8 Actors Who Prove That Kindness Has No Limits

We love them for it

Damjan

• Published in Film & TV
• February 9, 2023

No matter who you are, everyone needs help at some point in their lives. Whether it's a close friend, family member, or even a complete stranger, having someone to turn to during difficult times can make all the difference.

Famous people understand this, which is why they often use their platform to help others. Many celebrities give back to their communities by donating their time and money to various charities, causes, and initiatives.

They often volunteer their time to speak at events, visit hospitals, and even mentor young people. They also frequently use their influence to raise awareness and funds for important causes.

Many of our favorite actors portray the most lovable characters on the big screen, and it can be a real shock to discover that they’re not always like that in real life. But don’t despair! There are plenty of stars who surprise us with their kindness and generosity.

Tom Cruise, Keanu Reeves, and many other actors are proof that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. While these stars can bring out the worst in their characters on screen, they can be some of the nicest people off-screen.

So don’t give up hope - there are still plenty of stars out there that will make your day! Today, we are celebrating the extraordinary kindness of 8 amazing actors! We’ve collected some of their touching stories and can’t wait to share them with you.

So let’s take a look and be touched by the generosity of these superstars.

7. Robin Williams

In 2004, Jessica Cole tragically passed away due to brain cancer. Her father recalled how Robin Williams had chartered a private plane to visit her in North Carolina, making her wish come true.

This meeting was made possible through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Williams, whom Jessica admired as her hero, took time out of his day to bring joy to her life; it was as if he had known her for years.

3. Zach Galifianakis

Prior to Zach Galifianakis’ rise to fame in Hollywood, he lived in a cramped apartment that didn’t even have room for a washing machine. This is why he became a frequent customer at his local laundromat, where he met Elizabeth Haist, or Mimi, who had been working there for more than 20 years.

They quickly formed a close friendship. After Galifianakis struck it big with The Hangover, he moved to a nicer place and no longer visited the laundromat. He never forgot Mimi, however.

Upon learning that his 87-year-old friend had lost her job and was now homeless, he bought her an apartment and paid all the bills. He even brought her to the red carpet and walked with her. “Mimi helps me feel better when I’m at those kinds of events,” said Galifianakis.

4. Steve Buscemi

Before becoming an actor, Steve Buscemi was a New York firefighter. On September 11, 2001, he returned to his old job and put in 12-hour shifts over a few days. His task was to search through the debris of the World Trade Center for survivors.

When asked about the experience, the actor said, “It was a privilege to be able to do it.” Buscemi had the opportunity to work with his former firehouse and colleagues. He is always eager to serve and assist when needed.

2. Keanu Reeves

Keanu Reeves is renowned not only for his acting ability but also for his generous and respectful attitude toward his colleagues. For instance, he reportedly gave away all of the $75 million he earned from The Matrix to the special effects and costume design crews who helped him create the iconic character of Neo.

Furthermore, he also reduced his salary on The Devil's Advocate in order to make room in the film's budget for the casting of Al Pacino. Similarly, he did the same for Gene Hackman in The Replacements, yet he never mentions these sacrifices.

1. Tom Cruise

On a stormy night, Tom Cruise was driving down Wilshire Boulevard when he witnessed a woman, Heloisa Vinhas, being struck by a vehicle. Heloisa was a 23-year-old Brazilian-born aspiring actress. The driver of the car fled the scene, and Cruise asked someone to call an ambulance.

He followed the injured woman to a medical center to ensure she was taken care of. Upon discovering she had no insurance, the renowned actor paid her $7,000 emergency room bill.

5. Christopher Reeve

In 1995, after Christopher Reeve suffered a spinal injury from horseback riding that left him paralyzed, he joined the American Paralysis Association (APA). This organization was devoted to finding a cure for spinal cord injuries through funding research, providing grants, offering information, and advocating for those living with paralysis.

In honor of Reeve and his committed wife, Dana, the APA was later renamed The Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation. Throughout the remainder of his life, Reeve made many television appearances in order to raise funds for the cause.

6. Colin Farrell

In 2007 at the Toronto International Music Festival, Colin Farrell made a lasting impression on a homeless man who was sitting on the curb of a local restaurant. Rather than ignore the man like others had done, Farrell chose to sit down and talk with him.

The man's plight so moved the actor that he offered to help him rent an apartment for a year and even made sure to check up on him by text. This kind gesture changed the man's life for the better - “He’s a down-to-earth guy,” the man said.

“He’s willing to help you out. If you show respect, it goes a long way.” Thanks to Farrell, the man was no longer homeless, and that is truly a blessing.

8. Anthony Stewart Head

Anthony Stewart Head, best known for his role in Buffy, and his wife took a day to visit a young trans fan in his home. They treated him to a luxurious restaurant, showed him their horses, took pictures with him and signed them, and even offered advice on an essay he was writing on Shakespeare for school.

The boy was ecstatic, saying, “Most importantly, however, they gave me what I had been lacking in my life up until that point- affirmation, compassion, and belief in my abilities.”

In addition to helping their communities, famous people understand that they can be role models to those who look up to them. They share their stories of success and resilience and are open and honest about their struggles and mistakes.

They realize that their words and actions can inspire and motivate people to strive for greatness. At the end of the day, everyone needs help at some point in their lives.

Famous people understand this, which is why they are willing to lend a helping hand and be an inspiration to others.

Damjan