Actors Who Were Expelled From High School

The journey to stardom is rarely a straight line, and for many of Hollywood’s leading men, the traditional education system was an early hurdle. While some actors excelled in drama classes, others found themselves at odds with school administrators due to rebellious behavior, academic struggles, or unconventional hobbies. Expulsion from high school became a turning point for several of these individuals, forcing them to find alternative paths into the entertainment industry. These stories highlight the diverse backgrounds of some of the world’s most recognizable performers and how their early setbacks eventually paved the way for their successful careers.

Marlon Brando

Marlon Brando was expelled from Shattuck Military Academy in Minnesota during his final year. The ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ star famously rode a motorcycle through the school corridors as an act of defiance against the strict regulations. This incident followed several other disciplinary issues, including being placed on probation for talking back to an officer. Despite the expulsion, Brando moved to New York City to study acting under Stella Adler. He went on to redefine modern acting in films like ‘The Godfather’ and ‘On the Waterfront’.

Charlie Sheen

Charlie Sheen was expelled from Santa Monica High School just weeks before he was scheduled to graduate. The actor from ‘Platoon’ faced removal from the institution due to poor attendance and consistently failing grades. Despite this academic setback, Sheen immediately pursued a career in the film industry, following in the footsteps of his father, Martin Sheen. He eventually became a major star in television, famously starring in the long-running sitcom ‘Two and a Half Men’. His departure from formal education did not prevent him from becoming one of the highest-paid actors in Hollywood.

Owen Wilson

Owen Wilson was expelled from St. Mark’s School of Texas in the tenth grade. The ‘Wedding Crashers’ actor was caught stealing a teacher’s geometry guidebook to help him with his homework. Following his expulsion, he finished his high school education at the New Mexico Military Institute. This rebellious streak eventually translated into a successful career in comedy and drama, often playing laid-back characters. Wilson is well-known for his collaborations with Wes Anderson in films such as ‘The Royal Tenenbaums’.

Keanu Reeves

Keanu Reeves was expelled from the Etobicoke School of the Arts in Toronto during his teenage years. The ‘The Matrix’ star has stated that he was “just a little bit too rambunctious” and often clashed with the staff. He attended four different high schools in five years, struggling to find an environment that suited his personality and interests. Despite being told he did not fit in, Reeves pursued acting and gained international fame. He is now celebrated for his roles in major franchises like ‘John Wick’ and ‘Speed’.

Robert Pattinson

Robert Pattinson was expelled from Tower House School, an independent preparatory school in London. The ‘The Batman’ actor admitted in interviews that he was expelled for selling adult magazines to his classmates. He would source the magazines and sell them for a profit until a shopkeeper caught him in the act and reported him. Following this incident, he moved to another school and eventually joined a local theater club. This transition led to his breakout role in ‘Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire’ and the ‘Twilight’ saga.

Tom Hardy

Tom Hardy was expelled from Reed’s School, a private boarding school in Surrey, for theft. The ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ actor had a troubled youth that included various run-ins with authority and addiction. After being asked to leave the school, he eventually found his footing in drama at the Richmond Drama School and the Drama Centre London. His intense performances in films like ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ and ‘The Revenant’ have made him one of the most respected actors of his generation. Hardy often credits his early struggles with helping him portray complex, gritty characters.

Colin Farrell

Colin Farrell was expelled from Castleknock College, a private school in Dublin, after a physical altercation with a teacher. The ‘The Banshees of Inisherin’ star was caught sleeping in class and reacted aggressively when confronted. Following his expulsion, he traveled to Australia for a year before returning to Ireland to attend the Gaiety School of Acting. His raw talent was quickly recognized, leading to his breakthrough in the television series ‘Ballykissangel’. Farrell has since starred in high-profile films like ‘Phone Booth’ and ‘The Lobster’.

Sylvester Stallone

Sylvester Stallone was reportedly expelled from approximately 14 schools by the time he was 15 years old. The ‘Rocky’ creator and star struggled with behavioral issues and academic performance throughout his youth. His mother eventually sent him to a special school for troubled youth in Switzerland, where he began to take an interest in acting. This difficult start fueled his determination to succeed in the film industry against all odds. Stallone’s career is defined by his portrayal of underdogs in franchises like ‘Rambo’ and ‘The Expendables’.

