We live in a strange world; some people who have the opportunity to study and achieve a good academic record often take it for granted, while others always regret it. This is true even for celebrities who have abundant resources. For instance, Lily Allen spoke candidly with her longtime friend and Miss Me? podcast co-host Miquita Oliver on the latest episode of her show, discussing her personal journey with academics on August 5, 2024.
During the conversation, she said that when people start talking about which university she studied in, she gets caught in a vortex of self-hatred because she doesn’t feel educated enough.
He said: “I left school at 15 and I don’t have a single GCSE. I don’t have a single qualification and I’m ashamed. I’m ashamed of it.”
Furthermore, Allen expressed uncertainty, saying that if she had a degree, there would have been moments – such as after having children – when she would have considered leaving the music or entertainment industry and pursuing a career in law.
She previously revealed in an interview with The Guardian in 2006 that she realised she did not aspire to be a full-time actress, but instead aimed to “make a lot of money and retire by the age of 30”.
The actress was married to Sam Cooper, with whom she has daughters Ethel Mary, 12, and Marnie Rose. Furthermore, she revealed that after losing her stillborn son George in 2010, she thought about pursuing midwifery or obstetrics as it interested her. However, she felt it was too difficult and without a diploma or GCSEs she felt ashamed and told her friend, “I was too lazy.”
Lily Allen is best known for her successful single, Smile, which topped the U.K. Singles Chart in July 2006. Her debut album, Alright, Still, was highly praised, selling over 2.6 million copies worldwide.
The success of both the single and the album earned Allen notable recognition, including nominations at the Grammy Awards, Brit Awards, and MTV Video Music Awards. Her distinctive voice, catchy pop hooks, and candid lyrics have established her as a prominent figure in the music industry.
Also read: Jennifer Tilly says joining The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills is like ‘experiencing zero gravity’