Keanu Reeves overcame a life marked by hardship and loss to become one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars.

Born in Beirut in 1964, Keanu’s father left when he was just three. Raised by his mother, the family moved frequently—from Sydney to New York, and eventually settled in Toronto. Reeves last saw his father at 13 during a visit to Hawaii.

Diagnosed with dyslexia, Keanu struggled in school. He attended four different high schools in five years. Though strong in English and creative writing—and even on the chess team—his rebellious nature clashed with authority.

He briefly enrolled in the Etobicoke School of the Arts but didn’t fit in and was eventually expelled at 16. Reeves recalled asking too many questions and resisting imposed rules.

Despite the expulsion, acting became his refuge. He began taking night courses in acting, which marked the start of his journey to stardom.