Roommates often share more than just space; they share experiences, dreams, and sometimes
the tumultuous journey to stardom. Here are 10 stories of celebrities who used to be roommates
before they became household names.
1. Michael Douglas and Danny DeVito
Before they became Hollywood legends, Michael Douglas and Danny DeVito shared an apartment in New York City during the 1960s. Both were struggling to make a name for themselves in the entertainment industry. Douglas, the son of actor Kirk Douglas, and DeVito, an aspiring actor fresh out of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, found common ground in their shared ambition and passion for acting.
Their time as roommates laid the foundation for one of Hollywood’s longest and most endearing friendships. This bond carried them through to their big breaks, with Douglas achieving fame in “Wall Street” and DeVito in “Taxi” and later in “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.”.
2. Laura Dern and Marianne Williamson
Laura Dern, now an acclaimed actress known for her roles in “Jurassic Park” and “Big Little Lies,” found herself sharing an apartment with Marianne Williamson when she was just 17 years old.
This unique living arrangement contributed to Dern’s holistic approach to her career and life, emphasizing balance and well-being alongside professional achievements.
3. Aubrey Plaza and Patti LuPone
Aubrey Plaza, known for her deadpan humor and roles in “Parks and Recreation” and “Legion,” once shared a New York City apartment with Broadway legend Patti LuPone. This unusual pairing occurred when Plaza was preparing for her Off-Broadway debut in the revival of “Danny and the Deep Blue Sea.”
Living with LuPone on the Upper West Side provided Plaza with a front-row seat to the life of a seasoned performer. This mentorship undoubtedly played a role in shaping Plaza’s career, helping her navigate the challenges of the entertainment industry.
4. Jamie Dornan and Eddie Redmayne
Before becoming famous for their roles in “Fifty Shades of Grey” and “The Theory of Everything,” Jamie Dornan and Eddie Redmayne shared a flat in Los Angeles. Both actors were trying to get their big breaks in Hollywood, and their shared living arrangement became a close friendship.
Dornan has joked about the fact that they were frequently sent the same scripts. Today, both actors have achieved significant success, but we’re sure they often look back fondly on their days as struggling roommates.
5. Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams
During the filming of the 2010 movie “Blue Valentine,” Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams took method acting to a new level by living together for almost a month. Their time living together allowed them to develop a deep and authentic connection, which translated into their powerful on-screen performances.
6. Raven-Symoné and Lindsay Lohan
Raven-Symoné, known for her roles in “The Cosby Show” and “That’s So Raven,” once shared an apartment with Lindsay Lohan. Interestingly, it was Raven’s idea, but Lohan was rarely present. As Raven told Global Grind in 2010, “She paid rent, and she was there probably three times.”
While they might not have spent much time together, the fact that they shared an apartment adds an interesting chapter to their lives.
7. Jason Segel and Kevin Hart
In 2001, Jason Segel and Kevin Hart shared a one-bedroom apartment at the request of Judd Apatow, for whom they were shooting a TV pilot. Both actors were in the early stages of their careers and found themselves living in close quarters.
This period was marked by a mix of comedy and chaos. Segel would go on to star in “How I Met Your Mother” and “Forgetting Sarah Marshall,” while Hart became a major comedy star with hits like “Kevin Hart: Laugh at My Pain” and “Ride Along.”
8. Emma Stone and Bradley Cooper
Emma Stone and Bradley Cooper, two of Hollywood’s most bankable stars, briefly lived together while filming the 2015 film “Aloha” in Hawaii. When Cooper’s lease was up, Stone invited him to live at her house for a week.
Both actors were already established in their careers, but this living arrangement allowed them to build a strong professional rapport and a friendship that enriched their performances in the film.
9. Jennifer Coolidge and Eddie Kaye Thomas
Jennifer Coolidge, famous for her roles in “Legally Blonde” and “American Pie,” once lived with Eddie Kaye Thomas, best known for his own role as Finch in “American Pie.” They shared a home for a year or two in the early 2000s.
Their time together was filled with humor and creative energy, with both actors finding their stride in Hollywood. This period helped them navigate the ups and downs of their early careers and solidified a friendship that has lasted through the years.
10. Gwyneth Paltrow and Winona Ryder
Gwyneth Paltrow and Winona Ryder were practically inseparable when they lived together in Los Angeles. Both actresses were dating high-profile celebrities at the time—Paltrow with Ben Affleck and Ryder with Matt Damon.
Their shared living space was a hub of youthful energy and Hollywood glamour. This period in their lives was marked by shared experiences and personal growth.
Finding The Ideal Roommate
SpareRoom’s roommate finder offers the perfect way to discover the ideal roommate for you. Filter by location, number of housemates, amenities, and more to find a room and a roomie that aligns with your preferences. With listings from all over the US, you can find the perfect place to live, whether you’re trying to make it big in New York City or looking for roommates in Phoenix.
Check out SpareRoom today. Who knows, you might even end up living with a rising star!
Conclusion
These stories of famous celebrities who used to be roomies remind us that even the brightest stars once faced the same challenges and uncertainties as everyone else. Their shared experiences not only helped them navigate the early stages of their careers but also forged lasting friendships – many of them having endured the test of time.
