Chris O’Donnell, the Golden Globe nominated actor, emerged as Hollywood’s next “golden boy” after his standout supporting role alongside a particularly crusty Al Pacino in Scent of a Woman (1992). Back then, many were surprised by how well Chris O’Donnell held his own against such a powerhouse performance, showcasing an unexpected depth and strength. And really, that moment became a turning point—thanks to that role, Chris O’Donnell went on to build a solid film career playing those all-American, clean-cut types: regular guys who somehow found themselves stepping up as heroes. Whether rescuing people from treacherous mountain cliffs or fighting for justice in courtrooms, Chris O’Donnell brought a relatable sincerity to each character.
One of his most iconic roles came when he stepped into the cape and cowl—or rather, the red tights—as the comic book hero Robin. He first took on the role opposite Val Kilmer in Batman Forever (1995), bringing youthful energy to the franchise. Then, he reprised it alongside George Clooney in the critically panned but commercially notable sequel, Batman & Robin (1997)—a film that, despite its flaws, remains a memorable chapter in superhero cinema history. While Chris O’Donnell’s movie presence began to wane in the 2000s, he smoothly transitioned into television, where his grounded, everyman charm truly shined.
In fact, it was on the small screen that Chris O’Donnell found renewed stability and acclaim. He appeared on Grey’s Anatomy (ABC, 2005– ), earning praise for his nuanced dramatic work, before landing a leading role in NCIS: Los Angeles (CBS, 2009– ). There, Chris O’Donnell’s dependable presence and natural charisma resonated with primetime audiences, proving that while Hollywood trends come and go, Chris O’Donnell has always had the quiet strength to adapt—and endure.
When it comes to Chris O’Donnell’s filmography, there are definitely some standout moments—and a few that didn’t quite hit the mark. Now, if we’re talking about the peak of his career in terms of critical reception, Chris O’Donnell’s highest rated movie is undoubtedly Kinsey from 2004. The film was well-received by critics and audiences alike, showcasing Chris O’Donnell in a compelling role that added depth to his acting portfolio. On the flip side, not every project can be a home run, and for Chris O’Donnell, that dip came with 29 Palms in 2002, which stands as his lowest rated film to date. While Chris O’Donnell has taken on a variety of roles over the years, these two films really highlight the range of his journey in Hollywood—from strong performances in respected dramas to projects that, well, didn’t resonate as much. Still, it’s all part of the process, and Chris O’Donnell continues to be a recognizable presence on screen.