Before she was collecting Oscars and commanding the screen as Queen Elizabeth II, Olivia Colman was scrubbing toilets and worrying about how to pay her rent. The acclaimed British actress has revealed the surprising and humble jobs she took to make ends meet before her acting career took off.
The Struggling Years
In a candid revelation that will resonate with many aspiring performers, Colman disclosed that she worked as a cleaner during her early acting days. "I was a cleaner, and I was a secretary, and I temped," the actress shared, painting a picture of financial instability that contrasts sharply with her current success.
Her cleaning work wasn't limited to ordinary homes either - she found herself cleaning the very toilets at a well-known theatre company, completely unaware that she would one day become one of Britain's most celebrated acting exports.
The Turning Point
Colman's big break came with her role in the hit comedy series 'Peep Show,' but even then, financial security remained elusive. The actress admitted that she and her husband, Ed Sinclair, were "penniless" for years, with Colman's cleaning work providing their primary income.
"We had no money for ages," she confessed, describing how they struggled to afford basic necessities while she pursued her acting dreams. This period of financial hardship lasted significantly longer than many might expect, stretching well into her early television career.
From Rags to Royalty
The contrast between Colman's past struggles and her current status couldn't be more dramatic. Today, she's an Academy Award winner for 'The Favourite,' an Emmy winner for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II in 'The Crown,' and one of the most in-demand actresses in the industry.
Her journey serves as an inspiring reminder that even the most successful performers often face significant challenges on their path to recognition. Colman's story is particularly compelling given the stark difference between cleaning theatre toilets and later playing British royalty on global television.
The Reality of Acting Careers
Colman's experience highlights the financial realities that many actors face, even those who eventually achieve massive success. Her story underscores how difficult it can be to break into the industry and maintain financial stability while pursuing artistic ambitions.
The actress has previously spoken about the importance of perseverance in the face of rejection and financial pressure, advice that likely resonates with the many performers who continue to work multiple jobs while auditioning for their big break.
