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7 Celebrity Success Stories: How These Hollywood Stars Became Famous

7 Celebrity Success Stories: How These Hollywood Stars Became Famous

I want to write something different. Aren’t you tired of reading the same stories on the Internet? Where is the originality today? I believe blogging is an art. No one discusses how to survive as a blogger. But, I’m an artist, surviving.

Before I begin this post, thank you for reading. I appreciate your support anyway you can. Every subscription, follow, like, share, and comment counts.

Let’s begin!

So, the algorithms have taken over the world. I know you’ve heard about so-called software replacing real human work. How do you feel about this? Robots are even making lists reserved for humans to make. For example, it made a list of the 10 greatest basketball players. The question is are its opinions credible?

What are your thoughts about Artificial intelligence (A.I.)?

I want you to know I’m not a robot. This list I’m about to give is unique. I chose seven celebrity success stories from my brain and heart. Take that Recaptcha! 

    • Steven Spielberg
    • Stephen King
    • Jim Carrey
    • Beyoncé
    • Lady Gaga
    • Jennifer Lopez
    • Denzel Washington
Steven Spielberg Photo By: Gage Skidmore

First, you need direction to succeed in life. If you don’t have a director are you really an actor? Do you know how much responsibility falls on the shoulders of a director? One must hire all the cast and crew then manage fragile egos and maneuver through all sorts of hurdles. 

When it comes to directors, Academy Award winning Steven Spielberg is one of Hollywood’s biggest names. One might say it doesn’t get any bigger than him but those are fighting words. Still, He’s as rich and famous as they come. Forbes reports his net worth at $4 billion.

But why do I call Steven Spielberg a celebrity success story? Because the University of Southern California film school rejected him three times, and he still kept trying to make films. It goes to show you what tenacity can do. Despite difficulties, he made his way into Hollywood’s ethereal gates and that wasn’t easy. Based loosely on a true story, The Fabelmans are nominated for seven Oscars. You’d bet Spielberg will win something for The Fabelmans.

Stephen King Photo By: Pinguino Kolb

New York Times best selling novelist Stephen King is second on my list of celebrity success stories because he can write directions down better than anybody if needed with few exceptions. The horror genre novelist also dabbles in screenwriting. King became rich and famous despite difficulties. How many times do you think his debut novel got rejected before finding a publisher? The name of the game is to never give up. But, it’s not easy to keep going when it feels like you’re living in hell and suffocating.

Jim Carrey Photo By: Ian Smith

Third, Jim Carrey is another celebrity with a success story. Coming from a working class Canadian family to Hollywood was an uneventful trip. Early on in his career, few gave him a chance. When the so-called tastemakers doubt you, keep working hard at your craft it pisses off the right people. Carrey worked hard and he made his own atomic bomb and became the Einstein of comedy. 

Beyoncé Photo By: Sassy

Fourth, there’s Beyoncé. One thing people like about her is that she generates buzz and has the money to go along with the honey. Some call her Queen Bey, the ruler of the Beyhive. She became successful by doing the little things right. A whole bunch of small things add up to big ones. Like the next person on my list, she’s rich and famous because of her work ethic. 

After winning three Grammys this year and setting an all time record, she’ll go on tour and perform new music from the 2022 Summer Renaissance album. Dare I say Beyoncé is one of the best to ever do it. Check out the 2023 Grammys Watch and Recap for more. So, why is she a success story in my book? Because of her extremely successful solo career after leaving Destiny’s Child, she’s a success story. 

Lady Gaga Photo By: themollusk

Next on the list is Lady Gaga. Let’s not get it twisted. Gaga did not become rich and famous overnight. She worked hard to prove she belonged in show business. Looking at her work, you can see she made some tough choices. But, she was born to be a star. That’s why I wasn’t surprised Gaga’s duet with Bradley Cooper in A Star Is Born won an Academy Award. 

Many fans are thrilled to see her star alongside Joaquin Phoenix in the Joker 2 movie. I believe her acting skills are underrated and she’s shown why she’s a creme de la creme entertainer. I included her as a celebrity success story because her record label dropped her when she was 19 years-old, yet she didn’t quit trying to sing. 