Mark Wahlberg

Mark Wahlberg was expelled from Copley Square High School at the age of 14 following a series of legal and behavioral issues. The ‘The Departed’ actor spent much of his youth involved in street crime and was eventually incarcerated. During his time in prison, he decided to turn his life around and pursue a career in music and later acting. He eventually earned his high school diploma in 2013, decades after his initial expulsion. Wahlberg has since become a prolific producer and actor, known for films such as ‘Boogie Nights’.

Willem Dafoe

Willem Dafoe was expelled from Appleton West High School in Wisconsin for his involvement in a filmmaking project. The ‘Spider-Man’ actor produced a film for a class that school administrators deemed pornographic or inappropriate. This early creative clash led him to leave his hometown and eventually join an experimental theater group in Milwaukee. His unique look and intense acting style have made him a staple in both independent and blockbuster cinema. Dafoe has received multiple accolades for his work in films like ‘The Lighthouse’ and ‘Platoon’.

Dan Aykroyd

Dan Aykroyd was expelled from St. Pius X Catholic High School in Ottawa for several pranks and a perceived bad attitude. The ‘Ghostbusters’ star was a known class clown who frequently tested the patience of the school’s administration. Despite being asked to leave, he continued his education elsewhere and developed an interest in criminology and sociology. His comedic talents eventually led him to the original cast of ‘Saturday Night Live’. Aykroyd became a comedy legend with films like ‘The Blues Brothers’ and ‘Trading Places’.

Chevy Chase

Chevy Chase was expelled from the Haverford School in Pennsylvania during his teenage years. The actor from ‘National Lampoon’s Vacation’ allegedly brought a cow to the upper floor of a school building as a prank. The animal was unable to walk back down the stairs, leading to significant logistical issues for the school. This brand of physical and irreverent humor became his trademark in the entertainment world. Chase rose to fame on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and starred in classic comedies like ‘Caddyshack’.

Cary Grant

Cary Grant, born Archibald Leach, was expelled from Fairfield Grammar School in Bristol at the age of 14. The ‘North by Northwest’ star was caught in the girls’ lavatory, an incident that prompted the school to ask him to leave. Shortly after his expulsion, he joined the Bob Pender Stage Troupe as a stilt walker and began touring the world. This early exposure to the performing arts paved the way for his move to Hollywood. Grant became the quintessential leading man in films like ‘To Catch a Thief’ and ‘Charade’.

Humphrey Bogart

Humphrey Bogart was expelled from Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts, which was a prestigious preparatory school. The ‘Casablanca’ icon struggled with poor grades and was allegedly caught smoking and drinking on campus. Some accounts suggest he was expelled after throwing a headmaster into a pond during a disagreement. Following his departure from school, he joined the United States Navy during World War I. Bogart eventually became one of the greatest actors in film history, known for ‘The Maltese Falcon’ and ‘The African Queen’.

Kevin Spacey

Kevin Spacey was expelled from Northridge Military Academy after a violent altercation with a classmate. The ‘American Beauty’ actor reportedly hit another student with a tire iron, leading to his immediate removal from the institution. He eventually transferred to Chatsworth High School, where he discovered his passion for acting in the school’s drama program. Spacey went on to win two Academy Awards and achieved massive success in television with ‘House of Cards’. His early behavioral issues were a stark contrast to his eventual professional discipline.

Stephen Fry

Stephen Fry was expelled from Uppingham School after a series of behavioral issues and a struggle with his mental health. The ‘V for Vendetta’ actor subsequently spent time in prison for credit card fraud during his late teens. After being released, he focused on his studies and eventually earned a scholarship to Queens’ College, Cambridge. This academic turnaround allowed him to join the Cambridge Footlights, where he met his longtime collaborator Hugh Laurie. Fry is now a beloved figure in British comedy and literature, appearing in ‘The Hobbit’ film series.

