Actors Who Were Expelled From High School

Becoming a famous actor isn’t usually a simple path, and many leading men didn’t have easy experiences in school. Some thrived in drama, but others clashed with teachers and struggled with academics or fitting in. For a surprising number, getting kicked out of high school actually became a crucial turning point, pushing them to find other ways to break into the entertainment world. These stories show just how different backgrounds these famous performers come from, and how early challenges often helped them achieve success.

Marlon Brando

Marlon Brando was kicked out of Shattuck Military Academy in his senior year after a rebellious act: he rode a motorcycle through the school hallways. This wasn’t his first trouble – he’d already been put on probation for being disrespectful to an officer. After being expelled, Brando moved to New York City to study acting with Stella Adler. He eventually became one of the most influential actors of all time, known for his roles in films like ‘The Godfather’ and ‘On the Waterfront’.

Charlie Sheen

Just weeks before graduating, Charlie Sheen was kicked out of Santa Monica High School because he hadn’t been attending classes and was failing his courses. Instead of finishing school, he quickly started working in movies, like his father, Martin Sheen. He went on to become a hugely successful television star, most famously known for his role in ‘Two and a Half Men’. Despite leaving school early, he became one of Hollywood’s highest-earning actors.

Owen Wilson

Owen Wilson got kicked out of St. Mark’s School of Texas when he was in tenth grade after being caught taking a geometry book from a teacher to help with his homework. He then completed high school at the New Mexico Military Institute. This early rebellious behavior seemed to contribute to his later success as an actor, often playing relaxed and easygoing characters. He’s particularly known for his work with director Wes Anderson, including the film ‘The Royal Tenenbaums’.

Keanu Reeves

As a teenager, Keanu Reeves was asked to leave the Etobicoke School of the Arts in Toronto. He’s described himself as a bit of a troublemaker who didn’t always get along with teachers. In fact, he switched high schools four times in five years, searching for the right fit. Even though people told him he didn’t quite belong, he followed his passion for acting and became a world-famous star, known for his roles in movies like ‘John Wick’ and ‘Speed’.

Robert Pattinson

Robert Pattinson got kicked out of Tower House School in London for selling adult magazines to his classmates. He used to get the magazines and sell them for a profit, but he was caught by a shopkeeper who reported him. After that, he switched schools and joined a local theater group. This eventually led to his first big roles in movies like ‘Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire’ and the ‘Twilight’ series.

Tom Hardy

Tom Hardy didn’t have an easy upbringing. He was kicked out of Reed’s School, a boarding school, after being caught stealing, and struggled with trouble and addiction as a young man. He eventually turned his life around by studying drama at Richmond Drama School and the Drama Centre London. Now known for powerful roles in films like ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ and ‘The Revenant’, Hardy is considered one of the best actors of his generation, and often says that his difficult past helps him bring depth and realism to his characters.

Colin Farrell

Colin Farrell was kicked out of Castleknock College in Dublin after getting into a physical fight with a teacher. He’d been caught sleeping in class and became confrontational when woken up. After leaving the school, he spent a year in Australia before returning to Ireland to study acting at the Gaiety School. He quickly proved to be a talented actor, landing his first major role in the TV series ‘Ballykissangel’. Since then, he’s gone on to star in well-known films like ‘Phone Booth’ and ‘The Lobster’.

Sylvester Stallone

By the age of 15, Sylvester Stallone had been kicked out of around 14 schools. Growing up, he often struggled with behavior and his grades. His mother eventually sent him to a boarding school in Switzerland for troubled teens, and that’s where he discovered his passion for acting. These early challenges motivated him to overcome obstacles and achieve success in Hollywood. Throughout his career, Stallone often played the role of the underdog, a theme seen in popular franchises like ‘Rambo’ and ‘The Expendables’.

Mark Wahlberg

Mark Wahlberg had a troubled youth and was kicked out of high school at 14 after getting into legal trouble and misbehaving. He spent a lot of time involved in crime and was eventually sent to prison. While incarcerated, he decided to change his life and pursue a career in music, and later, acting. Decades after leaving school, he finally earned his high school diploma in 2013. Wahlberg has gone on to become a successful actor and producer, known for movies like ‘Boogie Nights’.

