Cleft lip and palate are congenital conditions that can affect a person’s appearance, speech, and overall quality of life. However, for many, these challenges have become a source of strength and empowerment. Over the years, numerous celebrities with cleft lips and palates have shattered stereotypes and redefined beauty standards, proving that physical differences do not limit success or beauty.
10 Cleft Lip and Palate Celebrities Who Redefined Beauty
Throughout history, several celebrities born with cleft lip and palate have not only overcome their challenges but have also redefined conventional beauty standards. These inspiring individuals have achieved remarkable success in their fields, proving that true beauty lies in resilience, talent, and self-acceptance.
1. Joaquin Phoenix
- Full name: Joaquin Rafael Phoenix
- Birthdate: October 28, 1974
- Age: 49 years old (as of 2024)
- Birthplace: San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Height: 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)
- Spouse: Rooney Mara (married in 2016)
- Career: Award-winning actor known for roles in Gladiator, Walk the Line, and Joker. Winner of multiple awards, including an Academy Award for Best Actor.
Joaquin Phoenix was born with a microform cleft, a subtle version of a cleft lip, which has left a slight scar on his upper lip. Phoenix has never tried to hide his scar, instead, he embraces it as a part of his identity. Over the years, his talent and versatility as an actor have made him one of the most respected figures in Hollywood. Phoenix’s success, despite any physical challenges, serves as an inspiration to many, proving that our differences can become our strengths.
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2. Peyton Manning
- Full name: Peyton Williams Manning
- Birthdate: March 24, 1976
- Age: 48 years old (as of 2024)
- Birthplace: New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
- Height: 6 feet 5 inches (196 cm)
- Spouse: Ashley Thompson (married in 2001)
- Children: 2 children (twins, Marshall and Mosley)
- Career: Legendary NFL quarterback, 5-time MVP, 2-time Super Bowl champion, Hall of Fame inductee.
Peyton Manning was born with a cleft palate, a condition that required surgery during his infancy. Despite this early challenge, Manning went on to have one of the most successful careers in NFL history. His incredible work ethic, leadership, and strategic mind made him a football legend. Off the field, Manning is also known for his charitable work, particularly in supporting organizations that help children born with cleft lip and palate.
3. Stacy Keach
- Full name: Walter Stacy Keach Jr.
- Birthdate: June 2, 1941
- Age: 83 years old (as of 2024)
- Birthplace: Savannah, Georgia, USA
- Height: 6 feet (183 cm)
- Spouse: Malgosia Tomassi (married in 1986)
- Children: 2 children (Shannon and Karolina)
- Career: Prolific actor known for his roles in Mike Hammer, American History X, and numerous stage productions.
Stacy Keach was born with a cleft lip and underwent multiple surgeries as a child. Despite this, he pursued a successful career in acting, known for his powerful performances in both film and television. Over his long career, he has not only entertained audiences but has also used his platform to raise awareness about cleft lip and palate conditions, offering hope and inspiration to many.
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4. Carmit Bachar
- Full name: Carmit Maile Bachar
- Birthdate: September 4, 1974
- Age: 49 years old (as of 2024)
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, USA
- Height: 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm)
- Spouse: Kevin Whitaker (partner)
- Children: 1 daughter (Keala Rose)
- Career: Singer, dancer, model, and former member of The Pussycat Dolls.
Carmit Bachar was born with a cleft lip and palate, conditions that required multiple surgeries during her childhood. Despite these early challenges, Bachar pursued her passion for performing arts, eventually becoming a member of the popular girl group The Pussycat Dolls. Her success in the entertainment industry, coupled with her advocacy for cleft lip and palate awareness, has made her a role model for many.
5. Cheech Marin
- Full name: Richard Anthony “Cheech” Marin
- Birthdate: July 13, 1946
- Age: 78 years old (as of 2024)
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, USA
- Height: 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm)
- Spouse: Natasha Rubin (married in 2009)
- Children: 3 children (Carmen, Joey, and Jasmine)
- Career: Comedian, actor, and voice actor, best known as one half of the comedy duo Cheech & Chong.
