14 Actors Who Became Absolute Legends With Just One Movie

14. Jaye Davidson - Dil (The Crying Game)

Some actors fade from view over time, others burn out pretty quickly, but a select few actually hate their new-found fame and choose not to pursue the roles offered to them. Such is the case with the first actor on our list, who made only one more major film after his performance in The Crying Game, a film billed as having one of the biggest twists of the decade. Jaye Davidson became an actor almost by accident. Beginning his career as a model, he supplemented his income with production work, including on Derek Jarman's Edward II. At Jarmans' wrap party, he was spotted by the casting agent for Neil Jordan's film, and was given the role on the basis of his androgynous appearance. Davidson did a really good job in The Crying Game, bringing a gentle sensitivity to the part of Dil in a film dominated by the politics and violence of Northern Ireland. The film was groundbreaking in its exploration of sexuality, but Davidson quickly grew uncomfortable with the limelight. While he was well-cast in this film, there wasn't a great deal to indicate that he would enjoy a lengthy career; he neither wanted nor deserved future success. What He Did Next: Davidson appeared as Ra in Stargate but subsequently concentrated on his modelling career.
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Freelance copywriter, film buff, community radio presenter. Former host of The Movie Hour podcast (http://www.lionheartradio.com/ and click 'Interviews'), currently presenting on Phonic FM in Exeter (http://www.phonic.fm/). Other loves include theatre, music and test cricket.