45 Interesting Facts about John Travolta

Dan August 23, 2023

John Travolta is an American actor, producer, dancer, and singer who rose to fame in the 1970s and became an iconic figure in popular culture. Born on February 18, 1954, in Englewood, New Jersey, he showed an early aptitude for performing and acting. Travolta’s breakthrough came with his role as Vinnie Barbarino in the television series “Welcome Back, Kotter” (1975-1979).

Travolta’s career reached new heights with his starring role as Tony Manero in the disco-era film “Saturday Night Fever” (1977). The film’s success not only made him a household name but also turned him into a symbol of the disco era and a pop culture icon. He solidified his status as a Hollywood leading man with his role as Danny Zuko in the musical film “Grease” (1978), showcasing his singing and dancing talents. This cemented his position as a versatile entertainer and garnered him widespread recognition.

Travolta experienced a resurgence in the 1990s with roles in films like “Pulp Fiction” (1994), directed by Quentin Tarantino, which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Throughout his career, he has been known for his charismatic on-screen presence, ability to tackle diverse roles, and his passion for aviation, with him being a licensed pilot.

John Travolta’s impact on the entertainment industry has been substantial, and his roles in iconic films have left an indelible mark on film history. His journey from a talented young actor to an enduring superstar exemplifies the power of talent, determination, and adaptability in carving a lasting legacy in the world of entertainment.

To know more about John Travolta, let’s take a look at these 45 interesting facts about John Travolta.

1. John Joseph Travolta was born on February 18, 1954, in Englewood, New Jersey, USA.
2. He is of Italian descent on his father’s side and Irish descent on his mother’s side.
3. Travolta is the youngest of six children in his family.
4. His older sister, Ellen Travolta, is also an actress and starred in the TV series “Charles in Charge.”
5. He dropped out of high school at age 16 to pursue acting.
6. Travolta made his debut on Broadway at age 18 in the musical “Grease.”
7. He gained fame for his role as Vinnie Barbarino in the TV series “Welcome Back, Kotter.”
8. Travolta’s breakout film role was in “Saturday Night Fever” (1977), where he played the charismatic dancer Tony Manero.
9. He received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his role in “Saturday Night Fever.”
10. Travolta became a certified private pilot at the age of 22 and has a strong passion for aviation.
11. He starred as Danny Zuko in the film adaptation of the musical “Grease” (1978).
12. The “Grease” soundtrack became one of the best-selling albums of all time.
13. His dance moves in “Pulp Fiction” became iconic and are often imitated.
14. Travolta took a hiatus from Hollywood during the 1980s, but his career was revitalized in the 1990s with roles in films like “Pulp Fiction.”
15. He earned a Golden Globe Award for his performance in the TV movie “The Boy in the Plastic Bubble.”
16. Travolta was considered for the lead role in “Forrest Gump,” but Tom Hanks was cast instead.
17. He portrayed lawyer Robert Shapiro in the TV series “The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story.”
18. Travolta is a qualified pilot for several types of aircraft, including the Boeing 707.
19. He owns a Boeing 707 airliner, which he uses for personal travel.
20. Travolta has a home in Florida with its own runway and hangars for his aircraft.
21. He starred in the film “Face/Off” (1997), where he played an FBI agent who switches faces with a criminal, played by Nicolas Cage.
22. Travolta is a member of the Church of Scientology and has been involved in various Scientology-related projects.
23. He has received several awards for his contributions to the aviation industry.
24. Travolta has starred in multiple films alongside his wife, Kelly Preston, who sadly passed away in 2020.
25. He lent his voice to the character of Bolt in the animated film “Bolt” (2008).
26. Travolta starred in the film “Hairspray” (2007), a musical adaptation of the Broadway hit.
27. He portrayed mob boss John Gotti in the biographical crime drama “Gotti” (2018).
28. Travolta has released albums as a singer, including the “John Travolta” album in 1976.
29. He was considered for the role of Billy Flynn in the musical “Chicago” but turned it down.
30. Travolta has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
31. He has been nominated for two Academy Awards in his career.
32. Travolta has been honored with a Living Legend Award at the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards.
33. He starred in the film “Broken Arrow” (1996), playing a U.S. Air Force pilot.
34. Travolta has appeared in both dramatic and comedic roles throughout his career.
35. He has been known for his diverse range of characters, from dancers to pilots to criminals.
36. Travolta’s son, Jett Travolta, tragically passed away in 2009.
37. He voiced the character Moose in the animated film “Bolt.”
38. Travolta is involved in charity work and has supported causes such as education and disaster relief.
39. He starred in the film “Get Shorty” (1995), a comedic crime thriller.
40. Travolta appeared in the film “Swordfish” (2001) alongside Hugh Jackman and Halle Berry.
41. He starred in the romantic drama “Michael” (1996), playing an angel who visits Earth.
42. Travolta portrayed Edna Turnblad in the film adaptation of “Hairspray.”
43. He has a successful film career spanning over several decades.
44. Travolta has embraced his status as a pop culture icon and has made appearances on various television shows and events.
45. Despite the ups and downs of his career, John Travolta remains an enduring and beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

John Travolta’s journey through the realms of entertainment is a tapestry woven with versatility, charisma, and unwavering dedication. From lighting up the disco floor as Tony Manero to gracefully navigating the skies as a licensed pilot, his career has been marked by iconic performances and a profound impact on pop culture. Travolta’s ability to seamlessly transition between dramatic and comedic roles, coupled with his genuine passion for aviation, has solidified his place as an enduring presence in Hollywood. As he continues to grace screens both big and small, his legacy as an actor, dancer, singer, and philanthropist remains firmly etched in the annals of entertainment history, a legacy that continues to captivate and inspire audiences around the world.