10 Times Actors Had Personal Reasons For Taking Film Roles

The late, award-winning Puerto Rican actor Raul Julia is probably fondly remembered by children for his eccentric turn in Barry Levinson's Adams Family films. As the paternal Gomez Adams, he was both over-the-top and brimming with the charisma that led initially led him to critical acclaim.

Tragically, Julia passed away in 1994 due to a mix of stomach cancer, contaminated sushi and a stroke. His health was in decline, throughout his last year, suffering significant weight loss. It's equally tragic that his last major release, a live-action adaptation of the video game Street Fighter, contains a dedication to him.

There's no question he's the best part of the modest box success, and critics were rightfully respectfully to his cartoonish portrayal of villain M. Bison. And ultimately, his reason for taking the role at all is a testament to just how sweet the man was: His children were enormous fans of the game and he was eager to play the character to impress them.

Many an actor has taken a role just to show off their range or their capability or even to dangle it in front of the academy, but there's a special kind of person who will do potential career-derailing crap just to make their kids happy.