Whether you’re captivated by the opulence of millionaires and billionaires or simply in awe of their accomplishments, it’s crucial not to overlook the driving forces behind their success. Spanning industries from technology to entertainment and beyond, the individuals showcased here have left an indelible mark on the world through their innovative thinking, exceptional intellect, and unwavering dedication.
Many of these luminaries hailed from humble beginnings, with some even experiencing severe poverty during their upbringing. Yet, they all defied the odds, transcending their circumstances to introduce groundbreaking ideas that reshaped our world. Curious about the journeys of the world’s wealthiest individuals before they reached the summit of success? Discover their compelling stories now.
Oprah Winfrey’s Journey to Iconic Television
First Job: Grocery store employee
Made First Million at: 32
Current Net Worth: $2.7 billion
Oprah Winfrey transformed a challenging upbringing in rural Mississippi into a trailblazing career in television. Demonstrating a remarkable gift for communication from a young age, she began her journey as a radio news presenter during her senior year of high school. Despite a full scholarship offer from Tennessee State University, Winfrey seized an opportunity to anchor for Nashville’s WLAC-TV, making history as the station’s first African American female anchor and its youngest hire.
Her local success paved the way for the iconic “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” a groundbreaking platform that fearlessly addressed societal taboos. This marked the inception of Winfrey’s expansive media empire, encompassing a magazine and television network.
Richard Branson
First Job: Christmas tree grower and seller
Made First Million at: 23
Current Net Worth: $4 billion
Richard Branson, born in London, embarked on a global journey driven by his keen intellect and entrepreneurial spirit, poised to extend beyond Earth’s boundaries with his space endeavors. His inaugural triumph materialized with the inception of Student magazine in 1968, where he pioneered discounted mail-order record sales in its advertising space. Subsequently, Branson established Virgin Records, catapulting artists such as the Rolling Stones to fame.
Spurred by a flight cancellation in 1981, he launched Virgin Atlantic Airlines, marking the genesis of an expansive Virgin brand spanning telecommunications, transportation, and space travel technology. His astute business acumen culminated in the near-$1.3 billion sale of Virgin Mobile in 2006, while recent ventures include the launch of a Virgin cruise line, hotel brand, and acquisition of the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas.
Will Smith
First Job: Hype man
Made First Million at: 20
Current Net Worth: $350 million*
Will Smith, a native of Philadelphia, initially displayed a keen aptitude for academics. Despite being accepted into a prestigious pre-engineering summer program at MIT, he opted to pursue a different path, driven by his passion for rap and acting. His journey took a significant turn in 1985 when he crossed paths with DJ Jazzy Jeff, igniting a lifelong friendship and professional partnership.
Stepping in as Jeff’s hype man during a performance near his home, Smith’s impromptu involvement laid the groundwork for their celebrated rap duo in the eighties. This collaboration ultimately paved the way for Smith’s transition into acting, culminating in his iconic role in The Fresh Prince.
Martha Stewart
First Job: Babysitter
Made First Million at: 24
Current Net Worth: $640 million
Martha Stewart transcends the role of a mere TV host, embodying a lifestyle phenomenon. Initially, she graced the catwalk as a Chanel model before amassing her first million as a stockbroker. A skilled caterer, Stewart’s prowess garnered notice when she orchestrated an event for her husband’s publishing venture, sparking the inception of numerous cookbooks, columns, and lifestyle features.
Her ascendancy soared with the debut of Martha Stewart Living magazine in 1990, coupled with her eponymous TV program in 1993. Recent years have witnessed Stewart’s literary output expanding, alongside her unconventional partnership with rapper Snoop Dogg on a culinary show.
Lady Gaga
First Job: Extra on The Sopranos
Made First Million at: 22
Current Net Worth: $275 million
Lady Gaga’s musical journey commenced at the tender age of four, honing her prodigious talent on the piano which flourished with time. At twenty, the native New Yorker found herself at Interscope Records, crafting tunes for luminaries like Britney Spears and New Kids on the Block. However, it was during a burlesque performance that R&B artist Akon unearthed her raw talent, catapulting her to superstardom.
Lady Gaga’s meteoric rise began with her debut album “The Fame” in 2008. Today, she continues to captivate audiences with her music, evolving style, and garnered critical acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination for her stellar performance in “A Star is Born” (2018).
