10+ School Photos of Iconic Stars That Even Hardcore Fans May Not Have Seen

Jimmy Henton
Jul 03, 2023
Jul 03, 2023

America has long been known as the land where dreams come true, and nothing embodies this spirit more than the stories of ordinary kids who went on to become larger-than-life superstars. Behind the glitz and glamour of Hollywood lies a collection of captivating school photos, capturing the humble beginnings of some of our favorite icons.

So, we decided to compile a list of rarely-seen school portraits that will leave die-hard fans astounded. These snapshots offer a glimpse into the lives of future superstars before they became household names, reminding us that greatness can emerge from the most unexpected places. These images reveal the untold stories of resilience, talent, and undeniable potential. Get ready to experience nostalgia and Marvel at the transformations that turned these ordinary students into legendary figures.

#1. Brad Pitt

Source: Coleman-Rayner/EAST NEWS, MICHAEL TRAN/East News

After finishing high school, Brad Pitt enrolled at the University of Missouri, where he studied journalism and advertising. However, he dropped out shortly before graduating to pursue a career in acting.

#2. Paul Reubens

Source: © Sailors Log, Wikimedia Commons, © s_bukley / Depositphotos.com

Paul Reubens, known for his iconic character Pee-wee Herman, attended school during the 1950s and 1960s. Reubens later studied drama at the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) in Valencia, California, where he honed his comedic skills and developed the character of Pee-wee Herman.

#3. Tom Cruise

Source: Jeff Rayner/EAST NEWS, Jordan Strauss/East News

Tom Cruise attended several schools during his childhood due to his family's frequent moves. He left high school before completing his education in order to pursue a career in acting.

#4. Katie Holmes

Source: Coleman-Rayner/EAST NEWS, Dylan Travis/East News

Katie Holmes attended the all-female Notre Dame Academy for high school in Toledo. After graduating from high school in 1997, she pursued a degree in theater at Columbia University in New York City. However, she put her studies on hold to focus on her acting career.

#5. Meryl Streep

Source: © Bernardsville, Wikimedia Commons, © lev radin / Shutterstock.com

Meryl Streep attended several schools during her academic journey. She initially pursued a degree in drama before switching to English and graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in 1971.

#6. Lucy Liu

Source: © Indicator, New York, Wikimedia Commons, Invision / East News

Liu's educational background in both academics and performing arts provided her with a well-rounded foundation for her successful acting career. She enrolled at the University of Michigan's School of Music, Theatre & Dance, where she earned a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in acting.

#7. Naomi Watts

Source: Yearbook/EAST NEWS, NDZ/East News

Watts' family moved frequently during her childhood, and she attended various schools in different countries. She spent some time in Wales, Australia, and the United Kingdom. In Australia, she attended Mosman High School in Sydney.

#8. Steve Martin

Source: © Argonaut, California / Wikimedia Commons, Mary Evans/ East News

After high school, Martin enrolled at Santa Ana College, also in California, where he studied theater and continued to hone his comedic skills. He later transferred to California State University, Long Beach, where he earned a degree in theater in 1967.

#9. Christopher Lloyd

Source: © Stapleite, Westport, Wikimedia Commons, Invision/East News

Lloyd attended Staples High School in Westport, Connecticut. During his time there, he developed an interest in acting and participated in school theater productions, showcasing his talent and passion for the performing arts.

#10. Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson studied acting at Howard University and started her Hollywood career in guest roles on several television shows before making her breakthrough in Baby Boy (2001).

#11. Kris Jenner

Source: Coleman-Rayner/EAST NEWS, Evan Agostini/East News

Kris Jenner, whose full name is Kristen Mary Jenner, is a prominent figure in the Entertainment industry as a television personality and businesswoman. She attended Clairemont High School in San Diego, California.

#12. Sandra Bullock

Sandra Bullock, the renowned American actress and producer, attended several schools during her early life due to her father's work in the United States Army.

#13. Angelina Jolie

Source: Coleman-Rayner/EAST NEWS, Marco Provvisionato/East News

Angelina Jolie, the acclaimed American actress, filmmaker, and humanitarian, has had a diverse educational background.

Who is the most impressive on the list? Please let us know in the comment section!

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