Contemplating a career change? Frustrated with holding up the totem pole from the bottom? Fear not! These celebs started out as mere civilians, and now they’re roaming the red carpet. Take notes!

We all know the familiar story of the has-been—too many canceled shows, a sex scandal gone awry, a drug addiction they couldn’t kick, or the rut of being typecast. See how this humble bunch triumphed over career adversity and got a second chance at stardom.