Jennifer Lopez Photo By: Salvatore Delle Femmine

Sixth, when it comes to work ethic, Jennifer Lopez may work harder than anybody else in Hollywood. She has humble beginnings like Jim Carrey. They’re both connected to In Living Color. JLo, Jenny from the Block, however you like to acknowledge her deserves the accolades. Before we had A.I. making decisions, sending text messages, controlling relationships, JLo’s body language communicated with the world on the silver screen and stage. I can remember watching movies like The Cell, Money Train (although before my time), and Selena and being mesmerized. 

Denzel Washington Photo By: MTV UK

Finally, you need an actor who can end the script or blog post. Denzel Washington delivers amazing performances and will close out the blog post. Like Alonzo in Training Day: “King Kong ain’t got nothing on him.”  In all seriousness, Washington is the seventh celebrity success story because despite difficulties the director/actor succeeded in life as a husband, father, and man. He became rich and famous and many owe their careers to him. What is more, he stands for something bigger than himself.

Conclusion

I believe people must stand against Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) being used as a means of labor force exploitation before this thing gets out of hand. I feel it’s doing way more harm than good. Ask yourself what does OpenA.I. feel when it replaces you and/or your loved one’s job/career? Who knows what this so-called technology is really capable of doing? And who cares?

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Do You Want Austin Butler in “Elvis” to Win the Best Actor at 2023 Oscars?

Do You Want Austin Butler to Win the Best Actor?

Do you want Austin Butler’s performance in “Elvis” to win Best Actor at the 2023 Oscars?

There are Elvis impersonators. Then, there is Austin Butler as Elvis. Tell me you’ve seen his Oscar nominated performance. The question is do you want him to win Best Actor in a Leading Role?

I grew up during a time when Elvis was more famous than dead or alive presidents. His name was money. And we all know cash is king. Well, he’s called the King of Rock & Roll because his hard work paid dividends like Coca-Cola. 

A Bright Future

Now, here we have Austin Butler, a 31-year-old movie star who’s shining bright as ever. That’s right he’s the man you see on the screen portraying the larger-than-life figure, the legend Elvis himself. Maybe, you’re asking where he came from. Or maybe you’re seizing the time and appreciating the moment.

..HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 22: Austin Butler attends the Sony Pictures’ “Once Upon A Time…In Hollywood” Los Angeles Premiere on July 22, 2019 in Hollywood, California.(Photo by Glenn Francis/Pacific Pro Digital)

If you want to know more about the actor’s background, you can check out his Wikipedia page. For the most part, the information is accurate and reputable. I’m discussing where this celebrity is going.

A Meeting With Tom Cruise

Does he fly in private jets yet? Have you seen photos and videos of him with Tom Cruise at the Oscars nominees’ luncheon? By the looks of it, Cruise is passing the torch to the young Hollywood star. Let’s propose a toast to Austin Butler. Welcome to the good life.

Something tells me this is only the beginning. Don’t be surprised if Cruise and Butler star in a movie or two together. Nowadays, Hollywood works fast and there’s room for everybody at the table.

It seems everybody wants to play the role of Elvis Presley, but Austin Butler put the hard work in and delivered an Academy Award winning performance. What more does the actor have to do to prove he’s the best?

And Tom Hanks

Fun fact: Tom Hanks plays a supporting role in the Elvis movie. End of discussion, because if Hanks is in the film it’s got to be top notch. The only thing is the young actor is up against some serious competition. Brendan Fraser in “The Whale” is generating a lot of buzz.

Not to take away from Fraser, but Butler became Elvis and took over the screen. In theaters or at home, you could see and hear an Elvis clone. He looked and sounded like the real deal. All around, it is a great movie and Austin Butler’s performance is part of the reason why.

Playing the most famous man on planet Earth and living up to expectations at the same time requires something greater than talent and dedication. Although not a superhero yet, he’s one of Hollywood’s best actors right now. Could you imagine him in a film with Michael B. Jordan?

In addition, the actor went on record about his good friendship with Selena Gomez. Did you see him on the cover of Vanity Fair? Better yet, have you read the story? It’s interesting to put together the connections.

