As someone who has walked this path, I know that being “in care” can sometimes feel like a label that limits your future. But I’m here to tell you—and show you—that your history is not your destiny. Being in care does not stop you from achieving greatness; in fact, the resilience you develop can become your greatest superpower.
Many of the world’s most successful athletes, authors, and leaders started exactly where you are. They faced the same uncertainty and the same questions, yet they went on to change the world.
Table Of Contents
- 1 Who are some famous people who were in the care system?
- 2 1. Legends of the Silver Screen and Stage
- 3 2. Champions of Sport
- 4 3. Masters of Music and Culture
- 5 4. Leaders in Business, Politics, and Media
- 6 Why being care-experienced can be your “Superpower”
- 7 How to start building your own success story today
- 8 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who are some famous people who were in the care system?
If you are wondering who has navigated the care system and reached the top of their field, here are a few icons to look up to:
1. Legends of the Silver Screen and Stage
- Barry Keoghan: Before starring in Saltburn and The Banshees of Inisherin, Barry spent seven years in foster care, moving between 13 different foster homes. He is now an Oscar-nominated and BAFTA-winning actor.
- Samantha Morton: This award-winning actress spent her childhood in children’s homes and foster care in Nottinghamshire. When she won a BAFTA Lifetime Achievement award in 2024, she dedicated it to every child currently in care.
- Neil Morrissey: Known for Men Behaving Badly and the voice of Bob the Builder, Neil spent seven years in care from the age of 10. He is now a vocal advocate for improving the care system for young people.
- Marilyn Monroe: One of the most famous icons in history, Marilyn spent much of her childhood in and out of foster homes due to her mother’s health struggles.
2. Champions of Sport
- Fatima Whitbread: A world-champion javelin thrower and Olympic medalist, Fatima spent the first 14 years of her life in children’s homes before being adopted by her coach.
- Kriss Akabusi: This Olympic gold medalist spent time in children’s homes and foster placements from the age of four after his parents returned to Nigeria. He is now a successful broadcaster and motivational speaker.
- Alonzo Mourning: A legendary NBA star, Alonzo chose to live in a group home at age 10 when his parents’ marriage ended. He credits his foster mother for teaching him the values that led to his success.
3. Masters of Music and Culture
- Goldie: The world-famous DJ who pioneered drum ‘n’ bass grew up in the care system in the West Midlands.
- Seal: The Grammy-winning singer behind “Kiss From a Rose” was in foster care from shortly after his birth until he was four years old.
- John Lennon: One of the most influential musicians ever, the Beatles co-founder was fostered and then adopted by his aunt and uncle as a child.
4. Leaders in Business, Politics, and Media
- Baroness Lola Young: A member of the House of Lords and a leading voice in social justice, Baroness Young grew up in the care system in London.
- Lorraine Pascale: Before becoming a famous TV chef and model, Lorraine spent the first 18 months of her life in foster care.
- Steve Jobs: The co-founder of Apple, who changed the way we use technology, was adopted as a baby and raised in California.
Li’s Insight: “When I was in care, I didn’t see many people like me in high places. But once I started looking, I realized we are everywhere. We are doctors, artists, and CEOs. We aren’t successful despite our past; we are successful because we learned how to survive and thrive early on.”
Why being care-experienced can be your “Superpower”
In 2026, the world prizes “soft skills”—things like adaptability, problem-solving, and grit. As a care-experienced person, you likely have these in abundance:
- Resilience: You have handled more change by age 16 than most people do in a lifetime. This makes you incredibly strong.
- Adaptability: Moving placements or schools teaches you how to read new environments quickly—a vital skill in any career.
- Perspective: You see the world through a unique lens, which allows for deeper empathy and more creative thinking.
How to start building your own success story today
You don’t have to be a world-famous athlete to be “successful.” Success is about defining what you want and taking the steps to get there.
- Find Your Passion: Whether it’s coding, football, art, or helping others, find the thing that makes you feel alive.
- Seek Out Mentors: Don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are many professionals and care-experienced adults who want to see you win.
- Own Your Story: Your life story is yours. You get to decide how the next chapters are written.
Visual Idea: An infographic showing a timeline of different successful care-experienced people and the diverse fields they work in.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it harder for care leavers to get into university? While there are unique challenges, many universities now offer specific bursaries, year-round housing, and dedicated support teams specifically for care-experienced students to ensure you have the same opportunities as everyone else.
What support is available for me when I leave care? In the UK, your local authority must provide a Personal Adviser (PA) and a pathway plan to help you with housing, education, and finances until you are 25.
Are there many people in care who become successful? Yes, there are thousands of successful care-experienced people working as doctors, teachers, artists, and business leaders. Success is not just for celebrities; it is a path open to every young person in care.
Does having many foster placements stop you from being successful? Not at all. For example, actor Barry Keoghan lived in 13 different foster homes before finding his path to success. What matters most is your determination and the support you find along the way.
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