Christian Bale's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of Christian Bale.

Christian Bale is a highly acclaimed English and American actor renowned for his adaptability and commitment to roles, often undergoing significant physical transformations. A leading man across diverse film genres, Bale's talent has garnered him prestigious awards, including an Academy Award and two Golden Globe Awards. His success and popularity have also led to recognition as one of the highest-paid actors in the industry, as noted by Forbes in 2014.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1987: Starring role in Empire of the Sun

In 1987, Christian Bale was chosen from over 4,000 actors to portray a British boy in Steven Spielberg's film Empire of the Sun. Earlier that year, he starred in Mio in the Land of Faraway.

July 2008: Release of "The Dark Knight"

In July 2008, Christian Bale reprised his role as Batman in "The Dark Knight", the sequel to "Batman Begins". The film received significant acclaim and grossed over $1 billion worldwide.

Loading Video...

2010: Academy Award and Golden Globe Win for The Fighter

In 2010, Christian Bale won an Academy Award and a Golden Globe Award for his portrayal of Dicky Eklund in David O. Russell's biographical film The Fighter.

2013: Academy Award Nomination for American Hustle

In 2013, Christian Bale received an Academy Award nomination for his work in David O. Russell's black comedy American Hustle.

Loading Video...

2013: Roles in "Out of the Furnace" and "American Hustle"

In 2013, Christian Bale starred in "Out of the Furnace" and "American Hustle". He gained 43 pounds for "American Hustle", and was nominated for an Academy Award and a Golden Globe Award for his performance.

Loading Video...

2014: Forbes Ranking

In 2014, Christian Bale was ranked number eight on Forbes magazine's list of the highest-paid actors, earning $35 million.

2014: Highest-Paid Actors Ranking

In 2014, Forbes magazine ranked Christian Bale as one of the highest-paid actors.

2015: Academy Award Nomination for The Big Short

In 2015, Christian Bale received an Academy Award nomination for his work in Adam McKay's biographical satire The Big Short.

2018: Academy Award Nomination for "Vice"

In 2018, Christian Bale garnered an Academy Award nomination in the Best Actor category for his work in the movie "Vice".

2018: Portraying Dick Cheney in "Vice"

In 2018, Christian Bale portrayed US Vice President Dick Cheney in the biographical comedy drama "Vice". He gained over 40 pounds for the role and won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy.

2018: Academy Award Nomination for Vice and Golden Globe win

In 2018, Christian Bale received an Academy Award nomination for his work in Adam McKay's biographical satire Vice and won a second Golden Globe Award for his portrayal of politician Dick Cheney in Vice.