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 was expelled from a private grade school in Miami for a series of elaborate pranks. The ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ actor admitted to setting off a fire extinguisher and defacing a mural on campus. He described himself as a “weird kid” who enjoyed testing the boundaries of authority. After being expelled, he attended a public high school where he played in various punk bands. Isaac eventually studied at Juilliard and has since starred in acclaimed works like ‘Moon Knight’ and ‘Inside Llewyn Davis’.

Vincent Cassel

Vincent Cassel was expelled from three different boarding schools during his youth due to his rebellious nature. The French actor, known for his roles in ‘Black Swan’ and ‘Ocean’s Twelve’, struggled with the rigid structures of traditional education. At the age of 17, he decided to join a circus school to channel his energy into physical performance. This training in acrobatics and movement significantly influenced his future acting style. Cassel gained international recognition for his intense performance in the gritty drama ‘La Haine’.

Charlie Hunnam

Charlie Hunnam was expelled from secondary school in Cumbria after getting into a physical fight with other students. The ‘Sons of Anarchy’ star was often targeted for his appearance and chose to defend himself aggressively. Following his expulsion, he finished his exams at home and eventually enrolled in the Cumbria College of Art and Design. He was discovered by a production manager while shopping for shoes, which led to his first acting role in ‘Byker Grove’. Hunnam has since starred in ‘King Arthur: Legend of the Sword’ and ‘The Gentlemen’.

Ryan Gosling

Ryan Gosling was suspended indefinitely from his primary school after throwing steak knives at his classmates. The ‘La La Land’ actor was heavily influenced by the film ‘First Blood’ and took the weapons to school to emulate the character John Rambo. This incident led to his mother homeschooling him for a year to address his behavioral issues and focus on his education. Gosling eventually joined the cast of ‘The Mickey Mouse Club’, which launched his professional career. He is now one of the most prominent actors in Hollywood, starring in ‘Drive’ and ‘Barbie’.

Billy Bob Thornton

Billy Bob Thornton was expelled from high school for a short period after he punched a basketball coach. The ‘Sling Blade’ actor and director reportedly took issue with the coach’s treatment of the players and reacted physically. Despite the incident, he eventually graduated and worked as a roadie and musician before pursuing acting. Thornton gained widespread acclaim for his writing and acting, winning an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. He is well-known for his roles in ‘Bad Santa’ and the television series ‘Fargo’.

George Carlin

George Carlin was expelled from Cardinal Hayes High School in the Bronx after a long history of disciplinary problems. The ‘Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure’ actor and comedian was frequently in trouble for smoking, skipping classes, and showing an irreverent attitude toward the clergy. After his expulsion, he briefly joined the United States Air Force before starting his career in radio and stand-up comedy. Carlin became a counterculture icon known for his biting social commentary and linguistic play. He appeared in various films throughout his career, including ‘Dogma’ and ‘The Prince of Tides’.

Eric Roberts

Eric Roberts was expelled from several schools during his teenage years due to his rebellious behavior and academic struggles. The ‘Runaway Train’ actor eventually found success after attending the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, though he was reportedly asked to leave there as well. Despite his early academic friction, Roberts became a prolific actor with over 600 credits to his name. He received an Academy Award nomination for his role in ‘Runaway Train’ and appeared in ‘The Dark Knight’. He is also the father of actress Emma Roberts and brother of Julia Roberts.

Sean Pertwee

Sean Pertwee was expelled from several schools, including Teddington School, due to his disruptive behavior. The ‘Gotham’ actor, who played Alfred Pennyworth, struggled with the traditional academic environment and was often at odds with teachers. He eventually attended the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School to refine his acting skills. Pertwee has since had a long and successful career in both film and television. He is recognized for his roles in ‘Dog Soldiers’ and ‘Event Horizon’.

Oliver Reed

Oliver Reed was expelled from more than a dozen schools throughout his youth for consistently bad behavior and academic failure. The ‘Gladiator’ actor struggled with undiagnosed dyslexia, which contributed to his frustration with the formal education system. Despite being labeled a troublemaker, he possessed a natural screen presence that led to a legendary career. Reed became known for his “hellraiser” lifestyle and powerful performances in ‘The Devils’ and ‘Oliver!’. He remained a major figure in British cinema until his death in 1999.

