Mental Floss

CELEBRITIES



Photo courtesy of The Bruce Lee Family Archive

Though Bruce Lee is known as an icon in film and in the world of martial arts, most of his recognition came after his death at the age of 32.

Jason Serafino




Jean-Claude Van Damme.

Jean-Claude Van Damme—a.k.a. The "Muscles from Brussels"—has had a long and storied career full of highs and lows, including the time he threw a papaya at a producer's head.

Jake Rossen












Johnny Cash in 1966.

With his gravelly baritone and colorful lyrics, Johnny Cash became one of the 1960s’ most prolific crossover artists, bridging the gap between country and early rock ‘n’ roll with a moody, bluesy flair.

Ellen Gutoskey


Eric Clapton performing in Rotterdam, Netherlands in 1992.

As a solo artist and a member of bands like The Yardbirds, Blind Faith, Cream, and Derek and the Dominos, Eric Clapton—the man known as “Slowhand” (and sometimes “God”)—has thrilled generations of fans with his righteous bluesy wailing.

Kenneth Partridge




Steve McQueen stars in The Great Escape (1963).

Celebrated as the "King of Cool," Steve McQueen climbed his way from reform school and juvenile delinquency to become one of Hollywood's biggest stars.

Jake Rossen
Taylor Hill, Getty Images

From Oscar-winning actors to CEOs, these are some of the most notable people to have attended and graduated from New York University.

Michele Debczak