23. James Franco - University of California

23. James Franco - University of California

James Franco's education - and whole career - didn't come easily for him at all. His parents did not want him to become an actor under any circumstances. He'd had a difficult childhood, narrowly escaping being sentenced to juvenile hall for theft when a judge took petty on him, and his father ordered him to get good grades or face withdrawal of support. With that in mind, he enrolled at the University of California to study for an English major. However, when he was told he'd have to wait a full two years to audition for their acting program, he dropped out, and started taking acting lessons with Robert Carnegie at Playhouse West.

With no support from his parents, he worked night shifts at McDonald's to support himself, and would practice accents on customers to hone his craft. After he began to experience success as an actor, he returned to California to take - and pass - a creative writing qualification.

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Did You Know...

I

Whether celebrities are looking to be in the spotlight or escape the paparazzi, there are some popular vacation destinations that always seem to be frequented by the stars. Celeb spotting is a favorite pastime of many travelers, and you might be able to snag a photo or even an autograph when you visit these top celebrity vacation spots around the world. Although the price tags may be a bit higher in these destinations than your average budget getaway, these are some of the best celebrity vacation spots that you can start saving up to visit and enjoy the trip of a lifetime.

II

One of the classiest celebrity vacation spots in Europe is Mallorca, Spain. It’s known as a spot to be posh more than a spot to party. Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta Jones have a house here, and it’s been a favorite getaway for Gwenyth Paltrow. Some of the local favorites that boast the most celebrity sightings include the Wellies Restaurant and Bar, Puerto Portals, and Es Trenc Beach.

III

Saint Tropez is known for its amazing beaches and blissful landscapes. Celebrity couples like Beyoncé and Jay Z and David and Victoria Beckham have been spotted vacationing along these famous beaches. The Cote d’Azur seaport is a big draw for celebs here, as well as top beach clubs like Club 55.

IV

Perhaps the most well-known celebrity that loves Lake Como is George Clooney. He has a villa with over a dozen rooms here so he can bring all his friends along to relax, get away, and party. Villa d’Este is another popular place celebrities choose to stay because of its attention to privacy. Just ask Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bette Midler, or Sylvester Stallone!

V

Sure, there are plenty of celebrities that call Sydney home year-around, but there are lots of others who like to visit for a surfing and sailing getaway. Sydney’s Bondi Beach has been a top vacation pick for Leonardo DiCaprio and Hugh Jackman, and some A-list accommodations are the InterContinental Hotel and the Park Hyatt in the Rocks.

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