Following the Oscars Live Blog, this piece was born out of a deep procrastination session during the summer. Do not worry, we will return to our regular posts on Tuesday, March 11th.
__________
My dad once said, “It takes fifteen years to become an overnight success,” and for me, it took seventeen and a half years. -Adrien Brody
That’s the grind phase. Nearly every star faced significant challenges for years before gaining recognition. And with some digging, you can witness their journey. Let’s take a look:
Stars in Background Roles
De Niro undertook several unconventional roles, but this one stands out as particularly insignificant.
Brad Pitt
Jump to 1:58 and observe him as a waiter. Not a major role for Brad.
And here’s another instance of Brad Pitt in a background role.
Stars in Commercials
Ben Affleck
Jason Alexander
A rather dark portrayal. Jason Alexander must be content with his career trajectory, considering where he started.
Elijah Wood
An amusingly incompetent family.
Matt Le Blanc
One of the most unbelievable commercials out there.
Brad Pitt
Not even the lead in the Pringles commercial. He’s Guy #2 in the Pringles commercial. Surely, still awaiting that major break.
Leonardo DiCaprio
That striking individual. Also, quite disappointed with the mom’s lack of willpower. A single bite of subpar cheese led to a complete change in her position.
Stars in Minor Roles
Tom Cruise
An unusual decision by Tom Cruise to use helium before appearing on camera.
Harrison Ford
Harrison Ford’s initial screen debut. Additionally, the man at the table embodies a unique, old-fashioned charm.
Brad Pitt
Witness our favorite star progressing with a speaking part!
Stars When They Were Children
(Dispelling the notion that all successful actors had typical childhoods.)
Robert Downey, Jr.
Truly unique.
Scarlett Johannson
The acting might not be top-notch, but undeniably adorable.
Sarah Michelle Gellar
An endearing yet peculiar performance by Sarah. It seems Burger King serves as a launchpad to stardom for many aspiring actors.
Natalie Portman
An exceptionally mature-looking 12-year-old.
Drew Barrymore
Still very much a developing individual.
Justin Timberlake and Ryan Gosling
These two turned out quite well for themselves. After watching this, a debate ensued about who had a more successful career. JT by a slight margin?
Stars with Significant Roles in Lesser-Known Movies
George Clooney
Clooney put in the work in obscurity for the first 17 years of his acting journey before rising to stardom, and this notably 80s TV show is no exception.
Nicole Kidman
She has come a long way since her initial role in a somber Australian TV movie.
Jennifer Aniston
The Ferris Beuller TV show was short-lived, despite its evident appeal.
Gwyneth Paltrow
Al Pacino
His first appearance—on a 1960s TV show.
Catherine Zeta-Jones
Everyone has to start somewhere.
And to wrap up, here’s a special treat:
Dr. Dre
