Join to get exclusive perks & news!

Top 20 Actors Who Didn't Deserve Their Razzie Nominations

1-20

Ignacio Weil

Entertainment - June 20th 2025, 00:00 GMT+2

Cropped Shelley Duvall The Shining 1980 — Shelley Duvall - The Shining (1980)

Shelley Duvall’s performance as Wendy Torrance in Stanley Kubrick’s *The Shining* (1980) is often hailed as one of the most memorable in horror history. Her portrayal of a woman pushed to the brink of madness by her increasingly violent husband, Jack Torrance (Jack Nicholson), was both nuanced and chilling. However, Duvall’s performance was controversially nominated for a Razzie, an acknowledgment that many fans and critics consider misguided. Kubrick’s notoriously demanding direction led to intense emotional strain, which some argue made her performance even more impressive under the circumstances. Despite the Razzie snub, Duvall’s portrayal remains iconic, with *The Shining* continuing to be a cornerstone of horror cinema. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped Ben Affleck The Last Duel 2021 — Ben Affleck - The Last Duel (2021)

Ben Affleck’s portrayal of Count Pierre d'Alençon in *The Last Duel* (2021) is a masterclass in subtlety and complexity. The film, directed by Ridley Scott, explores themes of betrayal, honor, and justice, with Affleck's character acting as a manipulative noble. Although Affleck’s performance in this layered role was widely praised, he received a Razzie nomination, which many found baffling. His chemistry with co-stars Matt Damon and Adam Driver was spot-on, and his ability to convey the corrupting nature of power was central to the film's dark tone. The nomination failed to recognize Affleck’s standout contribution to a film that was otherwise packed with strong performances. | © 20th Century Studios

Cropped Ben Affleck Batman v Superman Dawn of Justice — Ben Affleck - Batman V. Superman: Dawn Of Justice (2016)

Ben Affleck’s casting as Bruce Wayne/Batman in *Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice* (2016) was one of the most talked-about decisions in superhero film history. Despite facing a great deal of skepticism from fans prior to the film's release, Affleck’s portrayal was generally well-received, offering a grizzled, weary version of the Dark Knight. However, he was nominated for a Razzie, with critics largely pointing fingers at the film's tone and direction, rather than Affleck’s performance. His Batman was physically imposing, emotionally complex, and in stark contrast to previous portrayals. Affleck’s nuanced take on the character proved that the Razzie nomination was more reflective of the film's divisiveness than his acting ability. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped Danny De Vito Batman Returns 1992 — Danny DeVito - Batman Returns (1992)

In Tim Burton's *Batman Returns* (1992), Danny DeVito’s portrayal of the grotesque and tragic Penguin was a standout performance. As the disfigured villain Oswald Cobblepot, DeVito brought a level of pathos and menace that was rare for a comic book movie. His physical transformation into the character, aided by impressive makeup and prosthetics, was an integral part of his haunting performance. Despite this, DeVito’s work was nominated for a Razzie, which many felt was an unfair judgment. The film itself was divisive, but DeVito’s turn as the Penguin remains one of the most memorable villainous performances in comic book history. His interaction with Michelle Pfeiffer’s Catwoman created an electric dynamic, further cementing the film’s unique dark tone. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped Jennifer Lawrence Mother 2017 — Jennifer Lawrence - Mother! (2017)

Jennifer Lawrence's performance in *Mother!* (2017) was a tour de force, showcasing her versatility as an actress in Darren Aronofsky's polarizing psychological thriller. Playing the role of a young woman who is slowly driven to madness by her husband's (Javier Bardem) actions, Lawrence delivered a deeply emotional and raw portrayal. Despite the film's divisive nature, with some audiences finding it bewildering, Lawrence’s performance was lauded for its depth and commitment. Receiving a Razzie nomination for her role seemed misguided, as her ability to convey fear, anxiety, and despair was central to the film’s unsettling atmosphere. In a movie filled with symbolism and bizarre imagery, Lawrence was the beating heart of *Mother!*, making the nomination an unfortunate oversight. | © Paramount Pictures

Cropped Tom Cruise War of the Worlds — Tom Cruise - War Of The Worlds (2005)

