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Actor Sold Everything, Slept in Car Before Avatar Stardom
2 Aug
Summary
- Worthington sold possessions and lived in his car before 'Avatar'.
- His unconventional audition involved spitting gum at the camera.
- Avatar became the highest-grossing film ever made.
Sam Worthington, the star of the highest-grossing movie ever made, is approaching his 50th birthday. Seventeen years ago, he was largely unknown outside Australia before starring as Jake Sully in 'Avatar'. At that time, Worthington had sold nearly all his belongings and was living out of his car.
He explained this drastic measure was to distance himself from the pressures of recognition after earlier work in Australian film and television. Worthington's audition for 'Avatar' was unconventional; frustrated by the secrecy, he spat his gum at the camera, a move that reportedly impressed director James Cameron.
Premiering in 2009, 'Avatar' became a worldwide phenomenon, achieving the status of the highest-grossing film in box office history. This role propelled Worthington from obscurity to international fame almost overnight. He has since reprised his role in multiple sequels, with more installments planned for the franchise.
Despite his success, Worthington has openly discussed the challenges of adjusting to global stardom and the intense attention it brought. Prior to 'Avatar', he had already established a notable career in Australia, even winning an award for his role in 'Somersault'.
