Hollywood, with its glitz and glamour, often presents a world of controlled sets and carefully scripted performances. Yet, for some of its brightest stars, the real thrill lies far beyond the silver screen, where the roar of engines replaces applause and the smell of burning rubber fills the air. These are the actors who aren’t just playing a role but are genuinely living out an exhilarating passion: professional race car driving.
It’s almost as if there’s a secret connection between the demanding skill set of an actor and that of a race car driver. Both professions require an incredible ability to adapt to anything thrown their way, whether it’s a sudden script change in front of the camera or an unexpected turn on the race track. The adrenaline rush is undeniable, and for some, merely portraying a driver on screen just isn’t enough; they crave the real-life adventure.
These are the famous faces who have swapped their movie star trailers for race car cockpits, leveraging their fame to secure sponsors and compete against career pros. We’re about to dive deep into the high-octane lives of some truly remarkable individuals who balance the demands of acting with the heart-pounding intensity of motorsports. Get ready to explore how these dual talents have left an indelible mark on both Hollywood and the global racing circuits!
1. **Paul Newman: The True Icon of Hollywood Racing**Paul Newman, a name synonymous with Hollywood royalty, was also a formidable force on the race track. Known for his legendary roles in films like *Cool Hand Luke* and *Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid*, Newman was one of the first Hollywood race car drivers to earn significant recognition within the competitive racing community.
His passion for speed ignited while filming the movie *Winning* in 1969, a film that fittingly centered around racing. What started as a casual interest quickly blossomed into a profound and serious pursuit. Newman went on to compete in an array of professional races, including the gruelling 24 Hours of Le Mans, where he famously finished second overall in 1979.
Newman’s dedication to racing was so intense that he co-founded Newman/Haas Racing, a team that quickly became a dominant presence in the CART series, clinching multiple championships. He raced well into his 80s, even becoming the oldest competitor to ever start the Rolex 24 at age 81 in 2006. His final role was voicing Doc Hudson in *Cars*, a nod to his true love.
Rumor has it that Newman genuinely appreciated racing as a sport, falling in love with the sheer challenge and thrill, rather than using it to gain more popularity. He wasn’t just a celebrity dabbling in a hobby; he was a true racer, earning four national championships in SCCA and being inducted into the SCCA Hall of Fame in 2009. That’s hardcore dedication!
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2. **Steve McQueen: The King of Cool, On and Off the Track**When you hear the name Steve McQueen, you probably picture him oozing cool, whether he’s on a motorcycle or behind the wheel of a muscle car. Often dubbed the “King of Cool,” McQueen was an iconic actor and an incredibly avid car and motorcycle enthusiast. The guy just seemed destined to sit behind the wheel, always possessing the edge needed by a great race driver.
His love for racing wasn’t just a personal interest; it seeped into his filmography. *Le Mans* (1971) is considered one of the most authentic portrayals of the racing world, thanks in no small part to McQueen’s deep involvement. And let’s be real, when you think of Frank Bullitt in his 1968 Ford Mustang, you think pure badassery – a moment that sent Mustang sales through the roof!
Beyond the silver screen, McQueen was a seriously competitive driver, participating in intense events like the 12 Hours of Sebring and the Baja 1000. He was adept at driving cars and enjoyed impressive finishes in endurance races. His passion wasn’t limited to four wheels; he also raced motorcycles, preferring the off-road variety before MotoX even existed.
McQueen’s skill and passion behind the wheel earned him immense respect in the racing community, solidifying his reputation as one of the original celebrity car enthusiasts. He was so immersed in the culture that he once famously stated, “I don’t know if I’m an actor who races or a racer who acts.” His induction into the Off-road Motorsports Hall of Fame in 1978 tells you everything you need to know.
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3. **James Dean: A Rebel With a Cause for Speed**James Dean, a cultural icon of the 1950s, was defined by his rebellious spirit and, notably, his profound love for speed. His acting career, though brief, left an indelible mark, but his passion for auto racing was equally deep, a captivating facet of his already legendary persona.