Elton John
First Job: Pub Pianist
Made First Million at: 26
Current Net Worth: $540 million*
Elton John’s financial standing eclipses half a billion dollars, cementing his status as one of the wealthiest singer-songwriters in history. Born in England, his prolific collaboration with lyricist Bernie Taupin has yielded an impressive catalog of over thirty albums. With an astounding 300 million records sold worldwide, John’s musical influence knows no bounds.
Raised in a conservative household, he channeled his rebellion through extravagant stage personas and performances. At the tender age of fifteen, he embarked on his musical journey as a pub pianist under the moniker “Reggie,” captivating audiences at the Northwood Hills Hotel in England throughout Thursday to Sunday evenings.
Halle Berry
First Job: Salesgirl at Higbee’s children’s department store
Made First Million at: 26
Current Net Worth: $80 million*
Halle Berry, a native of Cleveland, Ohio, experienced early challenges as her father abandoned the family during her childhood, leaving behind memories of abuse. Raised by her mother alongside her sister, Berry demonstrated versatility and excellence throughout her high school years, excelling as a cheerleader, honors student, and even earning the title of prom queen.
Her professional journey commenced with a job in the children’s department of Higbee’s department store. Pursuing higher education at Cuyahoga Community College, Berry explored her passion for beauty pageants, culminating in notable achievements such as winning Miss Teen All American in 1985 and later becoming the runner-up in the Miss USA pageant in 1986 after being crowned Miss Ohio USA.
Peter Thiel
First Job: Clerk to an appeals court judge
Made First Million at: 29
Current Net Worth: $1.2 billion
Peter Thiel, originally from Germany, relocated to California with his family at the age of twelve. Following his education at Stanford Law School, he initially pursued a career as a law clerk before transitioning to securities trading. In 1998, Thiel co-founded the groundbreaking digital payment platform PayPal, which achieved remarkable success.
Following PayPal’s acquisition by eBay for $1.5 billion in 2002, Thiel established Clarium Capital and emerged as one of the pioneering investors in Facebook in 2004. Since then, his venture capital firm Founders Fund has continued to thrive, making early investments in prominent companies such as Airbnb, LinkedIn, Spotify, and Yelp.
Sylvester Stallone
First Job: Low-budget movie extra
Made First Million at: 30
Current Net Worth: $500 million*
Sylvester Stallone, born in Philadelphia, faced adversity from the outset due to complications during his birth, resulting in partial paralysis in his face. This condition would later contribute to his distinctive voice and iconic snarling appearance. Relocating to Washington D.C. in the early fifties, Stallone pursued higher education, attending college before furthering his studies in film school in Switzerland.
Despite his aspirations, Stallone encountered challenges in kickstarting his acting career. Struggling to make ends meet, he took on his first paying role in the film “The Party at Kitty and Stud’s,” a decision motivated by the need for rent money following his eviction.
Elon Musk
First Job: Farmhand
Made First Million at: 27
Current Net Worth: $43.2 billion
Growing up in South Africa, Elon Musk faced considerable challenges, enduring bullying during his school years. At the age of 17, he made the bold decision to leave his homeland and pursue studies in Canada. After a brief stint as a farm laborer, Musk pursued degrees in economics and physics.
His entrepreneurial journey commenced with the creation of a travel guide software company alongside his brother. Following the sale of this venture, Musk utilized his proceeds to launch the online bank X.com in 1999, which later merged with PayPal. Musk’s visionary pursuits extended to Tesla, a pioneering force in electric vehicles, batteries, and solar technology.
Celine Dion
First Job: Teen singer and songwriter
Made First Million at: 23
Current Net Worth: $800 million
Celine Dion, hailing from Quebec, Canada, was the youngest among 14 siblings in a musically inclined family. With the support of her mother and brother, she sent her first song to music producer René Angélil, who recognized the prodigious talent of the 14-year-old and shaped her into a successful teen pop sensation. Mastering English, she achieved international acclaim with her 1991 English-language album.
However, her crowning achievement came with the 1997 release of “My Heart Will Go On,” the iconic theme from Titanic, which earned her an Academy Award. While she once held a residency in Las Vegas, Dion now focuses on touring and releasing new albums.
Jeff Bezos
First Job: McDonald’s line cook
Made First Million at: 33
Current Net Worth: $127.7 billion
With the unprecedented success of Amazon, Jeff Bezos solidifies his position as one of the wealthiest individuals in history, boasting the distinction of being the first person to amass a personal fortune exceeding $100 billion. Trained as an electrical engineer and computer scientist, Bezos commenced his career on Wall Street before venturing into entrepreneurship with the founding of Amazon in 1994, initially as an online bookstore.
