Strange, surprising, and unforgettable celebrity facts (plus a few wild extras).
When you think of celebrities, you probably imagine red carpets, movie sets, or chart-topping hits—but there’s so much more to their stories. From secret academic achievements to bizarre jobs before fame, celebrities often have unexpected pasts and peculiar connections to history, science, and beyond.
In this list, we’re highlighting 10 fascinating trivia facts, with an emphasis on the rich and famous, that will surprise even the most devoted fans. For even more jaw-dropping celebrity knowledge, check out the full collection at Celebrity Trivia.
1. Rihanna Was in the Army
Before launching her music career, Rihanna was a cadet in the Barbados Army cadet corps. Even more surprising? Fellow singer Shontelle was her drill sergeant. Talk about a chart-topping chain of command.
2. Natalie Portman Co-Wrote a Neuroscience Paper
While still in high school, Natalie Portman co-authored a research paper on memory and brain function, which was later published in a scientific journal.
She went on to earn a psychology degree from Harvard. Beauty and brains.
3. Queen Frontman Brian May Has a PhD in Astrophysics
Brian May isn’t just a rock legend—he’s also a doctor of astrophysics. He completed his PhD decades after starting it, even co-authoring papers on cosmic dust. Turns out, some stars actually study the stars.
4. Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s Family Is Wrestling Royalty
Before he became a global movie star, Dwayne Johnson was a third-generation professional wrestler. His father and grandfather were both WWE legends, making him part of a wrestling dynasty.
5. Keanu Reeves Secretly Donates Millions to Hospitals
Keanu Reeves is famously generous, but many don’t know he’s quietly donated millions to children’s hospitals and cancer research over the years—often without taking credit. Off-screen, he might be one of Hollywood’s real-life heroes.
6. Ashton Kutcher Studied Biochemical Engineering
Before becoming a sitcom heartthrob and tech investor, Kutcher was enrolled at the University of Iowa as a biochemical engineering major. His original goal? To find a cure for his brother’s heart condition.
7. Gerard Butler Was Almost a Lawyer
The Scottish actor studied law at the University of Glasgow and worked as a trainee solicitor. He was fired a week before qualifying, which turned out to be the break he didn’t know he needed.
8. Will Smith Turned Down The Matrix
Hard to imagine now, but Will Smith famously turned down the role of Neo in The Matrix—a part that went to Keanu Reeves. Smith later said he didn’t “get” the concept at the time. Fair enough.
9. Matthew McConaughey Once Lived in a Trailer and Refused to Bathe for a Role
For his Oscar-winning performance in Dallas Buyers Club, McConaughey took method acting to the next level.
He lost 50 pounds and lived in a trailer, going days without showering to better embody his character.
10. Harrison Ford Was a Carpenter Before Star Wars
Before landing his iconic role as Han Solo, Harrison Ford worked as a self-taught carpenter in Hollywood. Fun fact: he was installing cabinets for George Lucas when he was cast in Star Wars.
Conclusion: Celebs—They’re Stranger (and Smarter) Than You Think
Celebrity life might look like constant glamor, but dig a little deeper and you’ll find former scientists, near-lawyers, and stars with incredible hidden talents. Whether it’s trivia night or just a conversation starter, these fun facts show that even the biggest names have surprising backstories.
Still hungry for more? Celebrity Trivia is the ultimate destination for fans who love their facts with a side of fame.