Every Live-Action Hellboy Actor Ranked by Fans

Ron Perlman first took on the iconic role of Hellboy in 2004, becoming an instant hit with fans - who still want to see him reprise the role all these years later.

As of 2026, Perlman is the only star who has managed to get a sequel, as he returned as Hellboy in 2008's The Golden Army - both movies being directed by legendary filmmaker Guillermo del Toro.

In addition to Perlman, the cast included Selma Blair, Doug Jones, John Hurt, Rupert Evans, Karel Roden, Jeffrey Tambor - who are equally as beloved in the franchise's ever-growing fandom.

Stranger Things star David Harbour was next to take on the role after a decade of fans waiting for the character to return to the big screen.

This film is treated as a complete reboot, with no connection to Guillermo del Toro and Perlman's two movies, with a completely new cast - including Milla Jovovich, Daniel Dae Kim, Ian McShane, and more.

Sadly for Harbour, fans weren't overly impressed with the execution.

It's fair to say that Perlman is a tough act to beat, especially with a character such as Hellboy - despite its impressive practical and visual effects, the messy plot and forgetful moments made for a rough landing.

The latest take on the iconic character comes in 2024's Hellboy: The Crooked Man, starring Jack Kesy as Hellboy and Mortal Kombat 2 star Adeline Rudolph as Bobbie Jo Song.

Fans were initially pleased with the direction of The Crooked Man, as it aimed more toward comic-accuracy, giving fans a fresh take in terms of live-action performances.

Mike Mignola's original comics vibe was the goal for this movie.

With that said, many felt that its production value and pacing took them out of the movie while watching, leaving a sour taste in their mouth.