Celebrities Who Worked 9-to-5s Before Becoming Famous

Celebrities often enjoy a status so elevated that it’s easy to overlook the fact that, at their core, they are just people like the rest of us. Many of these famous individuals embarked on their journeys to stardom at a young age, but what’s intriguing is that quite a few of them led ordinary lives before becoming household names. Before gracing the big screen, these celebrities were regular individuals, toiling away at “normal” jobs to make ends meet while relentlessly pursuing their larger-than-life dreams.

It’s a common narrative for stars to leave their pre-fame careers in the rearview mirror, but some have circled back to their roots, recognizing the value of their past experiences in shaping their careers as actors or leveraging their skills to contribute positively to the world.

Channing Tatum, for instance, drew upon his past as a male stripper to not only star in but also produce the blockbuster film “Magic Mike.” Jesse Williams, after spending several years as a high school teacher, partnered with education initiatives, blending his on-screen success with a commitment to improving educational opportunities. In a striking display of civic duty, Steve Buscemi temporarily set aside his acting career to return to his role as a New York City firefighter in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

Even those who may not directly apply skills acquired from their previous jobs acknowledge the profound impact of their work experiences in propelling them toward their loftiest aspirations. Take Lucy Liu, for example, who tirelessly worked seven days a week across three different jobs while attending acting classes. Liu recognized the financial necessity of supporting her Hollywood dreams, underscoring that, despite their current larger-than-life personas, these celebrities underwent rigorous struggles and hard work in their early years, emerging from truly humble beginnings.

These stories of celebrities who once toiled in ordinary professions before achieving stardom serve as a powerful reminder that success is often born out of resilience, determination, and a willingness to put in the hard work. The trajectory of their careers attests to the transformative power of ambition and the capacity for individuals to overcome challenges, no matter how formidable.

