When you’re a beautiful and talented celebrity sitting at the top of the world, it can be easy to forget everything about your struggling past. But most celebrities started as commoners just like the rest of us, working in the kind of jobs you could have never imagined them doing.

Even world-class celebrities like Madonna and Beyoncé have experienced the struggles of the working-class in the past, but they rose above it all to succeed and meet their dreams. You will not believe how relatable the world’s most famous people will feel to you after checking our surprising list of celebrities’ first jobs!

Madonna – Dunkin’ Donuts Waitress

She’s known as the ‘Queen of Pop’, she’s loved by millions of fans, and she’s still one of the world’s best-selling musicians at the challenging age of 61. Madonna Louise Ciccone is commonly known as Madonna, and she’s still touring the world’s best venues after over 40 years of leading the pop music industry.

Madonna’s act is such a high-class one that’s almost impossible to imagine she was once bossed around by a Dunkin’ Donuts manager. Madonna’s first job as a Dunkin’ Donuts waitress didn’t last long… She was sacked after reportedly squirting the donut jelly all over the customers.

Brad Pitt – Limousine Chauffeur

The man who brought us movies like The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Moneyball, and Twelve Monkeys is the absolute embodiment of a Hollywood A-lister. An extremely talented, versatile, and hunky actor who’s still considered to be one of the world’s most beautiful men.

Back when Pitt was a young college-dropout trying to pay his rent, he was still beautiful, but he was hardly famous… To make it in the big city as a commoner, the Mr. & Mrs. Smith star worked as a limousine chauffeur, but that’s not all! He was also in charge of dressing as a chicken to promote the menu of a local El Pollo Loco.

Rachel McAdams – McDonald’s Employee

Back in 2004, the Canadian actress Rachel McAdams caused a sensation by appearing in two of the decade’s most celebrated movies: the romantic tearjerker The Notebook and the teenage comedy Mean Girls. Now working in the upcoming films Eurovision and Sherlock Holmes 3, McAdams has recently confessed that she used to do a terrible job back when she was a wannabe actress taking orders at McDonald’s.

We all know someone who used to work at McDonald’s, and we all know someone who used to do it poorly… McAdams was far from being a model employee herself, and she was even responsible for breaking the orange juice machine once.

Gwen Stefani – Dairy Queen Employee

American singer/actress Gwen Stefani is sitting on the top of the world. A worldwide musical sensation, she’s a star ever since her No Doubt days and she has everything one can dream of. The earner of 3 Grammy awards, she’s married to Country music idol Blake Shelton and she has 3 beautiful children.

But back when No Doubt was still a garage band, the Hollaback Girl singer used to do the tasks of cleaning the floors and serving the ice cream at Dairy Queen. Another celebrity with a fast-food background, Stefani has proved that success is not about where you’re at, but about what you can one day accomplish.

Patrick Dempsey – Juggler

The American actor/racecar driver Patrick Dempsey is known for his notable Grey’s Anatomy role as Dr. Derek Shepherd and for appearing in movies such as Transformers: Dark of the Moon and Sweet Home Alabama. One of TV’s most reputable hunks, Dempsey wasn’t always the wealthy celebrity he is today.

Dempsey used to work as a juggler back when he was still in high school, and he even entered a nation-wide juggling competition! Although working as a juggler is as odd as it is unprofitable, Dempsey’s juggling skills did help him to get his breakthrough role in the ABC series Overnight Success.

Beyoncé – Salon Employee

With over 100 million records sold, one of the world’s most valuable personal brands, and a whopping $500 million net worth, it’s easy to imagine American singer Beyoncé being born out of a wealthy family. But Beyoncé wasn’t always the music diva she is today, and she had to work hard to become one of the world’s most notable celebrities.

Back when she was still a wannabe singer living in Houston, Texas, Beyoncé used to help her salon-owning mom Tina by sweeping the floors and getting rid of all the annoying hairs. Just like Disney‘s Cinderella, Beyoncé loved to sing while performing her cleaning tasks. A true princess on the making!

Megan Fox – Smoothie Shop Employee

Known for Transformers, Jennifer’s Body, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, American actress Megan Fox is considered to be one of the world’s most beautiful women. In a recent The Ellen DeGeneres Show interview, Megan admitted having worked for a smoothie shop in Florida back when she was a teenager. Her job functions? Dressing up in a full-size banana costume to help to attract costumers!

