The endearing Jack Russell terrier Uggie is not an acting novice — he had parts in Mr. Fix It and Water for Elephants — but he experienced a breakout role in The Artist, the movie that cleaned up this year at the Oscars. In a true rags-to-riches story, Uggie was headed for the pound but at the last minute taken in by trainer Omar von Muller. A true scene stealer, he won over hearts in the silent film, and later took the stage with cast members when they accepted the award for Best Picture. The requisite celebrity memoir, Uggie: My Story, was released in October. He is effectively retired from starring roles due to health issues, and stated in his book, “My only hope is that long after my paws no longer trod this Earth I will still be remembered as a little artist with a big heart.”
