We’re all powering up for the Rio Olympics, and gymnastics, track and field, and swimming are all over the news. But in all the lead-up one sport we haven’t heard much about is archery. Still, the low profile of this ancient sport hasn’t kept these celebrities away; many have mastered the skill, and not just to play roles like Emma Woodhouse or Andromeda. No, these stars are on target all the time.
Accuracy Embodied: Eva Green
While preparing for 300: Rise Of An Empire, Eva Green pushed her body to the limits – the only way to truly master her role as a Persian Grand General. But Green didn’t just hit the gym a little harder to look good in costume. She did all her own stunts, including the archery and the knife- and sword-play. And don’t forget, it would have been anachronistic for Green’s character Admiral Artemisia to equip her bow with a rangefinder, so she had to develop a keen eye to hit those targets.
The Humorous Hunter: Chris Pratt
Chris Pratt is known for his role as the goofy, sweet Andy on Parks & Rec – and Andy would probably create serious chaos if handed a bow and arrow. In real life, however, Pratt comes from a family of hunters and is always happy to be out in the woods with his bow, or occasionally a rifle. He compares it to the spa, his opportunity to relax offscreen.
Out Of The Woods: Eva Longoria And Avril Lavigne
In a culture where female celebrities are typically assumed to be delicate creatures and many are publically vegan, it seems unlikely that many are natural hunters. That isn’t the case with Eva Longoria or Avril Lavigne, however, both of whom grew up hunting in Texas and Canada, respectively. Both claim their dads as hunting buddies, but the most exciting thing about Longoria’s hunting skills? Not squeamish in the least, she skins her own game.
Guitar Strings And Bow Strings: Brantley Gilbert
A singer-songwriter by day, Brantley Gilbert found himself showing his skills in a different spotlight when he made an appearance on the series Backwoods Life. There, along with host Michael Lee, Gilbert easily took out two deer on camera with a bow and arrow – clearly not his first time taking aim.
A Man Of Many Talents: Hugh Jackman
What’s not to love about Hugh Jackman? He can sing, as demonstrated in Les Mis, he pulls out amazing martial arts skills in X-Men, and in the lead-up to his role in Pan the Australian also mastered the crossbow. He may not be a seasoned hunter like some, but as Blackbeard he demonstrates excellent accuracy.
This crew of celebs may not be Olympic-level archers, but you can be sure they’ll be enjoying the event during this summer’s games. Consider tuning in too to learn more about this celebrity hobby.