By 1998, Amazon’s valuation surpassed $1 billion, with Bezos holding a substantial 40% stake. As Amazon diversified its offerings, earning the moniker “The Everything Store,” Bezos’s wealth surged. Additionally, he spearheads Blue Origin, a pioneering aerospace and space travel enterprise.
Jack Nicholson
First Job: Hanna-Barbera animator
Made First Million at: 40
Current Net Worth: $400 million*
Jack Nicholson, raised in New Jersey, took an unconventional path in his early years. Opting to join the National Guard to avoid the Korean War draft, he openly acknowledged this decision. Stationed in California, he served as a firefighter before being called into active duty during the Berlin Crisis, ultimately discharged in 1962.
Nicholson’s journey to Hollywood began prior to his military service, initially intending to visit with his sister. Unexpectedly, he secured a job as an animator at Hanna-Barbera Studios. Upon his return from military service, Nicholson ventured into screenwriting, penning the screenplay for “The Trip.”
Ralph Lauren
First Job: Soldier in the US Military
Made First Million at: 30
Current Net Worth: $8.2 billion
Ralph Lauren, the quintessential American designer, revolutionized the fashion landscape with his casual luxury aesthetic, adorning first ladies, Olympic athletes, and countless individuals worldwide. Raised in the Bronx, Lauren’s journey saw him drop out of college and serve in the military for two years.
His foray into fashion commenced with selling ties for Brooks Brothers, eventually leading to the creation of his own line of European-inspired ties. The Polo brand soared to prominence, propelled by the timeless appeal of its iconic short-sleeve polo shirt. Though relinquishing his CEO role at Ralph Lauren in 2015, Lauren remains an integral part of its board, ensuring his enduring legacy.
Mark Zuckerberg
First Job: Designing a music recommendation app
Made First Million at: 22
Current Net Worth: $68.2 billion
Mark Zuckerberg, a prodigious computer talent since childhood, gained recognition during his teenage years for creating Synapse, a music player that adapted to users’ listening preferences. Despite lucrative offers from AOL and Microsoft to purchase the app and offer him employment, Zuckerberg declined. While studying at Harvard, he developed numerous free applications, but his crowning achievement came with the inception of Facebook in 2004.
The platform’s rapid ascent to popularity prompted 18-year-old Zuckerberg to establish the first Facebook office within months of its launch. Just three years later, he became the youngest self-made billionaire globally, solidifying his status as a visionary in the tech realm.
Bill Gates
First Job: Computer programmer
Made First Million at: 26
Current Net Worth: $112.8 billion
Bill Gates, a true trailblazer in the realm of computing, developed a passion for technology during his upbringing in Seattle, WA, amidst the nascent era of computers. After leaving Harvard, he founded Microsoft in 1975, spearheading the democratization of personal computing through innovative technology and user-friendly software.
Achieving billionaire status by the late ’80s, Gates continues to play a pivotal role at Microsoft, albeit stepping back from day-to-day operations in 2008. Alongside his wife, he dedicates substantial time to philanthropy, notably through the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, focusing on initiatives aimed at global health, education, and poverty alleviation.
Sarah Jessica Parker
First Job: Child actress
Made First Million at: 33
Current Net Worth: $150 million*
Sarah Jessica Parker’s journey in the spotlight began with early training in singing, acting, and ballet, setting the stage for her illustrious career. Raised by a mother who was a nursery school teacher and a father who worked as a journalist, Parker’s upbringing in a supportive environment fostered her artistic aspirations.
Making her Broadway debut in William Archibald’s The Innocents, she exhibited remarkable talent from a young age. Relocating to New York City to pursue intensive acting training, Parker’s dedication bore fruit as she achieved significant success as a child actress, laying the foundation for her future stardom as a multifaceted performer.
Gisele Bündchen
First Job: Amateur Model
Made First Million at: 20
Current Net Worth: $250 million*
Gisele Bundchen, hailed as one of the globe’s foremost supermodels, hails from Brazil, where her mother worked as a bank clerk and her father as a sociologist. Growing up alongside a twin sister and three additional siblings, Bundchen initially ventured into modeling to address her posture issues, alongside her sisters.
Her career trajectory shifted when she was scouted by Elite Model Management during her teenage years. Initially embarking on amateur modeling gigs, Bundchen faced numerous auditions, securing only a handful of roles. However, her breakthrough arrived in 2000 when she graced the covers of an astounding 37 editions of Vogue magazine.
