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