Hollywood stars often take the wrong path in life, but some have come out of darkness by devoting their lives to religion.

Entertainment headlines are quick to highlight the downfalls and bad habits of the rich and famous. With increased scrutiny and paparazzi camera flashes everywhere, it’s hard for stars to keep their bad habits and unwanted moments private. Few people have been able to turn their lives around by focusing on a higher power and turning to religion to purify their sins and put them on a positive trajectory.

Among the many big names that come to mind is Mark Wahlberg. Wahlberg had a brief stint with his brother Donnie Wahlberg in the popular pop boy band New Kids on the Block. He then shot to fame as a member of Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch, building a career in independent films. Wahlberg’s star continued to grow, but he dropped out of school at age 13, and by the time he was just 16, he was charged with attempted murder and assault. Wahlberg took a wrong turn and ended up in prison, where he served time and reflected on the error of his ways. The youngest of nine children, Wahlberg quickly rediscovered his faith and immersed himself in his Catholic roots. Since then, he has continued to pursue a successful career as an actor and entrepreneur. Wahlberg completely dedicates his life to God and begins each day with prayer. He spreads the word about the power of Christianity in interviews and on social media.

MILWAUKEE, WI – JULY 18: Comedian and actor Russell Brand attends Day 4 of the Republican National Convention at Fiserv Forum on July 18, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Delegates, politicians and Republican faithful were in Milwaukee for the annual convention, which concluded with former President Donald Trump accepting the party’s presidential nomination. The RNC will be held from July 15th to 18th. (Photo by Leon Neal/Getty Images)

Russell Brand’s scandals and controversies include allegations of sexual assault by four women, complaints about his provocative and sexual humor, and political comments that are offensive to many. He spoke candidly about his many attempts to seek professional help for his drug and sex addiction issues. His loud voice and in-your-face approach to discussing the numerous allegations against him have swayed many the wrong way. Brand did something sudden and unexpected when he was baptized as a Christian in the River Thames in 2024. He turned his focus to God and devoted himself to the Christian faith. Some of his podcasts and appearances currently center around: spiritual healing and the importance of faith.

MIAMI, FL – JANUARY 23: In this handout photo provided by the Miami-Dade Police Department, pop star Justin Bieber poses for a booking photo at the Miami-Dade Police Department on January 23, 2014 in Miami, Florida. I’m taking it. Justin Bieber was charged with driving under the influence, resisting arrest, and driving without a license after Miami Beach police caught the pop star street racing on Thursday morning. (Photo courtesy of Miami-Dade Police Department, via Getty Images)

Justin Bieber’s meteoric rise to fame also the cause of his death. Scooter Braun managed this 12-year-old talent, and his signature rock and catchy songs led girls to flock to his concerts and buy his music and merchandise. It soon became clear that the fame and media attention was too much for Bieber. He was involved in an accident involving a pedestrian in 2013, and people started complaining about his out-of-control parties. By 2015, he was convicted of assault and careless driving after videos of him using racial slurs began circulating and he was charged with drunk driving in Miami the year before. The singer was involved in an accident involving a pedestrian in Los Angeles, and in 2017 he reportedly hit a paparazzi with his truck in an apparent accident in Beverly Hills. His strange behavior soon led to people petitioning for his deportation. Bieber publicly broke down and asked God for help after an intense battle with depression and anxiety. Since then, Bieber has embraced Christianity and dedicated his life to serving Jesus. Religion remains an important part of his daily life and a common bond he shares with his wife Hailey Bieber. He has publicly admitted that his faith helped him overcome his problems.

AUSTIN, Texas – OCTOBER 9: This handout provided by the Austin Police Department shows that after being arrested for public intoxication at the intersection of 6th Street and San Jacinto Boulevard in Austin on October 9, 2015. Shia Syed LaBeouf poses for a headshot. , Texas. (Photo courtesy of Austin Police Department, via Getty Images)

Shia LaBeouf Although he gained fame as an actor, he was equally famous for his off-stage antics and arrests. He frequently made headlines for his bizarre and often explosive behavior, and was often caught on video doing erratic behavior in public. He was arrested in 2014 and charged with disorderly conduct and trespassing. A 2020 lawsuit brought disturbing accusations of sexual assault and physical and verbal abuse against him by FKA Twigs. Among the numerous charges leveled against him over the years were misdemeanors such as public intoxication, petty theft, and assault. His name became synonymous with trouble, and he revealed that he had suicidal thoughts due to problems with the law, addiction, and alcoholism. LaBeouf landed the role in “Padre Pio,” which would change the course of his life. Playing a Catholic saint opened his eyes to religion, and he started on the path to God. Mr. LaBeouf was confirmed on New Year’s Eve at a Mass conducted by Capuchin Franciscan friars. (Related: Denzel Washington officially becomes minister)

HOLLYWOOD, CA – NOVEMBER 18: Denzel Washington attends the Los Angeles Premiere of Paramount Pictures ‘Gladiator II’ held at TCL Chinese Theater on November 18, 2024 in Hollywood, California. (Photo Credit: Axel/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic) Getty Images

Denzel Washington is the latest celebrity to abandon bad habits and choose a life devoted to God. He was baptized in December 2024 at the age of 69, shocking his fans. Washington previously admitted that he was addicted to drugs and alcohol during his rise to fame in Hollywood. The star has spoken openly about his addiction issues and pursuit of a more balanced lifestyle after admitting that drug abuse took a toll on his body. The legendary actor got sober in 2014. Upon his baptism in 2024, he was officially ordained a pastor and proudly posed with his license while addressing his parish. Washington put the ups and downs of his life in perspective and thanked God for giving him a clear path to follow. The actor had previously avoided Hollywood for not accepting his faith.