Numerous Hollywood celebrities started long before they were recognized as household names. Whether it was in television commercials, sitcoms, or big-screen productions, these actors had to hone their craft by performing as children around the world before becoming famous. They started with a talent that would go on to produce Academy Award winners, blockbuster franchises, and critical accolades.
Leonardo DiCaprio
Before his Oscar-winning acting career, Leonardo DiCaprio starred in several television series, including Growing Pains, and films like What’s Eating Gilbert Grape? and This Boy’s Life. As a youngster, he was one of Hollywood’s most promising young talents.
Christian Bale
At the age of 13, Christian Bale went on to become an international star when he played Steven Spielberg’s Empire of the Sun (1987). He’s also known for his stellar performances as a child that helped pave the way for such movies as The Dark Knight trilogy and The Fighter.
Natalie Portman
At 12 years old, Natalie Portman made her film debut in Léon: The Professional (1994). Her brilliant acting career started from that, and later won her the Academy Award for Black Swan.
Elijah Wood
Elijah Wood started acting from a very young age in movies like Avalon and The Good Son. He went on to become a world-famous actor in the role of Frodo Baggins in The Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Drew Barrymore
After her memorable performance as Gertie in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982), Drew Barrymore went on to become a child star. She was able to make a smooth switch to one of the most popular actresses, producers, and television hosts of Hollywood.
Joseph Gordon-Levitt
Joseph Gordon-Levitt began his acting career in TV and family movies before becoming popular in the sitcom 3rd Rock from the Sun. Subsequently, he has been seen in some of the popular movies such as 500 Days of Summer, Looper, and Inception.
Scarlett Johansson
Scarlett Johansson’s acting career began at a young age, and she quickly became well known due to her performance in various films such as Manny & Lo and The Horse Whisperer. She then went on to become one of Hollywood’s biggest box office stars as part of the MCU.
Ryan Gosling
Ryan Gosling made his debut as a child actor on the Mickey Mouse Club with some future actors. Later, he expanded his career with great performances in La La Land, Drive, and Barbie.
Jodie Foster
Jodie Foster started working in commercials as a kid, then worked in TV and film. Her first film, Taxi Driver, was hugely successful, and she has won two Academy Awards.
Anna Paquin
Anna Paquin herself won their first Academy Award at the age of 11 for her performance in The Piano (1993), as Best Supporting Actress. She went on to enjoy a successful career in movies like X-Men and the TV show True Blood.
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