Today, it’s almost unthinkable to imagine somebody would cover-up Megan’s face and body to promote a business. But back when Megan was a young commoner looking for a Summer job, who could have predicted she would one day become a big Hollywood star?

Hugh Jackman – Physical Education Teacher

Most students don’t enjoy physical education classes, but there’s no doubt physical education teachers are the coolest people in the teacher’s lounge. That was certainly the case with Hugh Jackman. The Australian actor is best known for portraying Wolverine on the big screen, but he was once referred to as ‘Professor Jackman’.

The days of being a physical education teacher are long-gone for Jackman, but he’s still not forgotten his old pupils. During a red carpet event in Zurich, Switzerland, the Les Misérables actor met a former student and told the press he was still worried about his physical progress. Once a teacher, always a teacher!

Nicole Kidman – Massage Therapist

Australian actress Nicole Kidman is known for her breathtaking performances in movies such as Moulin Rouge, The Hours, and The Others. But Nicole’s path to success was far from being a walk in the park. When she was 17, her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and she was forced to drop out of school to help to support the family.

Fortunately, Nicole’s mom was able to beat the disease. Meanwhile, her future-celebrity daughter worked as a young massage therapist and appeared in her first-ever movie: the 1983 crime flick BMX Bandits.

Connie Britton – Aerobics Instructor

Known for Seeking a Friend for the End of the World and American Ultra, American actress Connie Britton has just finished shooting the controversial 2019 biography film Bombshell. But before entering the show business world, Connie’s full-time job included dressing in high-legged leotards and delivering fitness classes.

Yes, the woman who rose to prominence in the ABC sitcom series Spin City was once an aerobics instructor! It was without a shadow of a doubt a fitting first job for Connie, who is still known for having a healthy lifestyle and a killer body.

Geena Davis – Ann Taylor Clerk/Model

In 1979, a young Geena Davies was hired as an Ann Taylor sales clerk. She was eventually promoted to model and worked as a window mannequin every Saturday. But more than showcasing Ann Taylor‘s clothing, Geena showcased herself! Soon enough, she landed a contract with a top agent and climbed her way up to Hollywood’s top productions.

In 1982, she made her acting debut in the Dustin Hoffman-led comedy Tootsie. Later, she starred in David Cronenberg’s all-time horror classic The Fly and the popular Ridley Scott adventure/drama Thelma & Louise, in which she pulled a breathtaking performance alongside Susan Sarandon.

Johnny Depp – Ballpoint Pen Seller

The stylish and bad-boyish Johnny Depp is one of Hollywood’s most popular and distinguishable actors. Popularized as Jack Sparrow, Sweeney Todd, and Edward Scissorhands, Depp made a name for himself by portraying odd and memorable characters on the big screen.

But Depp wasn’t always the Hollywood A-lister he was today. Back when he was a teenager, he used to make just enough by selling ballpoint pens. Luckily, Nicolas Cage advised him to quit his daily job and become an actor. From struggling ballpoint pen seller to Hollywood hunk, Depp’s life took a 360 degrees turn for the best!

Jennifer Aniston – Telemarketer

Jennifer Aniston’s role as Rachel Green in the Friends sitcom is so iconic that it’s hard to imagine the beautiful blondie doing anything else before. But, like most young wannabe actresses, Aniston had to work hard to make a living while trying to make it in the show business industry.

Before becoming one of the world’s biggest stars, Aniston worked as a telemarketer! It’s not the sort of job we imagine someone like Aniston doing, especially considering her gorgeous appearance, and she was unsurprisingly bad at it… Still, she made just enough to pay the bills and continue pursuing her big dreams.

Faith Hill – Receptionist

Country music superstar Faith Hill sold more than 40 million albums worldwide and sold out numerous venues in the U.S. and abroad. Still, not even the best amongst the best are born in the spotlight, and Hill was forced to work hard to become one of the household names of the Country genre.

Now loved by thousands of fans, Hill was once a fan herself. She used to work as a receptionist and pack merchandise for her childhood hero, the notorious American singer Reba McEntire. Years later, in 2007, Faith appeared in Reba’s album Reba: Duets to sing a tune alongside her all-time idol.

Nicki Minaj – Red Lobster Waitress

Arguably the world’s best-known female rapper, Nicki Minaj has sold over 30 million singles ever since she debuted with the 2007 mixtape Playtime Is Over. Also working as a model, songwriter, and actress, Minaj grabbed the audience’s attention with her no-gibberish personality, breathtaking body, and catchy tunes.

