When we think of highly successful celebrities, our minds often conjure images of glamorous red carpets, sold-out stadiums, and a life far removed from our everyday realities. We imagine private jets, luxury villas, and exclusive events, assuming their downtime is filled with equally extravagant pursuits. But what if we told you that behind the dazzling façade, many of these global icons harbor passions that are not only surprising but genuinely down-to-earth?
It’s true! It’s shamefully easy to forget that celebrities have interests and lives outside of the work that we know them for. Many of them are just like us… kind of. While they might have access to unparalleled resources, leading to some truly unique leisure activities, their desire to find balance and express themselves through hobbies is something we can all relate to. We took a deep dive and rounded up the most interesting, bizarre, and strangely wholesome hobbies of celebrities that were completely unexpected.
From crafting intricate miniature worlds to embracing ancient martial arts or even befriending amphibians, these stars prove that success doesn’t always mean losing touch with the simple (or sometimes wildly complex) joys of a personal passion. Whether it’s collecting something obscure or versing Tom Cruise in some fencing, these unique pastimes are what keep them grounded, allowing them to escape the constant glare of the spotlight and reconnect with a more authentic version of themselves. Get ready to discover a whole new side to your favorite famous faces!
1. **Johnny Depp: Collecting Barbie Dolls**Johnny Depp, renowned for his eclectic roles and quirky personality, has a hobby that might surprise many: collecting Barbie dolls. This passion isn’t just a casual interest; Depp’s collection is extensive and includes rare, vintage, and limited-edition dolls. His fascination with Barbies began as a way to connect with his daughter, but it quickly grew into a personal obsession. This unique interest offers a glimpse into the mind of an actor who continually seeks inspiration from the most unexpected sources.
Depp uses the dolls to explore characters and prepare for his acting roles, often creating intricate backstories and scenarios with them. He believes that the dolls help him to visualize and embody different personas, making his performances more authentic. It’s a fascinating method for character development, blurring the lines between playtime and serious craft.
Beyond his professional use, Depp’s collection is a testament to his playful and imaginative spirit. It showcases a side of the acclaimed actor that is both whimsical and deeply creative, blending his personal and professional life in a distinctly Depp manner. Who knew that the world of plastic fashion icons could be such a wellspring of inspiration for a Hollywood legend?
This hobby beautifully illustrates how even the most celebrated individuals find unique ways to express their inner world. It highlights the power of imagination and the often-unseen facets of a public figure’s personality. Depp’s Barbies are certainly more than just dolls; they are a window into his artistic soul.
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2. **Katy Perry: Collecting Other Celebrities’ Hair**We all know that Katy Perry loves to play around with her hair, but what we didn’t know (and didn’t really want to know) is that the singer has made a hobby of collecting other celebrities’ hair. Yes, you read that right – actual locks of hair from her famous peers. It’s certainly a hobby that stands out, even among the most unusual.
In fact, she talked about it openly during a fan Q&A, even admitting that she used to keep Miley Cyrus and Taylor Swift’s locks in her bag. This revelation surely raised some eyebrows and sparked widespread discussion among her fanbase and beyond. It’s certainly a conversation starter!
“It is totally creepy, but awesome,” she said. It seems Katy herself has a good sense of humor about the unique nature of her collection, acknowledging the oddity while still finding a certain charm in it. We have to admit, it’s definitely an unforgettable detail about the pop star.
This quirky habit provides a glimpse into Perry’s playful and somewhat eccentric personality, reinforcing her reputation for being unapologetically herself. While most people collect stamps or coins, Katy Perry’s choice takes “souvenir collecting” to an entirely new, and undeniably hair-raising, level. It reminds us that celebrities, like all of us, have their own peculiar fascinations that make them uniquely them.
3. **Paris Hilton: Frog Hunting and Vintage Radio Restoring**Miss Paris Hilton is a woman of many surprises, proving there’s much more to her than meets the eye. Talking to The Sun, the heiress opened up about a bizarre hobby: frog hunting. She insisted that no amphibians were hurt in the process, which is a relief!
“I love frog hunting. I go at my ranches. I have one near Oakland, California, and another in Nevada, and I own an island. So I catch frogs and put them in a bucket and then let them go,” she explained. This pastime offers a surprising connection to nature and a sense of adventure that contrasts sharply with her glamorous public image. It’s a chance for her to get her hands dirty, literally.
As for how she spends the rest of her time, well, Paris has also been known to make a presence at, get this, European antique radio shows. Back in 2015 a slew of sightings suggested that she not only sought old radios, but actually restored them herself. Can someone please get this woman another reality show?