Ed Sheeran
First Job: Songwriter
Made First Million at: 20
Current Net Worth: $160 million*
Ed Sheeran’s musical journey commenced at the tender age of four when he joined the choir at his local church, laying the foundation for his future as a performer. While attending Rishworth School, he delved deeper into music by learning to play the guitar, showcasing his natural aptitude for the art form.
Recognized as a “natural performer” by his school report and voted “most likely to be famous” by classmates, Sheeran’s talent led him to the esteemed National Youth Theatre in London during his teenage years, followed by a membership with Youth Music Theatre UK. In 2009, he marked a significant milestone with the release of his first major single, heralding the beginning of his meteoric rise to stardom.
Robert Downey Jr.
First Job: Child actor
Made First Million at: 30
Current Net Worth: $300 million*
Renowned actor Robert Downey Jr. embarked on his acting journey at the tender age of five, securing a role in his father’s film, “Pound.” Rising to fame as a member of The Brat Pack, Downey Jr. encountered challenges due to substance abuse, which intermittently affected his career trajectory.
However, with the support of fellow actor Mel Gibson, who covered his insurance costs, Downey Jr. successfully overcame his struggles with addiction in 2003. Since then, he has remained committed to sobriety, cementing his status as one of the world’s most beloved and respected actors.
Biz Stone
First Job: Designer at Little, Brown and Co publishing house
Made First Million at: 35
Current Net Worth: $250 million
Biz Stone’s journey to multimillionaire status finds its roots in his association with the social media behemoth Twitter. Prior to his Twitter stint, from 1999 to 2001, Stone served as the creative director for the blog platform Xanga. Subsequently, in 2003, he transitioned to become part of the Blogger team at Google. Drawing from his extensive experience with blogs, Stone played a pivotal role in shaping the micro-blogging model that propelled Twitter to unprecedented success.
Notably, he holds the patent for Twitter alongside co-founder Jack Dorsey. Additionally, Stone is the visionary behind the online publishing platform Medium.com. Amidst his myriad achievements, Stone remains an integral part of Twitter’s ongoing evolution, catering to its vast user base numbering in the hundreds of millions.
Warren Buffett
First Job: Paper boy
Made First Million at: 30
Current Net Worth: $90.2 billion
Growing up in Omaha, NE as the son of a congressman, Warren Buffett exhibited an early fascination with business and finance. Throughout high school, he embarked on numerous entrepreneurial ventures with friends, amassing nearly $10,000 in savings by the time he graduated from Columbia Business School in 1951.
Buffett achieved monumental success with the acquisition of a textile manufacturer, Berkshire Hathaway, in 1961. Guided by his astute leadership, the company diversified its portfolio by acquiring stakes in promising enterprises. Today, Berkshire Hathaway boasts ownership of renowned brands including GEICO, Duracell, and Fruit of the Loom, solidifying Buffett’s legacy as a titan of industry.
Jerry Seinfeld
First Job: Stand-up comedian
Made First Million at: 35
Current Net Worth: $950 million*
Jerry Seinfeld’s foray into stand-up comedy was sparked by his early comedic ventures during college shows. While attending Queens College in New York City, he honed his craft by performing at Budd Friedman’s Improv Club during open-mic nights. Seinfeld’s talent caught the attention of comedy legend Rodney Dangerfield after he impressed audiences at Catch a Rising Star, leading to an appearance on Dangerfield’s HBO special.
Subsequently, Seinfeld landed a minor role on the sitcom Benson, laying the groundwork for his eventual creation and pitch of the iconic television series Seinfeld, which would catapult him to widespread fame and acclaim.
Tom Hanks
First Job: Stage manager at a theater
Made First Million at: 35
Current Net Worth: $390 million*
Tom Hanks boasts an impressive box office record, with his films grossing nearly $10 billion worldwide, securing him the fifth spot among the highest-grossing actors in North America. Hanks rose to prominence in the mid-eighties with breakout roles in comedies like Splash and Big. However, his journey to stardom had humble beginnings.
Overcoming childhood shyness, Hanks discovered a passion for theater, attending plays in secret. His immersion in the world of theater deepened with an internship at the Great Lakes Theater Festival in Ohio, where he gained invaluable experience in production and stage management. In 1979, Hanks took his first steps onto the stage, setting the course for his illustrious career.
