You won’t believe how these underdogs turned failure into something unforgettable.
Sometimes life knocks you flat—and staying down feels like the only option. But then you hear a story that shakes something loose in you. These comebacks aren’t sugarcoated fairytales—they’re raw, real, and full of grit. Some people lost everything: jobs, relationships, health, hope. Others were written off entirely. But instead of giving up, they found a way to claw their way back—and not just to where they were, but to something stronger.
So if you’re feeling stuck, broken, or just a little worn out, this list might be the spark you didn’t know you needed. Let the inspiration begin.
1. Angela Bofill lost her voice—but found a new way to shine.
Angela Bofill, a pioneering jazz and R&B singer of the 1970s and ’80s, suffered two strokes that left her unable to sing and partially paralyzed. Initially overwhelmed, she launched “The Angela Bofill Experience,” a speaking-and-performance tour where other artists perform her songs while she shares personal stories and life lessons. Embracing humor and resilience, Bofill refers to herself as a “sitting-down comic” and expresses gratitude for being alive, according to Wondermind. Her return is seen as an inspiring testament to perseverance and the enduring power of creativity and connection with fans.
2. Lewis Capaldi faced health challenges—and returned stronger.
Lewis Capaldi made an emotional return to Glastonbury in 2025, two years after withdrawing mid-performance due to health issues related to Tourette’s Syndrome. His secret set at the festival was met with tears of joy from fans, as mentioned in Mountex. Capaldi declared, “I’m back, baby,” showcasing his resilience and deep connection with his audience.
3. Shania Twain battled Lyme disease—and reclaimed her voice.
Canadian country singer Shania Twain took an extended break after 2004 due to Lyme Disease, which affected her vocal cords. She returned with a new single in 2011 and has since released two more albums, joining Madonna as the only performer to have top ten efforts in the 1990s, 2000s, 2010s, and 2020s, as shared in Everand.
4. Jim Abbott pitched a no-hitter—with only one hand.
Jim Abbott, born without a right hand, had a remarkable baseball career, including pitching a no-hitter for the Yankees in 1993. Despite struggles and being labeled an “underachiever,” Abbott’s story is marked by overcoming physical disability and societal perceptions, becoming an icon for those with disabilities. His journey is portrayed as one of resilience and growth.
5. Liam Hendriks beat cancer—and returned to the mound.
Australian baseball star Liam Hendriks was diagnosed with stage 4 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in December 2022. He ambitiously aimed to return by May 2023 and did so, receiving heartfelt support from peers and fans. His journey, aided by a mindset shift, saw him sign a $15 million deal with the Boston Red Sox. Hendriks continues to support cancer patients and remains determined to maintain an active career post-baseball.
6. Will Smith returned to music—with an inspirational message.
Will Smith made a triumphant return to music with an inspirational performance of his new single “You Can Make It” at the BET Awards, marking his first new song since 2017. The performance focused on themes of resilience and hope, highlighting his journey of personal growth since the infamous Oscars incident in 2022.
7. Teddy Bridgewater overcame injury—and inspired others.
Detroit Lions quarterback Teddy Bridgewater had a remarkable 2024 season after recovering from a severe injury. He led the Lions to the playoffs and transitioned to coaching at his former high school, guiding them to a state championship. Bridgewater’s selflessness and dedication impacted many, showcasing his positive influence on and off the field.
8. Craig “Gator” Bodzianowski boxed professionally—with a prosthetic leg.
Craig Bodzianowski, an American professional boxer, lost his right leg below the knee in a motorcycle accident. He returned to boxing with a prosthetic limb, winning the Illinois State Heavyweight Title and the WBA Continental Americas Cruiserweight Title. In 1990, he challenged for the WBA World Cruiserweight Title, fighting through broken ribs and a swollen-shut eye, earning national admiration for his grit and courage.
9. JoJo Polk returned to football—after paralysis.
JoJo Polk, a defensive back, suffered a broken C-6 vertebra during his rookie season, leaving him paralyzed. Defying medical expectations, he recovered and returned to play eight years in the Arena Football League, winning two championships and earning the Most Inspirational Player of the Year award in 2001.
10. Fitz Vanderpool became a champion—at age 45.
Fitz Vanderpool, after a 7.5-year hiatus from professional boxing, returned to win the National Boxing Authority championship in 2013, defeating an opponent 17 years younger. This victory made him the oldest Canadian Champion in history and a three-division boxing champion at 45 years of age.
11. Greg LeMond won the Tour de France—after a near-fatal accident.
Greg LeMond was accidentally shot with pellets and seriously injured while hunting in 1987. After two surgeries and missing the next two Tours, he made an improbable comeback to win the 1989 Tour de France in dramatic fashion on the race’s final stage. He successfully defended his title the following year, becoming one of only nine riders to win three or more Tours.
12. John Hiller returned to baseball—after a heart attack.
On January 11, 1971, John Hiller suffered a heart attack at the age of 27. After a strict diet and significant weight loss, he returned to pitch for the Detroit Tigers, leading the American League’s pitchers with 65 appearances and 60 games finished. Hiller’s comeback was rated as “one of the most heartwarming sagas in sports,” earning him numerous awards for his remarkable accomplishments.
13. Bethany Hamilton lost her arm to a shark attack—but returned to professional surfing.
At just 13 years old, Bethany Hamilton was attacked by a 14-foot tiger shark while surfing in Hawaii, resulting in the loss of her left arm. Amazingly, she returned to surfing just 26 days later, adapting her technique to compete at the highest levels. Her story of resilience and determination has inspired many, and she continues to be a prominent figure in the surfing world.
14. Robert Downey Jr. overcame addiction to become a leading Hollywood actor.
Robert Downey Jr.’s early career was marred by substance abuse and legal troubles, leading to multiple arrests and a tarnished reputation. After committing to sobriety in the early 2000s, he made a remarkable comeback, culminating in his iconic role as Tony Stark in the “Iron Man” series. His transformation from troubled actor to box office superstar is a testament to personal redemption.
15. Cheryl Tweedy returned to the spotlight after personal and professional setbacks.
Cheryl Tweedy faced significant challenges, including public scrutiny and personal hardships, which led to a hiatus from her career. Demonstrating resilience, she made a successful return to television as a mentor on “The Voice,” inspiring many with her story of perseverance and reinvention.