The movie business is full of talent and the man playing Elvis is center stage. It looks like the movie star has a very bright future. If he takes home the Oscar for Best Actor, it’s a wrap.

The Golden Globes are done. The Grammys are done. The Oscars are almost done. Are you watching? 

It is all coming full circle. Jimmy Kimmel’s schedule to host. I am looking forward to watching the live event.

What are your thoughts? Have you watched the Elvis movie? Do you want Austin Butler to win Best Actor?

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Marvel’s Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania Countdown

Marvel’s Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania Countdown

Expect Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania to be the highest grossing movie in February. Coming only in theaters Friday February 17, the Marvel Studios film release is something to mark down on your calendars. Let’s begin the countdown.

3 days away, the moment has almost arrived. Starring Paul Rudd as Ant-Man and Evangeline Lilly as the Wasp, the Marvel movie may have a good March and April too. 

Do you like Marvel movies? They’re known for mega budgets and special effects.  Also, the actors are the best in the business. Getting movie stars like Samuel L. Jackson to sign on requires a proven track record. Plus, getting Hollywood legends Bill Murray and Michelle Pfeiffer on board wasn’t easy. 

Last But Not Least

Last but not least, Jonathan Majors, who plays Kang the Conqueror, comes into this movie as a highly anticipated antihero. Everybody is talking about how excellent of a job he’s done. Well, almost everybody. You can’t please them all.

Still, I feel in my gut this movie will perform wonders at the box office. It appears to have all the action and craftsmanship you could want. Paul Rudd is sure to do a backflip I bet. It’s not just about the money. It’s about the details and getting everything right.

The script must have all the right words because the film has all the right people. Have you seen the trailers and promotional materials? I can’t wait to see it come all together.

This is the third movie in the franchise. So, technically we could refer to it as Ant-Man 3. Fans everywhere should know a fourth film is in the works.

Is Paul Rudd the Right Man?

Superhero movies seem to be a major part of global popular culture. Spider-Man, Batman, Superman, Ant-Man could all play in a movie together. What’s stopping Marvel and DC Comics from collaborating? Anything is possible, right?

In addition, Paul Rudd does a fine job portraying Ant-Man in the movies. It’s awesome seeing him shrink into character. Also, the concept of a miniature (ant) hero saving the day is fascinating. Without a doubt, he made a name for himself as the man, and needs no introduction. Do you agree?

I’m thrilled to see Michelle Pfeiffer in the film. She’s a wonderful actress who paved the way in motion pictures like Dangerous Minds. I think this actress might come close to reaching Pfeiffer’s star power in the future. Also, we have to acknowledge the director Peyton Reed.

How Do You Like Casting Kathryn Newton?

In Ant-Man 3, Kathryn Newton plays Paul Rudd’s daughter. And by the looks of it, the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree because she becomes Stinger, another superhero. It takes multiple heroes to take down a single villain. That’s the way the comic book world works.

I follow Marvel on Twitter because I like their productions. Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania had a world premiere, and the photos were amazing. Are you on Twitter? Follow @IamGuruJay if you like my content and want interesting tweets.

So, I can’t tell you the ins and outs about the MCU, because I’m not a comic book aficionado or buff. However, I am a movie buff. I love films so much I could make them. Big productions like Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania feed me because I know the work involved in making it happen. 


Lastly, I’ve seen the trailer, posters, and commercials. This project seems to be a work of art. The world will know soon if it’s any good, as they release the movie to the masses. In the meantime, you can watch Ant-Man and Marvel Comics Universe movies on Disney Plus and other streaming platforms. There are so many options today to consume your pleasure. Thanks for reading and visiting.

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Is Jonathan Majors a Top 10 Actor Now?

Is Jonathan Majors a Top 10 Actor Now?

Jonathan Majors doesn’t mind playing the villain. In fact, in his new Marvel Studios movie Ant Man and the Wasp: Quantumania he portrays a one of a kind antagonist. Do you remember Thanos? Kang the Conqueror played by Jonathan Majors is Thanos 2.0. Some of his superpowers include erasing timelines and rewriting history. If you’re a comic geek or buff you will love the Hollywood star in this flick. Have you seen any of the trailers or promotional materials?

