Nostalgic America
20 A-List Celebrities’ Surprising First Roles
By Bruce Berns · November 19, 2024
This nostalgic journey through entertainment history reveals how legendary performers like Tom Hanks, Denzel Washington, and Elizabeth Taylor first captured audiences' attention. These early performances not only launched incredible careers but also helped shape the entertainment industry we know today, proving that even the biggest stars had to start somewhere. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
George Clooney in ER - TV Show
George Clooney gained widespread fame playing Dr. Doug Ross, a charming but troubled pediatrician, in the hit TV series ER (1994-2009). Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
George Clooney
His role highlighted his blend of charisma, wit, and emotional depth, making him a fan favorite. Clooney’s portrayal of Ross, with storylines that tackled personal and professional challenges, helped define the show’s success and positioned him as a major television heartthrob. ER was a launchpad for Clooney’s career, propelling him into stardom and leading to a successful transition into film, where he became one of Hollywood’s most respected actors and producers. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Denzel Washington in the medical drama St. Elsewhere
Before becoming a movie icon, Denzel Washington appeared in the medical drama St. Elsewhere (1982-1988). His role as Dr. Philip Chandler showcased his early acting prowess, bringing depth and humanity to the character and navigating storylines that addressed medical and social issues. Washington's portrayal stood out for his charisma and nuanced performance, helping the show gain critical acclaim. His time on St. Elsewhere was pivotal in his career, demonstrating his range and contributing to his rise as a leading actor in Hollywood. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Elizabeth Taylor in National Velvet (1944)
Elizabeth Taylor’s role in National Velvet catapulted her to stardom at age 12. In the film, she played Velvet Brown, a determined young girl who trains her beloved horse, Pie, to compete in England's Grand National steeplechase. Taylor's natural talent, striking beauty, and heartfelt portrayal captured audiences and marked the beginning of her illustrious career. Her performance demonstrated poise and maturity beyond her years, solidifying her as a rising star in Hollywood. National Velvet remains a classic family film and an enduring testament to Taylor’s early potential as one of cinema’s most iconic actresses. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Michael Jackson in The Jackson 5
Michael Jackson’s career began as the charismatic lead singer of The Jackson 5, a Motown group composed of him and his four brothers. With hits like “I Want You Back” and “ABC,” Michael’s extraordinary voice and magnetic stage presence made him the standout member. His talent for singing, dancing, and showmanship was apparent even at a young age, captivating audiences worldwide and laying the groundwork for his legendary solo career. The Jackson 5 showcased Michael’s incredible potential, making him a household name by the time he was a teenager and marking the start of a groundbreaking career in music. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Sally Field in Gidget - TV Show
Sally Field’s breakout role was as the cheerful and adventurous Frances “Gidget” Lawrence in the TV series Gidget (1965-1966). The show, based on the 1957 film, depicted the life of a teenage girl navigating school, friendships, and her love for surfing. Field’s portrayal brought warmth and charm, making her relatable to young audiences and showcasing her comedic timing. Though the show lasted only one season, it established Field as a rising star and led to her success in other television roles, most notably The Flying Nun, before transitioning to acclaimed film performances and award-winning dramatic roles. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Jodie Foster in Taxi Driver (1976)
Jodie Foster’s performance as Iris, a young runaway turned child prostitute, in Martin Scorsese’s Taxi Driver was groundbreaking. At just 12 years old, Foster delivered a performance that was both haunting and mature, capturing the vulnerability and resilience of her character. Her scenes with Robert De Niro’s Travis Bickle were pivotal, contributing to the film’s exploration of loneliness and moral ambiguity. Foster’s portrayal earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress and solidified her as a child star with exceptional talent. The role marked the beginning of a remarkable acting career that would span decades. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Young Jodie Foster
Jodie Foster’s early career was marked by standout performances that showcased her remarkable talent and maturity. She began acting at a young age, appearing in commercials and TV shows, but gained significant attention in Martin Scorsese’s Taxi Driver (1976) as Iris, a young prostitute. Her fearless portrayal earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress at just 14. Foster’s early roles demonstrated a unique ability to convey complex emotions, paving the way for her to transition into a successful adult career. She continued to earn acclaim for her work in The Accused and The Silence of the Lambs. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Judy Garland in Babes in Arms (1939)
Judy Garland starred alongside Mickey Rooney in Babes in Arms, a musical that showcased her singing and acting talents. The story revolves around a group of young performers trying to put on a show to save their families from financial ruin. Garland’s captivating voice and effervescent energy shone through, adding depth to her character and making the film a success. Her performance helped solidify her reputation as one of MGM’s most promising young stars. Babes in Arms was part of a series of successful musicals that cemented Garland and Rooney as one of Hollywood’s most beloved on-screen duos. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Leonardo DiCaprio’s in the popular sitcom Growing Pains
Leonardo DiCaprio’s early television career included his role on the popular sitcom Growing Pains (1991-1992), where he played Luke Brower, a homeless teenager taken in by the Seaver family. This role showcased DiCaprio’s acting talent and natural charm, earning him attention and paving the way for more significant opportunities. Before Growing Pains, he appeared in guest roles on shows like Parenthood and Santa Barbara, displaying his dramatic potential. DiCaprio’s work in these early roles helped establish him as a rising star, leading to his breakthrough in film with performances in This Boy’s Life (1993) and What’s Eating Gilbert Grape (1993). Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Ronnie Howard in The Music Man (1962)