Tom Cruise’s performance in *War of the Worlds* (2005), directed by Steven Spielberg, is often overshadowed by the film's groundbreaking special effects and action sequences. Playing the role of Ray Ferrier, a father struggling to protect his children during an alien invasion, Cruise delivered an emotionally charged performance that was both intense and grounded. Despite his solid work in the film, he was nominated for a Razzie, a decision that many found unfair, especially considering his dedication to the role. Cruise’s portrayal of a flawed, reluctant hero navigating chaos brought authenticity to the film, and his chemistry with co-stars Dakota Fanning and Justin Chatwin only elevated the experience. His nomination seemed more reflective of his personal controversies at the time rather than his acting ability. | © Paramount Pictures

Cropped Megan Fox Jennifers Body — Megan Fox - Jennifer’s Body (2009)

Megan Fox's performance in *Jennifer’s Body* (2009), directed by Karyn Kusama, is often praised for its perfect blend of horror, humor, and teenage angst. Playing the titular character, Jennifer, a high school girl turned demon, Fox delivered a performance filled with dark humor and raw emotion. Despite her strong work in a film that has since gained cult status, she received a Razzie nomination, which many saw as undeserved. The film was ahead of its time, tackling themes of female empowerment and friendship in a genre typically dominated by male narratives. Fox’s portrayal of Jennifer brought complexity to a role that could have easily been reduced to a mere caricature, with her ability to balance vulnerability and danger being a standout. | © 20th Century Fox

Cropped Adam Sandler Happy Gilmore 1996 — Adam Sandler - Happy Gilmore (1996)

Adam Sandler’s portrayal of the eccentric, rebellious golfer Happy Gilmore in the 1996 comedy *Happy Gilmore* is a performance that helped define Sandler’s unique comedic style. His over-the-top antics, combined with a surprisingly heartfelt undercurrent, created a character that resonated with audiences. While *Happy Gilmore* has since become a beloved classic, Sandler was nominated for a Razzie, a nod that critics felt was unjust. Sandler’s comedic timing and ability to make a seemingly absurd character both hilarious and endearing was a testament to his talent, and the film’s success proved that his work in the role struck a chord with fans. His collaboration with fellow cast members, including Christopher McDonald and Julie Bowen, added depth to the film, solidifying its place in pop culture. | © Universal Pictures

Cropped Sylvester Stallone Rambo First Blood Part II — Sylvester Stallone - Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985)

Sylvester Stallone’s portrayal of the iconic John Rambo in *Rambo: First Blood Part II* (1985) is a masterclass in action performance. The film, which pits Rambo against overwhelming odds in Vietnam, was a cultural touchstone of the 1980s. Stallone’s ability to convey both physical strength and emotional depth in the character made him a hero for a generation. Despite the film’s success, he was nominated for a Razzie, which many found unjust, given the level of commitment and emotion he brought to the role. Stallone’s performance was pivotal in cementing Rambo’s place in action movie history, and his intense portrayal resonated with audiences worldwide. His chemistry with co-stars like Richard Crenna added weight to the story, proving that his performance deserved far more recognition than a Razzie nomination. | © TriStar Pictures

Cropped Bryce Dallas Howard Jurassic World Dominion — Bryce Dallas Howard - Jurassic World Dominion (2022)

Bryce Dallas Howard’s performance in *Jurassic World Dominion* (2022), the final installment in the *Jurassic World* trilogy, was a standout, as she reprised her role as Claire Dearing. Howard’s portrayal of a character who evolves from a corporate-minded individual to a fierce protector of both dinosaurs and humanity was both emotional and compelling. Despite this, she was nominated for a Razzie, a decision that left many fans and critics puzzled. Howard’s performance was integral to the film's storyline, and her chemistry with Chris Pratt, returning as Owen Grady, brought heart to the action-packed blockbuster. Her ability to juggle the emotional stakes with the high-intensity action sequences made her portrayal of Claire one of the series’ most complex performances. | © Universal Pictures

Cropped Heather Donahue The Blair Witch Project 1999 — Heather Donahue - The Blair Witch Project (1999)

