19 Times a supporting role in a movie stole our hearts

Robin William in The Goodwill Hunting | Image via Miramax
Robin William in The Goodwill Hunting | Image via Miramax

Movies that show a great character arc in their story through lead and supporting roles leave a lasting mark on their audience. Oftentimes, it's not just the protagonist but also the supporting roles that tap into our heartstrings. Whether it is a strict mentor like J. K. Simmons' Terence Fletcher in Whiplash or Robin Williams as Genie in Aladdin, sometimes the supporting characters capture all of our attention whenever they are on our screens. Here's a list of 19 times a supporting role in a movie stole our hearts.

19) Michael Clarke Duncan (The Green Mile,1999)

Michael Clarke Duncan in The Green Mile | Image via Castle Rock Entertainment
Michael Clarke Duncan in The Green Mile | Image via Castle Rock Entertainment

Directed by Frank Darabont and based on Stephen King's novel of the same name, this film follows Tom Hanks' character, Paul Edgecomb, a prison guard who meets a convict named John Coffey, played by Michael Clarke Duncan, with a supernatural gift. Although Michal Clarke Duncan's character plays a supporting role in the movie, he steals the scene whenever he appears on-screen with his innocent and strong portrayal of John Coffey, earning him an Academy Award nomination.

18) Emily Blunt ( The Devil Wears Prada, 2006)

Emily Blunt in The Devil Wears Prada | image via 20th century Fox
Emily Blunt in The Devil Wears Prada | image via 20th century Fox

This 2006 film has become a pop-culture favorite. Directed by David Frankel, this movie focuses on the story of Andrea "Andy" Sachs, played by Anne Hathway, who has recently joined a fashion magazine as an assistant to the editor-in-chief, Miranda Priestly, played by Meryl Streep. Both Streep and Hathaway were lauded for their performances, and Blunt's supporting role of Emily Charlton also received equal praise. With her character, she added a sardonic and humorous edge to the film.

17) Ryan Gosling (Barbie, 2023)

Ryan Gosling in Barbie | Image via Warner Bros. Pictures
Ryan Gosling in Barbie | Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

One of 2023's most popular movies, Barbie brought Barbie Dolls back to trend. Other than that, Greta Gerwig's film also gave the perfect Ken. Ryan Gosling's Ken might have followed Barbie, played by Margot Robbie, throughout the film as he is just Ken and nothing without Barbie. But his playfulness and charm added a delightful dimension to the story, making his supporting role stand out in the film.

16) Pat Morita (The Karate Kid, 1984)

Pat Morita in The Karate Kid | Image via Columbia Pictures
Pat Morita in The Karate Kid | Image via Columbia Pictures

This film follows Daniel LaRusso, played by Ralph Macchio, who, after being bullied, starts to learn Karate as defense from Mr. Miyagi, played by Pat Morita. The film is a beloved classic, and one of the reasons for it is Mr. Miyagi. Although a supporting role, Morita's portrayal of Mr. Miyagi was both endearing and wise. The humor and warmth he provided as a mentor to Macchio's David made it heartwarming to watch.

15) Amandla Stenberg (The Hunger Games, 2012)

Amanda Stenberg in The Hunger Games | Image via Lionsgate
Amanda Stenberg in The Hunger Games | Image via Lionsgate

The Hunger Games, directed by Gary Ross and based on the novel series by Suzanne Collins, follows the story of Katniss Everdeen, played by Jennifer Lawrence, who volunteers to enter the Hunger Games as a tribute from her district. Every district chose two tributes to represent them in the game. Amongst them was Amandla Stenberg, who played the character of Rue, the youngest participant in the game. Stenberg's heartwarming portrayal of Rue with innocence and bravery made her supporting role memorable among the fans.

14) Jennifer Hudson ( Dreamgirls, 2006)

Jennifer Hudson in Dreamgirls | image via Paramount Pictures
Jennifer Hudson in Dreamgirls | image via Paramount Pictures

Dreamgirls stars Jamie Foxx as Curtis Taylor Jr. and Beyonce as Deena Jones and was directed by Bill Condon. The film tells the story of a girl group called "The Dreams" and their journey to fame in the 60s and 70s. Jennifer Hudson's portrayal of Effie White, a supporting but important character, was powerful. Her performance, highlighted by her rendition of And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going, was filled with raw emotion, making her standout in the film and earning her an Academy Award.

13) Sean Astin (Lord of the Rings Franchise)

Sean Austin in Lord Of The Rings- The Return Of The King | mage via WingNut Films
Sean Austin in Lord Of The Rings- The Return Of The King | mage via WingNut Films

The Lord Of The Rings introduced many great characters throughout the franchise. However, Sean Austin's Samwise Gamgee has to be one of the most beloved supporting roles. His unyielding loyalty to Frodo Baggins, played by Elijah Wood, portrayed the highest level of support between friends. Austin's performance became the emotional cornerstone of the trilogy.

12) Anne Hathaway (Les Misérables, 2012)

Anne Hathaway in Les Miserables | Image via Relativity Media
Anne Hathaway in Les Miserables | Image via Relativity Media

Directed by Tom Hooper, the film follows Jean Valjean, played by Hugh Jackman, an ex-convict trying to live a new life but constantly pursued by the unforgiving Inspector Javert, played by Russell Crowe. The film has a stellar ensemble cast, one of them is Anne Hathaway, who played the supporting role of Fantine. Although she appears only in the film's first act, her portrayal of Fantine is haunting and deeply emotional, which even earned her an Academy Award.

11) Harrison Ford (Star Wars)

Harrison Ford in Star Wars: The Force Awakens | Image via Lucasfilm Ltd.
Harrison Ford in Star Wars: The Force Awakens | Image via Lucasfilm Ltd.