Jack Ma
First Job: English Professor
Made First Million at: 33
Current Net Worth: $42.3 billion*
Jack Ma’s journey to becoming a billionaire was marked by initial setbacks and challenges. After working as an English lecturer and facing rejection from numerous job applications, including one at KFC, he delved into the world of the internet in 1994, despite not owning a computer until the age of 33. Alongside his friends, he began building websites on a shared computer, eventually founding their own company in 1995.
Despite humble beginnings, their perseverance paid off, with the company generating $800,000 in revenue within three years of its inception. This marked the beginning of Jack Ma’s remarkable entrepreneurial success story.
Harrison Ford
First Job: Camp counselor
Made First Million at: 40
Current Net Worth: $230 million*
Harrison Ford’s roots in Chicago and his active participation in the Boy Scouts shaped his character and career trajectory. Achieving the esteemed rank of Life Scout, he demonstrated leadership and dedication early on. Ford’s experience as a camp counselor at Napowan Adventure Base Camp not only provided him with valuable skills but also served as his inaugural job, laying the foundation for his future endeavors.
This background played a pivotal role in the depiction of the adventurous Indiana Jones as a Life Scout in his cinematic exploits with Spielberg. Ford’s journey into acting was a fortunate accident, as he initially pursued drama in college to overcome shyness, eventually discovering his natural talent and passion for the craft.
Steve Jobs
First Job: Vagabond
Made First Million at: 21
Current Net Worth: $10.2 billion*
While Steve Jobs is renowned for his role in founding Apple, his journey to success was marked by a tumultuous past. Born and raised in California after being adopted, Jobs’ unconventional path led him to attend and ultimately leave Reed College to embark on a transformative journey through India in the mid-seventies.
During his time at Reed, he experimented with LSD and marijuana, later acknowledging the profound impact of these experiences. Upon his return from India, Jobs, alongside co-founder Steve Wozniak, established Apple in a humble garage, laying the groundwork for what would become a tech giant.
Dwayne Johnson
First Job: Linebacker in the Canadian Football League
Made First Million at: 26
Current Net Worth: $165 million
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, now celebrated as one of Hollywood’s highest-paid actors, faced financial hardships in his formative years. Born into a family of professional wrestlers, including his father and grandfather, the Johnsons struggled with poverty. Following their eviction from a meager apartment, Dwayne turned to weightlifting during his teens, earning a full-ride scholarship to the University of Miami for football.
Despite NFL aspirations, injuries thwarted his dreams, leaving him with only $7. Reluctantly, he entered the world of professional wrestling, ultimately becoming one of its most accomplished figures. Transitioning to acting, Johnson’s success soared, solidifying his status as a Hollywood heavyweight.
Leonardo DiCaprio
First Job: Toy commercial child actor
Made First Million at: 21
Current Net Worth: $260 million
Leonardo DiCaprio, a native of California, has graced the screen for nearly four decades, amassing critical acclaim and accolades. From his early beginnings in toy commercials, he swiftly transitioned to television and then to the silver screen. By the age of 19, he garnered his first Academy Award nomination, capturing hearts worldwide with his portrayal of Jack Dawson in the 1997 epic Titanic.
Alongside his iconic roles in acclaimed films like Catch Me If You Can and The Wolf of Wall Street, DiCaprio is also a prominent advocate for environmental causes, championing initiatives through his charitable organization, the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation.
Mark Cuban
First Job: Selling garbage bags door to door
Made First Million at: 30
Current Net Worth: $4.1 billion
Mark Cuban, renowned for his entrepreneurial prowess, demonstrated business acumen from a young age, peddling garbage bags door-to-door during his childhood to afford basketball shoes. Throughout college, he cultivated numerous ventures, including a thriving student bar. His inaugural post-college enterprise garnered a $6 million sale, propelling him into the realm of success.
Cuban’s subsequent endeavor, Broadcast.com, pioneered internet radio and was acquired by Yahoo! for a staggering $5.7 billion in 1999. Utilizing a portion of the proceeds, he acquired the Dallas Mavericks basketball team. Cementing his reputation as a savvy investor, Cuban’s prominence soared further with his involvement in the reality TV show Shark Tank.
Jack Dorsey
First Job: Programmer at a bike messenger dispatching company
Made First Million at: 30
Current Net Worth: $5.2 billion
Jack Dorsey’s fascination with emergency dispatch systems sparked the genesis of Twitter. Hailing from St. Louis, Missouri, his career trajectory commenced with a job at a bike messenger dispatch company, facilitated by his adept hacking skills. The concept of merging messenger and live blogging functionalities evolved into Twitter.