Willem Dafoe

Willem Dafoe was kicked out of Appleton West High School in Wisconsin after making a student film that school officials considered inappropriate. This experience led him to leave home and join an experimental theater group in Milwaukee. Known for his striking appearance and powerful performances, Dafoe has become a successful actor in both independent and mainstream movies, earning awards for films like ‘The Lighthouse’ and ‘Platoon’.

Dan Aykroyd

Dan Aykroyd got kicked out of St. Pius X High School in Ottawa for playing pranks and having a rebellious attitude. Known as the class clown, he often frustrated the school’s staff. After leaving, he continued his education and became interested in the study of crime and society. Eventually, his talent for comedy landed him a spot on the original ‘Saturday Night Live’ cast, and he went on to become a comedy icon with movies like ‘The Blues Brothers’ and ‘Trading Places’.

Chevy Chase

As a teenager, Chevy Chase was kicked out of the Haverford School in Pennsylvania after a memorable prank. He reportedly brought a cow up to the second story of the school, but then couldn’t get it back down the stairs, causing a big problem for everyone. This type of wild, playful humor would later become his signature style. Chase became famous as a cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and went on to star in beloved comedies like ‘Caddyshack’.

Cary Grant

Cary Grant, originally named Archibald Leach, was kicked out of Fairfield Grammar School at 14 after being found in the girls’ restroom. Following this, he joined the Bob Pender Stage Troupe, traveling the world as a stilt walker. This early experience in performing helped launch his career and eventually led him to Hollywood, where he became a classic leading man in films such as ‘To Catch a Thief’ and ‘Charade’.

Humphrey Bogart

Humphrey Bogart didn’t finish school at the prestigious Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts. He had trouble with his grades and reportedly got into trouble for smoking and drinking. Stories say he was even kicked out after playfully throwing the headmaster into a pond! After leaving school, he served in the U.S. Navy during World War I. He went on to become a legendary actor, starring in classics like ‘The Maltese Falcon’ and ‘The African Queen’.

Kevin Spacey

Kevin Spacey was kicked out of Northridge Military Academy after a physical fight with a fellow student. Reports say he hit the other student with a tire iron, which led to his immediate expulsion. He later transferred to Chatsworth High School, where he found his love for acting through the school’s drama club. Spacey eventually won two Oscars and became very successful on television with ‘House of Cards’. This success is quite different from the behavioral problems he had earlier in life, highlighting a significant change in his discipline.

Stephen Fry

Stephen Fry faced challenges during his school years at Uppingham, leading to his expulsion, and he also struggled with his mental health. As a teenager, he was even imprisoned for credit card fraud. However, after his release, he dedicated himself to his education and won a scholarship to Queens’ College, Cambridge. It was at Cambridge that he discovered his passion for comedy, joining the famous Cambridge Footlights and meeting future collaborator Hugh Laurie. Today, Stephen Fry is a highly respected and popular figure in British comedy and literature, known for roles like his appearance in ‘The Hobbit’ films.

Richard Pryor

Richard Pryor was expelled from school at the age of 14 following a confrontation with a teacher. The ‘Stir Crazy’ star and legendary comedian had a difficult upbringing in a household that managed a brothel. After leaving school, he worked various odd jobs before joining the army and later pursuing a career in stand-up comedy. His raw and honest approach to comedy often drew from his troubled youth and systemic issues. Pryor transitioned into a successful acting career with roles in ‘Silver Streak’ and ‘Superman III’.

Oscar Isaac

Oscar Isaac got kicked out of his private school in Miami for pulling off some detailed pranks. He confessed to triggering a fire extinguisher and vandalizing a school mural, describing himself as a mischievous kid who liked to see how far he could push things. After the expulsion, he went to a public high school and played music in several punk bands. He later honed his skills at Juilliard and went on to star in popular and critically acclaimed projects like ‘Moon Knight’ and ‘Inside Llewyn Davis’.