Her dual hobbies of frogging and radio restoration showcase a truly eclectic taste and a hands-on approach to leisure. They reveal a side of Paris Hilton that is adventurous, playful, and deeply connected to nature, while also appreciating the intricate craftsmanship of vintage technology. It just goes to show you never truly know what fascinates a person until you ask!
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4. **Mike Tyson: Pigeon Racing**Retirement often compels people to take on new hobbies, however, pigeon racing is definitely an unexpected one for a former heavyweight boxing champion. Most likely because not many people (including us) know that such an organized sport exists with this level of dedication. Mike Tyson, the legendary former heavyweight boxing champion, has a soft spot for pigeons that dates back to his childhood in Brooklyn.
Tyson has been raising and racing pigeons for decades, finding peace and solace in this unique hobby. His love for these birds began when he was a young boy, and it has remained a constant in his life, even as he rose to fame in the boxing world. It’s a powerful testament to the enduring nature of childhood passions.
Not only does Tyson attend a pigeon pageant every year in Canada, but he’s apparently pretty good at it too. The former boxer is known to be quite dedicated to maintaining and training his birds and even hopes that the sport will become more popular with the younger generation. Here’s hoping, indeed!
His pigeon lofts house hundreds of birds, and he takes great pride in caring for them and participating in pigeon racing events. This pastime provides him with a sense of tranquility and a connection to his roots, contrasting sharply with his fierce persona in the ring. For Tyson, pigeons symbolize loyalty and resilience, qualities that he deeply respects, illustrating the profound impact these birds have had on his life.
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5. **Angelina Jolie: Collecting Daggers**Angelina Jolie, known for her powerful on-screen performances and humanitarian work, has a distinctive and somewhat edgy hobby: collecting daggers. We’re not sure if it’s because of all the insane stories that came out of her relationship with Billy Bob Thornton (she wore a vial of his blood around her neck?) but this hobby does not surprise us all that much. In fact, we’ve always felt that Jolie possesses Big Assassin Energy.
This interest was sparked during her youth when her mother gave her a knife as a gift, igniting a lifelong fascination with these finely crafted objects. Jolie’s collection includes an array of daggers from different cultures and historical periods, each with its own unique story and craftsmanship. She appreciates the artistry involved in making these weapons, viewing them as pieces of history and culture rather than mere instruments of violence.
In 2008, she even told W Magazine about how her mother got her into the hobby and that she was passing it onto her son Maddox, “My mom took me to buy my first daggers when I was 11 or 12 and I’ve already bought Maddox some things. We take him to a special shop. We also talk about samurais and about the idea of defending someone as good. We talk about everything,” she said. This intergenerational sharing of the hobby is quite touching.
Jolie’s interest in daggers also extends to her roles in films, where she has often portrayed characters who wield these weapons with skill and grace. This hobby provides a deeper insight into Jolie’s complex persona, blending her appreciation for artistry and history with her penchant for strong, formidable characters. Her collection symbolizes her strength and the multifaceted nature of her identity, revealing a fascinating aspect of her off-screen life.
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6. **Rod Stewart: Model Trains**Rod Stewart, the legendary rock singer known for his raspy voice and hits like “Maggie May,” has a lifelong passion for model trains. Many musicians are known to have particular demands when touring, but Rod Stewart’s only demand? That he be provided a separate hotel room for his model railways. Talk about dedication to your craft!
Stewart’s fascination with railways began in his childhood, and he has since developed an intricate and extensive model train setup that he proudly maintains. His sprawling model railway is a miniature world complete with detailed landscapes, buildings, and meticulously crafted trains. It’s an incredible feat of patience and precision.
The singer even made a documentary about the 100-foot model railway he built, which is a scaled model of New York’s Grand Central Station. He often spends hours working on his setup, finding it a relaxing and rewarding escape from his demanding career in music. He enjoys the process of designing and building new sections, and his attention to detail is evident in the lifelike scenes he creates.
Stewart’s hobby has even been featured in model train magazines, showcasing his dedication and talent. This passion for model trains offers a glimpse into Stewart’s creative mind and his ability to find joy in the meticulous art of miniaturization. It’s a truly wholesome and surprising pursuit for a rock ‘n’ roll icon, reminding us that even the biggest stars have a quiet, contemplative side.
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7. **Taylor Swift: Making Snow Globes**Pop icon Taylor Swift, known for her chart-topping anthems, record-breaking tours, and a fanbase so loyal they’re practically a nation, also harbors a super sweet, totally unexpected hobby that’ll make you swoon! Forget songwriting for a sec, because when she’s not dazzling millions on stage, she’s meticulously crafting charming, personalized snow globes. It’s a peek into her world that’s as heartwarming and genuine as her most intimate lyrics.
