Paul Rudd has charmed audiences for decades with his easygoing humor, boyish charm, and surprising dramatic depth. While he’s best known for comedies, Rudd has also impacted the superhero world as Marvel’s Ant-Man. This versatility has translated into box office success throughout his career, with his films collectively raking in billions of dollars.
Key Takeaways
- Paul Rudd’s comedic prowess is a major draw, with his most successful films leaning into his lovable everyman persona.
- His entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Ant-Man significantly boosted his box office power, demonstrating his ability to carry both smaller-scale comedies and massive action franchises.
- Despite a few critical duds sprinkled throughout his filmography, Paul Rudd’s consistent charm and likability ensure a loyal audience who keep turning up for his films.
Paul Rudd’s Top-Grossing Movies of All Time
10. This is 40 (2012)
Global Box Office: $88,193,537
This Judd Apatow comedy saw Rudd starring opposite Leslie Mann as a couple struggling with the realities of middle age. The film’s relatable humor and star power led to commercial success.
9. Role Models (2008)
Global Box Office: $92,408,860
Rudd teamed up with Seann William Scott for this comedy about two men forced into community service as mentors. The film’s goofy premise and comedic chemistry between the leads made it a surprise hit.
8. Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021)
Global Box Office: $197,381,061
Rudd joined the Ghostbusters franchise as the affable seismologist and summer school teacher, Mr. Grooberson. While not his highest-grossing film, it tapped into the nostalgia factor for solid box office returns.
7. Knocked Up (2007)
Global Box Office: $219,110,650
Rudd played a supporting role in another Judd Apatow comedy, this time alongside Seth Rogen and Katherine Heigl. The film’s raunchy humor and surprising heart resonated with audiences.
6. Ant-Man (2015)
Global Box Office: $519,311,965
The first standalone Ant-Man film introduced audiences to Rudd’s portrayal of Scott Lang, the ex-con turned miniature superhero. It was a surprise hit, paving the way for a successful franchise.
5. Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018)
Global Box Office: $622,674,139
Rudd reprised his role as the size-shifting hero in the Ant-Man sequel, this time sharing top billing with Evangeline Lilly as the Wasp. The film’s blend of humor and action proved a winning formula.
4. Captain Marvel (2019)
Global Box Office: $1,128,274,794
While Rudd didn’t appear in this film, he received a “Story By” credit. Captain Marvel’s origin story and cosmic scope helped it soar at the box office.
3. Captain America: Civil War (2016)
Global Box Office: $1,153,304,495
Rudd debuted as Ant-Man in this action-packed installment of the Captain America franchise. The film’s massive ensemble cast and intense superhero conflict led to impressive box office numbers.
2. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
Global Box Office: $2,048,359,754
Rudd returned as Ant-Man in this pivotal Marvel epic, where Earth’s mightiest heroes faced off against Thanos. The film’s massive stakes and ensemble cast contributed to its enormous box office take.
1. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
Global Box Office: $2,797,501,328
Rudd’s portrayal of Scott Lang/Ant-Man was pivotal in the time-bending epic Avengers: Endgame. The film shattered box office records, culminating in a staggering global gross.
Featured image: Gage Skidmore from San Diego, CA, United States of America, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Original background was removed and image cropped.