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Everyone knows the Grand Theft Auto Series is an exciting game that never bores and keeps its players entertained. It has had so many pop culture references, celebrity cameos, and spoofs that it has added so much charm to the already popular and iconic franchise.
With the passing years, multiple new faces have made their way to GTA as guest appearances. From the screens to the streets, though some of them are less obvious to recognize than the others in a single glance, GTA has done a pretty good job with these 5 Celebrity Roles as all of them stand out for their creativity, impact, and unexpected brilliance.
Samuel L Jackson as Officer Frank Tenpenny
He appeared in the game as Officer Frank Tenpenny in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (2004) and owned the role.
He was a power-hungry cop and a villain who is loved.
He brought his signature intensity and swag to the role of the crooked officer like no other. His performance was memorable and layered with menace and charisma, all the same.
Jackson didn’t just voice a character; instead, he became Tenpenny. His role added a layer of Hollywood-level drama to the game’s already intense storyline, making every encounter with Tenpenny unforgettable and emotionally charged for the players of the game.
Ricky Gervais as Himself
Ricky Gervais appeared as himself in Grand Theft Auto IV (2008). He actually delivered the material he had written for the game at a comedy club in Liberty City. It was a brilliant addition to the game that blurred the lines between reality and the GTA game. It fit right into the world of cynicism and chaos that Grant Theft Auto is all about and was way ahead of its time.
Dr Dre as Himself
When the Grand Theft Auto Online – The Contract (2021) dropped, the players were surprised to see Dr. Dre in the story, not as a part character but playing himself. It was one of the most immersive celebrity integrations that came with its own digital avatar, a developed narrative arc and brand new original mu
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Ray Liotta as Tommy Vercetti
Celebrity Roles in GTA Franchise – Ray Liotta
In Grand Theft Auto: Vice City (2002), Ray Liotta came into the GTA Series as Tommy Vercetti. He played the role of a hot headed mobster, making his way through the streets of GTA. His role was inspired by gangster movies like Goodfellas and Scarface and he was the first fully-voiced protagonist in the game. His role is still cherished by fans.
Phil Collins as Himself
Phil Collins shows up in Vice City Stories in 2006, as himself. In the game, players have to protect him during his live concern. It is an emotional and unexpected addition to the game that added layers of love and ‘80’s vibe making it one of the most unique additions to any video game.
What do celebrity additions do for any game?
These performances by Hollywood celebrities did not just add star power to the game, they helped shape what are referenced as the most iconic moments in gaming. Some of them are unforgettable, some are surprisingly subtle, but all the same, super interesting and cool for the players.
The GTA Franchise has never shied away from trying out new things and these celebrity performances and roles further solidify it. As the GTA series continued to evolve, so did its ability to bring real-world personalities into the chaos of the GTA universe and its players were more than welcoming to these exciting updates and additions. It’s that level of creative integration that keeps the franchise bold, unpredictable, and endlessly entertaining.
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