Hollywood's Stories

Take a critical look into the lack of opportunities afforded to minorities in Hollywood since film as an art form has existed. How did minorities finally gain a foothold in the film industry? Who challenged themselves to seek to effect such change? And, overall, how has Hollywood transformed over the course of time in ways that are reflective of society in general?

Some of Hollywood’s darkest secrets have surfaced in recent years, but child and teen abuse has stained the film industry for decades. Recently, the #MeToo movement has unearthed these revelations to reveal a hidden side of Hollywood in a manner that screams for meaningful and lasting change.

Harvey Weinstein, a man thanked more than God in Oscar ceremonies, is currently embroiled in a scandal that sparked the robust #MeToo movement. Who were the women that became known as “the silence breakers” in order to bring Weinstein’s alleged scandalous behavior to light?

Peer into the tumultuous life of Jim Carrey, a man considered to be among the best actors of his generation. Learn why Carrey himself would describe his career as “the best of times, and the worst of times,” and how his electrically comedic approach stood in stark contrast to the emotional trials he faced throughout his life.

Paul Walker made for an interesting Hollywood study, in a film career which included a unique blend of success on both the big screen and philanthropy. Starring in the “Fast and Furious” film franchise, Walker lived with the same kind of full-throttle energy in his private life while using his wealth to serve noble causes, prior to his untimely death.

Growing up surrounded by show-business elite, a career in acting was a natural fit for Gwyneth Paltrow. For three decades she starred in, and has been a part of, multiple success stories on film. Her acting career aside, Mrs. Paltrow also created, and runs, her own branded company, Goop, that has developed into a very prosperous business.

John Travolta began his career as Vinny on “Welcome Back Kotter.” The legend then went on to star in some of Hollywood’s greatest success stories. Unfortunately, with success often follows scrutiny and scandal, and both found Travolta in spades. Throughout it all, though, and after more than four decades, Travolta continues a career that has experienced both the zeniths and the nadirs of fame.

Some believe Heath Ledger’s role as the Joker in the film “The Dark Knight” represents the single best performance by any actor in the 21st Century. Dedicated to his craft, Heath experienced strong industry support his entire career that saw him star in unique and challenging roles. Heath’s family graciously accepted the actor’s Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role as the Joker.

For over three decades, Johnny Depp remains an icon in the film industry. A versatile and talented actor, Depp has starred in a variety of unique, thought-provoking, and imaginative films, and has experienced great success. No matter the chaotic storm that surrounds him, Depp personifies Neil Young’s lyrics- “Rock and Roll can never die. There’s more to the picture than meets the eye.” to a ‘T.’

Tom Cruise is among the most successful, enigmatic actors to ever grace the silver screen. Cruise’s private life has remained opaque over the years, but as an actor he has continued to remain relevant and adaptable in the film industry, and through the roles and films he has taken part in. No matter the details of Cruise’s private life, on screen, he is always ready for action.