In the film industry, a bankable star is a film actor (movie star) "capable of guaranteeing box-office success simply by showing up in a movie".[1] The bankability of an actor includes their films' box office track record, professional demeanor, and other factors. Hiring a bankable star helps a film company to secure investment, distribution, and garner media attention. Some bankable stars have so much star power that even films without a strong concept or "hook"―such as star vehicle films―are feasible to make.
A bankable director is a similar notion.
- ^ Daniel Frankel (1999-06-14). "Survey Says: Hanks Hollywood's Most Bankable Star". E!. Archived from the original on March 20, 2005.