Dean’s racing journey began even before he shot *Rebel Without a Cause*. He was so enamored with the track that he couldn’t wait to return after filming wrapped. In fact, his racing habit became such a concern that Warner Brothers contractually forbade him from competing until he finished shooting *Giant*.
He was truly the first actor to boldly venture onto the race track with serious intent, focused on becoming a respected race driver once his film work was completed. A devoted fan of Porsche, James purchased a 550 Spyder with the clear intention of racing it. He even placed first in his class in the Palm Springs Road Race and backed it up at another race just a month later.
Tragically, he never fully realized his racing dreams on a sanctioned track. James was killed driving his new Porsche to Salinas, California, to participate in a racing event, just six months after his racing career began. His untimely death cemented his legacy as a rebel whose passion for speed was tragically cut short, influencing generations of celebrity car enthusiasts.
Read more about: Unscripted Tragedies: 11 Screen Legends Who Left Us Too Soon, Mysteriously Gone After Their Final Act
4. **Patrick Dempsey: From McDreamy to Motorsports Maestro**For many, Patrick Dempsey is synonymous with Dr. Derek Shepherd, the beloved “McDreamy” from *Grey’s Anatomy*. But away from the hospital drama, Dempsey transforms into a serious force on the race track, proving he’s much more than just a talented actor. His love for racing is not just well-documented; it’s practically a second career.
Dempsey has consistently competed in some of the most prestigious endurance races in the world. He’s graced the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans, the demanding Rolex 24 at Daytona, and the Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta. In 2011, he even took third place overall in the Rolex-sponsored 24 Hours at Daytona, driving for none other than Porsche – which pretty much says it all, doesn’t it?
His commitment runs deep; his team, Dempsey Racing, is a regular and respected participant in endurance racing events. For Dempsey, racing is far more than a mere hobby; it’s a profound passion that offers a much-needed escape from the intense pressures and scripted environment of Hollywood. He’s even stated he could comfortably give up acting completely for racing.
While some might say his performance on the track isn’t always “outstanding,” his enthusiasm and persistence are truly admirable. Patrick has shown a similar skill set to Paul Newman, making up for what he might lack in natural talent with sheer dedication and love for the sport, becoming one of the most visible and respected celebrity racers today.
5. **Rowan Atkinson: Mr. Bean’s Need for Speed**It might be hard to reconcile the slapstick antics of Mr. Bean with the precision and focus required for professional racing, but Rowan Atkinson is full of surprises! Best known as the comic genius behind characters like Mr. Bean and Johnny English, Atkinson is, in reality, a very serious race car driver and a passionate racing enthusiast.
When he’s not busy filming movies or television shows like *Blackadder*, Rowan Atkinson dedicates his time to racing around tracks across the world. His automotive adventures are well-known among car aficionados; he previously owned a McLaren F1 race car, which he famously crashed, and in the 1980s, he drove a mid-engined Renault 5 in the Manufacturer’s Turbo Cup racing series.
His racing résumé also includes driving his own Aston Martin race car at the famous Silverstone event in 2010. While his on-screen character might cause automotive shenanigans, Atkinson holds several classes of commercial and racing licenses, having competed professionally for two seasons in the single-make Renault 5 GT Turbo series.
In 2014, Rowan Atkinson was involved in a serious head-on collision while racing a vintage Ford Falcon sprint car, thankfully walking away with only minor injuries, though the car itself was totaled. His participation in events like the Goodwood Revival and his extensive collection of high-performance vehicles truly showcase his genuine, undeniable love for fast cars and racing.
6. **Paul Walker: The Real Fast and the Furious Star**It’s a cruel twist of irony that Paul Walker, the beloved star of *The Fast and the Furious* film series, died in a car crash. Yet, before his untimely death, Paul Walker wasn’t just an actor who portrayed a car enthusiast on screen; he was a highly skilled race car driver and the owner of a respected race car team in real life.
Walker was a truly talented and skilled driver on the racetrack. He competed in the Redline Time Attack racing series, where he expertly drove a modified BMW M3. His passion extended beyond just driving; he was also the co-owner of Always Evolving, a speed shop and racing team that continues to race today, keeping his legacy alive.