Vincent Cassel

Vincent Cassel, the French actor known for films like ‘Black Swan’ and ‘Ocean’s Twelve’, was a bit of a troublemaker as a young man and was kicked out of three boarding schools. He didn’t do well with strict rules and traditional learning. At 17, he found an outlet for his energy at circus school, where he trained in acrobatics and movement. This physical training later had a big impact on how he acted. He first became internationally known for his powerful performance in the realistic drama ‘La Haine’.

Charlie Hunnam

Charlie Hunnam was kicked out of high school in Cumbria after a fight with other students. He was often teased about how he looked and reacted by standing up for himself. After leaving school, he completed his exams at home and then went on to study at the Cumbria College of Art and Design. His acting career began when a production manager spotted him while he was shopping for shoes, leading to a role on ‘Byker Grove’. Since then, he’s become known for roles in films like ‘King Arthur: Legend of the Sword’ and ‘The Gentlemen’.

Ryan Gosling

When Ryan Gosling was in primary school, he was suspended for bringing steak knives to class and throwing them at his classmates. He was inspired by the movie ‘First Blood’ and wanted to act like the character John Rambo. After this incident, his mother decided to homeschool him for a year to help with his behavior and continue his education. Later, he joined ‘The Mickey Mouse Club,’ which helped launch his acting career. Today, Gosling is a highly successful actor known for roles in films like ‘Drive’ and ‘Barbie’.

Billy Bob Thornton

Billy Bob Thornton briefly got kicked out of high school after hitting a basketball coach. He reportedly did this because he disagreed with how the coach was treating the players. Though he had this run-in, he did eventually graduate. Before becoming an actor, Thornton worked as a roadie and musician. He’s become highly regarded for his writing and acting skills, even winning an Oscar for his screenplay adaptation. Many know him from movies like ‘Bad Santa’ and the TV show ‘Fargo’.

George Carlin

George Carlin got kicked out of Cardinal Hayes High School in the Bronx because he’d repeatedly gotten into trouble. He often skipped class, smoked, and didn’t show much respect for priests. After being expelled, he spent a short time in the Air Force before starting his career in radio and stand-up comedy. Carlin became famous as a counterculture figure, known for his sharp observations about society and his clever use of language. He also acted in several films, including ‘Dogma’ and ‘The Prince of Tides’.

Eric Roberts

As a teenager, Eric Roberts faced challenges with school and was expelled from multiple institutions because of his rebellious nature and difficulties with his studies. He eventually turned things around by studying at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, although reports suggest he didn’t finish his training there either. Despite these early struggles, Roberts went on to have a hugely successful acting career, appearing in over 600 films and TV shows. He earned an Academy Award nomination for his performance in ‘Runaway Train’ and also had a role in ‘The Dark Knight’. He is also the father of actress Emma Roberts and the brother of Julia Roberts.

Sean Pertwee

Sean Pertwee, known for playing Alfred in ‘Gotham’, didn’t have an easy time in school. He was kicked out of multiple schools, including Teddington School, because he was often disruptive and clashed with teachers. Eventually, he found a better fit at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, where he honed his acting talent. Pertwee has gone on to have a successful career, appearing in films like ‘Dog Soldiers’ and ‘Event Horizon’, as well as numerous television roles.

Oliver Reed

Oliver Reed had a troubled youth, getting kicked out of over a dozen schools due to his disruptive behavior and poor grades. He struggled with undiagnosed dyslexia, which made formal schooling difficult for him. Though often seen as a troublemaker, he had a natural talent for acting and went on to become a legendary performer. Reed was famous for his wild lifestyle and memorable roles in films like ‘The Devils’ and ‘Oliver!’, remaining a prominent figure in British cinema until he passed away in 1999.