Star Wars tells the story of a diverse set of characters. The films focus on Anakin Skywalker and his son Luke Skywalker, focussing on their fight with the good and evil side of Force. Harrison Ford's Han Solo is a supporting character in the film. He is a Smuggler and pilot of the Millennium Falcon. His character adds a roguish charm and depth to the Star Wars movies, making Han Solo one of the most beloved characters even after being a supporting role.

10) Melissa McCarthy (Bridesmaids, 2011)

Melissa McCarthy in Bridesmaids | Image via Apatow Productions
Melissa McCarthy in Bridesmaids | Image via Apatow Productions

This 2011 comedy film is about a group of friends who become bridesmaids in one of the girl's weddings and the ups and downs they deal with throughout the event. Melissa McCarthy steals the show as Megan, a supporting role, bringing outrageous humor and unexpected depth to the character. Her fearless and unapologetic performance adds a refreshing and hilarious element to the film, making her a standout and earning her an Oscar nomination.

9) Mark Wahlberg (The Departed, 2006)

Mark Wahlberg in The Departed | image via Warner Bros. Pictures
Mark Wahlberg in The Departed | image via Warner Bros. Pictures

Martin Scorsese's Oscar-winning film, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Matt Damon, tells the story of two men on opposite sides of the law who attack each other to save themselves from getting exposed. Mark Wahlberg plays the supporting role of Sean Dignam in the film. He is gritty and fierce. His sharp tongue and no-nonsense attitude provide some of the film's most memorable moments, delivering a compelling performance that adds tension and intensity to the story.

8) Eddie Murphy (Shrek, 2001)

Donkey from Shrek | image via DreamWorks Pictures
Donkey from Shrek | image via DreamWorks Pictures

Mike Myers and Cameron Diaz as Shrek and Princess Fiona have captured many hearts. However, mentioning Shrek without Eddie Murphy's portrayal as Donkey is incomplete. Murphy's voice performance as Donkey brings boundless energy and humor to the films. His quick wit, infectious enthusiasm, and undeniable chemistry with Shrek make Donkey a beloved character and a key contributor to the film’s success.

7) J.K. Simmons (Whiplash, 2014)

J. K. Simmons in Whiplash | Image via Sony Pictures Classics
J. K. Simmons in Whiplash | Image via Sony Pictures Classics

The film follows Andrew's (Miles Teller) journey to become a drummer. However, J.K. Simmons’ performance as Terence Fletcher, a ruthless and demanding music instructor, remains intense and unforgettable. His portrayal of Fletcher’s relentless pursuit of perfection creates a gripping dynamic, which earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

6) Leonardo DiCaprio (What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, 1993)

Leonardo DiCaprio in What's Eating Gilbert Grape | image via Paramount Pictures
Leonardo DiCaprio in What's Eating Gilbert Grape | image via Paramount Pictures

Leonardo DiCaprio delivers a raw and emotionally powerful performance as Arnie Grape, a young boy with developmental disabilities, in the film What's Eating Gilbert Grape. Although it is a supporting role, his portrayal is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, earning him critical acclaim and establishing him as a remarkable actor.

5) Octavia Spencer (The Help, 2011)

Octavia Spencer in The Help | Image via DreamWorks Pictures
Octavia Spencer in The Help | Image via DreamWorks Pictures

Octavia Spencer brings humor, strength, and resilience to her supporting role as Minny Jackson in The Help. Her performance adds depth and authenticity to the film, capturing the struggles and triumphs of a black maid in 1960s Mississippi and earning her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.

4) Nicolas Cage (Kick-Ass, 2010)

Nicolas Cage in Kick-Ass | Image via Marv Films
Nicolas Cage in Kick-Ass | Image via Marv Films

Nicolas Cage's portrayal of Big Daddy in Kick-Ass, a vigilante with a quirky sense of humor and a deep love for his daughter Mindy Macready, played by Chloe Grace Moretz, is entertaining and touching. His performance balances the film's dark themes with moments of levity and warmth, making him an unforgettable character.

3) Viola Davis (Doubt, 2008)

Viola Davis in Doubt | Image via Miramax Films
Viola Davis in Doubt | Image via Miramax Films

Doubt stars Meryl Streep and Philip Seymour Hoffman in titular roles. Viola Davis’s brief but powerful performance as Mrs. Miller in Doubt leaves a lasting impression. In a single scene, she conveys a mother’s anguish, strength, and moral complexity, making it one of the most poignant moments in the film and earning her an Oscar nomination.

2) Johnny Depp (Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, 2003)

Johnny Depp in Pirates Of The Caribbean: The Curse of The Black Pearl | Image via Walt Disney Pictures
Johnny Depp in Pirates Of The Caribbean: The Curse of The Black Pearl | Image via Walt Disney Pictures

The film tells the story of Will Turner, played by Orlando Bloom, and Elizabeth Swann, played by Keira Knightley. However, Johnny Depp's Captain Jack Sparrow is an unmissable character. His portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow brought a unique blend of charisma, eccentricity, and humor. Sparrow's unpredictable nature and memorable catchphrases make him the heart of the film, elevating a supporting role to legendary status.

1) Robin Williams (Good Will Hunting, 1997)

Robin Williams in Good Will Hunting | Image via Miramax
Robin Williams in Good Will Hunting | Image via Miramax

Robin Williams delivers a thoughtful and heartfelt performance as Dr. Sean Maguire, a compassionate therapist who helps Will Hunting, played by Matt Damon, navigate his complex emotional landscape. Although a supporting role, his portrayal is filled with wisdom and empathy, culminating in unforgettable moments that resonate deeply with the audience.

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Edited by Debanjana
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