Moreover, if you’re into movies and like the best actors, then Majors is your man. At 33 years-old, he’s built a remarkable filmography. What is more, the actor remains focused on his career. Are you a fan of this movie star? What is your favorite Jonathan Majors film so far? Notice, I say so far because his best may be yet to come. Another actor known for playing a villain is Samuel L. Jackson. His best work came after the age of 40. Part of Majors’s success is his keen ability to pick the best movies to play in. Working with the best talent and budget makes all the difference.

In addition, Majors plays a lead role in Creed III, directed by Michael B. Jordan. He’s not only seizing the days; he’s seizing the years. 2022-2023 is the movie star’s time to shine. They say he’s one of Hollywood’s most in demand talents. This is all by design. When you research him, you’ll discover he earned a BFA from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and an MFA from Yale University. 

I highly recommend Devotion, The Harder They Fall, and The Last Black Man in San Francisco. I’ve seen all three films and thoroughly enjoyed them all. Based on a true story, Devotion tells a touching story about the first Black Naval aviator officer Jesse Brown in the Korean War. The onscreen camaraderie between Jonathan Majors and Glenn Powell is inspiring. Moreover, both The Harder They Fall and The Last Black Man in San Francisco make a statement in different ways. The Harder They Fall blazed a trail and The Last Black Man in San Francisco laid a foundation.

Revisit This Post in Three Years

So, do I believe Jonathan Majors is a top 10 actor now? This is an intriguing question because there are many areas where this actor excels. Jonathan Majors can carry a film. He delivers high quality. I can’t overstate his star power enough. His box office results show all we need to know. Plus, the studios, directors, and actors all love working with him. But he’s only 33 years old. Leonardo DiCaprio’s 48 by comparison. Morgan Freeman’s a young 85. Age is just a number. But Majors is a new movie star who deserves recognition.

Although it might be a stretch to call him a top 10 actor now, revisit this post in three years and see if he’s on top then. Can we agree, at least, he’s one of the best actors? I think Ant Man and the Wasp: Quantumania shows why he is a huge movie star. And I think his fans will love him in Creed III. Everybody is waiting for that hypothetical fight to happen on March 3, 2023.

In the entertainment world, it’s in a celebrity’s nature to make mistakes. Here’s Majors and he is not making a lot of mistakes. He played his cards right. And from what I can tell it’s a good hand. That’s why the star is shining bright. If he’s not a Top 10 actor yet, he will be. Wait and see.

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NBC SNL Episode 2 Breakdown: Was This One Great?

 

NBC SNL Episode 2 Breakdown: Was This One Great? 

Let’s begin the breakdown recognizing SNL Host Michael B. Jordan and musical guest Lil Baby. Last weekend Aubrey Plaza did a fantastic job hosting the TV show. This weekend was Jordan’s turn. Would he bring as much energy or even more? Everybody had an expectation for him. What was yours?

I felt Michael B. Jordan was going to slam dunk this one. Like the superstar he is, Jordan’s crossover to live television was a no brainer. Before writing this blog post, I learned more about the actor and published another blog post you might enjoy. Who knew the extent of his television presence? The Creed III Director/ Lead Actor possesses a multitude of talents.

It was a solid opening for episode 2. SNL covered the latest in politics as usual and got the ball rolling.  Not too long after Michael B. Jordan came onto the stage, Chloe Fineman, Heidi Gardner, and Ego Nwodim came on or should I say came on to him. So far, the TV show was hilarious. Saturday Night Live knows how to play up every tool in their toolkit. By far the funniest thing was Ego showing up on stage in a wedding dress. This one was great. The material was well-written from start to finish. Like Creed, the night was packed with punches. 

Was Lil Baby Pretty Good?

When Lil Baby took the stage to perform the hit California Breeze, it was a wrap. Saturday Night Live had me sold on the night. Michael B. Jordan owned it. Every sketch delivered a ton of value. Just like I tweeted before the show even started, this was TV gold. There were so many elements that combined to make this work seem effortless.

What Was the Skit That Stole the Night?

