Living a celebrity’s life is much harder than talking and gossiping about it. While we consider the celebrities to have special kinds of attributes or some X-factor that has helped them stand at the position they are, we forget about their struggles. We envy their stardom but we forget to praise their life journey before fame.

Most of the men and women on our list have served the nation before they made it big in the entertainment industry and tasted fame. Very likely, their time in the military has helped them to be molded into a stronger and more determined personality which have brought them where they are today. While many of the stars served long before they entered the showbiz world, in some instances, famous movie and TV stars have opted to join the Air Force, Army, Marines, and Navy, at the very height of their successful acting careers.

Elvis Presley – Enlisted In The Military Shortly After He Entered The Music Industry

Dubbed as ‘King of Rock and Roll,’ Elvis Presley joined the US military services soon after he went to shine in the music industry. Starting his military career in 1958, Presley served in no fewer than two battalions.

Fun Fact: While he served in the military until 1960, he got to meet his future wife, Priscilla, during the same period while he was stationed in Germany. While in Germany, Presley served to bear the insignia of the 3d Armored Division. He even rejected an offer to be a part of the special services as he desired to be a part of a combat unit.

James Earl Jones – Was Preparing To Become A Ranger

Described as “one of America’s most distinguished and versatile” actors, James Earl Jones had other plans before entering the showbiz world. Prior to becoming an actor, Jones desired to become a Ranger. And his hard work, he was made the First Lieutenant.

Who would believe that the legendary actor and the voice behind Mufasa of The Lion King was once a lieutenant? After his honorable discharge, James flew to New York City to begin his career in the Hollywood industry without any acting course.

Ice-T – Proved To Be Ill-Suited To The Military

While people may see Ice-T as multi-talented – pursuing a career as both actor and rapper, many may not know that the American musician had also served four years in the U.S. Army. Sources say that he joined the Army to support his girlfriend and daughter. He served his honorable 4 years in the 25^th Infantry Division. But Ice-T got involved with a group that stole an infantry rug and subsequently left.

Ice-T received only a non-judicial punishment due to which he was able to complete his Advanced Infantry Training. During his service, Ice-T purchased stereo equipment, including mixer and speakers which he all used to hone his rapping skills. He was virtuously discharged after which he started to pursue his passion for music.

John Coltrane – Did His First Recording While Still In The Navy