Ron Howard, known as “Ronnie” during his child acting days, played Winthrop Paroo in The Music Man, a film adaptation of the popular Broadway musical. At just eight years old, Howard’s performance as the shy, lisping boy who learns to embrace life through music showcased his early talent and natural charm. His rendition of “Gary, Indiana” was a standout moment that highlighted his singing abilities and acting potential. The Music Man was one of Howard’s early roles before he gained fame as Opie Taylor on The Andy Griffith Show and later as Richie Cunningham on Happy Days. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Natalie Wood in Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
At just eight years old, Natalie Wood played Susan Walker in the beloved holiday classic Miracle on 34th Street. Her portrayal of a precocious, skeptical girl who comes to believe in Santa Claus captured the hearts of audiences. Wood’s performance displayed a remarkable range for a child actor, bringing warmth and credibility to the story’s central theme of faith and wonder. The film became a holiday staple and marked the beginning of Wood’s illustrious career, during which she transitioned successfully from child star to acclaimed adult actress in films such as Rebel Without a Cause and West Side Story. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Sean Astin in Rudy (1993)
Sean Astin’s portrayal of Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger in Rudy is an inspiring depiction of determination and heart. The film tells the true story of Rudy, an undersized athlete with a dream of playing football for Notre Dame despite numerous obstacles. Astin’s performance is heartfelt and earnest, embodying Rudy’s perseverance and underdog spirit. His portrayal resonated with audiences and turned Rudy into an enduring sports classic that emphasizes themes of resilience, hard work, and belief in oneself. Astin’s work in the film earned him acclaim and highlighted his capability for portraying deeply relatable, driven characters. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Little Stevie Wonder in Motown
Stevie Wonder, known as “Little Stevie Wonder,” became a Motown prodigy at just 11 years old. His extraordinary talent as a singer, pianist, and harmonica player dazzled audiences, leading to his breakthrough hit “Fingertips (Pt. 2)” in 1963, recorded live. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Little Stevie Wonder
This performance showcased his dynamic energy and musical prowess, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100. As he grew older, Wonder evolved into a pioneering artist, producing hits that combined soul, funk, and socially conscious lyrics. His early years at Motown laid the foundation for an illustrious career that would see him become one of music’s greatest innovators. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Tom Hanks in Bosom Buddies (1980-1982)
Tom Hanks first gained recognition on the sitcom Bosom Buddies, where he played Kip Wilson, an ad executive who, along with his friend Henry (Peter Scolari), disguises himself as a woman to live in a female-only apartment complex. The show was known for its comedic premise and Hanks’ charming, energetic performance, showcasing his impeccable timing and likability. Although Bosom Buddies had a brief run, it marked Hanks as a rising star in television. His work on the show paved the way for his successful transition to film, where he became one of the most acclaimed and beloved actors in Hollywood. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Tom Selleck in a Soap Opera The Young and the Restless
Before becoming a household name as Thomas Magnum in Magnum, P.I., Tom Selleck honed his acting skills in soap operas. He appeared on The Young and the Restless as Jed Andrews from 1974 to 1975. This role provided Selleck with early exposure and acting experience in daytime television, showcasing his charisma and leading-man appeal. His time on the soap opera helped him build a foundation for his later work in television and film, where he would become synonymous with rugged charm and likable, heroic characters. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Fred Savage in The Wonder Years (1988-1993)
Fred Savage became the face of childhood nostalgia as Kevin Arnold in The Wonder Years, a coming-of-age series set in the 1960s and 70s. His portrayal of Kevin, navigating the challenges of adolescence, friendships, and first love, resonated deeply with audiences. The show’s unique storytelling, narrated by an adult Kevin looking back on his youth, highlighted themes of growth and change. Savage’s nuanced performance earned him critical acclaim and made him one of the youngest actors to receive Emmy nominations. The Wonder Years remains a beloved classic, remembered for its poignant reflection on growing up. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Young Drew Barrymore
Drew Barrymore rose to fame as a child star with her role as Gertie in Steven Spielberg’s E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982). Her portrayal of the precocious, endearing younger sister brought warmth and humor to the film, showcasing her natural talent and charisma. Barrymore’s expressive performance in E.T. captured audiences’ hearts and demonstrated her ability to convey innocence and genuine emotion. Coming from a lineage of actors, Barrymore’s early success marked the beginning of a career filled with highs and lows, including overcoming personal struggles as a young actress in Hollywood. She later transitioned into adult roles and became a successful actress, producer, and author. Her resilience and growth from a child star to a multifaceted entertainment figure have made Barrymore an enduring symbol of reinvention and success in the industry. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Young Jason Bateman
Jason Bateman began his acting career as a child star, gaining recognition for his roles on popular 1980s TV shows such as Little House on the Prairie and Silver Spoons. His standout role came as Derek Taylor on Silver Spoons, where he played the charming yet scheming friend of Ricky Stratton. Bateman’s early work showcased his knack for comedic timing and boyish charm, which he later leveraged into a successful adult acting career. Transitioning seamlessly from child star to seasoned actor, Bateman became known for his role as Michael Bluth in Arrested Development and for directing and starring in films and TV shows. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Young Mark Hamill
Mark Hamill’s career-defining role came with Star Wars (1977), where he played Luke Skywalker, a farm boy turned hero in George Lucas’s epic space saga. His portrayal of Luke captured the journey from innocence to heroism, making him a central figure in one of the most influential film franchises of all time. Before Star Wars, Hamill had appeared in TV series and small roles that hinted at his acting potential. His performance in the original trilogy made him a cultural icon, and he later expanded his career to include voice acting, notably as the Joker in animated Batman series. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.