Renowned rapper Nicki Minaj, surprisingly, held positions as a customer service representative and a server at Red Lobster before achieving icon status. In a 2014 interview with GQ, Minaj revealed her preference for interacting with people but expressed discomfort with unnecessary drama, suggesting that customer service might not have been an ideal fit. Despite her unconventional early career choices, Minaj’s trajectory shifted towards immense success in the music industry, where she became a trailblazing figure. Her journey from customer service roles to global fame highlights the unpredictable paths that lead to extraordinary accomplishments, showcasing Minaj’s resilience and versatility in carving out her distinctive place in the entertainment world.
In the realm of fast food, Margot Robbie’s pre-fame stint as a “Sandwich Artist” at Subway is a notable anecdote. Reflecting on this experience in an episode of Hot Ones, Robbie asserted her proficiency in the role, emphasizing her skill in meticulously spreading ingredients to the edges with precision. Despite her apparent talent, Robbie’s time as a Subway employee seems to have left a lasting impression, leading her to confess that she now refrains from frequenting the chain. Her reluctance stems from observing subpar sandwich preparation, causing a sense of disappointment. Thus, Robbie’s journey from crafting sandwiches to watching them made poorly has altered her relationship with the fast-food establishment, showcasing the unexpected impact of her early work experiences on her dining preferences.
Terry Crews, renowned for his role on Brooklyn Nine-Nine, defies expectations with his hidden talent as an incredible artist. Beyond his achievements in the NFL, where he painted portraits of teammates, Crews also had a surprising stint as a courtroom sketch artist. His artistic skills extended to a notable assignment covering the worst murder case in Flint, Michigan’s history, as reported by Esquire. Despite his fame, Crews emphasizes the value of humility, attributing his success to this quality. In his own words to the outlet, he stresses the importance of humility for financial success, showcasing how his multifaceted talents and down-to-earth attitude contribute to his diverse and impactful career.
Prior to reigning as the Queen of romance in cinema, Rachel McAdams spent a significant three years working at McDonald’s, a revelation she shared with Glamour in 2012. Interestingly, her familial ties added a unique dynamic to the experience, as her sister assumed the role of her manager. McAdams, however, recalls her time at the fast-food chain with a mix of fondness and humor, admitting that her dedication to hand washing, bordering on an OCD tendency, sometimes clashed with the demands of the job. Her recollections include a humorous incident where, amidst the hustle, she accidentally broke the orange juice machine. Despite her admission of not being the ideal employee, McAdams reflects on her McDonald’s stint as a formative and memorable chapter in her journey to stardom.
Before achieving musical stardom, Lil Nas X navigated through various jobs to make ends meet. As revealed in his Rolling Stone interview, the “Old Town Road” singer took on roles such as a cashier at Zaxby’s, a chicken chain in Georgia. Additionally, he worked as an attendant at Six Flags, where his responsibilities included supervising kids’ rides, notably Yosemite Sam’s Wacky Wagons. Lil Nas X’s journey from these diverse employment experiences to becoming a chart-topping artist underscores the versatility and resilience that contributed to his success. His humble beginnings in the workforce serve as a testament to the multifaceted path individuals take on their way to achieving their dreams in the entertainment industry.
Before rising to celebrity status, Wanda Sykes held a regular yet intriguing job with a touch of secrecy. In a conversation with Larry King for CNN, Sykes revealed her past role at the National Security Agency (NSA). Despite her later career in comedy, Sykes explained that she had a degree in marketing and worked as a procurement specialist at the NSA. In essence, her job involved a top-secret form of shopping, where she would spend her days purchasing intelligence equipment. This unexpected turn in Sykes’s professional background adds a layer of intrigue to her journey, showcasing the diverse paths individuals may take before finding their true calling in the spotlight.
Before achieving success in Hollywood, Steve Buscemi had a noteworthy career as a firefighter in New York City, dedicating four years to the profession. This lesser-known chapter of his life adds a significant dimension to Buscemi’s journey. In a poignant display of solidarity and selflessness, after the tragic events of 9/11, Buscemi resumed his role as a firefighter. He worked 12-hour shifts side by side with fellow New York City firefighters, actively participating in the search and rescue efforts amidst the rubble of the World Trade Center. Buscemi’s decision to return to his roots during a critical time illustrates a deep commitment to service and solidarity, showcasing the actor’s genuine connection to both his community and the broader human experience.
Prior to gracing the silver screen, Taraji P. Henson embarked on a diverse professional journey. While attending college, she simultaneously took on the role of a receptionist at The Pentagon, showcasing her early foray into the workforce. In a testament to her versatility, Henson also found herself performing as a cruise ship entertainer during this period. Upon completing her college education, she made a bold move to Los Angeles, accompanied by her son, in pursuit of a career in acting. Henson’s transition from Pentagon receptionist and cruise ship entertainer to Hollywood actress highlights her determination and resilience in navigating a range of experiences before establishing herself as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Channing Tatum’s pre-fame days held a unique chapter that became widely known after the release of Magic Mike. Before venturing into the realms of modeling and acting, Tatum earned a living as a male stripper. His experiences in the world of exotic dancing laid the foundation for his later career. The transition from the provocative stages of stripping to the glamorous world of modeling set the stage for Tatum’s journey into acting, ultimately propelling him to international fame. This lesser-known aspect of his early career adds an intriguing layer to Tatum’s rise to stardom, showcasing the diverse paths individuals navigate on their way to success in the entertainment industry.
Before assuming her iconic role as one of Charlie’s Angels, Lucy Liu maintained a rigorous work schedule to make ends meet. Liu worked tirelessly, serving as a secretary during weekdays, and on weekends, she took on the energetic role of an aerobics instructor. In an additional commitment, she filled shifts as a restaurant hostess whenever the opportunity arose. Liu’s journey to stardom was marked by her dedication and determination to support herself through a variety of roles. Her diverse experiences as a secretary, aerobics instructor, and restaurant hostess underscore the hard work and versatility that played a crucial part in her eventual success in the entertainment industry.
Unbeknownst to him, Hugh Jackman was unknowingly preparing for his future role as Wolverine during his tenure as a high school physical education teacher in England. Hired at a prestigious school as an assistant housemaster, Jackman’s responsibilities primarily revolved around teaching physical education and coaching various sports teams. Little did he anticipate that his experience in molding young minds and fostering athletic pursuits would serve as a unique foundation for his eventual iconic portrayal of the adamantium-clawed mutant in the X-Men film series. Jackman’s journey from a high school teacher to the acclaimed actor behind Wolverine reflects the unpredictability of career paths and the diverse experiences that contribute to success in the entertainment industry.
Encouraged by his sister, who owned a beauty salon, Danny DeVito ventured into an unexpected profession—becoming a trained beautician. He embraced the world of makeup artistry by taking classes at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. Interestingly, his initial foray into the beauty industry paved the way for a shift towards acting. DeVito not only honed his skills as a beautician but also transitioned to become a student actor at the same academy. This unconventional journey—from makeup artistry to pursuing a career in film—illustrates the diverse and unexpected paths individuals traverse before finding their true calling. DeVito’s experience reflects the unpredictable nature of career exploration and the fusion of diverse skills that can shape a successful career in the entertainment industry.
Before achieving fame for her role in Ghost, Whoopi Goldberg had a unique and somewhat eerie profession—she worked as a mortician. In this role, Goldberg was responsible for providing hair and makeup services for the deceased in preparation for their funerals. Notably, she was also a licensed beautician, having attended beauty school before immersing herself full-time in the mortician profession. Goldberg’s journey from beauty school to the mortuary adds a distinctive layer to her diverse experiences before making her mark in the entertainment industry. It showcases her versatility and the unexpected twists that often characterize the early careers of individuals who later become iconic figures in the world of film and entertainment.
Originating from modest beginnings, Jim Carrey faced the necessity of leaving school early to financially support his family. During this challenging period, he worked as a janitor for a two-year stretch. Carrey’s early struggles laid the groundwork for a significant turning point when, at the age of 15, he ventured into stand-up comedy. This courageous move not only showcased his comedic talents but also marked the beginning of a journey that would propel him into a successful acting career in Hollywood. Carrey’s trajectory from janitorial duties to stand-up comedy and, ultimately, Hollywood stardom reflects his resilience, determination, and the transformative power of pursuing one’s passions against all odds.