The Ultimate Celebrity Drop-Ins
When it comes to TV shows, some of the most memorable moments come from unexpected guest appearances, cameos that surprise, delight, and add an extra layer of fun to the story. These brief but impactful appearances often feature celebrities, other TV characters, or iconic personalities slipping into a show for a scene or two. Here’s a list of seven of the best TV show cameos that have left audiences talking and smiling.
1. Bryan Cranston in “Breaking Bad”
Few cameos are as iconic as Bryan Cranston’s role in “Breaking Bad,” Before achieving his iconic role in “Breaking Bad,” Bryan Cranston’s career included a memorable appearance in the sitcom “Malcolm in the Middle,” where he played the father Hal, a role that showcased his comedic timing and hinted at his ability to portray complex characters. He also landed a breakthrough role in the soap opera “Loving,” reflecting his dedication and passion for acting. These roles, while different from “Breaking Bad,” laid the groundwork for his later success in drama, highlighting his versatility and talent. Cranston’s portrayal of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned drug lord, became a legendary performance, solidifying his place as a leading actor. He received numerous accolades for his performance, including four Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series.
2. David Bowie in “Extras”
David Bowie’s appearance in the British sitcom “Extras” is widely considered a masterful example of how celebrity cameos can be used effectively and humorously. In the show, created and starring Ricky Gervais, Bowie plays a version of himself who is hilariously self-aware and a bit of a diva, while also being genuinely charming and funny. His performance fits perfectly with the show’s satirical take on the entertainment industry and the eccentric personalities of celebrities. The cameo works because Bowie doesn’t just appear for shock value, he delivers sharp, witty dialogue and shows a surprising depth of character. Also, Bowie embraced the exaggerated persona of a celebrity, playing a character who is both famous and aware of the ridiculousness of fame. Bowie was willing to be self-deprecating and perform exaggerated versions of himself, which made his cameo even more memorable.
3. Betty White in “The Mary Tyler Moore Show”
Betty White’s cameo on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” is a classic example of a guest star who elevates a scene with charm and comedic timing. White appeared as Sue Ann Nivens, the man-hungry “Happy Homemaker,” and her character became so popular that it spun off into its own show. Betty White fondly recalled her iconic role as Sue Ann Nivens, saying, “I loved Sue Ann – she was so rotten, almost the ultimate neighborhood nymphomaniac.” Her portrayal earned her two consecutive Emmy Awards for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 1975 and 1976, with another nomination in 1977. White particularly cherished the awards she received for her work on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, crediting the show’s exceptional writing for much of its success. She also praised the outstanding scripts of her later series, The Golden Girls.
4. Lady Gaga in “American Horror Story”
Lady Gaga made a memorable cameo in American Horror Story, specifically in the show’s fifth season, Hotel (2015-2016), where she played the role of Elizabeth Johnson, also known as the Countess, a vampire who owns the Hotel Cortez in downtown Los Angeles. This wasn’t her only appearance in the series, as she also played the role of Scathach, a powerful witch, in the sixth season, Roanoke (2016). Gaga’s performances in AHS showcased her versatility as an actress and earned her critical acclaim, including a Golden Globe Award for her portrayal of Elizabeth Johnson. Her involvement in the series highlighted the show’s ability to attract high-profile talent and further cemented its reputation as a hub for innovative storytelling and complex characters. Fans appreciate these appearances for their creativity and the way Gaga’s presence elevates the storytelling.
5. Neil Patrick Harris in “How I Met Your Mother”
Neil Patrick Harris stole the show as Barney Stinson in the hit TV series “How I Met Your Mother”. His portrayal of the suave, womanizing, and charismatic bro earned him multiple Emmy nominations and cemented his status as a sitcom legend. As Barney Stinson, Harris brought to life a character known for his elaborate suits, catchphrases like “Suit Up!”, and outrageous antics. His on-screen chemistry with the rest of the cast, particularly Josh Radnor’s Ted Mosby, added to the show’s comedic brilliance. Harris’s performance showcased his versatility as an actor and solidified his place in television history. Harris’s cameos showcase how a character can transcend their own show and become a cultural phenomenon.
6. Stan Lee in Marvel TV Shows
Stan Lee made numerous cameo appearances in Marvel TV shows, solidifying his legacy as a beloved figure in the Marvel universe. Here are some notable examples: Agent Carter: Lee appeared as a New York City police officer in 2015. Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.: He played a train conductor in a 2014 episode. Lee’s appearances in these shows showcased his knack for injecting humor and personality into brief roles. Also, Lee’s cameos weren’t limited to these shows, as he frequently popped up in various Marvel productions. His ability to make an impact in short screen time cemented his status as a cherished Marvel icon. After his passing, Marvel Studios decided to use archive footage of Lee in future projects, ensuring his legacy would live on in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His final appearance was in Avengers: Endgame, released several months after his death.
This story There Are So Many Great Ones. We Picked 6 of The Best TV Show Cameos. Do You Agree? was first published on DailyFetch.