His team dedicates each of its races to the memory of Paul Walker, a testament to his deep impact on the racing community. While Hollywood is full of actors who learn to drive for a role, Walker was the genuine article, his on-screen persona reflecting a profound, authentic passion for cars and speed that resonated with millions.
Walker’s love for motorsports and his genuine skill behind the wheel transcended his iconic film roles, solidifying his reputation as a true car guy and racer. He didn’t just act in racing movies; he lived and breathed the culture, cementing his authenticity and leaving an enduring mark on both the racing and film worlds.
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7. **Frankie Muniz: From Child Star to Professional Racer**Frankie Muniz, who charmed audiences as the cute middle child and titular character of *Malcolm in the Middle*, seemed destined for a long career in film and television. However, as he navigated the awkwardness of adolescence, he discovered a new, exhilarating appreciation for the finer things in life — specifically, horsepower and the thrill of the race track.
In the mid-2000s, Muniz famously shifted gears from acting to embrace a full-time racing career. One physical attribute that proved beneficial for his racing aspirations was his smaller stature; standing at 5’5″, Frankie was able to slide comfortably into the cockpits of various race cars with ease.
Frankie competed in several demanding racing series, including formula racing, where he truly showcased his burgeoning talent. He participated in the Formula BMW USA Championship and later the Champ Car Atlantic Championship, even enjoying a Top 10 finish in the 2009 Formula Atlantic Championship. This wasn’t just a casual hobby; Muniz took his racing career with utmost seriousness.
His dedication was so profound that he put his acting career on hold to focus entirely on motorsports, making him one of the few famous actors to compete in races as a primary profession for a period. While he’s back in front of the camera these days, including an appearance in *Sharknado 3: Oh Hell No!*, his racing journey remains a fascinating testament to his genuine passion and commitment to the sport.
Alright, buckle up, because we’re not done with our pit stop tour of Hollywood’s fastest! You’ve seen the legends, the trendsetters, and the serious contenders who’ve left their mark on the track. Now, get ready to meet another incredible lineup of stars who found their true calling beyond the red carpet, embracing the exhilarating world of professional race car events. These actors, news anchors, and comedians have added another dimension to their public personas, proving that their versatility extends far beyond scripted lines.
It’s clear that the allure of speed, the challenge of competition, and the raw, unscripted thrill of racing call out to a special breed of celebrity. Whether it’s finding an escape from Hollywood’s spotlight or simply chasing an undeniable passion, these individuals show us that life truly begins at the finish line. Let’s dive into seven more amazing stories of stars who traded applause for horsepower!
8. **Gene Hackman: The Oscar Winner Who Loved to Race**When you think of Gene Hackman, you probably picture him in legendary roles, maybe even chasing a D train in *The French Connection*. This man has scored two Oscars and enjoyed a career that spanned multiple decades of acting. But guess what? He can pretty much do it all: comedy, drama, and yep, you guessed it, car racing!
According to Hollywood lore, Gene truly fell in love with the idea of racing cars after filming *The French Connection*, where he actually did a lot of his own stunt driving. Imagine getting so into a role that it sparks a lifelong passion for real-life high-speed action! It just goes to show you how immersive the magic of cinema can be.
His racing career, while not as long as his acting one, certainly made its mark. The pinnacle of his racing achievements occurred in 1983 when he raced for Dan Gurney’s team in the 24 Hours of Daytona. That’s a pretty big deal in the endurance racing world, proving he wasn’t just dabbling.
Hackman’s foray into racing highlights how endurance races are often best suited for individuals who are hobbyists or only race part-time. The various vehicle classifications in these events allow drivers to master a vehicle, which is often exactly where you’ll see actors make their transition from celebrity to respected racer. Talk about a man of many talents!
Read more about: When the Lights Go Out: 14 Beloved Actors Who Chose to Leave Hollywood at the Height of Their Careers
9. **James Garner: The Rockford Files Star’s Off-Road Passion**James Garner, famous for everything from *The Rockford Files* to *The Notebook*, had a wildly diverse career, and his racing pursuits mirrored that versatility. He was much more than just an actor; he was a racing enthusiast and even owned a professional racing team that competed for three seasons in some of the world’s most prestigious endurance races.
