In recent years, an unexpected trend has emerged of celebrities buying football clubs. What began as a passion project for some has evolved into an ambitious movement reshaping the culture and business of the game itself.
From Hollywood A-listers to global music icons, these famous figures are proving that football ownership isn’t just for oil billionaires and corporate magnates, it’s for dreamers who believe in storytelling, community, and legacy.
But celebrity ownership doesn’t always guarantee success. For every fairy-tale rise like Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s Wrexham, there are cautionary tales of clubs struggling under the spotlight of fame. Still, there’s no denying that celebrity involvement has brought football closer to global audiences who might never have been interested in a fifth-tier English team or a fledgling MLS side.
So, what really happens when a celebrity decides to own a football club? Let’s take a closer look at some of the most fascinating examples, and how fame has changed their fortunes both on and off the pitch.
Ryan Reynolds & Rob McElhenney — Wrexham AFC (Wales)
Perhaps the most famous modern football ownership story, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s takeover of Wrexham AFC in 2021 transformed a modest Welsh club into a global sensation. Their Disney-style underdog story, captured in the hit documentary “Welcome to Wrexham,” introduced millions of viewers to the town and its passionate fans.
Their investment wasn’t just for show, it revitalized the club’s facilities, boosted tourism, and brought Wrexham back into the English Football League after 15 years in non-league obscurity. Reynolds and McElhenney proved that emotional connection and smart marketing could achieve what money alone often couldn’t: unity, excitement, and belief.
Will Ferrell — Los Angeles FC (USA)
Comedian and actor Will Ferrell joined the ownership group of Los Angeles FC (LAFC) in 2016. Known for his humor, Ferrell brought charm and charisma to a team that was serious about success from day one.
LAFC didn’t take long to make an impact. They won the Supporters’ Shield in 2019 and MLS Cup in 2022, quickly establishing themselves as one of Major League Soccer’s elite clubs.
Ferrell often attends games, mingling with fans and embodying the kind of approachable energy that LAFC thrives on. His involvement helped make football “cool” in Hollywood circles and contributed to MLS’s growing appeal in North America.
Elton John — Watford FC (England)
Before Hollywood stars joined the football ownership bandwagon, Sir Elton John was already writing his own chapter in the sport’s history. The global music icon first took over Watford FC in 1976, guiding them from the Fourth Division to the English top flight in just a few years. Under his leadership, and with Graham Taylor as manager, Watford reached the FA Cup final in 1984 and became a household name.
Even after stepping down as chairman, Elton John’s love for the club never faded. He remains an honorary life president, a symbol of loyalty and local pride that transcends decades. His emotional connection to Watford showed early on that celebrity ownership could be more about heart than headlines.
David Beckham — Inter Miami CF (USA)
When David Beckham retired, many wondered what his next move would be. In 2018, he answered with Inter Miami CF, his Major League Soccer franchise. While Beckham is no stranger to the football world, his role as an owner brought new challenges, and rewards.
After initial struggles, Inter Miami became a global talking point in 2023 when Lionel Messi joined the club, followed by former Barcelona teammates Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba. Beckham’s dream of blending football, fashion, and fame has turned Miami into one of the most glamorous football destinations in the world.
Michael B. Jordan — AFC Bournemouth (England)
Hollywood star Michael B. Jordan, known for Black Panther and Creed, took a minority ownership stake in AFC Bournemouth in 2022 as part of a U.S.-led consortium. His involvement came with a promise to expand the club’s international profile and attract a younger, more diverse fan base.
While Jordan isn’t hands-on in daily operations, his influence in media and branding has been valuable. Bournemouth continues to punch above its weight in the Premier League, proving that even smaller clubs can benefit from star backing, if managed wisely.
LeBron James — Liverpool FC (England)
Basketball superstar LeBron James is also part of Liverpool FC’s ownership structure. His minority stake, acquired in 2011, has grown in value as Liverpool achieved success under Jürgen Klopp, including Premier League and Champions League triumphs.
LeBron’s global reach as a brand ambassador has helped Liverpool’s profile soar in North America. In return, his investment has become one of the smartest financial moves by any athlete in modern sports history.
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