When A-listers crash the party: Four unforgettable music video cameos

From lip-syncing to a pop anthem, or making a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it appearance, these stars made an impression

KARACHI:

Some music videos transcend mere visual accompaniments and become cultural moments, thanks in part to unexpected celebrity cameos. Whether it’s an A-list actor lip-syncing to a pop anthem, or a beloved comedian making a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it appearance, these moments turn the music video into something unforgettable. Here are some of the most iconic cameos and why they remain etched in pop culture memory.

 

Tom Hanks in ‘I Really Like You’

You probably never imagined Tom Hanks, the man behind legendary roles in Forrest Gump and Saving Private Ryan, dancing in the streets to a bubblegum pop anthem. But that’s exactly what happened in Carly Rae Jepsen’s 2015 music video. The video opens with Hanks lip-syncing the song while hailing a cab and casually strolling through New York City. His deadpan expression against the song’s sugary lyrics makes for some serious comedy. What makes this cameo even cooler is that it was Hanks’ idea. Jepsen later revealed that it wasn’t a case of the pop singer begging an Oscar winner to join her project. Instead, Hanks enthusiastically volunteered. 

 

Robin Williams in ‘You Make Me Feel…’

Cobra Starship’s 2011 hit is still considered a certified party anthem, and its music video captures the same high-energy vibe. Set in a buzzing nightclub, attendees take turns posing in a photo booth. Amidst the flashing lights and dance-floor chaos, late comedy legend Robin Williams makes a brief but unforgettable appearance. In a single frame, Williams - sporting a beard and a casual black tee - playfully rubs his face and flashes a mischievous grin. Moments later, he’s joined by his daughter Zelda, lifting his shirt over his head and pulling off a goofy dance. For fans missing Williams, you can add this video to the list alongside Aladdin, Mrs Doubtfire and Good Will Hunting.

 

Drew Barrymore in ‘Drew Barrymore’

When SZA released Drew Barrymore in 2017, fans were quick to speculate if the actor who inspired the song would make an appearance. True to form, the namesake herself appears - but in the most understated way possible. The video, set in New York City, follows SZA through pizza shops and rooftops, capturing the gritty yet magical essence of the city. At the 2:18 mark, as SZA sneaks out of a party to light a cigarette, Barrymore walks into the frame. She flashes a brief smile before disappearing into the night. It’s a blink-and-you-miss-it moment, yet it perfectly encapsulates the video’s charm. 

 

Everyone in ‘Bad Blood’

When Taylor Swift debuted this music video at the 2015 Billboard Music Awards, it was more than just a release - it was a pop culture event. Directed by Joseph Kahn, the video is a dystopian action film in miniature, with Swift’s character, Catastrophe, seeking revenge after being betrayed by Arsyn, played by Selena Gomez. Kendrick Lamar, Gigi Hadid, Ellie Goulding, Cara Delevingne, Zendaya, Jessica Alba, Cindy Crawford and many, many others all make appearances, each bringing their own characters to life in the CGI-packed storyline that ended up winning countless awards.