A show becomes successful for various factors, such as an engaging storyline, high-quality production, marketing and promotions, and a strong cast. Among these factors, proper casting is a chief factor behind the show's success, and sometimes, actors portray their characters in such a way that they become synonymous with the show. The cultural impact, along with memorable catchphrases that the actors use, become closely associated with the actors. So, in this list, we are going to talk about 20 actors who became synonymous with their drama TV series.
1) Gabriel Macht (Suits)

This American legal drama, which has been a fan favorite for its legal cases, office politics, and character-driven stories, features the iconic character of Harvey Spectre, portrayed by Gabriel Macht. Gabriel Macht’s powerful performance as the charismatic and powerful senior partner has been one of the best performances in his acting career, according to the viewers. His role as Harvey Spectre has been one of the most significant factors in the show’s immense success, making him synonymous with the show.
2) Kevin Spacey ( House Of Cards)

Kevin Spacey’s role as Frank Underwood is considered to be his signature role by many of the viewers. In this complex political drama, Kevin Spacey has intricately portrayed his role, evoking the character’s Machiavellian schemes and ruthless ambition. His performance has received critical acclaim, solidifying his connection with the series according to many viewers.
3) Jonathan Bailey (Bridgerton)

Jonathan Bailey has become a highly acclaimed actor who started his career as a child actor. However, the gothic breakthrough through his portrayal of Viscount Anthony Bridgerton in the Netflix show Bridgerton. Anthony Bridgerton’s journey of self-discovery and character development that we see has been perfectly portrayed by Jonathan Bailey. His role as Anthony Bridgerton has solidified his synonymity with Bridgerton.
4) Leighton Meester (Gossip Girl)

Although Leighton Meester has acted in several other projects, her portrayal of Blaire Waldorf is still one of her most iconic roles, according to the fans. Gossip Girl was a cultural phenomenon known for its impact on fashion, social media, along with pop culture, and it resonates with its audience even today. Leighton Meester’s portrayal of Blaire Waldorf became a legacy, and is still a beloved character by the viewers. She is still very much synonymous with Gossip Girl, and the show remains a defining part of her career.
5) Kevin Costner (Yellowstone)

Kevin Costner is known for portraying rugged individuals and is highly respected in Hollywood. Though he acted in several iconic roles his portrayal of John Dutton makes him synonymous with the show. His character in the show has captivated the audience with its strong performance. The show has been a massive success, and he even won the Golden Globe Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series- Drama for this show.
6) Jason Bateman (Ozark)

Jason Bateman portrays the role of Marty Byrde in the Netflix show Ozark, a role where an ordinary man is forced into a life of crime. Marty’s initial reluctance before getting involved in the world of crime and his journey of gradually becoming ruthless has been perfectly portrayed by Jason Bateman. Bateman’s performance has garnered numerous accolades along with a huge fan base. Marty Byrde’s character has become a defining role of Jason Bateman.
7) Ellen Pompeo (Grey’s Anatomy)

This longest-running primetime medical drama has been a defining factor of Ellen Pompeo. She plays the role of Dr. Meredith Grey in her journey from becoming a surgical intern to a renowned surgeon. Ellen Pompeo has been present throughout this show’s seasons and has significantly contributed to the show’s immense success, according to the viewers. It is fair to say that Ellen Pompeo is synonymous with Grey’s Anatomy.
8) James Gandolfini (The Sopranos)

The Sopranos is one of the most revolutionary shows of all time. It is known for its character development and intense storytelling, according to the viewers. James Gandolfini plays the lead role of Tony Soprano, who is defined by his complexity and multifaceted character. His contribution to the show's success is immeasurable and has left a lasting impact on the fans. Though James Gandolfini has a successful career in movies, it can be rightfully said that he is synonymous with The Sopranos.
9) Sam Heughan (Outlander)

Sam Heughan got a breakthrough in his acting career through his performance as the charismatic Scottish warrior Jamie Fraser in Outlander. The show has received immense critical appraisal and has garnered a huge fanbase catapulted by Sam Heughan’s contribution to the role of Jamie Fraser. The viewers have appreciated Jamie Fraser’s strength along with vulnerability which has been portrayed beautifully by Sam Heughan. Sam Heughan has become synonymous with Outlander and solidified his position in Hollywood.
10) Patrick J. Adams (Suits)

