When it comes to Hollywood, we think we know everything about our favorite stars. But the truth is, some celebrity facts are so unexpected they will leave you completely amazed.

From shocking career changes to life-altering decisions, here are six surprising facts about famous faces that you probably didn’t see coming.

Zendaya Became a Vegetarian at 11 Years Old

Celebrity facts often include diet changes, but Zendaya's decision to go vegetarian was not about health trends. At just 11, she and her father drove past a slaughterhouse. When he explained how meat is processed, she instantly decided to give it up for good.

It was not a slow transition or something she mulled over. She just made the choice and never looked back.

Zendaya / IG / Although many assume she loves vegetables, Zendaya admits that is not the case. Her main reason for staying vegetarian is her love for animals, not a deep passion for greens.

Over the years, she has found ways to maintain her diet while still enjoying the foods she loves.

Janelle Monáe Got Fired from Office Depot Before Making It Big

Before she became a music sensation, Janelle Monáe worked at Office Depot. But her job didn’t last long. While at work, she answered fan emails when she was supposed to be focused on her duties.

Management was not impressed, and she was let go. Instead of being discouraged, she turned the experience into inspiration.

Shortly after, she wrote a song about the incident called "Lettin' Go." That track caught the attention of OutKast, who featured her on their "Idlewild" album. That moment became the stepping stone for her incredible music career.

Regina Hall Almost Became a Nun

After a tough breakup, Regina Hall did something most people wouldn’t expect! She tried to become a nun. It was not a sudden decision either. At 14, she was already interested in convent life. But this time, she seriously considered it as a way to heal. Unfortunately, she discovered she was past the age limit for joining.

There was also another unexpected rule that made things even trickier. Hall later revealed that convents have restrictions on past relationships, with some limiting applicants to a very small number of previous partners.

She found it amusing that she barely missed the cutoff. It seems fate had other plans for her, leading her straight to Hollywood instead.

Queen Latifah Chose Her Stage Name at Just 8 Years Old

Queen / IG / At just 8 years old, the star singer and actress found the name “Latifah” while flipping through a collection of Arabic names.

Many celebrity facts include name changes, but Queen Latifah’s story stands out. Born Dana Elaine Owens, she grew up in a home where her mother encouraged her to see herself as a queen. That mindset shaped her confidence, but her stage name came from a book.

The meaning of the name - delicate, sensitive, and kind - resonated with her. She embraced it, and when she started her career, she added "Queen" as a reminder that all women deserve to be treated with respect.

Laverne Cox Was a Dancer Before Acting

Before becoming a trailblazing actress, Laverne Cox was devoted to dance. She started training at just 8 years old, and her talent quickly earned her scholarships to prestigious dance programs. Throughout high school and college, she pursued dance with intensity, refining her skills and developing her love for performance.

Her dedication led her to Marymount Manhattan College, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance. Though she ultimately found her passion in acting, her background in dance contributed to her grace, stage presence, and ability to command attention in every role she takes on.