In 2009 West Lothian singer Susan Boyle blew judges and viewers away with her audition on Britain's Got Talent.
The shy singer rocked the crowd with her beautiful rendition of I Dreamed a Dream, much to the surprise of judge Simon Cowell. Although Susan did not win the talent show, she released her debut album shortly after which became the UK's best-selling record of all time.
The 62-year-old is said to be worth millions now, although you wouldn't think so due to her incredibly down-to-earth lifestyle. Celebrating her birthday on April 1, Susan still lives a humble life and prefers to stay out of the celebrity spotlight.
READ MORE: Edinburgh model who murdered gangster boyfriend out of jail for brother's funeral
As the Mirror reports, Susan is not one for flash cars and millionaire mansions with a private pool.
Modest
Unlike many celebrities who splash the cash as soon as it hits their account, Susan has invested her earnings wisely and still lives in her childhood home in West Lothian.
A number of years ago, the singer spent just over £100k on an ex-council house next door to her childhood home in the hope of turning both properties into her 'dream home'.
Although the possibilities were endless in terms of swish features, Susan found it too hard to stray too far from the sort of environment she grew up in.
She previously told OK! magazine: "It's to do with the memories of your house and your upbringing, you need to take stock of things and maybe see where you come from and where your roots lie."
"It's best to be grounded and with your roots. It keeps you grounded and prevents you from saying things maybe you shouldn't say."
Counting the pennies
Susan is said to have made over £22million during her career, but there are no extravagant purchases to suggest so.
The singer previously told former BGT judge Piers Morgan how she lives off just £300-£500 a week to keep her going. In an interview with the TalkTV host back in 2010, she said: "I've only just learnt how to go in a taxi. I don't flash the cash."
Asked by Piers if she would like to buy a Lamborghini car, she asked, innocently: "Is that a drink? No fancy cars, no."
Susan continued: "I'm always careful with money. I'm not saying I'm mean, but I'm always careful. I have an allowance, it's about £300-500 a week because that's plenty for me. It's pocket money."
Humble holidays
While jetting off to the Maldives or the Bahamas is the first port of call for many celebrities with their new-found fame, Susan prefers to get her R&R closer to home.
The star was recently pictured in Ireland as fans spotted her on the Emerald Isle. Susan also some time at the Knock House Hotel in Mayo in the West of Ireland.
Their official Facebook page shared snaps of Susan, who smiled warmly next to the local residents.
The caption read: "It was our pleasure to welcome Susan Boyle back to Knock House again recently.
"Susan is a fabulous Lady and we always love to see her return time and time again to Knock House Hotel. Pictured here with the lovely Des Dugan from the team at Senior Times LIVE."
Fans took to the comments section, with one gutted to have missed out on seeing the Scottish singer.
"OMG, this is literally down the road from me. RAGING that I missed getting a picture with Subo," they lamented.
A few little treats
While Susan isn't one to splash out on a designer wardrobe or monogramed luggage, she did treat herself to a few little presents after Britain's Got Talent.
Speaking to OK! Magazine about pushing the boat out - slightly - she said "I bought a fur coat, a piano and a bike, which I haven't been on yet".
Although she hasn't frittered money away on many extravagant material items, Susan has invested her money wisely in other ways - particularly in her bid to finally get behind the wheel.
"I've spent a bit on driving lessons," she revealed, before admitting: "but I haven't managed to pass yet."
READ NEXT:
The epic driving route designed to rival the NC500 just one hour from Edinburgh
Edinburgh hotel apologises as 'noises' give guests 'terrible night's sleep'
Seven Edinburgh hidden gems and secrets with a fascinating story behind them
Doting Edinburgh dad and bodyguard to the stars tragically passes away
Samuel L Jackson poses with Rangers shirt while filming new movie in West Lothian
