Many well-known actors make brief appearances in Bullet Train. The White Death, the magnificently haired Russian mob monster who meets paths with Brad Pitt’s unfortunate Ladybug in the action film, is the only one who makes you wonder “Where do I know them from?” We’re here to help if you’re having trouble putting a face with a name. Find out who plays The White Death and who else makes an appearance in Bullet Train below. One particular actor was a priority for filmmaker David Leitch to cast in a small but significant role.
In Bullet Train, who portrays The White Death?
The White Death, the enigmatic head of the world’s greatest criminal organisation, is a constant presence throughout Bullet Train. In the climactic scene, he reveals his identity. Michael Shannon, well known for his roles as prohibition agent Nelson Van Alden on Boardwalk Empire and as Zod in Man of Steel, plays the severely tattooed character, as was possibly partly previously indicated in the movie’s marketing. He was nominated for an Oscar twice, once for his role in Revolutionary Road and again for his role in Nocturnal Animals.
Extra appearances in the Bullet Train
Big-time Bullet Train spoilers ahead! Return immediately if you haven’t watched the new action movie, since we’re about to spoil all the cameos that were kept under wraps.
Carver, played by Ryan Reynolds
Director Ryan Reynolds (who has previously starred in David Leitch flicks Deadpool 2 and Hobbs & Shaw) is obviously a favourite of David Leitch’s. Throughout the film, Brad Pitt’s character, Ladybug, makes references to his absent assassin partner, “Carver,” who was working on the Bullet Train mission. Carver’s endeavour to eliminate The White Death resulted in the death of his wife. During a flashback, he takes off his disguise, revealing Reynolds’ identity.
Train Passenger (Channing Tatum) and Ladybug’s Handler (Sandra Bullock)
An unknown Channing Tatum character rides the bullet train and has many run-ins with Ladybug due to misunderstandings while on board. All along the way, they keep talking to each other, and Tatum’s character assumes it’s a code for a sexual rendezvous. Tatum, unlike Reynolds, has never featured in a film directed by David Leitch, but he has a compelling reason to be here. Sandra Bullock, who plays Ladybug’s handler, has done a “scratch my back, and I’ll scratch yours” deal with Brad Pitt in the past.
It was expected that if Bullock showed up in Bullet Train, Pitt would show up in her film The Lost City. The bargain between Bullock and Pitt appears to have included more than just trade between them, as Tatum had a major role in The Lost City.
All the other actors and actresses in Bullet Train that you could have missed
Not only do celebrities like them appear and disappear aboard Bullet Train, but so do many others. Notable actors such as Ryan Reynolds, Channing Tatum, and Sandra Bullock join Michael Shannon in this ensemble. Hornet, another assassin, is operating incognito as the lovable mascot Momomon. Zazie Beetz is the actress that portrays her. Train conductor Masi Oka (from Heroes) also makes a brief cameo.
Fans of The Boys may also recognise the staff worker who offers Ladybug a glass of water during a fight scene with Aaron Taylor-Tangerine. Johnson’s Actress Karen Fukuhara portrays her. David Leitch, the film’s director, appears in one scene, credited as “Jeff Zufelt.” Even Leitch himself has revealed his ideal cameo casting: Keanu Reeves as Ladybug’s therapist.