George Lazenby

George Lazenby was expelled from school in Australia for various pranks and a general lack of interest in academics. The man who would go on to play James Bond in ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’ worked several odd jobs, including as a car salesman and a model. His journey to Hollywood was unconventional, as he had no prior acting experience before landing the role of 007. Lazenby’s expulsion was an early indicator of the independent and sometimes difficult personality that defined his brief tenure as the famous spy. He later appeared in several independent films and television guest spots.

Clint Eastwood

Clint Eastwood was expelled from Oakland Technical High School for various stunts, including riding a bicycle across the school’s sports field during a game. The ‘Unforgiven’ director and star was also rumored to have buried a dummy on the school lawn as part of a prank. These incidents led the administration to encourage him to seek education elsewhere, though he eventually graduated from another school. Eastwood’s early rebellious streak transitioned into a professional persona as a “tough guy” in Westerns and action films. He is now one of the most iconic figures in cinematic history, known for ‘Dirty Harry’.

Vinnie Jones

Vinnie Jones was expelled from Chancellor’s School in Hertfordshire at the age of 16. The actor from ‘Snatch’ was a disruptive student who was more interested in sports than academic studies. Before becoming an actor, he had a high-profile career as a professional footballer known for his aggressive style of play. This “hard man” image helped him transition easily into film roles, beginning with ‘Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels’. Jones has since appeared in numerous Hollywood productions, often playing enforcers or villains.

Cillian Murphy

Cillian Murphy was suspended several times and eventually “asked to leave” Presentation Brothers College in Cork. The ‘Oppenheimer’ star has stated that his behavior was not suitable for the school’s rigid academic and sporting expectations. He was more interested in music and creative pursuits than the traditional curriculum offered by the Catholic institution. This departure led him to focus on his band and eventually discover his passion for acting through a theater company. Murphy is now an Academy Award winner and widely known for his leading role in ‘Peaky Blinders’.

Jack O’Connell

Jack O’Connell was expelled from several schools and left formal education without any GCSEs. The ‘Unbroken’ star frequently got into trouble with the law and authority figures during his youth in Derby. He described his younger self as a “product of his environment,” but he found a constructive outlet at the Television Workshop in Nottingham. This training allowed him to land a breakout role in the television series ‘Skins’. O’Connell has since received critical acclaim for his performances in ’71’ and ‘Godless’.

Joseph Fiennes

Joseph Fiennes was expelled from two different schools, including a boarding school, during his teenage years. The ‘Shakespeare in Love’ star admitted to being a difficult student who struggled with the constraints of traditional schooling. He eventually found his place at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama after working at the Royal National Theatre. Fiennes has enjoyed a diverse career on stage and screen, including a prominent role in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. His early academic struggles did not hinder his rise as a respected dramatic actor.

Alex Pettyfer

Alex Pettyfer was expelled from Shiplake College, a boarding school in Oxfordshire, for his behavior. The ‘Magic Mike’ actor had already begun his modeling and acting career as a child, which often conflicted with his school life. Following his expulsion, he attended the Sylvia Young Theatre School to focus entirely on his craft. Pettyfer gained early fame in the film ‘Stormbreaker’ and later starred in ‘I Am Number Four’. He has continued to work in both independent films and major studio productions.

Curtis Jackson

Curtis Jackson, known professionally as 50 Cent, was expelled from Andrew Jackson High School for the possession of drugs and a firearm. The ‘Power’ actor and producer was arrested after a metal detector at the school discovered a starter pistol and bags of narcotics in his possession. He spent time in a correctional facility before pursuing a career in music and eventually acting. His life story served as the basis for the semi-autobiographical film ‘Get Rich or Die Tryin”. Jackson has since become a successful entrepreneur and a prominent figure in the television industry.

Steve McQueen

Steve McQueen was sent to the California Junior Republic, a reform school in Chino, after being expelled from his local school and clashing with his stepfather. The ‘The Great Escape’ star was involved in street gangs and petty theft during his troubled adolescence. The reform school provided the structure he lacked, and he eventually credited the institution with saving his life. After serving in the United States Marine Corps, he studied acting at the Neighborhood Playhouse in New York. McQueen became “The King of Cool,” starring in classics like ‘Bullitt’ and ‘The Magnificent Seven’.

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