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 actor renowned for his versatility and dramatic physical transformations for his roles. He has achieved leading man status across various film genres. Bale's success is highlighted by numerous accolades, including an Academy Award and two Golden Globe Awards, along with multiple BAFTA nominations. In 2014, Forbes recognized him as one of the world's highest-paid actors, cementing his position as a major figure in the film industry.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1987: Breakthrough Role in Empire of the Sun

In 1987, at the age of 13, Christian Bale had his breakthrough role in Steven Spielberg's war film, Empire of the Sun, propelling him to early fame.

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June 2005: Release of Batman Begins

In June 2005, Batman Begins, starring Christian Bale, was released in the US. Bale's performance as Batman was complimented.

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July 2008: The Dark Knight Release

In July 2008, Christian Bale reprised his role as Batman in "The Dark Knight", directed by Nolan. The film achieved critical acclaim and commercial success, grossing over $1 billion worldwide. Bale performed many of his own stunts.

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2010: Academy Award for The Fighter

In 2010, Christian Bale won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Dicky Eklund in David O. Russell's biographical film The Fighter.

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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.

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2013: Out of the Furnace and American Hustle

In 2013, Christian Bale starred in "Out of the Furnace" and "American Hustle". For "American Hustle," he gained 43 pounds and altered his posture, leading to a herniated disc. His performance was critically acclaimed, earning him Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations.

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2014: Forbes Ranking

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

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.

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2018: Academy Award Nomination for Vice

In 2018, Christian Bale received an Academy Award nomination in the Best Actor category for his performance in the movie Vice.

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2018: Vice

In 2018, Christian Bale starred in "Vice", portraying US Vice President Dick Cheney. He underwent a significant physical transformation, gaining over 40 pounds and shaving his head. His performance received critical acclaim, earning him a Golden Globe Award.

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2018: Golden Globe for Vice

In 2018, Christian Bale won a second Golden Globe for portraying politician Dick Cheney in Adam McKay's biographical satire Vice.

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2019: Ford v Ferrari

In 2019, Christian Bale starred as Ken Miles in "Ford v Ferrari", for which he lost 70 pounds after playing Dick Cheney in "Vice". His role earned him a fifth Golden Globe Award nomination, and he stated that he would no longer undergo weight fluctuations for roles.

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