But back when Nicki Minaj was still Onika Maraj (her real name), she used to make a living by serving seafood to the customers of a local Red Lobster restaurant. She was reportedly fired after being involved in a feud with a couple of clients who’d tried to steal her pen…

Meghan Markle – Professional Calligrapher

Former American actress Meghan Markle rose to worldwide notoriety after marrying Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex. After close to 2 years of literally living like a princess, she decided to retire from her role as a senior member of the British Royal Family in 2020.

Years before becoming one of the most sought-after tabloid celebrities, Meghan worked the odd job of a professional calligrapher. She used to hand-write wedding invitations, not knowing yet she would one day be involved in one of the most pressuring high-profile weddings of the 21st century. She also did multiple freelancing jobs on the side.

Amy Poehler – Chadwick’s Employee

It takes about 5 minutes of watching the Parks and Recreation sitcom to realize American actress Amy Poehler is one of the funniest women alive. The former Saturday Night Live star is now a fully-credited comedian, actress, and voice actress with appearances in movies such as Inside Out and Baby Mama.

But back in the day, Poehler was paying the bills by serving ice cream at a local Chadwick’s store. She’s not only open about her past job, she even wrote a full article for The New Yorker about it! In the magazine piece, she complained about the job hazards, which included singing Happy Birthday to annoying celebrating customers.

Matthew McConaughey – Golf Club Employee

Known for outstanding productions such as Magic Mike, Dallas Buyers Club, and True Detective, American actor Matthew McConaughey is making women sigh ever since he first appeared in the all-time teen classic Dazed and Confused.

Before making a Hollywood splash with one of the most remarkable debuts ever, McConaughey worked at the Oak Forest Country golf club. His job required him to rake the sand traps and to shoot the occasional nosy armadillo that tried to eat the course’s grass. According to McConaughey, shooting armadillos was his favorite activity while working at the golf club.

Cindy Crawford – Corn Gatherer

American supermodel Cindy Crawford influenced a whole generation of fashion designers and fans. This 53-year-old stunner has now retired from the runway, but she keeps herself busy by working as an activist, spokesperson, and occasional actress. Most recently, she appeared in Bojack Horseman and Wizards of Waverly Place.

Originally from the small town of DeKalb, Illinois, Crawford worked as a $4 per hour corn gatherer before signing her first modeling contract at the age of 17. Sometimes, even the world’s most fashionable stars are required to pull their sleeves up to work in a “corny” odd job…

Melissa McCarthy – Starbucks Barista

American comedian/actress Melissa McCarthy is not your typical female lead star. But the former Saturday Night Live collaborator is so unmistakably funny that she’s been getting some of Hollywood’s best comedy parts. In recent years, she starred in hit movies such as Spy, Tammy, and Bridesmaids, just to name a few.

Before becoming one of the world’s funniest comedy actresses, McCarthy worked as a Starbucks barista serving coffee to hipsters and tourists. In an interview, she recalled crying after meeting the late comedian Chris Farley back when he stepped in looking for a hot beverage.

Tom Cruise – Bellhop

One of the highest-paid actors of all-time, Tom Cruise is a Hollywood household name whose films have grossed over $10 billion worldwide! A guaranteed money-maker, Cruise is known for Top Gun, Jerry Maguire, and the Mission: Impossible movie franchise.

Now an absurdly wealthy celebrity, Cruise wasn’t always the island-owning show business tycoon he is today. In his days as a young wannabe actor, he worked as a bellhop at a hotel, carrying the customers’ luggage and wearing a funky red hat. Now a well-known Scientology advocate, Cruise has also considered being a Catholic priest when he was younger.

Dwayne Johnson – Dish Washer

Dwayne Johnson’s life story is both surprising and inspirational. The man who’s still known as “The Rock” started as a 13-year-old restaurant employee washing dishes to help his struggling family. Later, Dwayne went from being a skinny lad sweeping plates to becoming one of the most prominent professional wrestlers in WWE‘s history.

Dwayne’s final transformation happened when he decided to gradually switch the wrestling ring for the studio set. Now a fully-credited Hollywood star, “The Rock” is known for appearing in big blockbuster movies such as Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, G.I. Joe: Retaliation and Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw.