Despite encountering numerous setbacks, including job rejections, Dorsey persevered, securing a role as a low-level coder at podcast startup Odeo. It was here that he co-founded Twitter alongside Odeo’s CEO. Dorsey’s entrepreneurial acumen extended to the creation of mobile payment company Square, further solidifying his status as a visionary tech innovator.
Floyd Mayweather Jr.
First Job: Amateur Boxer
Made First Million at: 21
Current Net Worth: $560 million*
Floyd Mayweather Jr. boasts an unparalleled professional boxing record, having won all fifty of his fights and amassed an astonishing $1.67 billion in revenue throughout his career. Although he suffered a single loss as an amateur boxer at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, his dominance in the professional arena is unmatched.
In contrast, amateur boxers typically earn modest incomes of $25,000 to $30,000 in their first year. Mayweather Jr. faced significant adversity in his upbringing, raised by his grandmother while his father grappled with incarceration. Despite these challenges, he ascended to become the world’s most renowned and highest-paid athlete.
Kylie Jenner
First Job: Reality tv star
Made First Million at: 16
Current Net Worth: $1 billion
Growing up in the limelight through the reality show Keeping Up With the Kardashians, Kylie Jenner’s early exposure to fame paved the path for her foray into the fashion world. At just 14, she embarked on a fashion journey alongside her sister Kendall, launching a clothing line. Leveraging her status as a burgeoning fashion influencer on Instagram, Jenner capitalized on her renowned pout to establish Kylie Cosmetics, a successful makeup company.
Her ventures expanded with the reality series Life of Kylie. Remarkably, at the age of 21, Forbes magazine crowned her the world’s youngest billionaire in 2019, solidifying her status as a business magnate.
Michael Jordan
First Job: NBA athlete
Made First Million at: 21
Current Net Worth: $2.1 billion*
Michael Jordan, originally from Brooklyn, relocated to North Carolina with his family during early childhood. Despite facing setbacks, such as being cut from his varsity basketball team in high school due to his perceived height deficiency, Jordan’s determination and resilience shone through. Excelling on the junior varsity team, he consistently scored forty points per game, capturing the attention of his coaches.
Jordan’s prowess on the court propelled him to stardom in high school and college before embarking on a legendary NBA career. Building upon his athletic success, he later established the billion-dollar Jordan brand, solidifying his status as a sports and business icon.
Dr. Dre
First Job: Nightclub DJ
Made First Million at: 21
Current Net Worth: $800 million*
Dr. Dre stands as one of the wealthiest musicians and producers globally, with a net worth rivaling only Jay-Z and P. Diddy in his domain. Born in Compton, California, Dre attended Fremont High School, where he initially aspired to pursue an aviation internship.
However, due to inadequate grades, he shifted his focus to music. In his late teens, Dre frequented a club called Eve After Dark, where he secured a DJ position using the alias “Dr. J,” inspired by his admiration for basketball legend Julius Erving. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of Dre’s illustrious music career.
Paul McCartney
First Job: Quarrymen member
Made First Million at: 18
Current Net Worth: $1.2 billion*
Before his meteoric rise with The Beatles, Paul McCartney led a modest existence. At eleven, he impressed in a choir audition, encouraged by his father’s support. Initially drawn to the trumpet, McCartney’s musical direction shifted upon discovering rock and roll on Radio Luxembourg, prompting a switch to the guitar.
Founding The Quarrymen at fifteen, he collaborated with John Lennon, eventually welcoming George Harrison into the fold. As The Quarrymen evolved into The Beatles, McCartney and his bandmates achieved global acclaim, ascending to billionaire status through their unparalleled musical legacy and cultural impact.
David Copperfield
First Job: Pagoda Hotel magician
Made First Million at: 40
Current Net Worth: $1 billion*
David Copperfield’s illustrious magic career has amassed a staggering total gross exceeding $4 billion, surpassing all other solo entertainers in showbiz history. Delving into magic at the tender age of ten, he adopted the moniker “Davino the Boy Magician.”
By twelve, he gained entry into the esteemed Society of American Magicians. Initially viewing magic as a means of social integration, Copperfield later recognized its allure as a pathway to romantic encounters. He attributes his early fascination with magic and performance to his formative experiences at Camp Harmony, igniting a lifelong passion for enchantment and captivating audiences worldwide.