These aren’t just any store-bought trinkets you’d find at a souvenir shop; Taylor’s snow globes are entirely handmade, often serving as unique, deeply heartfelt gifts for her closest friends and cherished family members. She pours her immense creative energy into these whimsical decorations, personalizing each one to meticulously reflect special moments, shared milestones, or even a hilarious inside joke with the lucky recipient. Talk about a gift that truly keeps on giving and showcasing an unparalleled level of thoughtfulness!
Her attention to detail and artistic flair are truly something else, going far beyond the superficial. She meticulously selects miniature scenes, tiny, character-filled figures, and just the right amount of shimmering glitter to create these magical, encapsulated worlds, each telling its own tiny story. This hobby, which she reportedly picked up from Pinterest, isn’t just about the act of gift-giving; it’s a profoundly therapeutic escape, allowing her to express a different facet of her artistic self away from the constant glare and demanding schedule of her global music career.
Swift has gushed to Seventeen about this delightful D.I.Y. hobby, revealing that she uses mason jars and even vintage antiques to fashion these unique gifts. The process of putting them together, she says, makes her feel like a kid again, rediscovering a pure, unadulterated joy. This childlike wonder and dedication to a craft is certainly very wholesome stuff, adding another layer to her public persona.
Ultimately, crafting these adorable keepsakes perfectly aligns with Taylor’s broader ethos of cherishing personal connections and making memories last. It powerfully reinforces her image as an artist who deeply values the simple, heartfelt gestures that bring genuine joy and a sense of enduring magic to the lives of others. Honestly, who wouldn’t want a custom, glittery snow globe from the one and only Taylor Swift, encapsulating a piece of her unique creativity?
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8. **Tom Hanks: Typewriter Enthusiast**You might affectionately know him as America’s Dad, a national treasure, and one of Hollywood’s most beloved and consistently wholesome actors. But behind the silver screen charisma, Tom Hanks harbors a deeply personal passion that’s as classic and enduring as he is: collecting vintage typewriters! Seriously, this man has a profound love affair with the rhythmic clackety-clack of mechanical keys that’s both deeply nostalgic and utterly endearing.
His collection is nothing short of mind-blowing, boasting well over 250 vintage typewriters, each a unique piece of history with its own distinct charm and a story simply waiting to be typed. His profound love for these incredible machines began way back in the 1970s when he purchased his very first typewriter at the tender age of 19. Over the decades, this initial interest blossomed into a serious, curated collection and a sophisticated appreciation for the intricate craftsmanship and incredibly satisfying tactile experience they still offer.
Tom isn’t just a passive collector, letting these beautiful machines gather dust; he’s actively *using* them! He finds an almost meditative joy in the deliberate rhythm and satisfying physicality of pressing those individual keys, a stark, refreshing contrast to our frenetic, modern digital world. He even penned an entire critically acclaimed book of short stories, “Uncommon Type,” which was totally inspired by his incredible collection, proving his hobby is a powerful muse for his literary endeavors. How incredibly cool is that for a creative outlet and a testament to the power of analogue tools?
In an insightful essay he wrote for the New York Times, Hanks candidly discussed every facet of this cherished hobby, from acquiring that very first model to the vast collection he now proudly maintains. He cherishes the unique personality of each machine, finding solace and inspiration in their mechanical purity. While it’s been a profound joy to collect them, he’s also revealed plans to slowly give them away, eventually aiming to own just one, symbolizing a full circle journey with his passion.
For Hanks, these typewriters are so much more than mere writing tools; they represent a tangible connection to the past, embodying a simpler, more thoughtful, and intentional way of communication. His enthusiasm extends to actively advocating for their continued use, sharing his passion through social media, and genuinely encouraging others to appreciate the enduring beauty and nostalgic charm of these timeless machines. It just profoundly proves that some things, like true craftsmanship and heartfelt communication, truly never go out of style!
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9. **Mila Kunis: World of Warcraft Gamer**Hold up, stop the presses, because this is a reveal that might just redefine everything you thought you knew about Hollywood glamour! Mila Kunis, the stunning star renowned for her roles in “That ’70s Show” and the critically acclaimed “Black Swan,” harbors a hobby that’s completely unexpected: she is an incredibly avid World of Warcraft gamer! Yes, you absolutely read that right – an undeniable queen of the massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) scene!
