Top 15 Best Woody Harrelson Movies and TV Shows

Woody Harrelson is one of the most versatile and charismatic actors of his generation. He started as the cheerful bartender in Cheers but evolved into a serious character actor with roles in crime films, comedies, sci-fi and even superhero films. His talent for combining deep emotional drama with raw humor and unpredictable energy makes him one of the most compelling actors of recent decades. Here are his 15 best films and series.

Posted by Depechemovde · 0 votes · September 16, 2026

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#1

True Detective (2014): A Career-Defining Role

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Harrelson plays detective Marty Hart, who investigates a gruesome murder in Louisiana with Rust Cohle (Matthew McConaughey). The intense chemistry between the two, combined with one of the best scripts and directing styles on TV, makes it outstanding. Harrelson's flawed, self-destructive but capable detective is one of the best performances of his career.

#2

Natural Born Killers (1994): An Ultra-Violent Media Satire

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In this controversial cult classic, Harrelson plays Mickey Knox, a psychotic killer who leaves a bloody trail across America with his girlfriend (Juliette Lewis). Directed by Oliver Stone, the film became a harsh critique of the media's glorification of violence, and Harrelson's manic performance made him a memorable antihero.

#3

The Hunger Games (2012-2015): A Mentor With an Edge

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As Haymitch Abernathy, Katniss Everdeen's drunken mentor, Harrelson brought humor, depth and a cynical edge to the popular franchise. His character seemed a washed-up, sarcastic former tribute at first, but grew into a layered ally with a tragic past.

#4

No Country for Old Men (2007): Small Role, Big Impact

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In the Coen Brothers' Oscar-winning masterpiece, Harrelson plays Carson Wells, a cocky bounty hunter trying to take down the murderous Anton Chigurh (Javier Bardem). His swagger and fast talk make him a great counterpart to Bardem's chillingly calm killer.

#5

Zombieland (2009) & Zombieland: Double Tap (2019): Comedy and Action in Perfect Balance

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In this hilarious, bloody zombie comedy, Harrelson plays Tallahassee, a rough, gun-loving survivor on a quest for the perfect Twinkie. His chemistry with Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone and Abigail Breslin makes him the heart of the film.

#6

Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri (2017): Heartbreaking Drama

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Harrelson plays Sheriff Bill Willoughby, a respected police chief caught in a conflict with a grieving mother (Frances McDormand). His nuanced, emotional role as a man struggling with illness, guilt and justice earned him an Oscar nomination.

#7

White Men Can't Jump (1992): Basketball Buddy Comedy at Its Best

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In this iconic sports comedy, Harrelson plays Billy Hoyle, a white basketball player who hustles people on the street with his underestimated skills. His chemistry with Wesley Snipes makes it a timeless classic full of sharp humor.

#8

The People vs. Larry Flynt (1996): A Controversial Biopic

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Harrelson plays the notorious Larry Flynt, publisher of Hustler magazine, who fought for freedom of speech. His brilliant, provocative performance earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Actor.

#9

War for the Planet of the Apes (2017): A Terrifying Villain

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Harrelson plays the ruthless Colonel, leader of a military faction waging war against the apes. His hard, merciless and yet tragic performance makes him an unforgettable antagonist.

#10

Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018): A Charming Outlaw

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In this Star Wars spin-off, Harrelson plays Tobias Beckett, a seasoned smuggler who takes Han Solo (Alden Ehrenreich) under his wing. His laid-back, opportunistic attitude is one of the film's most memorable aspects.

#11

Kingpin (1996): Absurd Bowling Comedy

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In this Farrelly Brothers classic, Harrelson plays Roy Munson, a washed-up bowling champion attempting a comeback. Full of bizarre humor and great slapstick, with Harrelson both tragic and hilarious.

#12

Venom: Let There Be Carnage (2021): Psychotic Supervillain

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As Cletus Kasady / Carnage, a bloodthirsty killer bonded with a symbiote, Harrelson got to go completely over the top as a villain, adding chaos to the Venom franchise.

#13

The Highwaymen (2019): Hunting Bonnie & Clyde

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In this historical crime film, Harrelson plays a Texas Ranger who, with Kevin Costner, tracks down Bonnie and Clyde. A different angle on the iconic outlaw story, with an understated, seasoned performance.

#14

LBJ (2016): Political Drama

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Harrelson completely transformed into Lyndon B. Johnson, the US president who had to carry on after John F. Kennedy's assassination. His layered, human portrayal was widely praised.

#15

The Man from Toronto (2022): Action Comedy With a Twist

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In this light action film, Harrelson plays a notorious assassin who gets mixed up with an innocent man (Kevin Hart). His comic timing and action skills make it an entertaining ride.

#16

Last Breath (2025)

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Harrelson plays an experienced saturation diver fighting to save a crew member trapped on the seabed in this tense survival drama based on true events.

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