Nicolas Cage
First Job: Stage Actor
Made First Million at: 20
Current Net Worth: $25 million*
Nicolas Cage, hailing from a lineage of cinematic royalty as the nephew of celebrated director Francis Ford Coppola, nursed aspirations of a career in acting from his teenage years. At fifteen, he sought an audition with his uncle, only to be met with a resounding silence. To circumvent any perception of favoritism, Cage assumed a new identity and embarked on a journey in the theater, making his stage debut in a production of Golden Boy.
Venturing into the realm of cinema, his inaugural role came in 1982’s Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Persistence paid off when he garnered widespread acclaim for his performance in Moonstruck opposite Cher, propelling him to the ranks of the highest-grossing box office stars in modern cinema.
Jay-Z
First Job: Shady dealings
Made First Million at: 26
Current Net Worth: $1 billion*
Billionaire mogul Jay-Z, hailing from New York City, transitioned to Trenton Central High School in New Jersey following his family’s relocation. His early affinity for rhythm saw him tapping out drum patterns on the kitchen table, prompting his mother to gift him a boom box, igniting his passion for lyricism and freestyling.
Jay-Z’s journey saw him encounter legal entanglements, with his inaugural “job” falling outside conventional norms. Despite its illicit nature, he attributed the experience to honing budgeting and entrepreneurial skills. In 1995, Jay-Z defied industry odds with the independent release of his seminal album, Reasonable Doubt, marking the inception of his storied career.
George Lucas
First Job: Stationary store employee
Made First Million at: 33
Current Net Worth: $6.1 billion*
George Lucas, the billionaire visionary behind Star Wars, was raised in California, where his family attended the inaugural opening of Disneyland in 1955, sparking Lucas’ enduring fascination with Disney. Initially harboring dreams of becoming a racecar driver, Lucas immersed himself in high school, frequenting the underground racing circuit and car shops.
While briefly employed at his father’s stationary store upon reaching eighteen, Lucas harbored grander ambitions, expressing his aspiration to become a “millionaire businessman.” This drive and ambition laid the foundation for his legendary career, culminating in the creation of the iconic Star Wars franchise and its eventual acquisition by Disney.
George Clooney
First Job: Women’s shoe seller
Made First Million at: 31
Current Net Worth: $500 million*
George Clooney, originally from Kentucky, relocated to Ohio during his childhood. Stricken with Bell’s Palsy at a young age, he endured nine months of partial facial paralysis, subjecting him to bullying. Clooney coped by employing self-deprecating humor, a trait that would later serve him well in the limelight. Reflecting on this experience, he developed resilience and a thick skin, unswayed by public scrutiny.
Prior to his acting career, Clooney held various jobs, including selling shoes and insurance, working in construction, and cutting tobacco. These diverse experiences shaped him into the multifaceted and enduring talent he is known as today.
Steven Spielberg
First Job: Editor at Universal Studios
Made First Million at: 29
Current Net Worth: $3.7 billion*
Growing up in an Orthodox Jewish family, Steven Spielberg endured bullying during his formative years. Joining the Boy Scouts in 1958, he discovered his passion for filmmaking, a love that would shape his future endeavors. Spielberg’s early cinematic endeavors included creating a nine-minute short film titled The Gunfight to fulfill a Boy Scout photography merit badge requirement.
His creative pursuits continued, and at thirteen, he earned recognition for Escape to Nowhere, a short war film crafted with friends. Spielberg’s professional journey commenced in the 1970s, as he embarked on his first professional job at the age of just 21, marking the onset of his legendary career.
James Patterson
First Job: Advertising executive
Made First Million at: 49
Current Net Worth: $560 million*
Over the past decade, James Patterson has amassed a staggering $700 million income from his literary works, consistently earning a spot on Forbes’ list of highest-paid authors. Prior to his illustrious writing career, Patterson pursued a Ph.D. at Vanderbilt University and later transitioned to become an advertising executive at J. Walter Thompson.
Upon retiring from the advertising industry in 1996, he redirected his focus to writing, utilizing his savings to dedicate himself entirely to the craft. Patterson introduced his iconic character, Alex Cross, in the late seventies, subsequently penning a remarkable 147 novels, with an impressive 114 of them achieving best-seller status.
Brad Pitt
First Job: Worker at El Pollo Loco
Made First Million at: 26
Current Net Worth: $300 million*
During high school, Brad Pitt demonstrated a diverse range of interests, excelling in athletics with golf, swimming, and tennis, while also participating in debate, musicals, and the Key and Forensics club. Enrolling at UMiss with a focus on advertising, Pitt’s passion for movies as gateways to alternate realities remained unwavering.
