5 Classic Rock Cameos in 1980s Movies

In the 1980s, several rock musicians made appearances in films, blending their musical fame with acting roles. These cameos added a unique flavor to the movies and showcased the versatility of these artists.

Peter Murphy in ‘The Hunger’ (1983)

Peter Murphy, the lead singer of the gothic rock band Bauhaus, appeared in the opening scene of “The Hunger,” directed by Tony Scott. In this scene, Bauhaus performs their song “Bela Lugosi’s Dead” in a nightclub, setting a dark and atmospheric tone for the film. Murphy’s presence and the band’s performance contributed to the movie’s gothic aesthetic.

Guns N’ Roses in ‘The Dead Pool’ (1988)

In “The Dead Pool,” the final installment of the Dirty Harry series, members of Guns N’ Roses made a brief appearance. They were seen attending a funeral scene, adding a touch of rock culture to the film. This cameo occurred before the band reached the peak of their fame, making it a notable early appearance.

Debbie Harry in ‘Videodrome’ (1983)

Debbie Harry, known as the lead singer of Blondie, took on the role of Nicki Brand in David Cronenberg’s “Videodrome.” Her character, a radio host with a penchant for danger, becomes involved in a mysterious broadcast signal. Harry’s performance added depth to the film’s exploration of media and reality.

Sting in ‘The Bride’ (1985)

Sting portrayed Dr. Charles Frankenstein in “The Bride,” a film inspired by Mary Shelley’s novel. His character creates a woman named Eva, leading to complex dynamics between creator and creation. Sting’s performance brought a unique interpretation to the classic tale.

Ozzy Osbourne in ‘Trick or Treat’ (1986)

Ozzy Osbourne made a cameo as Reverend Aaron Gilstrom in the horror film “Trick or Treat.” In this role, he played a televangelist warning against the dangers of rock music. This appearance was a playful nod to his own controversial image in the music industry.