Steve Buscemi – Firefighter

When you thought American actor/director Steve Buscemi couldn’t get any cooler, he surprises you yet again! The man who made waves in productions such as Reservoir Dogs, The Big Lebowski, and Boardwalk Empire was a firefighter in his pre-acting days, and he never forgot his commitment to the honorable profession.

After the horrendous 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York City, Buscemi decided to quit everything and go back to being a firefighter. He fought to save lives alongside the fire brigade, assisting multiple people during one of the darkest days of American history.

Christopher Walken – Lion Tamer

American actor Christopher Walken is one of the hardest-working Hollywood stars out there, counting with over 100 film appearances in his curriculum. Known for his smooth acting style and peculiar voice, Walken has been working in the show business industry since 1952!

Impressively, his long acting career was preceded by one of the oddest jobs of our list. Back when Walken was only 16, he used to work as a lion tamer, performing live in the company of a trained lioness called Sheba. Is it possible that Walken’s calm personality is a result of working daily with an animal that can pretty much rip a whole person in half? We suspect so!

Danny DeVito – Corpse Hairdresser

The hilarious Matilda and Batman Returns actor Danny DeVito may be a short fellow, but he’s a massive star with a huge career in the entertainment industry. Also working as a director and producer, DeVito counts with an impressive 136 credits in his filmography and he’s still active today.

Working professionally as an actor has its perks, but it’s nothing compared to DeVito’s former job as a… corpse hairdresser? It turns out the It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia star used to spend his days at the morgue, ensuring dead people would look as good as possible during their funerals.

Christopher Lee – Royal Air Force Intelligence Officer

It’s impossible to forget Sir Christopher Lee’s excellent portrayal of the evil wizard Saruman in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. But few people know that the notable late British actor has worked as a Royal Air Force official specializing in decoding German secret codes.

Lee made his way into some of the 20th century’s greatest movies, but his past life in the army as a World War II intelligence officer would make an Oscar-worthy plot! During his time fighting the Nazis, the Star Wars star was posted in North Africa and collaborated with the Long Range Desert Group, an operational segment that would later become the Special Air Service (SAS).

Bill Murray – Grocery Store Employee

American actor Bill Murray is best-known for the hit movies Groundhog Day, Tootsie, and Ghostbusters. Additionally, he’s a recurring presence in the films of Wes Anderson, the director of peculiarly styled pictures such as Moonrise Kingdom and The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou.

Before making a name for himself as an Oscar-nominated actor and fan-favorite celebrity, Murray used to sell chestnuts at a local grocery store in Chicago. A humble beginning for a man who would later receive the 2016 Mark Twain Prize for American Humor and conquer the American audiences with his deadpan comedic style.

Jay Z – Drug Dealer

It’s no secret hip-hop superstars often dwell in the world of drugs and crime. That’s certainly the case with Jay Z, one of the genre’s most respected artists. Now the owner of a legit million-dollar empire, the Tidal founder has admitted to being a drug dealer in the past.

In the long-gone days of anonymity, Jay Z sold drugs on the streets to pay for the rent. His experience in the ruthless world of drug dealing served as the inspiration to many of his best-known songs, but Jay Z is now a loving father and husband mainly praised for his philanthropic activity, musical talent, and business skills.

Taylor Swift – Farm Worker

Success is the word that best describes Taylor Swift’s career. Working officially as a singer-songwriter since she first signed a record deal at the young age of 15, she has sold over 50 million albums worldwide and she was considered the 8th greatest artist of all-time by Billboard magazine in 2019. All this before her 30th anniversary!

There’s no doubt Swift was cut out to be a star and to provide the world with amazing songs, but back when she was just a child she used to spend her days working at her family’s Christmas tree farm. Swift’s main occupation was to keep praying-mantis pods bugs off the trees.

Julia Roberts – Baskin-Robbins Employee

Normally, Hollywood superstars like to stay away from sweets and fast-food. But Julia Roberts’ first job included a little bit of both. She worked for a while as a Baskin-Robbins employee, serving ice cream to customers and sweeping the floors. A humble professional start for the woman who would one day receive an Oscar award for her performance in Erin Brockovich.

The number of celebrities with a past career in the fast-food industry is surprising, and Roberts is not alone. Even the former United States President Barack Obama was once forced to work at a Baskin-Robbins! Eric Dane, Taryn Manning, and Leeza Gibbons were also employed at the ice cream franchise.