There aren't many career paths more risky than in the film industry. Often described as a 'lottery job', pursuing a career in Hollywood can make budding actors and directors either multi-millionaires or penniless, with little in between. A love for the job and many famous 'rags to riches' tales mean that hundreds of thousands more people are drawn to the Hollywood dream each year, despite a very small percentage finding success. As you'd expect, the high cost of living and little regular income has unfortunately led many to homelessness. There's often the stereotype of the Hollywood success stories emerging from families that already had strong links in the industry. However, there are many current A-listers that started out in a far less glamourous manner. It was only through hard work, and a little luck, that these individuals ever managed to break free of their tough origins. This list takes a look at nine famous figures that were once homeless. Despite being huge household names today, each of these stars had to struggle to get where they are today.
9. Carmen Electra
Carmen Electra, born Tara Leigh Patrick, is best known for her work as a model, actress and television personality. Ever since her appearances in Playboy magazine and recurring role on Baywatch in the late '90s, Electra has become a household name. In Electra's case, it wasn't an easy road to Hollywood though. Electra has revealed that she was homeless in the city of Los Angeles during her early 20's, after an ex-boyfriend stole her entire savings. "I remember sitting on a park bench in the valley," recalls Electra in one interview. "I was crying because I was stranded. It was over 100 degrees outside." Thankfully, the model has since gone on to claim that her experiences while homeless helped to strengthen her resolve while climbing the ladder of the cutthroat entertainment industry.
