and accountability, offering a gritty and unflinching look at the price of heroism.
1
Supernatural is Jensen Ackles' Most Beloved Role
He Plays the Iconic Dean Winchester
Ackles' most famous role is undoubtedly Dean Winchester in Supernatural. Playing the monster hunter over fifteen seasons, Ackles brought richness and charm to the character, making him a fan favorite. Dean Winchester, with his complex blend of toughness, loyalty and hidden sensitivity, became a beloved figure in pop culture. The show's success can be attributed to Ackles' dynamic performance alongside Jared Padalecki.
Supernatural gained a cult following with its gripping and flawless episodes, largely thanks to Dean's character and Ackles' iconic portrayal. Ackles' ability to convey Dean's internal struggles, his fierce protectiveness of his family, and his moments of vulnerability made the character deeply relatable and engaging. Over the years, Ackles' performance evolved, adding new layers to Dean as he faced increasing stakes and challenging threats. This role solidified Ackles' place in television history, which is why Supernatural will always be number one.
Two brothers follow their father's footsteps as hunters, fighting evil supernatural beings of many kinds, including monsters, demons, and gods that roam the earth.
