At the age of 13, Mark Wahlberg was one of the original members of New Kids On The Block. He left the group abruptly, however, to start his own group, Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch. During this time he also did some modeling work and is best known for showing off his abs in an ad for Calvin Klein underwear.
Wahlberg’s first acting gig was in the TV film “The Substitute,” inspiring him to change his name from Marky Mark to Mark Wahlberg. Since then he has appeared in many popular films including “The Departed,” “The Lovely Bones,” and “Daddy’s Home.”
Olivia Wilde
Few people know that Olivia Wilde used to model for Abercrombie & Fitch. Her modeling career was short-lived, however, as she chose to pursue acting instead. When she began her career on television, she appeared on a show called “skins” under the name Jewel Goldman. She changed her name to Olivia Wilde after her favorite writer, Oscar Wilde.
The actress made a breakthrough in her career after she earned a role on “The O.C.” and later on “House.” Wilde has also appeared in films including “The Change-Up,” “In Time,” “Butter,” and more. She hasn’t permanently quit modeling. In fact, she's recently finished a five-year partnership with Revlon.
Brad Pitt
Brad Pitt used to serve as the face of Levi’s jeans, appearing in both print and commercial ads. His modeling career didn’t last long though, as his acting abilities quickly got him noticed by Hollywood. After several uncredited appearances on film, he earned his first major role on the NBC soap opera “Another World.”
It wasn’t long before his acting career took off, and Pitt was everywhere you looked. His breakthrough was when he was cast in “Interview with the Vampire”. Now an award-winning actor, Pitt is best known for starring in “Ocean’s Eleven,” “Fight Club,” and “Inglourious Basterds.”
Channing Tatum
Channing Tatum has been quite open about his humble beginning as a male dancer, even starring in the movie “Magic Mike,” which was loosely based on his experiences. Not everyone knows that Tatum also modeled early on in his career for brands like Abercrombie & Fitch and Nautica. His skills as a dancer ultimately led to his success, though.
In 2006, Tatum took Hollywood by storm with “Step Up.” As one of Hollywood’s favorite leading men, he has since appeared in many other movies. He’s best known for his roles in “Dear John,” “The Vow,” “She's the Man,” “The Dilemma,” and “White House Down.”
Chris Pratt
His character on “Parks and Recreation” has earned Chris Pratt the reputation of being a bit of a doof. But he certainly knows how to pose in front of a camera. Before his big break in acting, Pratt modeled for brands like Ralph Lauren.
After receiving minor roles in shows like “Everwood” and “The O.C.,” Pratt ultimately landed his gig on “Parks and Recreation.” From there, his career took off and he's now become a household name. He is most known for starring in films like “Jurassic World,” “Guardians of the Galaxy,” and “Passengers.”