Hulk Hogan enjoyed a sporadic but memorable film career (Image: Getty)
Hulk Hogan wasn’t just one of the most recognisable names in professional wrestling – he was one of the defining figures of 1980s and 1990s pop culture. Born Terry Gene Bollea, Hogan became the face of the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE), helping transform the sport into a global entertainment phenomenon with his charisma, catchphrases and strong persona.
Alongside his wrestling career, Hogan crossed over into film and television, appearing in a string of roles that often played on his imposing yet affable image. While he never pursued acting with the same intensity as wrestling, his appearances on the big screen – from cult comedies to blockbusters – cemented his place as a household name far beyond the ring.
On July 24, 2025, it was reported that Hogan had died aged 71 after a suspected cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida. As fans mourn the loss, we look back at five of Hulk Hogan’s most popular films, as ranked by Letterboxd.
5. 3 Ninjas: High Noon at Mega Mountain (1998)
In the fourth and final instalment of the 3 Ninjas franchise, Hogan plays Dave Dragon, a children’s TV action hero who finds himself pulled into a real-life adventure. The film follows the familiar formula of the series, with its young martial artist protagonists facing off against a group of criminals, this time led by Loni Anderson’s villainous Medusa.
Hogan’s Dave Dragon brings an intentionally over-the-top sense to the film, playing on his wrestling persona while interacting with the younger cast. Though largely aimed at children, his role marked one of his more prominent turns as a family-friendly action figure.
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4. Suburban Commando (1991)
One of Hogan’s best-known leading roles came in Suburban Commando, where he starred as Shep Ramsey, an intergalactic warrior forced to lay low on Earth after a failed mission. The comedy sees Hogan’s character adjusting to suburban life while still dealing with extraterrestrial threats.
Co-starring Christopher Lloyd and Shelley Duvall, the film combined light science fiction with slapstick humour, giving Hogan plenty of room to showcase his musclebound screen persona in a comedic setting.
3. No Holds Barred (1989)
Released at the height of Hogan’s wrestling fame, No Holds Barred cast him as Rip, a World Wrestling Federation champion who becomes embroiled in a brutal underground fighting tournament. Produced by WWE’s Vince McMahon, the film blurred the line between Hogan’s on-screen character and his real-life persona, featuring plenty of high-energy fight sequences and larger-than-life theatrics.
While not a critical success, No Holds Barred remains a notable project in Hogan’s filmography for its direct connection to his wrestling career, capturing the spirit of his peak popularity.
2. Spy Hard (1996)
In the comedy spoof Spy Hard, starring Leslie Nielsen, Hogan appears in a small but recognisable cameo. The film parodies a wide range of action and spy genres, and Hogan’s brief role leaned into his established public image as an imposing but approachable figure.
Though his appearance is short, it continued a trend of Hogan taking on self-referential roles throughout the 1990s, offering a nod to audiences who knew him primarily from his wrestling career.
1. Rocky III (1982)
Hogan’s most famous film role came early in his acting career as Thunderlips in Rocky III. Appearing opposite Sylvester Stallone, Hogan played the flamboyant professional wrestler who faces off against Rocky Balboa in a high-profile exhibition match.
Though his screen time is brief, the role made a significant cultural impact, helping Hogan gain exposure beyond wrestling just as his WWF career was taking off. His larger-than-life performance perfectly encapsulated the spectacle of wrestling entertainment, making Thunderlips one of the most memorable characters in the Rocky series.