Mila reportedly dove headfirst into the expansive, fantastical world of Azeroth during a break from filming, and to absolutely no one’s surprise, she got completely and utterly hooked! She’s all about the deeply immersive world-building, the rich lore, and the super complex, character-driven storylines that the game dishes out with seemingly endless content. She often dedicates hours upon hours to exploring new, breathtaking zones, mastering intricate character abilities, and completing epic quests alongside her online companions. Who needs glittering red carpets when you’ve got the thrilling landscapes of Azeroth to conquer?
She hasn’t been shy about her passion either; Mila has openly spilled the beans in various interviews, candidly sharing that World of Warcraft offers her a uniquely fun and genuinely engaging escape from the intense, often overwhelming pressures of life in Hollywood. And this isn’t just casual button-mashing or a fleeting interest, folks. She’s been known to actively participate in online guilds, strategizing with fellow players, and connecting with a diverse community of gamers from all corners of the globe. Talk about a celebrity who is truly relatable, showing a grounded side we can all understand!
Her passion for gaming extends beyond just playing; it’s a window into her strategic mind and her appreciation for intricate narratives. The thrill of overcoming challenges with a team, the satisfaction of leveling up, and the camaraderie formed in virtual worlds provide a crucial balance to her high-profile career. It’s a space where she can simply be a player, not a public figure, enjoying the pure escapism that only a well-designed fantasy realm can offer.
This profound dedication to gaming definitely peels back a different, refreshing layer of Kunis’s personality, highlighting her wonderfully down-to-earth side. It powerfully shows how she brilliantly balances her glamorous, high-stakes career with interests that are, let’s face it, pretty much what many of us enjoy doing on a relaxed Friday night. So next time you’re deep in a raid, battling formidable bosses, keep an eye out—you might just be questing alongside the one and only Mila Kunis!
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10. **Claudia Schiffer: Insect Collecting**Supermodel Claudia Schiffer, an undeniable icon of the fashion world, has famously graced over 1,000 magazine covers and captivated audiences in countless high-profile campaigns for the biggest designers. With such a dazzling career, you might expect her leisure activities to be equally extravagant. But prepare for a delightful surprise: beyond the glitz and glamour, she has a hobby that’s a little less “Vogue” and a lot more “National Geographic”: she collects insects! Bet you didn’t see that fascinating tidbit coming!
Claudia’s profound fascination with entomology (that’s the scientific study of insects, for those not in the know) began way back in her childhood in Germany. As a young girl, she would eagerly explore the picturesque countryside, diligently collecting various species. Her collection has grown exponentially over the years, now featuring a truly wild and diverse array of beetles, butterflies, and other incredibly fascinating creatures, a testament to her enduring passion. She even boasts a vast library of insect encyclopedias at her home, demonstrating a deep academic interest.
But she doesn’t merely collect them for the sake of accumulation; she genuinely and deeply appreciates the intricate beauty, delicate structures, and complex life cycles of insects. In fact, she often finds direct inspiration from their exquisite designs and vibrant patterns for her high-fashion work, blurring the lines between nature and art. How utterly amazing is it that her profound love for the natural world blends so seamlessly and unexpectedly with her incredibly creative pursuits, as she studies and meticulously displays her impressive collection with the care of a true curator?
Her interest was initially focused just on spiders, showcasing a unique courage and curiosity from a young age, but her collection has since expanded to encompass a broader spectrum of insects. This dedication to classification and understanding the minute details of the insect world reveals a keen scientific mind at play, far removed from the superficiality often associated with the modeling industry. It’s a wonderfully grounding activity that connects her to the detailed intricacies of life.
Ultimately, it’s not all just about the aesthetics or personal fascination for Schiffer. Her passion for insects extends into meaningful conservation efforts, where she actively champions initiatives and advocates for the vital protection of endangered species and their precious habitats. This truly unique interest profoundly highlights her intellectual curiosity, her genuine commitment to preserving our natural world, and adds a surprising, admirable depth to her already dazzling public image. Who knew bugs could be such an incredibly chic and impactful passion?
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11. **Vin Diesel: Dungeons & Dragons**Vin Diesel, the formidable action hero known globally for his tough-guy roles in blockbusters like “Fast & Furious” and “xXx,” might seem like he’s exclusively about muscle, high-octane stunts, and cinematic mayhem. But prepare yourself for a truly delightful and utterly unexpected plot twist: he’s actually a massive Dungeons & Dragons enthusiast! Yes, you absolutely read that right – our favorite bald action star is secretly a dedicated fantasy tabletop role-playing game guru, complete with dice and character sheets!
