10 fun and interesting George Clooney facts

1. Kentucky boy makes it big in Hollywood

George Clooney was born in Lexington, Kentucky, and spent much of his childhood in the Buckeye State and the Bluegrass State. Growing up, he attended Augusta High School in Augusta, Kentucky, and later attended Northern Kentucky University. After college, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue an acting career, and the rest is history. Today, he is one of the most recognizable and beloved actors in Hollywood.

Also → Kentucky's Famous Figures

2. George Clooney Leaves Broadcast Journalist Career to Pursue Acting

In order to avoid competing with his father, George Clooney made the difficult decision to leave his job as a broadcast journalist. Clooney had been working in the field for several years, but ultimately decided that it was best for his family if he pursued a different career path. His father, Nick Clooney, was a well-known television personality and anchorman, and George wanted to make sure that he didn't step on his father's toes. As a result, he chose to pursue a different career, and has since become one of the most successful actors in Hollywood.

Also → Uma Thurman stars as Poison Ivy in 'Batman and Robin'

3. A Baseball Fanatic Who Failed to Make the Cut

George Clooney was an avid sportsman in his youth, playing both basketball and baseball. He was so passionate about baseball that he even attempted to join the Cincinnati Reds, one of the most successful teams in the Major League Baseball. Unfortunately, his dream of becoming a professional baseball player was not to be, as he failed to make the cut.

Also → Christian Bale: The Dark Knight

4. George Clooney's Career Begins with a Small Part

George Clooney's career began with a small part in a feature film, courtesy of his cousin Miguel Ferrer. His first major role was in the 1984 sitcom "E/R", and he went on to make a memorable appearance in an early episode of South Park. This was just the beginning of a long and successful career for Clooney, who has since become one of the most recognizable and beloved actors in Hollywood.

Also → Matt Damon makes big-screen debut in 'Ocean's Eleven'

5. I'm Still Single and Not Having Kids

After a three-year marriage, George Clooney and Talio Balsam divorced on September 17th, 1993. Since then, Clooney has been vocal about his decision to remain single and not have any children. This is a stark contrast to his previous marriage, and he has remained true to his word for over two decades.

Also → Don Cheadle Joins Not on Our Watch Project

6. George Clooney is the Best Man at Friend's Wedding

George Clooney is no stranger to being a part of special occasions. The Hollywood actor was the best man at his close friend, Richard Kind's wedding. Clooney and Kind have been friends for many years, and Clooney was honored to be asked to stand by his side on such an important day. Clooney's presence at the wedding was a testament to the strong bond between the two friends.

Also → Scarlett Johansson is a passionate jazz fan

7. George Clooney Joins Coen Bros' "O Brother" Unseen

George Clooney was so passionate about working with the Coen brothers that he accepted the role in "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" without even reading the script. He was so eager to collaborate with the acclaimed directors that he was willing to take a pay cut for the part. His enthusiasm for the project paid off, as the movie went on to become a cult classic and earned him a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Motion Picture Musical or Comedy.

Also → Eight-Year-Old George C. Scott Loses Mother, Succeeds in Life

8. George Clooney is one of the most powerful people in Hollywood

In 2003, George Clooney was one of the most powerful people in Hollywood, ranking number 29 on Premier's annual Power 100 List. His influence was so great that he was the only actor to make the list that year, and he was the highest-ranking actor on the list since its inception in 2000. His success was due to his critically acclaimed performances in films such as Ocean's Eleven, Solaris, and Intolerable Cruelty. His star power and influence in the industry have only grown since then, making him one of the most recognizable and successful actors in the world.

Also → George H. W. Bush: Ambassador to the United Nations

9. Worst Batman Ever?

In 1997, George Clooney took on the iconic role of Batman in the Hollywood blockbuster "Batman & Robin". Unfortunately, the movie was a flop and critics were highly critical of Clooney's performance, going so far as to call him the worst Batman ever in the series. Despite the negative reviews, Clooney's portrayal of the caped crusader has become a cult classic, with fans still debating whether or not he was the right choice for the role.

Also → Aaron Eckhart: Star of 'Erin Brockovich'

10. UN Messenger of Peace

Since 2008, George Clooney has been a United Nations Messenger of Peace, a role that has seen him travel the world to promote peace, justice, and human rights. He has visited countries such as Sudan, Chad, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to raise awareness of the humanitarian crises in those regions, and has spoken at the United Nations General Assembly to urge world leaders to take action. His work has been widely praised, and he has been awarded the United Nations Correspondents Association Citizen of the World Award for his efforts.