But here’s a cool twist: his true passion was actually for off-road motorsports! The Army veteran didn’t mind getting a little dirty, and he was instrumental in helping to grow the popularity of the famed Baja 500. This race became even more popular in recent years, thanks in no small part to the documentary *Dust to Glory* (2005), cementing Garner’s legacy in the world of rugged racing.
Garner enjoyed more than a few races behind the wheel in the late 1960s and early 1970s. His love for the sport was so recognized that he was offered the honor of driving the pace car for the Indianapolis 500 on three different occasions! Now, that’s a testament to his respect within the racing community.
His team, American International Racing, truly kicked butt and took names in the ‘60s and ‘70s, fielding everything from Lolas and Oldsmobiles to Corvettes in series ranging from Indy to Baja 500. James Garner proved that a true enthusiast doesn’t just drive; they live and breathe the sport in every way imaginable.
10. **Jason Priestley: The 90210 Heartthrob’s High-Speed Pursuit**Jason Priestley is a fascinating celebrity who didn’t just make money acting; he set trends that were emulated by dudes around the world, especially everything about his character Brandon Walsh on *Beverly Hills 90210*. But while he enjoyed the fame, this Canadian kid, who grew up a fan of auto racing, did what any enthusiast would do: he started racing!
Jason considered himself a hobbyist, but don’t let that fool you; he raced competitively and wasn’t afraid to push the limits. He got into racing in his 20s, driving a Celica All-Trac in SCCA Pro Rally and even racing Mustangs in IMSA GTS. He also participated in the first Gumball 3000 at the wheel of a Lotus Esprit. That’s a pretty diverse and impressive resume!
However, his racing aspirations came to a terrifying halt in 2003 when he was almost killed after hitting a wall coming off a turn in an Indy car doing close to 180 mph. Talk about a heart-stopping moment! Thankfully, he suffered only a minor injury and recuperated easily and fast, even joining the Rubicon Race Team later that same year.
After his near-fatal accident, Jason wisely moved away from life behind the wheel as a competitive driver, but he couldn’t leave the racing world entirely. He stayed involved as a team owner, and his co-owned team, FAZZT, even enjoyed a 10th-place finish in the 2010 Indianapolis 500. Now that’s what we call staying in the fast lane, even if you’re not driving!
11. **Walter Cronkite: America’s Most Trusted Newsman, the Aspiring Racer**Okay, prepare for a mind-blower: Believe it or not, the iconic newsman Walter Cronkite, often dubbed the “most trusted man in America,” was also an avid race car driver and a respected wheelman! It’s wild to think of the man who reported on everything from the Great Depression to the rise of Silicon Valley also tearing up the track.
What’s super interesting about Walter Cronkite is that he accomplished most of his racing wins before he became a household name as the host of the *CBS Evening News* in the 1960s and 1970s. Back in 1959, Cronkite took third place driving a Volvo PV444 at an endurance race held in Lime Park, Connecticut. Later that same year, he co-drove a Zagato-bodied Lancia Appia in the 12-hours of Sebring race, where his team finished in a respectable 40th place.
Cronkite raced from 1949 to 1959, driving a Volvo at Lime Rock and Watkins Glen, and even raced in the 12 Hours of Sebring against none other than Stirling Moss! He drove a Lancia to fourth place against legends like Hill, Gurney, and McLaren. This was no casual hobbyist; he was serious business on the track.
Still, Walter Cronkite remained an avid race car driver his entire life and continued to compete in celebrity events as he grew older. Eventually, though, he traded in his race car for a sailboat and became an avid yachtsman, competing at regattas around the United States. From the race track to the high seas, this man truly lived a full and adventurous life!
12. **Tom Cruise: The Top Gun Star’s Need for Speed (and Crashes!)**Tom Cruise! You know him, you love him, and you probably think of him flying jets or running impossibly fast on screen. But did you know he’s so passionate about race car driving that he turned his love for the sport into the passion project *Days of Thunder*, a 1990 movie about stock car racing? Talk about method acting!
