Billy Bob Thornton

After a long stint as a low-profile actor and screenwriter, Thornton careened to stardom for writing, directing, and acting in the well-received Sling Blade (1996). He nabbed an Oscar for the screenplay and a nomination for Best Actor for his performance. He has since appeared in The Apostle (1997), and Armageddon (1998), and checked in with his friend President Clinton before accepting the James Carville-like role in Primary Colors (1998). He had previously acted in the TV series Hearts Afire (1992–95).