Many of Hollywood's biggest names have expanded into entrepreneurship. While these stars may get a leg up due to name recognition and capital access, it takes strong business acumen — and plenty of hard work — to achieve lasting success.
From actors to musicians to social media influencers, here are 10 celebrities who also moonlight as business owners.
Emma Chamberlain: Chamberlain Coffee
In addition to her work as a YouTuber and podcast host, Emma Chamberlain is an entrepreneur in the more traditional sense. In 2020, the internet personality launched Chamberlain Coffee, partnering with Bixby Coffee to develop an initial proof of concept.
Chamberlain Coffee, which initially focused on cold brews, has since expanded its offerings to include a variety of coffee, tea, and matcha products.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas: Anomaly and Purple Pebble Pictures
Multihyphenate Priyanka Chopra Jonas has invested in several companies over the years, including Bumble, Apartment List, and a computer science school. She's also previously launched both a restaurant and a home goods brand.
Jonas' current business ventures include Anomaly, an eco-conscious haircare brand, and Purple Pebble Pictures, a Mumbai-based production studio.
[Read more: Blending Nostalgia and Social Media, Actress Melissa Gilbert Takes Her Modern Startup Back to the Prairie]
Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul: Dos Hombres
Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul transformed their professional relationship from co-stars to business partners. The "Breaking Bad" duo, along with third-generation mezcal maestro Gregorio Velasco, founded Dos Hombres Mezcal in 2019.
Created through traditional production methods and made with 100% agave, Dos Hombres has earned several awards in the spirits sector.
Gal Gadot: GOODLES
In 2021, Gal Gadot and co-founder Jen Zeszut created GOODLES, a nutrient-dense boxed mac-and-cheese brand. The protein- and fiber-packed noodle comes in a variety of flavors as well as kosher, vegan, and gluten-free options.
GOODLES recently netted $13 million in series A funding, which will be used to expand its C-suite team and boost its U.S. production capacity.
In 2021, Gal Gadot and co-founder Jen Zeszut created GOODLES, a nutrient-dense boxed mac and cheese brand.
Jennifer Garner: Once Upon a Farm
Once Upon a Farm, a kids' organic snack and meal brand, was founded in 2015 by Cassandra Curtis and Ari Raz. In 2017, actress-philanthropist Jennifer Garner and former Annie's CEO John Foraker joined as co-founders and investors.
Garner and her family farm in Oklahoma play a significant creative role in the company, inspiring the "Farmer Jen's" line of fruit and veggie blends.
Kevin Hart: Hartbeat, Hart House, and more
Comedian Kevin Hart has made a name for himself as an entrepreneur, branching out into several business ventures. The entertainer has launched media production companies Laugh Out Loud and Hartbeat — the latter of which houses Hartbeat Ventures, a venture capital firm.
Beyond the media sphere, Hart owns plant-based superfood company VitaHustle, the tequila brand Gran Coramino, and the nonprofit Help from the Hart.
Rihanna: Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty
Robyn Rihanna Fenty, better known as Rihanna, has founded two successful businesses with her namesake: Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty.
Fenty Beauty brands — including Fenty Beauty, Fenty Skin, Fenty Hair, and Fenty Eau De Parfum — offer products for all skin types, skin tones, and hair textures. In a similar vein of inclusion, Savage X Fenty sells lingerie, loungewear, and other apparel for various body types and occasions.
Ryan Reynolds: Aviation American Gin, Wrexham AFC, and others
Actor and producer Ryan Reynolds has invested in several businesses, including craft distiller Aviation Gin and fintech company Nuvei. In 2020, Reynolds and fellow actor Rob McElhenney purchased the Wrexham AFC football club, bringing in a global fanbase and a subsequent boost to the Welsh economy.
Though some of Reynold's ventures were acquired, he remains creatively involved with several, including Mint Mobile and production company Maximum Effort.
[Read more: Ready, Set, Pitch! Famous Investors' Best Advice on Finding Backers]
Harry Styles: Pleasing
In 2021, English singer Harry Styles launched Pleasing, a unisex beauty and lifestyle brand. His beauty routine-inspired products include fragrances, apparel, skin/body care, and a nail polish line.
Since opening as an e-commerce brand, Pleasing has also opened a flagship store in London and multiple pop-up stores across the United States and the United Kingdom.
Jackson Wang: TEAM WANG records and TEAM WANG design
K-pop star Jackson Wang, known for his work with boy band Got7, founded international record label TEAM WANG records in 2017. Wang and several other artists are featured on the roster, boasting collaborations with artists like Ciara and GoldLink.
Wang also serves as the creative director and lead designer for TEAM WANG's luxury streetwear brand TEAM WANG design.
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Unlock today’s biggest trends with expert tips and inspiring stories from Olympic gold medalist Dominique Dawes! Don’t miss our exclusive evening program and CO—100 Top Business announcement!
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