Cheech Marin was born with a cleft lip, a condition that was corrected with surgery. Marin’s sharp wit and humor have made him a beloved figure in comedy, particularly through his work with Tommy Chong in the iconic Cheech & Chong duo. Beyond comedy, Marin has had a successful career as an actor and voice actor, contributing to films like The Lion King and Cars. He has also supported charities focused on cleft lip and palate awareness, using his platform to help others.
6. R.J. Mitte
- Full name: Roy Frank “RJ” Mitte III
- Birthdate: August 21, 1992
- Age: 32 years old (as of 2024)
- Birthplace: Jackson, Mississippi, USA
- Height: 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm)
- Career: Actor and disability rights advocate, best known for his role in Breaking Bad.
R.J. Mitte was born with cerebral palsy and a cleft lip, conditions that have shaped his life but never defined him. Mitte gained fame for his portrayal of Walter White Jr. in the critically acclaimed series Breaking Bad, where he brought authentic representation of disabilities to the screen. Off-screen, Mitte is a passionate advocate for disability rights, using his platform to raise awareness and fight for inclusion.
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7. Tom Brokaw
- Full name: Thomas John Brokaw
- Birthdate: February 6, 1940
- Age: 84 years old (as of 2024)
- Birthplace: Webster, South Dakota, USA
- Height: 6 feet (183 cm)
- Spouse: Meredith Lynn Auld (married in 1962)
- Children: 3 daughters (Jennifer, Andrea, and Sarah)
- Career: Veteran journalist and former anchor of NBC Nightly News, author.
Tom Brokaw was born with a cleft lip and palate, undergoing multiple surgeries in his early years. Despite these challenges, Brokaw rose to prominence as one of America’s most respected journalists, covering significant historical events and earning numerous accolades throughout his career. Brokaw has also been active in supporting cleft-related causes, encouraging others to embrace their differences and pursue their dreams.
8. Kathy Martinez
- Full name: Kathy Martinez
- Birthdate: Date not publicly known
- Age: Approximately 65 years old (as of 2024)
- Birthplace: San Francisco, California, USA
- Career: Paralympic athlete, disability rights advocate, former Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy.
Kathy Martinez was born with a cleft lip and palate, along with other disabilities that have made her a passionate advocate for disability rights. Martinez has competed in multiple Paralympic Games and has held leadership roles in government and nonprofit organizations, working tirelessly to promote inclusion and accessibility.
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9. Gracie Allen
- Full name: Grace Ethel Cecile Rosalie Allen
- Birthdate: July 26, 1895
- Date of Death: August 27, 1964
- Age at Death: 69 years old
- Birthplace: San Francisco, California, USA
- Height: 5 feet 0 inches (152 cm)
- Spouse: George Burns (married in 1926)
- Children: 2 children (Ronnie and Sandra)
- Career: Comedian and actress, best known as part of the comedy duo Burns and Allen.
Gracie Allen, a beloved comedian and actress, was born with a cleft lip, which she had corrected through surgery. Allen became a household name as part of the comedy duo Burns and Allen, captivating audiences with her wit and charm. Despite the challenges she faced due to her condition, Allen’s success in Hollywood helped pave the way for future generations of performers.
10. Leonardo DiCaprio
- Full name: Leonardo Wilhelm DiCaprio
- Birthdate: November 11, 1974
- Age: 49 years old (as of 2024)
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, USA
- Height: 6 feet 0 inches (183 cm)
- Partner: Vittoria Ceretti
- Career: Academy Award-winning actor, environmental activist, known for roles in Titanic, Inception, and The Revenant.
Leonardo DiCaprio is a global superstar, renowned for his exceptional acting talent and his commitment to environmental activism. Born with a mild form of cleft lip, DiCaprio has never let his condition define him. Instead, he has focused on building a remarkable career in Hollywood, starring in some of the most critically acclaimed films of the past few decades.
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Conclusion
The stories of these ten cleft lip and palate celebrities serve as a reminder that beauty is not defined by physical appearance, but by one’s character, achievements, and resilience. These individuals have not only overcome their challenges but have also redefined what it means to be beautiful and successful. By embracing their unique identities and using their platforms to raise awareness, they have inspired countless others to do the same. In a world that often emphasizes perfection, these celebrities remind us that our differences make us stronger and more beautiful.
