With all of the benefits celebrities seem to enjoy, it can be hard to remember they are still human; and like other humans, they still suffer with some of the same struggles, including insecurities stemming from abuse. While Ke$ha is currently embroiled in her legal battles against producer, Dr. Luke, there are plenty of other celebrities who have already overcome abuse and gone on to lead incredible lives.
Marilyn Monroe
Ahead of her time in more ways than one, Monroe was one of the first people to speak openly about her past abuses. Born in the charity ward of Los Angeles’ general hospital, Marilyn became a longtime tenant of the foster system. With frequent abuse from various men in her life, it may be surprising that Monroe became such a sex symbol; but her closed-off emotions and physical relations with her three husbands, demonstrate the long-term harm the abuse had on her life and relationships.
Rihanna
In what was, arguably, the most publicized domestic violence case of celebrities, Rihanna found herself brutally beaten by then-boyfriend, rapper Chris Brown. With a swollen and bruised face following the incident, it is no surprise she chose to stay out of the limelight for a short time. Rihanna has since returned to the music industry and has found great success in spite of this abuse.
Charlize Theron
Before you start complaining about your home life, take a gander at the growing up Charlize Theron had to do. With a violently, alcoholic father, Theron’s home life was a constant battle of threats and violence. He threatened on more than one occasion to kill the entire family while intoxicated. When the breaking point arrived, he came home intoxicated and aggressive and Theron’s mother killed him out of self-defense.
Following this tragedy in her youth, Theron was also raped in her home country of South Africa. Although the South African government tried to cover up this incident, Theron worked hard to gain justice for herself. Perhaps this troubled past made romantic relationships difficult for Theron, as neither of her partnerships have been lasting, but she does have two beautiful children that bring hope to her life.
Drew Barrymore
Unfortunately, in many situations, abuse can only open the door for more abuse and a broken cycle of expectations and tolerance. For Drew Barrymore, the abuse and neglect she received from her father as a child put her in a dangerous position for other introductions. She experienced drugs, sex and alcohol at a young age, but has since risen above the challenge. In spite of her father’s actions and mistakes against her, she has become very successful in the film industry.