George Lazenby

George Lazenby, the Australian actor who famously played James Bond in ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service,’ wasn’t a strong student and was kicked out of school for playing pranks. Before becoming 007, he held a variety of jobs, like selling cars and working as a model. Remarkably, he had no acting background when he landed the Bond role. His rebellious streak, evident even in his school days, likely contributed to his short time as the iconic spy. After Bond, he continued acting in smaller films and made guest appearances on television.

Clint Eastwood

Clint Eastwood got into trouble at Oakland Technical High School and was eventually asked to leave after pulling several pranks, like riding a bike across the sports field during a game and reportedly burying a dummy on the lawn. Though he didn’t finish there, he later graduated from another school. This early rebellious behavior seemed to influence his on-screen image, leading him to become known for playing strong, tough characters in Westerns and action movies. Today, he’s a legendary actor and director, famous for roles like ‘Dirty Harry’.

Vinnie Jones

Vinnie Jones left Chancellor’s School at 16 because of his behavior. He preferred playing sports to studying, and was known as a troublemaker. Before becoming an actor, Jones was a professional footballer with a reputation for tough play. This ‘hard man’ persona made it easy for him to start a film career, beginning with ‘Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels’. Since then, he’s been in many Hollywood movies, frequently playing roles as intimidating characters or villains.

Cillian Murphy

Cillian Murphy faced several suspensions and ultimately left Presentation Brothers College in Cork. He’s explained that he didn’t fit in with the school’s strict focus on academics and sports, preferring to pursue music and creative activities. Leaving school allowed him to concentrate on his band, and it was through a theater group that he discovered his love for acting. Now an Academy Award winner, Murphy is famous for his starring role in ‘Peaky Blinders’.

Jack O’Connell

Jack O’Connell didn’t have a traditional education, being expelled from multiple schools and leaving without any qualifications. Growing up in Derby, he often clashed with authority and had run-ins with the law. He’s described his troubled youth as a result of his surroundings, but he found a positive direction at the Television Workshop in Nottingham. This training helped him get his first big role in the TV show ‘Skins’. Since then, O’Connell has been praised for his acting in films like ‘71’ and ‘Godless’.

Joseph Fiennes

You know, I’ve always found it interesting learning about actors’ early lives. I recently read that Joseph Fiennes actually got kicked out of two schools as a teenager – even boarding school! He’s said himself he was a bit of a handful and just didn’t thrive in the typical school environment. It’s cool to see how things worked out for him though. He ended up finding his footing at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama after some time at the Royal National Theatre, and now he’s a really respected actor with a great career – you might know him from ‘Shakespeare in Love’ or even ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. It just goes to show that struggling in school doesn’t mean you can’t achieve amazing things.

Alex Pettyfer

Alex Pettyfer left Shiplake College, a boarding school, due to behavioral issues. He’d already started modeling and acting as a child, which made it difficult to balance school with his growing career. After leaving Shiplake, he went to Sylvia Young Theatre School to fully concentrate on becoming an actor. He first became well-known in the film ‘Stormbreaker’ and later starred in ‘I Am Number Four’. Since then, he’s continued to act in both smaller independent films and larger, mainstream movies.

Curtis Jackson

50 Cent, whose real name is Curtis Jackson, was kicked out of Andrew Jackson High School after being caught with a gun and drugs. A metal detector found a starter pistol and narcotics on him, leading to his arrest and a period in jail. This experience heavily influenced his life and later became the basis for his semi-autobiographical film, ‘Get Rich or Die Tryin”. Since then, Jackson has become a successful musician, actor, entrepreneur, and a well-known figure in television.

Steve McQueen

After getting into trouble at school and having a difficult relationship with his stepfather, Steve McQueen was sent to a reform school in California called the California Junior Republic. As a teenager, he’d been involved with gangs and minor crime, but the school gave him the stability he needed. He later said it turned his life around. Following a stint in the Marines, he trained as an actor in New York City. McQueen went on to become a Hollywood icon, known as “The King of Cool,” and starred in famous films like ‘Bullitt’ and ‘The Magnificent Seven’.

Tell us in the comments which of these actors’ early lives surprised you the most.

2026-02-24 02:21