Every actor wants an Oscar. It’s the apex peer and industry honor, the most respected acting award in the profession, and automatically guarantees continued success, right? Wrong. While that may happen for most, sometimes it backfires. Oscar or not, you’re only as good as your last film, and your acting career can die a rapid death if you don’t play your cards right. It takes constant vigilance, and of course, luck.
We analyze 10 actors who won and then dwindled or disappeared. In the world of Oscar, good looks count because Best Actor and Actress count for more than the Supporting category. You'd better be ambitious, better know The Biz, and try and avoid the obvious face-lift.
1. Renee Zellweger

Actress Renee Zellweger at the 61st Annual Golden Globe Awards, Jan. 25, 2004 in Beverly Hills, California. Carlo Allegri/Getty Images