Matt Damon – The Bourne Identity

It may seem incomprehensible now, but there was a time when it seemed inconceivable to picture Matt Damon as an action star. The actor was still on the rise and best known for films like Good Will Hunting, The Talented Mr. Ripley and Ocean's Eleven, hardly a collection of roles that would inspire confidence for an action lead. However, Damon would prove his worth when he was cast as Jason Bourne in The Bourne Identity. His lower profile would ultimately serve him better in the role than your traditional action lead. Audiences clearly felt he was right for the part as he would go on to lead the franchise in three sequels.