Introduction

We often see celebrities through the lens of glitz, red carpets, and award shows. But behind the designer outfits and public appearances, many stars lead surprisingly quirky personal lives — filled with hobbies that are as unexpected as they are intriguing.

From sword collecting to bee-keeping, celebrities aren’t just about scripts and sets. These unique passions not only humanize them but also offer insights into how creative, high-performing individuals unwind, recharge, and explore their interests beyond the spotlight.

In this article, we explore celebrities with unusual hobbies — revealing how they spend their free time and what we can learn from their unconventional pursuits. For entrepreneurs, business owners, and marketers, these stories are more than just entertainment — they offer a glimpse into the value of embracing curiosity, balance, and personal branding through authenticity.

1. Tom Hanks – Collecting Typewriters

You might think of Tom Hanks as the affable, all-American actor. But did you know he’s also a vintage typewriter enthusiast?

Why It’s Unusual:

In the age of digital everything, collecting and using analog typewriters is delightfully retro. Hanks owns over 250 machines and even wrote a book using them.

Takeaway for Entrepreneurs:

Lean into your niche. Tom Hanks even launched a typewriter-inspired app, Hanx Writer, showing how personal passions can inspire digital products and deepen brand engagement.

2. Angelina Jolie – Knife Collecting

Known for her humanitarian work and Hollywood glam, Angelina Jolie also has a long-standing interest in collecting knives and daggers, which started in her teens.

Why It’s Unexpected:

While many celebrities collect art or cars, Jolie’s love for antique weapons is strikingly unique. She’s spoken openly about teaching her children the historical value and cultural meaning behind her collection.

Takeaway for Business Minds:

Even edgy or controversial hobbies can support personal storytelling and relatability when shared authentically.

3. Mike Tyson – Racing Pigeons

Yes, the legendary boxer Mike Tyson has a soft spot — for pigeons. He’s been passionate about pigeon racing and breeding since childhood.

Why It Stands Out:

Pigeon racing isn’t a hobby you associate with sports legends, yet Tyson has used it as a grounding, emotional connection to his roots.

Lesson for Entrepreneurs:

Sometimes, the most “off-brand” interests are what humanize a public figure and connect with audiences on a deeper level.

4. Taylor Swift – Making Snow Globes

Before selling out stadiums and breaking streaming records, Taylor Swift enjoyed (and still enjoys) DIY crafting, especially creating snow globes by hand.

Why It’s Surprising:

While many assume she’s always jet-setting or writing hits, Swift is known to give her friends handmade gifts — proof of her creativity outside music.

Takeaway for Brands:

Authenticity and DIY spirit can be powerful personal branding tools. Swift’s example shows how even low-tech hobbies can build connection and emotional branding.

5. Johnny Depp – Playing with Barbie Dolls

Known for his eccentric roles, Johnny Depp once admitted to playing with Barbie dolls — not for acting practice, but for fun, especially when playing with his kids.

Why It’s Unconventional:

It challenges norms about masculinity and celebrity behavior. Depp says it helps him tap into character creation and playfulness.

Entrepreneurial Insight:

Don’t be afraid to lean into childlike curiosity. Some of the best creativity is sparked by stepping into unfamiliar — or nostalgic — territory.

6. Claudia Schiffer – Insect Collection

Supermodel Claudia Schiffer has a surprising obsession: insects. She’s especially fascinated by spiders and owns a large collection.

Why It’s Unique:

From runways to bug displays, her passion is both scientific and aesthetic. Schiffer even once said if she weren’t a model, she’d be an entomologist.

Takeaway:

Even seemingly “weird” interests can become style inspiration. Schiffer’s fascination has influenced everything from her fashion choices to interior design.

7. Rod Stewart – Building Model Railroads

Legendary rockstar Rod Stewart is a serious model railroad builder. He’s spent decades creating intricate cityscapes and rail systems in his home.

Why It’s Fascinating:

It’s a meticulous, time-intensive hobby that contrasts sharply with the fast-paced world of music. Stewart’s models have even been featured in model train magazines.

For Business Owners:

Discipline, patience, and vision — model building requires the same qualities that make entrepreneurs successful.

8. Leslie Mann – Taxidermy

Actress Leslie Mann, known for her comedic roles, collects taxidermy animals. She’s joked about how her friends are creeped out, but she finds it fun and oddly beautiful.

Why It’s Noteworthy:

It adds a layer of eccentricity to her public persona and shows a willingness to defy norms.

Brand Insight:

The quirkiest hobbies often make the most memorable branding. Embrace your uniqueness.

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9. Mila Kunis – World of Warcraft Gaming

Actress Mila Kunis is an avid gamer, specifically a fan of World of Warcraft. She’s spent hours on the game and talks about it like any passionate fan would.

Why It’s Cool:

Gaming is often seen as a teenage pastime, but Kunis breaks the stereotype — proving adults (even celebrities) can be hardcore gamers.

Takeaway:

Stay connected with your inner fan. Authentic fandom can drive incredible marketing ideas and brand alignment with real communities.

10. Neil Patrick Harris – Magic

Broadway and TV star Neil Patrick Harris is a professional magician. He’s even served as president of the Magic Castle in Hollywood.

Why It’s Inspiring:

Harris takes his hobby seriously — attending conferences, performing, and staying deeply involved in the magician community.

Entrepreneurial Lesson:

Hobbies that align with performance, storytelling, and community-building can significantly enhance public persona and business synergy.

Conclusion

Celebrities are more than the roles they play — their unusual hobbies reveal a side of them that’s raw, human, and often surprisingly relatable. These passions not only enrich their personal lives but also add depth to their public identities.

For entrepreneurs and creatives, the takeaway is clear: Embrace your quirks. The hobbies that seem odd to others might be the very thing that fuels your creativity, differentiates your brand, or creates new business opportunities.

So whether you collect bugs, build model cities, or make snow globes — remember, every hobby is a window into your unique story. And in a world full of sameness, that’s your superpower.