Heather Donahue’s performance in *The Blair Witch Project* (1999) stands as a defining moment in the horror genre. As one of the three central characters documenting their terrifying experience in the woods, Donahue’s portrayal of the increasingly frantic and desperate character was both naturalistic and gripping. The film’s "found footage" style demanded a raw, believable performance, and Donahue delivered it with authenticity. Despite the innovative nature of the film and her outstanding work in the lead role, she was unfairly nominated for a Razzie. Her portrayal of a woman spiraling into fear and confusion is often praised by fans and critics alike for its intensity, and her performance undoubtedly contributed to the film’s enduring legacy. | © Artisan Entertainment

Cropped Whitney Houston The Bodyguard 1992 — Whitney Houston - The Bodyguard (1992)

Whitney Houston’s performance in *The Bodyguard* (1992) is one of the most iconic in her career, yet she was shockingly nominated for a Razzie. Playing Rachel Marron, a famous singer who is protected by a former Secret Service agent (Kevin Costner), Houston combined her incredible vocal talent with a nuanced portrayal of vulnerability and strength. Despite the film's mixed critical reception, Houston’s performance was widely praised for its emotional depth and screen presence. Her chemistry with Costner elevated the film, and she deftly handled both the romantic and suspenseful elements of the story. Whitney Houston’s role in *The Bodyguard* remains one of her most celebrated, and the Razzie nomination is often viewed as a misguided critique of the film’s overall reception rather than her stellar performance. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped Brooke Shields The Blue Lagoon — Brooke Shields - The Blue Lagoon (1980)

Brooke Shields’ portrayal of Emmeline in *The Blue Lagoon* (1980) remains one of the defining roles of her career. Playing a young woman stranded on a tropical island with her companion, played by Christopher Atkins, Shields navigated a challenging and controversial role with grace. Despite the film's focus on themes of innocence and discovery, critics nominated her for a Razzie. However, Shields’ portrayal of Emmeline was far from deserving of such an award. Her ability to capture the character’s emotional arc, growing from naivety to love and maturity, was a standout in an otherwise visually striking but thematically sensitive film. In hindsight, the nomination seemed to stem more from the film's controversial nature than from any fault in her performance. | © Columbia Pictures

Cropped Faye Dunaway Mommie Dearest 1981 — Faye Dunaway - Mommie Dearest (1981)

Faye Dunaway’s portrayal of Joan Crawford in *Mommie Dearest* (1981) has since become a cult classic, cementing her place in film history for a role that was initially misjudged. As the notoriously strict and abusive actress, Dunaway’s performance was a bold and fearless depiction of an iconic Hollywood figure. The film’s exaggerated portrayal of Crawford’s life led to a Razzie nomination for Dunaway, a decision many saw as overlooking the sheer power and commitment Dunaway brought to the role. Her larger-than-life portrayal of Crawford has been embraced by audiences, and many view her performance as an intense, memorable portrayal of a complex character. In retrospect, the Razzie nomination now seems like an oversight of Dunaway’s dedication and talent. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped Kevin Costner Robin Hood Prince of Thieves 1991 — Kevin Costner - Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves (1991)

Kevin Costner’s portrayal of the legendary outlaw in *Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves* (1991) was a major part of the film's commercial success. Despite the film’s mixed reviews, Costner’s performance as the titular character was well-received by audiences for its grounded, earnest approach to the role. His rendition of Robin Hood, while not as swashbuckling as some might have expected, offered a fresh take on the classic hero. However, Costner was nominated for a Razzie, with critics often pointing to his accent as a reason for the nomination. His performance, however, was far more complex than just a simple accent choice, as Costner brought depth to Robin Hood’s quest for justice and revenge. Additionally, his chemistry with co-stars like Morgan Freeman and Alan Rickman only enriched the film, making the Razzie nomination seem misplaced. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped Kevin Costner The Postman 1997 — Kevin Costner - The Postman (1997)

Kevin Costner’s performance in *The Postman* (1997) is one of the most underrated in his career. As the lead character, a drifter who brings hope to a post-apocalyptic America, Costner not only directed but also fully committed to his role in this ambitious and expansive film. Despite its critical reception, which included some mixed reviews, Costner’s portrayal was earnest and provided a sense of hope amid the film's bleak backdrop. The Razzie nomination he received seemed to overlook his dedication to the project and the film's larger themes of rebuilding and survival. Additionally, the film's ensemble cast, including Will Patton and Larenz Tate, helped elevate the story, making it more than just Costner’s performance. In hindsight, many feel the Razzie nomination was more a result of the film’s underwhelming reception than any fault in his acting. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped Demi Moore G I Jane 1997 — Demi Moore - G.I. Jane (1997)

