Did you know that some of the world’s most famous stars once stood at the front of a classroom? From Hollywood icons to music legends, many celebrities started their careers as teachers—and their stories are nothing short of inspiring. As we celebrate World Teachers' Day, let’s dive into the surprising pasts of 10 notable names who traded fame for lesson plans—at least for a little while. But here’s where it gets even more fascinating: some of these stars still credit teaching as one of the most rewarding experiences of their lives. Ready to be amazed? Let’s go!
Hugh Jackman: From PE Teacher to Wolverine
Before he became the charismatic star of The Greatest Showman, Hugh Jackman spent a gap year in 1987 as a PE teacher at Uppingham School in the East Midlands. Though his teaching stint was brief, it left a lasting impression—literally. In a now-viral 2013 clip, Hugh reunited with a former student, Rollo Ross, on the red carpet. With a playful jab at his Wolverine persona, Hugh joked that the only thing that truly made him angry was ‘the kind of student that doesn’t bring their kit.’ Who knew the claws came out over forgotten gym bags?
Sheryl Crow: The Music Teacher Who Hit the Big Time
Long before she became a country music superstar, Sheryl Crow honed her passion for music in the classroom. After studying music education at the University of Missouri, she taught at Kellison Elementary School for two years while moonlighting with local bands. Her dedication to education hasn’t faded; in 2016, she donated $600 checks to every teacher at her old high school through Adopt-A-Classroom. ‘I loved teaching,’ she said, ‘but I had this burning desire to get my music heard.’ And the rest is history.
Sting: Rock Legend and Former Classroom Maestro
Believe it or not, Sting—yes, the Sting—once taught music, English, math, and even football at St. Paul’s First School in Northumberland. ‘I would sit and play music to them… I enjoyed that more than anything,’ he recalled. But when the call of rock stardom came, he handed in his resignation, despite a friendly warning from the headmistress about losing his pension. ‘And she was right,’ he admitted. Talk about a trade-off!
Jon Hamm: The Acting Teacher with a Famous Pupil
Before Mad Men made him a household name, Jon Hamm taught 8th-grade acting classes at his old high school in St. Louis. Among his students? None other than Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt star Ellie Kemper. In a 2013 interview, Jon fondly remembered Ellie’s talent, while she humbly joked about ‘not trying to kiss up.’ Proof that great teachers leave a mark—even on future stars.
Liam Neeson: The Teacher with a Special Set of Skills
Liam Neeson’s teaching career was short-lived but unforgettable. During a work placement, he had to disarm a 15-year-old student with a knife—an incident that led to his dismissal. While teaching wasn’t his calling, Liam has deep respect for educators, calling the profession ‘really, really difficult.’ His sisters, both retired teachers, no doubt agree.
Brian May: Astrophysicist, Rock God, and Part-Time Math Teacher
Between rocking out with Queen and pursuing his PhD in astrophysics, Brian May spent three months as a part-time math teacher in London. He described the experience as ‘challenging’ but rewarding, though one incident involving paper cutouts left ‘blood and paper everywhere.’ Only Brian May could make math class sound like a rock concert gone wild.
Jesse Williams: The Teacher Who Never Left the Classroom Behind
Before Grey’s Anatomy, Jesse Williams spent six years teaching creative subjects like American and African Studies in Philadelphia. Inspired by his father, a history teacher, Jesse has openly expressed his love for teaching. ‘It was the best job I ever had,’ he said in 2025. ‘I’d love to go back to school.’ With his medical drama experience, maybe he’ll teach health sciences next?
Romesh Ranganathan: From Math Whiz to Comedy King
Before he became a comedy sensation, Romesh Ranganathan taught math for nearly a decade, even becoming head of sixth form. While he excelled at engaging students, he admitted, ‘I was dreadful at long-term planning.’ His take on teaching? ‘Never had a day in comedy as stressful as teaching.’ Clearly, the classroom prepared him for any punchline.
Sylvester Stallone: Rocky Balboa, PE Teacher Extraordinaire
Imagine having Sylvester Stallone as your PE teacher! In the ‘60s, while studying in Switzerland, Stallone took on the role to earn extra cash. Though he didn’t continue teaching after returning to the U.S., the discipline he learned in the classroom no doubt helped him step into the ring as Rocky Balboa.
Lin-Manuel Miranda: The Teacher Who Wrote a Musical on the Side
Before Hamilton took the world by storm, Lin-Manuel Miranda taught English at his old high school in Manhattan. It was during this time that he began developing his first musical, In the Heights. ‘Teaching was one of the most rewarding jobs I’ve ever had,’ he said. His secret? Listening more and speaking less. A lesson we could all take to heart.
And this is the part most people miss... Teaching isn’t just a job—it’s a foundation. These stars prove that the skills learned in the classroom, whether as a teacher or a student, can shape a lifetime. So, the next time you see your favorite celebrity, remember: they might just have a chalkboard past.
Controversy & Comment Hooks: Is teaching undervalued in our society? Should more be done to support educators, especially when even celebrities acknowledge its challenges? Share your thoughts below—let’s keep the conversation going!
