Shania Twain, a global superstar, had a tough childhood in Timmins, Ontario. Born into a poor family, her stepfather’s low-paying job and her mother’s depression made life difficult. She was one of five siblings and often went without essentials like food, heating, and electricity.
To escape, she focused on music, performing at local bars from a young age. By 11, she was performing legally and, at 14, started getting paid for her gigs. She also worked at McDonald’s, which she described as her “saving grace,” providing regular meals and income.
