Top 10 Tough Male Celebs Who Are Actually Big Teddy Bears

#10: Michael B. Jordan

As a stand out actor from his generation, Michael B. Jordan embodies many different tough guys. He’s the center of the “Creed” franchise and played villains like Killmonger in “Black Panther.” This speaks to his acting abilities considering he’s a genuine guy in real life. Beyond the harsher roles or toned muscles, he’s shown himself to be a true gentleman. He seems to be a grounded performer that still has time to help people out. Jordan is no stranger to acts of kindness, showing up for charity events and surprising fans. He’s able to be nice and heroic, but this doesn’t detract from his complex work either.

#9: Tom Hardy

Known for playing anti-heroes, Tom Hardy is an Oscar nominee with many roles that jump off the screen. This doesn’t mean that he can’t control his temper though. In various interviews, he appears to be suave, charming, and self-aware. He’s not above making a joke or admitting that he’s been too intense. His roles in the likes of “Bronson” and “Legend” make him seem much less approachable. Even with rumors about the making of “Fury Road,” Hardy might seem to be a more difficult actor. The truth is that he’s much more calm, reserved, and even outgoing when he’s given the chance. This is especially true when he’s around dogs.

#8: André the Giant

If you watched Wrestlemania in the 1980s, you’re well aware of André the Giant. His large stature made him one of the most recognizable pro-wrestlers ever. Despite his formidable nature, he also found time to be a sweetheart. He’s been noted for his gregarious personality and kindness in everyday situations. This includes his stint on the set of “The Princess Bride.” His other cast members noted that he was a very caring and welcoming man. His character Fezzik seems to embody that same spirit, becoming the true example of a gentle giant. He also had a sense of humor and enjoyed the occasional joke at someone else’s expense.

#7: Russell Crowe

This actor starred in one great period drama after the other. From “Gladiator” to “A Beautiful Mind,” Russell Crowe showed off his range in many heroic and masculine performances. His personal life revealed his sometimes-aggressive side that got into fights. While he might’ve been hot-headed in the past, the man also knows how to be effortlessly charming. He’s put his skills to the test in comedies like “The Nice Guys.” While he’s not always Maximus, he’s been able to show off his more human side in interviews. This includes his serious and sometimes-comedic stints as a musician.

#6: Liam Neeson

For many years, Liam Neeson was known for being the lead in serious dramas like “Schindler’s List.” The actor then gained a reputation for being in action movies. This all disguises his more articulate, soulful, and humorous side. He’s talked openly about grief, admitted to his past mistakes, and also found time to poke fun at himself. His phone call from the first “Taken” film has been parodied by many people including himself. For several Seth MacFarlane projects, Neeson has also put his comedic chops to the test. Even in his older age, the actor shows that he is much more than his earlier career suggests.

#5: Danny Trejo

Overcoming many obstacles and a criminal record, Danny Trejo shows that he’s turned himself around. His time behind bars and his scarier roles might give you the wrong impression. While he might’ve struggled in the past, he’s since proven himself to be an extraordinary artist and human being. This includes being a real hero that saves people from car accidents. Through it all, he seems to be exceptionally humble and centered. He also made an impact in the world of restaurants. As he’s expanded his output beyond the cinematic world, Trejo shows that he is much more than a knife-wielding henchman.

#4: Shaquille O’Neal

In the 1990s, Shaquille O’Neal became a legendary center in the NBA. With his serious height, the athlete had a reputation for backboard-destroying dunks and a no-nonsense attitude. This made him an All-Star that won championships and struck fear into the hearts of opponents. Off the court, the athlete has a much more kind-hearted personality. He has shown himself to be both conscientious and funny on shows like “Inside the NBA.” In his everyday life, O’Neal is also an especially giving man. He’s become better known for his acts of kindness that have made countless people better off.

#3: Dave Bautista

Throughout his career, Dave Bautista has made a name for himself as a qualified bruiser. He’s also put his stamp on intimidating roles such as a James Bond villain. Given his imposing nature, Bautista might be mistaken for the people he portrays on film. “Guardians of the Galaxy” played with his persona as the character explores the cross-section between brain and brawn. In that series and in other projects, he looks much scarier than he often acts. The performer even collects lunchboxes in his spare time. His off-screen personality and hobbies ground him as a childlike and welcoming presence.

#2: Dwayne Johnson

He might be the most successful wrestler-turned-actor of his generation. With his muscles and endless charisma, Dwayne Johnson turned his entire brand into a powerhouse of fighting excellence. He’s also done some truly remarkable work as a charitable presence. There are copious amounts of videos devoted to his helpful persona and his impulse to give back. Among his many good deeds, Johnson also made donations to SAG-AFTRA and continues to work with the Make-A-Wish foundation. It’s not uncommon to see him crack jokes in interviews or putting on a show for as many loyal followers.

#1: John Cena

Whether he is a baby face or a heel, John Cena is synonymous with the wrestling world. He has also made a successful transition into film as a strong and lovable performer. Cena often turns interviews into a humorous and self-effacing time. He even made a point to surprise a singer that wrote a song about him. Beyond the dangerous world of the WWE or his action movies, he’s known to be quite charitable. Needless to say, he has made great strides to break down his muscular exterior. His record-breaking work with Make-A-Wish is just one notable notch on his championship belt.

Did we forget another tough guy that masks a softer side? Let us know in the comments below.