Kurt Braunohler is now a successful working comedian, but for years he struggled to get work. In applying for one major role, he claimed that he could speak fluent German. That wasn't exactly true.
Leah Warshawski's big break happened on a boat excursion in Hawaii. While translating for Japanese tourists, she met the producer of Baywatch. She's been using her marine knowledge ever since.
Trejo is famous for playing rough, macho tough guys. A distinctive tattoo helped him get his first role, as a convict. He was perfect for the part: Before he was in movies, Trejo was in prison.
Geena Davis has played unforgettable roles in movies like Beetlejuice and A League of Their Own. But before her acting debut in Tootsie, she worked at a clothing store in window displays.
At 5 foot 3, Muggsy Bogues holds the record as shortest player in NBA history. Criticism of his height started on the basketball courts of the Baltimore projects and continued well into his career.
The Hot in Cleveland actress got her start over 60 years ago on a live TV show called Hollywood on Television. Now she's 92 years old, but she says that's no reason to quit show business.
The 83-year-old was once a farm kid who didn't want to talk. Today, the unmistakable stage and screen actor (not to mention the voice of Darth Vader) still calls himself a "journeyman actor."
The muscle man with the ponytail was once on track to become Mr. America. But a car accident shattered Tony Little's hopes of competing. Just when he hit rock bottom, he got a life-changing idea.
When comics tell jokes about the news, they're bound to come up with similar punch lines. But comedy writer Larry Getlen says that, while joke theft does happen, it's still rare.