If there’s one prerecorded skit that stole the night, it was Michael B. Jordan playing the State Farm guy. I tweeted that the insurance companies owe SNL money. All that advertisement can’t be free. This had to generate the most responses on Twitter because everybody was talking about it. Overall, Jordan was all over the place demonstrating his range. He played a water guy and a fireman. Well, he played a stripper dressed as a firefighter with pregnant baby mama issues. 

Last But Not Least

What else should an SNL TV show watcher know about after episode 2? Kenan Thompson had his moment playing a doorman on Weekend Update. Colin Jost and Michael Che are a good team. Lil Baby’s second song was a little more dramatic. It told a story and could crossover genres. Whoever was his pianist was incredible. 

What are your thoughts? Did you watch SNL this weekend? Are you looking forward to next weekend’s host Pedro Pascal from HBO’s The Last of Us?

Nothing quite beats live television. Thanks for reading this blog post. Did you catch any of my live Tweets? Follow me on Twitter @IamGuruJay and Instagram @TheGuruJay for more content.

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Jurassic World Dominion Countdown

Jurassic World Dominion gives new meaning to the expression living under a rock. What’s your comfort level with stones? When does the stone age start and end? It seems like we will be living in the Jurassic period in June. So let’s begin where the story ends as we start our countdown to another movie.

Making a fire may not require rubbing stones together, but it still works. No matter what period, you need elements of fire to dominate the planet. In 2022, the release of Jurassic World Dominion is right on time.

Coming to theaters June 10, Jurassic World Dominion stars Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard. Shining brighter than ever, the Hollywood stars will align and create a lunar event. The onscreen chemistry of Pratt and Howard will catapult the box office walls. I expect this movie to rule the box office. And shattered records are also predicted. Will they run out of tickets to print? Who knows?

Jurassic World Dominion is the third movie in the Jurassic World franchise. Before World, we had Jurassic Park. It’s more than American. These flicks are a part of global popular culture. Whether you see it on the big or small screen, the film has fascinating characters who will live on in our imaginations.

Park Vs. World

Do you like Park or World better? Should we even compare them? Are they collectively the same franchise? Whichever way you see them, you must see them. In 2022, World will have superior
special effects, but what about the screenwriting and acting?
Because Jurassic Park and Jurassic World function as joint ventures, it’s challenging to answer the above questions. Jurassic World Dominion should be huge. Don’t be surprised if this one is the biggest in terms of profit and success. Here is the countdown.

I am Guru Jay launching off into orbit in 5-4-3-2-1!

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Top Gun: Maverick Countdown

What movie buff doesn’t know Tom Cruise? You could say his name is the same as action. Did you hear he does his own stunts? If you haven’t heard already, the Top Gun star will hit the silver screen internationally again on May 27. Here is the Top Gun: Maverick countdown.

Where do we start? Top Gun: Maverick picks up where the 1986 film left off. Hollywood was a lot different then. Shining bright as ever, the stars were stars. Their powers compelled a magnitude. How could you suppress a larger-than-life figure like Tom Cruise for 36 years?

I believe Tom Cruise was not a day over 25 when Top Gun was released. At the age of 59, he is a legendary actor. But let’s get one thing straight. It’s not a one-person show. Multiple men stand next to Cruise on that red carpet.

I am awestruck when I think about how many people receive credit for making a motion picture. But, making it happen in a pandemic under tight restrictions and guidelines is unbelievable. So, give Joseph Kosinski and Jerry Bruckheimer some accolades for making the film. And let’s not forget the rest of the cast like Val Kilmer, Jennifer Connelly, and Jeff Bridges.

From the director to the extra, everybody can make a difference in a movie’s success. I feel Top Gun 1986 was successful because they made the most of their resources. You don’t need a big budget for crazy box office results in filmmaking. Sometimes, getting people out is all you need to make hundreds of millions of dollars. The horror film Get Out, directed by Jordan Peele, is proof of a movie with a micro-budget doing macro numbers. 

Below is the official Top Gun: Maverick trailer. Preview it at your leisure. Do you plan to see it?

I am Guru Jay launching off into orbit in 5-4-3-2-1!

 

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