Tom Cruise was actually inspired to take up race car driving by his friend and co-star in the 1986 film *The Color of Money*, none other than Paul Newman himself! However, despite his undeniable love of racing, Tom Cruise was, well, let’s just say he was known as a *bad* driver. So bad, in fact, that he earned the unforgettable nickname among other drivers: “See Cruise Crash.” Ouch!
According to his driving instructors, the problem wasn’t a lack of trying; he was simply too aggressive behind the wheel. Cruise himself has even blamed his struggles on his dyslexia, which, whether it was the cause or not, certainly adds an interesting layer to his racing story. It’s a reminder that even superstars have their challenges!
Regardless of the reason for his frequent mishaps, Tom Cruise eventually had to give up professional racing. The movie studios he worked for simply refused to insure him if he continued to pursue such a risky sport. Still, Tom Cruise remains a passionate race fan and has even appeared on the BBC television show *Top Gear*. His need for speed might be grounded now, but his enthusiasm for motorsports is clearly still revving!
13. **Adam Carolla: Comedian, Podcaster, and Vintage Racing Enthusiast**Adam Carolla! The man who can make you laugh until your sides hurt is also a serious gearhead. Known for his work in comedy and podcasting, Carolla is a truly passionate race car driver who finds joy not just in the speed, but in the history of the sport. He brings a unique blend of humor and horsepower to the track.
Carolla has competed in a variety of vintage racing events, which is pretty cool! It’s not just about winning for him; it’s about the connection to automotive history and the thrill of driving classic machines. His involvement goes beyond just driving, though; he also owns an impressive collection of classic race cars, making him a true connoisseur of the automotive world.
His dedication to motorsports runs deep, so deep that Carolla has even produced documentaries about racing legends like Paul Newman. This highlights his profound connection to the sport and his desire to preserve its history and share the stories of its icons. He’s not just a participant; he’s an advocate!
Adam Carolla’s blend of comedy, acting, and racing makes him a truly unique figure among celebrity motorsports enthusiasts. He proves that you don’t have to choose between making people laugh and going fast; you can do both, and do them with incredible passion and knowledge. Now that’s multi-talented!
14. **Bruce Jenner: Olympic Champion to Race Car Driver**Before the world knew Caitlyn Jenner, there was Bruce Jenner, the Michael Phelps of his day. Famous for absolutely dominating the decathlon and later becoming the face of Wheaties cereal, Jenner had an undeniable need for speed, whether it was on the Olympic field or on the race track. Talk about a powerhouse athlete!
In the early 1980s, Jenner transitioned from track and field to the racing world, competing in the IMSA’s Camel GT Series. This series was known for its small-displacement, lightweight prototypes, which meant fierce competition and agile driving. He wasn’t just there for a celebrity appearance, either; he was there to win.
And win he did! Jenner famously won the 1986 12 Hours of Sebring in a Roush Mustang, and even placed fourth overall. That’s a massive accomplishment in one of endurance racing’s most prestigious events. It really showcases the incredible versatility and competitive spirit that carried over from his Olympic days.
Jenner’s racing career demonstrated that the same drive and determination that propelled him to Olympic glory could be channeled into mastering the complexities of motorsports. It’s an inspiring tale of an athlete who continually sought new challenges and pushed the boundaries of his own abilities, proving that some people are just born to go fast, no matter the arena.
So there you have it – another exhilarating lap around the world of famous actors who’ve truly embraced the thrilling, high-speed universe of professional race car driving! From comedic geniuses like Rowan Atkinson to news legends like Walter Cronkite, and Oscar winners like Gene Hackman, these stars have shown us that the passion for speed knows no bounds. They’ve traded their scripts for helmets, their movie sets for racetracks, and their celebrity glamour for the grit and glory of the finish line. Their stories aren’t just about fame; they’re about genuine dedication, the pursuit of adrenaline, and the sheer love of the sport. It’s a testament to the fact that some adventures just can’t be scripted, and the real thrill often lies where the rubber meets the road. Keep your engines revving and stay tuned for more incredible tales from the intersection of Hollywood and horsepower!
