Before they were household names, they were climbing scaffolds and donning hard hats. From world-renowned musicians and athletes to beloved actors and comedians, these famous faces got their start in the scaffolding trade.
In construction, scaffolding often flies under the radar, despite being a crucial part of the job. Scaffolders are the hardworking, often unsung heroes who set the stage for buildings and infrastructure to take shape, working high above the ground to ensure the safety and progress of projects all over the world.
What many people don’t know is that several famous figures once donned hard hats and boots, starting their careers as scaffolders before finding success elsewhere.
At Scaffmag, we love to celebrate the grit and determination that defines scaffolders. Here, we highlight some amazing people who took their first steps up the ladder—literally—before reaching fame.
From Scaffolding to Stardom
Rod Stewart
Rod Stewart, one of the best-selling music legends, known for tracks like Maggie May and Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?, wasn’t always on stage. Before his rock and roll days, Stewart worked as a scaffolder in London during the early ‘60s. No doubt, the grit and grind of scaffolding played a role in shaping his determined spirit, helping him rise to musical stardom.
Anthony Joshua
Before becoming a two-time heavyweight boxing champ and an Olympic gold medallist, Anthony Joshua was a scaffolder and bricklayer. The hard graft of those early days helped build the work ethic and physical strength that later propelled him to the top of the boxing world.
Paul Hogan
Famous for his role as Mick “Crocodile” Dundee, Australian actor and comedian Paul Hogan once worked as a scaffolder and rigger on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. His no-nonsense, down-to-earth charm on screen was no doubt shaped by his time in scaffolding, which eventually helped him win over international audiences.
Bob Hoskins
Beloved British actor Bob Hoskins, best known for Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Mona Lisa, started out as a scaffolder. The resilience he built working in scaffolding likely helped him in the tough world of acting, where he became known for his incredible versatility and passion.
Ricky Tomlinson
Before starring in Brookside and The Royle Family, Ricky Tomlinson spent time working as a scaffolder. His involvement in the 1972 national builders’ strike highlighted his fighting spirit, a trait that’s served him well both on and off screen.
Geoff Capes
Long before winning the World’s Strongest Man title—twice—Geoff Capes was a policeman and a scaffolder. His early days in scaffolding gave him the raw physical strength and mental fortitude that would later define his career as one of the strongest men on the planet.
DJ Carl Cox
Global DJ sensation Carl Cox started out as a scaffolder in South London when he was just 16. His experiences on the job helped build the discipline and work ethic that would carry him through the competitive world of electronic music, where he now headlines festivals from Ibiza to beyond.
Micky Flanagan
Before becoming one of the UK’s top comedians, Micky Flanagan worked as a scaffolder. His background gives him a grounded, relatable style that’s resonated with audiences, making him one of the most beloved comedians in the country.
Adrian Chiles
British TV and radio presenter Adrian Chiles, best known for shows like The One Show and Match of the Day 2, once worked as a scaffolder before moving into broadcasting. His down-to-earth charm is likely a result of those early days working on site.
Tom Davis
Before his rise to fame as an actor and comedian in shows like Murder in Successville and King Gary, Tom Davis spent time as a scaffolder, bouncer, and market trader. These diverse experiences helped shape his unique, relatable humour and down-to-earth comedy style.
Gary Wilmot
British entertainer Gary Wilmot, known for his singing, acting, and comedy, also started out as a scaffolder. His break came after appearing on the talent show New Faces, and his scaffolding roots helped him stay versatile in the world of entertainment.
Richard Dunn
Former British heavyweight boxer Richard Dunn, best known for his fight against Muhammad Ali, worked as a scaffolder while pursuing his boxing career. The toughness he developed on the job helped him push through the challenges of the ring and rise to become a memorable figure in British boxing.
Final Thoughts
These stories remind us that everyone starts somewhere. Many of these celebrities took their first steps in the world of scaffolding, a job that gave them the resilience, strength, and determination to succeed. Whether it was sheer grit, natural talent, or a bit of both, these former scaffolders have gone on to leave their mark in their fields.
At Scaffmag, we love celebrating these incredible transitions. Their stories serve as a reminder to scaffolders everywhere: no dream is too big, no matter where you start.
This article was originally published in Issue 22 of the ScaffMag magazine.