Celebrities Who Converted Religions
Faith can be a quiet part of a public life, or it can shape a career in very visible ways. Some celebrities are born into traditions they carry forever, while others have a turning point that sends them in a new direction. Conversions can be sparked by love, personal growth, or a search for meaning that fame alone cannot satisfy.
These stories span decades and cultures, showing how spiritual journeys do not follow a single path. From musicians and actors to athletes and global icons, each person below made a choice that changed how they see the world and how the world sees them. Their reasons are personal, but the impact often echoes far beyond their private lives.
Elizabeth Taylor
Elizabeth Taylor embraced Judaism after years of curiosity about the faith. She studied with rabbis and took part in traditions that spoke to her values and sense of identity.
Her conversion became a meaningful part of her public story. She supported Jewish causes throughout her life and spoke openly about the comfort she found in her adopted faith.
Sammy Davis Jr.
Sammy Davis Jr. discovered Judaism after a serious car accident prompted deep reflection. He spent years learning before formally converting and found a spiritual home that matched his outlook on resilience and hope.
His faith became a steady presence in a career filled with high highs and real challenges. He often talked about how Jewish teachings guided his choices and gave him strength.
Marilyn Monroe
Before marrying Arthur Miller, Marilyn Monroe chose to convert to Judaism. She developed a sincere respect for Jewish customs and kept elements of those practices in her daily life.
Even after her marriage ended, she remained connected to the values she had learned. Friends recalled that the change felt thoughtful and genuine, not a fleeting decision.
Isla Fisher
Isla Fisher studied Judaism for several years, taking classes and learning with a close community. Her conversion came from a desire to share a consistent spiritual life with her family.
She has spoken about how the rituals and holidays bring everyone together. The rhythm of observance offered a sense of rootedness alongside a busy acting career.
Kate Capshaw
Kate Capshaw converted to Judaism after exploring the tradition and finding meaning in its teachings. She approached the process with study and intention rather than speed.
Her choice shaped her family life and the way she celebrates milestones. The connection to community and heritage became a source of joy and continuity.
Omar Sharif
Born Michel Shalhoub, Omar Sharif converted to Islam as a young actor. The decision reflected both personal conviction and the life he envisioned building.
He carried his new name and faith into a global career. His spiritual identity remained a constant as he navigated fame across continents and languages.
Yusuf Islam
The artist once known as Cat Stevens converted to Islam in the late 1970s after a long period of searching. He stepped away from pop stardom and focused on faith, study, and service.
In time he returned to music with a renewed sense of purpose. His later work often reflects gratitude, peace, and the responsibilities that come with belief.
Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali embraced Islam during the peak of his boxing rise. The choice challenged public expectations and became central to how he saw both his career and his activism.
As he grew older, his practice matured and deepened. He spoke about faith as a compass that guided him through triumphs and trials alike.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
While still a young athlete, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar converted to Islam after years of reading and conversation. The change aligned with his search for integrity and inner calm.
He has described faith as a framework for discipline and compassion. That outlook shaped his life beyond basketball, from writing to public service.
Mike Tyson
During a difficult period in the early 1990s, Mike Tyson converted to Islam. The decision came with reflection on past choices and hopes for a different future.
He has said the practice gave him structure and humility. It offered tools to rebuild his life and approach the world with more patience.
Mahershala Ali
Mahershala Ali joined the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community as a young actor. He found teachings that emphasized peace, service, and moral clarity.
His faith shows up quietly in how he carries himself and the stories he chooses to tell. He often credits spiritual discipline with helping him stay grounded in demanding moments.
A.R. Rahman
Composer A. R. Rahman converted to Islam early in his career. He has spoken about finding comfort in prayer and a renewed sense of purpose in his work.
The transformation coincided with a creative surge that made him a global name. He often shares how gratitude and devotion shape his music and his life at home.
Sinéad O’Connor
Later in life, Sinéad O’Connor converted to Islam and adopted a new name for everyday use. She described the move as the end of a long spiritual journey.
Her conversion brought fresh perspective to a career defined by honesty. Even as her views evolved, she stayed true to speaking from the heart.
George Harrison
George Harrison embraced Hinduism and the teachings of the bhakti tradition. Chanting, study, and friendship with spiritual teachers became central to his daily routine.
He supported communities that shared his practices and values. For him, devotion was not a trend but a path toward stillness and service.
Richard Gere
Richard Gere turned to Buddhism as a young man and developed a close connection with Tibetan teachers. Meditation and study became steady practices alongside his work on screen.
He has used his platform to advocate for compassion and human rights. The principles he learned inform both his public voice and his private life.
Tina Turner
Tina Turner began practicing Nichiren Buddhism during a turbulent chapter. She credited chanting with helping her find courage and rebuild a sense of self.
As her career soared again, she kept those practices close. She often encouraged others to seek inner strength through consistent spiritual work.
Orlando Bloom
Orlando Bloom has practiced Nichiren Buddhism since his youth. He talks about how daily chanting helps him face challenges with focus and gratitude.
The discipline offers balance to an unpredictable profession. He values the community aspect, which brings friendship and accountability.
Tom Cruise
Tom Cruise embraced Scientology early in his career. He has described its teachings as tools that help him pursue goals with clarity.
The commitment has been visible throughout his life in film. He remains one of the most recognizable adherents and often speaks about the benefits he sees.
John Travolta
John Travolta joined Scientology in the 1970s and has stayed active for decades. He credits the church with support during both personal and professional hardships.
His faith community has been part of many public chapters in his life. He points to study and practice as anchors that keep him steady.
Prince
Prince became a Jehovah’s Witness in the early 2000s after a period of intense study. The shift influenced his performances, lyrics, and the way he interacted with fans.
He embraced a quieter personal life and meaningful community service. Friends recalled that his spiritual commitments shaped choices large and small.
Share your thoughts about these journeys in the comments and tell us which stories moved you most.