Opting to forgo his college graduation, he ventured into acting, relocating to LA to pursue his dreams. Amidst odd jobs, Pitt embarked on his acting career, securing early roles in films such as Less Than Zero, No Man’s Land, and No Way Out, laying the groundwork for his illustrious Hollywood journey.
Howard Schultz
First Job: Door-to-door salesman for Xerox
Made First Million at: 33
Current Net Worth: $4.4 billion
Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, Howard Schultz witnessed firsthand the challenges his parents faced in low-paying jobs while living in public housing. Determined to break free from this cycle, Schultz became the first in his family to pursue a college education, supporting himself throughout his studies. During his tenure at a houseware company, a visit to Seattle introduced him to Starbucks, sparking inspiration.
Influenced by their dedication to fine coffee and a transformative trip to Italy, Schultz envisioned bringing the concept of Italian espresso bars to America. Despite initial skepticism, his vision propelled Starbucks to become the world’s foremost coffee chain, defying all odds.
Francois Pinault
First Job: Timber trader
Made First Million at: 43
Current Net Worth: $33.3 billion*
Billionaire François Pinault spent his formative years in Les Champs Geraux, a rural commune in western France, where his father operated a timber trading business. Joining his father’s company, Pinault’s initial foray into the workforce commenced in the timber industry. However, experiencing bullying due to his family’s financial circumstances, he departed school at sixteen.
Pinault enlisted in the military, serving during the Algerian War from a young age. Upon his return, he resumed his role in the family business, ultimately selling it following his father’s passing. This marked the inception of Pinault’s illustrious journey, paving the way for his emergence as a multibillion-dollar entrepreneur.
Jami Gertz
First Job: Lanvin scent designer
Made First Million at: 31
Current Net Worth: $3 billion*
Born in Chicago, actress Jami Gertz hailed from a family background in construction, with her father being a builder and contractor. Gertz’s talents came to the fore during a nationwide talent search hosted by Norman Lear. Prior to her breakthrough role, she featured in various productions as a child, including Diff’rent Strokes, Endless Love, The Facts of Life, Square Pegs, and Less Than Zero.
Venturing into scent design for Lanvin, Gertz later returned to acting, securing the pivotal role in the 1996 hit Twister, catapulting her to fame. Notably, she turned down the role of Rachel in Friends despite the offer.
Larry Ellison
First Job: Ampex employee
Made First Million at: 35
Current Net Worth: $59.2 billion*
Raised by adoptive parents in New York, Larry Ellison’s upbringing was characterized by contrasting parental dynamics: while his mother was described as warm and loving, his father maintained a distant and austere demeanor. Initially, Ellison’s father amassed wealth in Chicago real estate, only to lose it during the Great Depression.
Pursuing higher education at the University of Illinois, Ellison’s academic path was disrupted by personal tragedy following his mother’s passing, prompting his departure after the second year. Subsequently, he ventured into the tech industry, initially working at Ampex before founding Oracle in the seventies. Oracle’s monumental success revolutionized the IBM and computer operating landscape, propelling Ellison to billionaire status.
Madonna
First Job: Backup dancer
Made First Million at: 25
Current Net Worth: $800 million*
Born in Michigan to Italian immigrants from Pacentro, Italy, Madonna, initially dubbed “Little Nonni” after her mother, exhibited early signs of rebelliousness during her teenage years while concurrently nurturing a burgeoning musical talent. Engaging in ballet and piano studies, Madonna briefly attended college before departing in 1978 to embark on a tour with a modern dance troupe.
Relocating to New York City with meager finances, she supported herself by working as a backup dancer until securing a record deal in the eighties, marking the inception of her trailblazing musical career.
P Diddy
First Job: Record label intern
Made First Million at: 28
Current Net Worth: $825 million*
Born in Harlem, P. Diddy’s upbringing was marked by his mother’s modeling career and his father’s involvement in the Air Force, the latter experiencing legal troubles due to his association with notorious New York City drug dealer Frank Lucas. Tragically, Diddy’s father met his demise in a car incident when the future rapper and business mogul was just two years old.
Educated at a Catholic high school where he excelled in football, Diddy later pursued business studies at Howard University before dropping out. His professional journey commenced with an internship at Uptown Records, setting the stage for his illustrious career.
