Many popular actors enjoy posing in branded outfits, appearing in public in luxurious cars, and flaunting their extravagant homes. All this glamorous PR is part of their profession, as there is a stereotype in society that a film star must shine in life just as they do on the screen.
And most actors strive to maintain their shining status in public. However, there are stars who either as a form of protest or due to their personality, turn a blind eye to their image and live more modestly than expected.
Keanu Reeves
Canadian-born American actor, the star of the sci-fi franchise “The Matrix” and action films like “John Wick,” Keanu Reeves is one of the kindest and most modest stars in Hollywood.
There are many comical shots of him that instantly become memes. The actor’s charisma lies in his sincerity and self-irony.
Not only is the actor polite and kind to those around him, but he also lives like an ordinary person. He is occasionally spotted on the streets or in the subway with a sandwich. Instead of a luxurious limousine, he skillfully maneuvers on a motorcycle or even uses public transportation. It is known that Keanu once helped a set decorator from “The Matrix” who was facing family problems; the actor secured a $20,000 award for him. He spends a lot on charity and helps both passersby and the homeless.
Such behavior is not a pose for publicity. Keanu simply has a philosophical attitude toward life: “Nothing is happening to me. I just go to work and prepare for roles,” he asserts. There’s even a meme about “Sad Keanu” based on a 2010 photo where he sits alone in a park with a sandwich, feeding birds. His “Matrix” co-star Hugo Weaving describes him as an extremely mature young man who can be a lot of fun but is also a loner, completely closed off from the outside world.
Halle Berry
One of the most striking and highly paid American actresses, known to the general audience for the film “Catwoman,” Halle Berry in real life is nothing like a Hollywood star.
She uses public transportation, shops for herself, and doesn’t show off glamorous outfits to the audience. Instead, the actress regularly shares photos from her sports workouts, shares recipes, and pleasant domestic life hacks.
Halle’s childhood was spent in quite modest financial conditions, and even though she now has millions in earnings, she still fears losing what she has earned through hard work.
Therefore, Halle visits regular supermarkets and dresses in mass-market clothing without relying on personal assistants. “After all, I’m an incurable romantic,” the actress says, commenting on the unwavering optimism with which she overcomes challenges both in movies and in her personal life.
Tom Hanks
Tom Hanks, a seasoned actor and a living legend, is widely acknowledged as one of the “nicest guys on the planet.” Among his colleagues, he is known as a great guy, an excellent partner, and just a cheerful companion.
The star of films like “Forrest Gump,” “Cast Away,” and “Saving Private Ryan” often treats the entire film crew to lunch at his expense.
Periodically, Tom performs small favors for random passersby, and these heartwarming stories instantly become hits on the internet. Moreover, Hanks is an incredibly modest person – a rare quality for a Hollywood star.
However, on screen, Tom works with complete dedication. “For me, he has always been someone who can change beyond recognition… He still amazes me with his ability to transform,” says Steven Spielberg, who directed him in several well-known films.
Anne Hathaway
Oscar-winning Anne Hathaway lives quite modestly for one of the most sought-after Hollywood actresses. Paparazzi have caught her in the subway wearing far from fashionable clothes.
She claims she will forever remain an ordinary girl from an average New Jersey family. Moreover, lately, the actress has been appearing in public less frequently, causing bewilderment and even concern among her fans.
As it turns out, Anne is fully occupied with family and children; besides, she doesn’t indulge in starry behavior and doesn’t seek public attention. “I don’t like drawing attention to myself,” says Hathaway about herself.
Jake Gyllenhaal
One of the most unconventional Hollywood actors, Gyllenhaal – the star of films like “Brokeback Mountain” and “Spider-Man: Far From Home” – is known for being modest and moderate. Despite global recognition and demand, he is very selective in choosing projects.
Gyllenhaal is a top-notch method actor: “Jake has a highly developed emotional intelligence. He feels everything that happens to you,” says his sister Maggie. Additionally, he is unfamiliar with the celebrity disease. Fans occasionally spot him on the bus, in the subway, or at the supermarket.
Sarah Jessica Parker
American actress Sarah Jessica Parker learned from an early age what it’s like to have modest financial conditions. “I remember what it’s like to be poor,” she admits. “That’s why I constantly want to save money.”
The star is known for economizing on clothing not only for herself but also for her kids. She buys it on sale and sometimes even borrows from friends.
Keira Knightley
The star of the popular “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise, Keira Knightley, is one of the most frugal actresses in Hollywood. The charming Brit has set herself a monthly limit and does not spend more than that amount. She is often seen on the street in very simple, inexpensive clothes and without makeup.
While she always looks impeccable on screen, in real life, she doesn’t even use the services of personal stylists.
She explains her behavior by saying, “I think that by maintaining a luxury lifestyle, you cannot truly connect with people who live differently. It alienates you.”
