While many actors dabble in music, only a few have taken it seriously enough to form actual bands, and even go on tour. These bands formed by actors didn’t just stick to the studio or casual gigs. They recorded albums, hit the road, and built fanbases beyond Hollywood. Whether you’re into rock, blues, or indie vibes, here are 8 bands formed by actors that proved they could really play, and not just pretend on screen.
8. Big Time Rush
Originally formed for the Nickelodeon show Big Time Rush, this boy band outgrew its scripted roots. Unlike many fictional TV bands, Big Time Rush gained a devoted real-world fanbase, signed a major record deal, and released multiple studio albums including BTR and Elevate. Among all bands formed by actors, they stand out for bridging the gap between scripted fame and real music success.
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7. Taylor Momsen, The Leftovers
Before going full-time with her rock band The Pretty Reckless, Gossip Girl actress Taylor Momsen was in a short-lived project called The Leftovers. It set the stage for her transition from actress to full-time rock singer. The Pretty Reckless has since toured the world.
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6. Jack Black, Tenacious D
Comedy rock duo Tenacious D, formed by Jack Black and Kyle Gass, is both hilarious and musically impressive. Known for their theatrical performances and absurd lyrics, the band has toured globally and even headlined major festivals. Jack Black’s powerful vocals and stage presence helped them become a staple in comedy and rock.
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5. Johnny Depp, Hollywood Vampires
Johnny Depp joined forces with Alice Cooper and Joe Perry to create Hollywood Vampires, a hard rock supergroup paying tribute to rock legends of the past. Depp plays guitar and has toured extensively with the group, performing covers and original songs at massive venues. The band has released two albums and solidified Depp’s place among serious bands formed by actors.
4. Ryan Gosling, Dead Man’s Bones
Ryan Gosling teamed up with friend Zach Shields to form Dead Man’s Bones, an experimental indie rock project with a Halloween twist. Their self-titled 2009 album features a children’s choir and spooky themes, and they even toured with elaborate stage setups. Gosling not only sang but also played instruments, showing his full musical range.
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3. Keanu Reeves, Dogstar
In the ’90s, Keanu Reeves played bass for the alternative rock band Dogstar. Though the band initially got attention due to Reeves’ fame, their passion for music helped them land opening spots for Bon Jovi and tour across the U.S. and Asia. Recently, Dogstar reunited and released new material, making it one of the most enduring bands formed by actors.
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2. Kevin Bacon, The Bacon Brothers
Kevin Bacon and his brother Michael formed The Bacon Brothers in the mid-1990s, blending folk, rock, and country. The band has released multiple albums and continues to tour regularly across the U.S. While Bacon may be best known for his acting in films like Footloose, his musical talent is legit.
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1. Jared Leto, Thirty Seconds to Mars
Jared Leto isn’t just an Oscar-winning actor, but he’s also the frontman of Thirty Seconds to Mars, a successful alternative rock band. Known for his stage presence and intense vocals, Leto and his band have toured internationally, played massive festivals, and become one of the most notable bands formed by actors.
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