10 Stars Who Brought Their Unique Backgrounds to Hollywood

Hollywood wouldn’t be what it is today without the diverse backgrounds of its stars. Some of the biggest names in entertainment didn’t start their lives in America, but they’ve brought their unique stories, cultures, and perspectives to the US spotlight. Here are ten celebrities with foreign roots who’ve captured hearts nationwide.

Keanu Reeves

Before he was dodging bullets in The Matrix, Keanu Reeves was steering a globe-spanning childhood. Hailing from Beirut, Lebanon, he lived in Australia and Canada, owing to his English mother and Hawaiian-Chinese father. His diverse background adds a subtle depth to his on-screen personas—it blends mystery and magnetism in a way only Reeves can.

Charlize Theron

Growing up on a remote farm in Benoni, South Africa, Charlize Theron’s journey to Hollywood began with a modeling contest in the US. While Afrikaans was her first language, she learned English as a child and was already fluent before her move. Her fierce work ethic and adaptability paved the way to success.

Salma Hayek

If you’ve ever seen Salma Hayek in Frida, you know she’s unapologetically proud of her roots. Hayek comes from Coatzacoalcos, Mexico, growing up in a household where multiple cultures intertwined—Lebanese father and Mexican mother. Even today, Hayek embraces her heritage by promoting Latinx representation in Hollywood.

Hugh Jackman

Did you know that Hugh Jackman almost became a journalist instead of Wolverine? Raised by English parents in Sydney, Australia, Jackman pursued a degree in communications before falling in love with acting. His musical theater roots in Australia prepared him for a dual career as an action star and Broadway performer.

Nicki Minaj

Nicki Minaj’s persona traces back to her Trinidadian upbringing. Born in Saint James, Trinidad and Tobago, Mianj moved to Queens as a child. There, she quickly mixed her Caribbean heritage with the hustle of New York City. Her carnival-inspired looks and raw lyrics reflect her vibrant, dual identity. This is what makes her unique in the music industry.

Lupita Nyong’o

Her performances in critically acclaimed films like 12 Years a Slave and Black Panther show how versatile Nyong’o can be. Born in Mexico City to Kenyan parents, Lupita spent much of her youth in Kenya before finding success in the States. Kenyan folklore was a big part of her childhood, with a home where stories were shared every evening. 

Arnold Schwarzenegger

Long before he declared, “I’ll be back,” Arnold Schwarzenegger was a boy chopping wood in Thal, Austria. His disciplined upbringing and passion for bodybuilding brought him to the US in the 1960s, where he became an unstoppable force in both action films and politics—a surprising journey from small-town Austria to the California governor’s mansion!

Rihanna

Rihanna’s road to superstardom began in the colorful markets of Saint Michael, Barbados. There, she helped her father sell clothes. Rihanna moved to the States to pursue a music career, a gamble that paid off big time. Rihanna’s influence is undeniable. Be it her music, Fenty brand, or unapologetic pride in her Barbadian roots. 

Nina Dobrev

Most fans don’t realize that Nina Dobrev, the beloved star of The Vampire Diaries, comes from Sofia, Bulgaria. Moving to Canada at a young age didn’t erase her connection to her Bulgarian roots. Dobrev often visits family back home, and her dual-cultural upbringing gives her an edge when playing layered characters.

Idris Elba

Elba’s childhood blended West African traditions and British life—immigrating from London with parents from Sierra Leone and Ghana. Idris Elba’s magnetic performances in The Wire and Luther stem from more than just acting talent. He still spins records to keep a piece of his roots alive with his original dream of becoming a DJ.