Patrick J. Adams’ portrayal of Mike Ross in the show Suits has been one of the most significant roles for him. Mike Ross, who has a photogenic memory, manages to secure a job at a prestigious law firm by fraudulating his college degree. The show revolves around Mike’s journey to survive in the law firm without getting caught. The show has captivated its viewers with Mike’s intellect and wit. Though Patrick J. Adams has played other roles in his career, he has become synonymous with Suits.
11) Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad)

Bryan Cranston plays the role of Walter White, a simple high school chemistry teacher. The show focuses on the journey of Walter White’s journey to becoming one of the most ruthless druglords from a simple teacher. Bryan Cranston gives a nuanced performance that captures the subtle changes in the character of Walter White during his transformation. Breaking Bad is one of the most critically acclaimed shows, winning two Golden Globe Awards. Bryan Cranston is synonymous with Breaking Bad for his undeniable contribution to the show.
12) Jon Hamm (Mad Men)

Jon Hamm portrayed the role of Don Draper and perfectly captured the complexity of the role by portraying the inner turmoil and issues that the character has. Jon Hamm’s fame was catapulted by his performance in Mad Men, which solidified his position in Hollywood. Though Jon Hamm has performed in several other projects, he is synonymous with Mad Men, which was the defining role of his career.
13) Cillian Murphy (Peaky Blinders)

Cillian Murphy’s performance as the ruthless leader of the gang Peaky Blinders in the show Peaky Blinders has been one of the most iconic roles of his career. The show’s aesthetic has become a worldwide phenomenon and Cillian Murphy has been a propelling factor. He received widespread recognition along with numerous awards and nominations. Though he has acted in several other award-winning movies, he will forever be associated with Peaky Blinders.
14) Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Fleabag)

Phoebe Waller-Bridge wrote and starred in the show Fleabag. The show has a unique portrayal of the lead character, who is also named Fleabag, as she often breaks the fourth wall. The story delves into her life and struggles with grief and heartbreak. Phoebe Waller-Bridge has perfectly portrayed the role of Fleabag, featuring the character’s nuanced complexities. The show deeply resonated with the viewers and has received immense critical acclaim. Phoebe Waller-Bridge has become synonymous with Fleabag.
15) Michael C. Hall (Dexter)

Michael C. Hall portrays the complex role of a serial killer named Dexter. The viewers have noted Michael C. Hall's competence in portraying the nuanced character of the role. He has become synonymous with the show as he perfectly portrays the details of the character, such as lack of empathy, remorse, and manipulation tactics. The show has received immense positive responses from its viewers and has established Michael C. Hall as one of the most esteemed actors in Hollywood.
16) Hugh Laurie (House)

Hugh Laurie gained a breakthrough in popularity through his role as Dr. Gregory House in the show House. His performance as a cynical but brilliant doctor coursing through challenges and interpersonal relationships has been widely acclaimed by its viewers. Hugh Laurie has won two Golden Globes for his performance in the show House. It can be easily said that Hugh Laurie has become synonymous with House.
17) Andrew Scott (Fleabag)

The priest in the second season of Fleabag broke the hearts of not just Fleabag but millions of fans with his heartwrenching performance. Andrew Scott has beautifully portrayed the priest's chemistry with Fleabag, showing the struggles he faces while facing his attraction towards her. He has received widespread acclaim for his performance in Fleabag and will always be associated with the show.
18) Mads Mikkelsen (Hannibal)

Mads Mikkelsen’s portrayal of Hannibal Lecter, a cannibalistic psychiatrist, has been one of the most widely acclaimed characters. He has perfectly captured the nuanced complexities of the character, giving it a deeper and more meaningful approach. Mads Mikkelsen provides a more refined and cultured approach to the character, which has been critically acclaimed. Mads Mikkelsen will be synonymous with Hannibal as he brought a unique approach to it.
19) Benedict Cumberbatch (Sherlock)

Benedict Cumberbatch is an English actor who is known for his versatility. However, according to his fans, his portrayal of the witty and intelligent Sherlock Holmes will always be one of the most significant performances of his career. He has perfectly portrayed the role of a high-performing sociopath with his acting skills and has received immense appraise. Sherlock became a global phenomenon, garnering a huge fanbase and solidified his position in Hollywood. Benedict Cumberbatch has become synonymous with the show Sherlock.
20) Caitriona Balfe (Outlander)

Caitriona Balfe received widespread recognition with her performance as Claire in the show Outlander. She has portrayed the role with unique competence, evoking the love she has for Jamie Fraser. Claire is a strong and independent woman who, even after her hardships, is resilient and compelling. Her character has deeply resonated with the show's viewers, and Caitriona Balfe will always be associated with Outlander.

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