Celebs With Hidden Talents You Didn’t Know About

More Than Just Famous Faces

When we think of Hollywood stars, we usually picture them on the big screen or performing on stage. But what if I told you that some of these stars have hidden talents you’d never expect?

Let’s dive into the unexpected abilities of some well-known stars and discover the hidden skills that make them more than just famous faces.

Natalie Portman – Brain Power in Science

Natalie Portman isn’t just known for her roles in Black Swan or Star Wars . She’s also highly educated, holding a degree in psychology from Harvard University.

While balancing her acting career, she co-authored two research papers published in scientific journals, showcasing her academic abilities. Not only does she excel in acting, but Portman is also fluent in five languages, including Hebrew and French.

Angelina Jolie – Behind the Camera

Did you know that, besides being a fantastic actress and humanitarian, Angelina Jolie is also a talented director and a published author?

She’s directed successful films like Unbroken and First They Killed My Father , which have been praised for their emotional depth and thoughtful storytelling. She even wrote a book called Notes from My Travels about her experiences as a goodwill ambassador.

Steve Martin – A Musical Genius

Steve Martin, the famous actor from The Pink Panther and Father of the Bride , is also a talented banjo player. He’s won Grammy Awards for his bluegrass music and even performs with his band, the Steep Canyon Rangers.

His passion for the banjo started in his teens, and he’s continued to pursue music throughout his career, even writing a musical called Bright Star that premiered on Broadway.

Geena Davis – Olympic-Level Archer

Geena Davis, best known for her roles in Thelma & Louise and A League of Their Own , has an unexpected talent: she’s a skilled archer. In the late 1990s, she even tried out for the U.S. Olympic team and made it to the semifinals.

Although she didn’t make the final team, her archery skills earned her a spot on the list of top American archers. Davis has also founded the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, blending her passions for sports and activism.

Terry Crews – A Talented Artist

Terry Crews is known for his roles in comedy series like Brooklyn Nine-Nine and his strong physique, but many fans don’t know he’s a gifted artist.

Before acting, Crews attended art school on a scholarship, and his drawings and paintings have been featured in several exhibitions. He often shares his work with fans on social media.

Mayim Bialik – A Real-Life Scientist

Fans of The Big Bang Theory know Mayim Bialik as Amy Farrah Fowler, a neurobiologist on the show. But in real life, Bialik holds a PhD in neuroscience from UCLA.

She earned her doctorate after taking a break from acting and has since combined her love of science with her acting career. Bialik has also written books that promote learning in young women, particularly in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).

Jason Lee – From Skateboarding to Acting

Before becoming known for his role in My Name Is Earl , Jason Lee had a successful career as a professional skateboarder. Lee co-founded Stereo Skateboards and has even directed skateboarding videos.

His passion for the sport continues to influence his work, proving that he’s as skilled on a board as on-screen.

Harrison Ford – Rescue Pilot

Harrison Ford, famous for his roles in Indiana Jones and Star Wars , has a surprising talent for flying helicopters. Not only is he a licensed pilot, but he also rescued a lost hiker in Wyoming by piloting his helicopter to the scene.

Ford’s love for aviation has led him to volunteer for numerous rescue operations, proving that his heroism extends far beyond the screen.

Neil Patrick Harris – Magician Extraordinaire

Neil Patrick Harris is beloved for his roles in How I Met Your Mother and Doogie Howser, M.D. , but he’s also an accomplished magician.

Harris is a member of the prestigious Magic Castle in Los Angeles, where he has served as the board president. Harris often incorporates his magic skills into his performances and has hosted several magic-related events.

Ken Jeong – Medical Doctor Turned Actor

Ken Jeong is famous for his comedic roles in The Hangover and Community , but before he became an actor, Jeong was a licensed physician. Jeong earned his medical degree and worked as a doctor for several years before transitioning to acting full-time.

Even though he no longer practices medicine, Jeong’s medical background often influences his comedic roles, like playing Dr. Ken in the sitcom of the same name.

Christopher Lee – Heavy Metal Vocalist

Christopher Lee, best known for his roles in The Lord of the Rings and Star Wars , had a surprising second career as a heavy metal vocalist.

In his later years, Lee recorded several heavy metal albums, combining his deep, dramatic voice with the powerful sounds of metal music. His passion for music was lifelong, and he continued recording albums well into his 90s.

Lucy Liu – Visual Artist and Sculptor

Lucy Liu, known for her iconic roles in films like Kill Bill and Charlie’s Angels, is also an accomplished visual artist and sculptor. Under the pseudonym Yu Ling, she has showcased her striking and diverse artwork in galleries worldwide.

Liu’s art explores themes of identity and heritage, reflecting her own experiences. She’s pursued her passion for visual arts alongside her acting career, proving she’s just as skilled with a paintbrush as with a sword.

James Franco – Jack of All Trades

James Franco is known for acting in films like 127 Hours and Pineapple Express , but he’s also an accomplished writer, director, and teacher. Franco holds multiple degrees, including a master’s degree in creative writing, and he has published several books of poetry and short stories.

In addition to his literary work, Franco has directed films such as The Disaster Artist and Child of God and taught classes at universities like NYU and UCLA.

Viggo Mortensen – Multitalented Creator

Viggo Mortensen, best known as Aragorn in The Lord of the Rings , is not only an accomplished actor but also a poet, painter, and photographer.

Mortensen has published books of his poetry and photography, and his art has been displayed in galleries. Mortensen speaks several languages, including Danish and Spanish.

His wide-ranging artistic talents make him one of Hollywood’s most unique stars, able to express himself through various art forms.

Emma Watson – Activist and UN Ambassador

Emma Watson rose to fame as Hermione in the Harry Potter series, but her work off-screen is equally impressive. Watson is a dedicated activist and has served as a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador, advocating for gender equality and women’s rights through the “HeForShe” campaign.

Her work in promoting education and equality shows that she’s using her platform for positive change, making her much more than just a movie star.

Want to see how Emma Watson honored one of her greatest inspirations? Check out her heartfelt tribute .

Bruce Willis – Musician with a Love for Blues

Bruce Willis is known for his tough-guy roles in films like Die Hard but has a softer side as a musician.

He’s a talented blues harmonica player and has even released several albums featuring his music. Willis frequently performs live with his band, The Accelerators, and has been involved in music since the 1980s.

Want to know more about Bruce Willis’ family and his personal life? Check out how his daughter Tallulah has bravely shared her journey with autism .