I think you are focusing on the survivorship bias in role models, as those successful people in your life who you view as role models are more visible to you (the younger person) because they succeeded.

You wouldn't pick someone who ended up a Uber driver, because they dont look to you as someone from your field to model your future on.

Ultimately, getting fired can drastically change your life. Either for the betterment or detriment to their lives.