Vin has been passionately diving into the intricate, imaginative worlds of D&D for well over two decades, proving his unwavering dedication to the game’s rich storytelling, complex character development, and boundless creativity. He often gushes about his profound love for the game, candidly crediting it with significantly honing his acting skills and profoundly boosting his imaginative capacity and creative thinking. It makes you wonder what kind of epic, world-saving quests he’s successfully completed in his off-screen adventures!
His D&D passion runs so remarkably deep that he even penned the compelling foreword for the definitive book, “30 Years of Adventure: A Celebration of Dungeons & Dragons.” His favorite character, Melkor, a formidable and enigmatic witch hunter, is a vivid testament to his imaginative prowess and strategic mind, reflecting his ability to immerse himself fully in complex narratives. Playing D&D offers Vin a perfect, boundless creative outlet and a fantastic, structured way to unwind and escape from his demanding, often high-pressure film schedule.
The game provides him with a unique platform for collaborative storytelling, problem-solving, and developing empathy for diverse character perspectives. It’s a mental workout that is entirely different from the physical demands of his movie roles, offering a space for intellectual engagement and pure, unadulterated fun. This allows him to maintain a refreshing balance, tapping into parts of his brain that might not always be utilized on a film set.
This wonderfully ‘geeky’ hobby also provides a super cool and authentic way for him to connect with friends and family in a fun, collaborative setting, totally showcasing his inner nerd. It just profoundly goes to show you that even the biggest, toughest action stars have a softer, more imaginative, and deeply intellectual side, coupled with a genuine appreciation for epic fantasy worlds. Never, ever judge a book (or a globally recognized action hero) by its impressive, muscular cover!
12. **Susan Sarandon: Ping Pong**Academy Award-winning actress Susan Sarandon, celebrated globally for her powerful, often intense, and unforgettable roles on the silver screen, has a surprising, high-energy passion that keeps her feeling wonderfully young, sharp, and connected: ping pong! This isn’t just a casual basement game for her; she is seriously, enthusiastically, and professionally into it, transforming a simple pastime into a vibrant community movement!
Susan’s profound love for ping pong is so deep-seated and infectious that she actually co-founded SPiN, a super cool and incredibly successful chain of ping pong social clubs, where she’s frequently spotted playing fiercely and hosting lively events. She first discovered her innate knack and burgeoning passion for the fast-paced game through her children, and she quickly became a huge, vocal advocate, profoundly appreciating its dynamic nature, its accessibility, and the unique way it effortlessly brings people from all walks of life together.
SPiN clubs are meticulously designed to be vibrant, community-oriented spaces where everyone, regardless of their skill level, can come together to enjoy a good game, socialize, and simply have a blast. From casual players looking for a fun evening to seasoned enthusiasts participating in tournaments and leagues, these clubs foster a welcoming and energetic atmosphere. It’s a testament to her vision of creating spaces where people can connect over a shared, active interest.
But Susan’s unwavering dedication doesn’t stop at just playing and promoting the sport; she extends her passion to meaningful causes. She frequently organizes and hosts high-profile charity tournaments and events to raise crucial funds for various important causes, proving that you can indeed smash a ping pong ball for a seriously good cause! Her commitment showcases how a personal hobby can be leveraged for broader social impact, blending her competitive spirit with her philanthropic heart.
Her energetic commitment to the sport truly highlights her vivacious personality, her competitive spirit, and her genuine dedication to fostering active social connections through fun and stimulating physical activity. This dynamic hobby reveals a super playful, highly strategic, and undeniably competitive side to Sarandon, giving us a delightful glimpse beyond her often serious and intense on-screen presence. It’s a powerful, refreshing reminder that staying active, engaged, and having fun truly knows no age limit, and that passion can indeed be a lifelong journey!
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So there you have it, folks! From the quiet, meditative craft of building miniature worlds and the surprising dedication to collecting celebrity hair, to the immersive battles in fantasy realms and the sharp, strategic volleys of ping pong, these highly successful stars powerfully remind us that even when you’re at the absolute pinnacle of your game, it’s those wonderfully weird, deeply personal passions that truly keep you grounded. Who knew that behind all the dazzling glamour and endless headlines, these celebs were, in their own unique ways, just like us – well, kind of – finding immense joy, balance, and authenticity in the most delightfully unexpected places? It just goes to show that everyone, no matter how famous or accomplished, needs a little something extra to keep them balanced, creatively stimulated, and uniquely, authentically themselves. Now, we’re curious: What’s *your* most unusual, grounding hobby? Tell us in the comments!
