Who Was Our Best President Who Was Also an Actor?

The history of the United States is peppered with intriguing figures who have held office but also achieved success in the performing arts. This article delves into the intersection of presidential roles and potential acting careers, exploring which presidents could lay claim to being the most accomplished and the best while also donning the mantle of actor.

Ronald Reagan: The Over-the-Hill Actor

One of the most renowned figures to have worn both the presidential1 and the cinematic crowns is Ronald Reagan. Reagan's journey from a B-movie actor to the leader of the free world brings to mind the notion that it’s never too late to achieve greatness. Reagan's early career included roles such as one in the film 'Bedtime for Bonzo,' a role in the sitcom The Jeffersons, and a brief but notable foray into Shakespeare’s Othello.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt: Our Best President?

Conversely, Franklin Delano Roosevelt stands out as an ever-respected leader whose tenure is often cited as one of the best in American history. FDR's dynamic leadership during the Great Depression and World War II solidifies his place in the pantheon of great presidents. He never held a stage role in his life, which might have helped shield him from the skepticism that can come with a background in acting.

Donald Trump: A Star in the White House?

Donald Trump, with his showman-like approach to politics and his acting credits in television and film, brings a different dimension to the discussion. Trump had a small role in the show The Jeffersons and starred in Ghosts Can't Do It. Critics of his tenure point out that his presidency was marked by a lack of executive experience, much like someone stepping into a leading role before they are ready.

Ulysses S. Grant: Beyond the Civil War

Another president with a background in acting is Ulysses S. Grant. Grant's venture into the performing arts during the Mexican War, where he played Desdemona in Othello, adds an interesting layer to his presidency. However, his tenure as president was marred by scandals and mediocre cabinet appointments. Despite this, his support of the Yellowstone National Park Protection Act demonstrates a foresight that cannot be ignored.

Legacy and Critique

The legacy of these political thespians is complex. Historical revisionism has often sought to tarnish Reagan's reputation, but his policies continue to influence modern politics. Ulysses S. Grant's presidency, while lauded for some environmental foresight, is often overshadowed by his failures and scandals.

The question remains: who among these actors is the best president? The answer might not be clear, especially when it comes to Donald Trump, until historical evaluation is given its due. The performing arts, when paired with the challenges of leadership, offer a unique lens through which to view these figures.

Further reading on this topic can be found in the blog post 'Bad actors in the Oval Office' on Medium.

Ulysses S. Grant. Library of Congress.

Note: The reference to Michael Dobson, Stanley Wells, Will Sharpe, and Erin Sullivan in the Oxford Companion to Shakespeare is a general acknowledgment of the source material, not a direct quote.