When we’re talking football, we often hear things like, “he’s a real character on the field” and, “look, he’s acting again” – well the Fan Park crew has a look at some players who’ve taken the on-field antics to the Hollywood stages.

Vinnie Jones

Jones, who had spells at Leeds United and Chelsea, and a long, successful career at Wimbledon, has starred in several Hollywood blockbusters. He made his film debut in 1998 with a role in ‘Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels’. He went on to act in Hollywood blockbusters such as ‘X-Men: The Last Stand’, ‘Snatch’ and ‘EuroTrip.’ Good going, Vinny!

Eric Cantona

The Manchester United legend retired at 30, saying that he’d fallen out of love with the game. He got in front of the camera when he made an appearance in ‘Elizabeth’. He then starred in a movie titled ‘Looking for Eric’ where he played himself – a footballer giving guidance to a troubled Red Devil fan. Perhaps this is why he called quits at such a young age.

David Beckham

Becks starred in the movie ‘Goal’ where he played himself – a Real Madrid player on a night out with teammates such as Raul and Zizou. Since then, he hasn’t had another role and perhaps it’s best that way.

Pele

The legendary Brazilian, who has one of the most recognisable names in football, also got in front of the camera for a few movies - long after his playing career. The last movie that Pele acted in was called ‘Hotshot’ where he played himself -  a movie about an American soccer player looking to make it big, who looks to Brazil’s hero for help.

Carlo Ancelotti

It’s hard to believe that the current Real Madrid coach once acted in an Italian comedy. Ancelotti played a footballer who had nasty tricks up his sleeve, and corrupt match official failed to spot them.

Can you name any other footballers who’ve pursued careers as actors? Let us know in the comments section below.