Demi Moore’s portrayal of Jordan O'Neill in *G.I. Jane* (1997) was a bold and groundbreaking performance in the realm of action films. Playing a woman who undergoes the grueling training to become part of the U.S. Navy SEALs, Moore brought toughness and vulnerability to a character that was as physically demanding as it was emotionally intense. Despite her commitment to the role, which included cutting her hair and undergoing intense training, Moore received a Razzie nomination. The film’s themes of gender and equality, coupled with Moore’s powerful performance, went largely unappreciated by critics at the time. Her portrayal remains one of the strongest female leads in an action film, and the Razzie nomination now appears as an unjust response to a film that was both progressive and ahead of its time. | © Walt Disney Pictures

Cropped Madonna Four Rooms 1995 — Madonna - Four Rooms (1995)

Madonna’s role in *Four Rooms* (1995) as the seductive and quirky woman in the segment directed by her then-husband Guy Ritchie stands out as a testament to her acting versatility. The film itself was an anthology of four interconnected stories, with Madonna playing a pivotal, though often comedic, character. Her performance was intentionally over-the-top, embodying the eccentric nature of the story. Despite her committed portrayal and the film’s unique storytelling style, Madonna received a Razzie nomination, which many considered unfair. The nomination missed the mark on her ability to inject humor, charm, and unpredictability into her role, and her presence in *Four Rooms* remains one of the film’s memorable moments. | © Miramax Films

Cropped Sienna Miller G I Joe The Rise of Cobra 2009 — Sienna Miller - G.I. Joe: The Rise Of Cobra (2009)

Sienna Miller’s portrayal of The Baroness in *G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra* (2009) was a standout in an ensemble cast that included Channing Tatum, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Dennis Quaid. As a femme fatale and a complex villain, Miller's performance brought depth to a character that could have easily been a one-dimensional antagonist. Despite this, she received a Razzie nomination for her role, which many fans and critics found unwarranted. Miller’s portrayal was both fierce and layered, perfectly balancing the character’s dark side with moments of vulnerability. Her chemistry with the film’s other stars, particularly Tatum and Gordon-Levitt, helped elevate the movie, and her Razzie nomination seemed misplaced in the context of her performance. | © Paramount Pictures

Cropped Tom Cruise The Mummy 2017 — Tom Cruise - The Mummy (2017)

Tom Cruise’s performance in *The Mummy* (2017) is often seen as a misunderstood attempt to launch a new universe of classic monster movies. Playing Nick Morton, a soldier who becomes entangled with an ancient curse, Cruise brought his signature charisma and action-hero sensibility to the role. The film itself had its share of mixed reviews, but Cruise’s performance was not the issue. In fact, his ability to mix traditional action with supernatural horror showcased his versatility. Yet, despite this, he was nominated for a Razzie. Cruise’s commitment to the film and his effort to carry the story forward with both humor and intensity was a testament to his star power, and the Razzie nomination seemed more a reflection of the film's commercial failure than his acting ability. | © Universal Pictures

1-20

The Golden Raspberry Awards, or Razzies, were created to spotlight the worst in film—but sometimes, they miss the mark. Over the years, several talented actors have been unfairly targeted by the Razzies, receiving nominations that left fans and critics scratching their heads. Whether it was a misunderstood performance, a misjudged film, or simply being the scapegoat for a bad script, these stars didn’t deserve the ridicule. In this article, we’ll spotlight 20 actors whose Razzie nominations were not only unwarranted, but in some cases, downright baffling. Let’s set the record straight.

Facebook X Reddit WhatsApp Copy URL

The Golden Raspberry Awards, or Razzies, were created to spotlight the worst in film—but sometimes, they miss the mark. Over the years, several talented actors have been unfairly targeted by the Razzies, receiving nominations that left fans and critics scratching their heads. Whether it was a misunderstood performance, a misjudged film, or simply being the scapegoat for a bad script, these stars didn’t deserve the ridicule. In this article, we’ll spotlight 20 actors whose Razzie nominations were not only unwarranted, but in some cases, downright baffling. Let’s set the record straight.