29 Famous People: Shocking Facts That Will Change Your View
Before the Laughter: danny DeVito’s Unexpected Past as a Hairdresser
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Danny DeVito, the prolific actor known for his roles in classics like “Taxi,” ”It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” and “Matilda,” boasts a surprisingly detailed and unconventional resume.Before achieving fame on screen, DeVito was a fully licensed hairdresser, a profession he pursued with dedication and a unique, even somber, specialization.
From Styling to Stardom: The early Years
devito’s journey to Hollywood wasn’t a direct one. He graduated from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in 1959, but finding consistent acting work proved challenging. To support himself and his family, he utilized a skill he’d honed earlier in life: hairdressing. He wasn’t simply snipping ends; he held a valid license and worked professionally.
The location of his work was primarily in and around Asbury Park, New Jersey, a coastal city with a vibrant, though frequently enough overlooked, artistic community. This period of his life, while financially necessary, also profoundly shaped his understanding of people and their stories – a skill that would later prove invaluable in his acting career.
A Unique and Respectful Service: Styling for the Deceased
Perhaps the most striking aspect of DeVito’s hairdressing career was his willingness to style the hair of deceased clients before their funerals. This wasn’t a common practice,and it speaks volumes about his character and empathy. he provided a final act of dignity and care for the departed, offering solace to grieving families.
This practice, while unusual, wasn’t born of morbid curiosity. It stemmed from a desire to help families present their loved ones in the best possible light during a difficult time. He understood the importance of appearances, even in death, and offered his skills to ease the pain of loss.
Details surrounding the specific funeral homes he worked with are scarce, but accounts confirm this was a regular part of his work during the early 1970s.it’s a detail that often surprises people, highlighting the breadth of his experiences before achieving fame.
Timeline: DeVito’s Pre-Fame Career
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1959 | graduates from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. |
| Early 1970s | Works as a licensed hairdresser in and around Asbury Park,new Jersey. |
| Early 1970s | Provides hairdressing services for deceased clients prior to funerals. |
| 1975 |