Celebs Who Started Their Own Brands Successfully
Many celebrities have transitioned from the stage and screen to the boardroom by launching their own successful business ventures. These individuals leverage their global platforms to create products that resonate with their dedicated fanbases and the general public. From beauty and fashion to spirits and technology, these brands often become industry leaders in their respective fields. This list explores the diverse range of stars who have effectively built empires beyond their primary careers in entertainment.
Rihanna
Rihanna launched Fenty Beauty in 2017 with a focus on inclusivity for all skin tones and backgrounds. The brand achieved immediate financial success and was followed by the introduction of Fenty Skin. She also established the lingerie line Savage X Fenty which emphasizes body positivity through its diverse sizing and marketing. These businesses have solidified her position as a formidable force in the global fashion and beauty industries.
Selena Gomez
Selena Gomez founded Rare Beauty to promote mental health awareness and self acceptance through makeup. The brand became popular for its liquid blushes and inclusive range of foundation shades. A portion of all sales goes to the Rare Impact Fund to help increase access to mental health services in schools. Her hands on approach to product development has made the company a favorite among beauty enthusiasts.
Ryan Reynolds
Ryan Reynolds acquired a significant stake in Aviation American Gin and served as its primary spokesperson. He later sold the brand for a substantial amount while maintaining an ongoing creative role. Reynolds also cofounded Mint Mobile which transformed the telecommunications industry with affordable cellular plans and humorous advertising. His marketing agency Maximum Effort continues to produce viral campaigns for these brands and other major clients.
George Clooney
George Clooney cofounded Casamigos Tequila with friends Rande Gerber and Mike Meldman in 2013. The brand was originally created for private use before it grew into a global sensation. It was eventually sold to a major beverage company for nearly one billion dollars. This success story remains one of the most profitable celebrity business ventures in history.
Kylie Jenner
Kylie Jenner started Kylie Cosmetics with the launch of her signature lip kits which sold out in minutes. The company expanded into a full range of color cosmetics and eventually moved into skincare and baby products. Her massive social media following allowed the brand to grow rapidly without traditional advertising. She continues to lead the company as it maintains a strong presence in the global beauty market.
Kim Kardashian
Kim Kardashian launched the solutions oriented brand SKIMS to provide inclusive shapewear and loungewear for all body types. The company is valued at billions of dollars and has expanded into swimwear and men’s apparel. She also founded the skincare line SKKN by Kim to offer a high end daily routine based on her own experiences. Her ability to identify market gaps has made her a highly successful entrepreneur.
Jessica Alba
Jessica Alba cofounded The Honest Company to provide safe and effective products for families and homes. The brand focuses on transparency and uses non toxic ingredients in its diapers and cleaning supplies. It has grown from a digital startup to a publicly traded company with products in major retail stores. Her commitment to health and sustainability has built a loyal customer base over the last decade.
Gwyneth Paltrow
Gwyneth Paltrow turned her lifestyle newsletter Goop into a multifaceted wellness and e-commerce empire. The brand sells curated beauty products and fashion alongside its own line of vitamins and skincare. It also hosts wellness summits and produces content focused on alternative health practices. Despite various controversies the company remains a significant player in the modern lifestyle industry.
Dwayne Johnson
Dwayne Johnson launched Teremana Tequila which quickly became one of the fastest growing spirit brands in the world. He also cofounded the energy drink company ZOA Energy to offer a healthier alternative in the beverage market. His business portfolio includes the production company Seven Bucks Productions and a partnership with Under Armour. These ventures reflect his personal brand of hard work and physical fitness.
Victoria Beckham
Victoria Beckham successfully transitioned from pop star to a respected figure in the high fashion world. She launched her eponymous fashion label which is known for its modern silhouettes and sophisticated tailoring. The brand later expanded into Victoria Beckham Beauty to offer luxury cosmetics and skincare products. Her dedication to design has earned her critical acclaim from the fashion community.
Drew Barrymore
Drew Barrymore founded Flower Beauty with the goal of providing high quality cosmetics at an affordable price point. The brand is sold exclusively at major retailers and emphasizes a philosophy of joy and self expression. She also launched a successful home line called Flower Home that features colorful and eclectic decor. Her creative vision is evident in the unique packaging and marketing of all her products.
Hailey Bieber
Hailey Bieber entered the beauty industry with the launch of her minimalist skincare brand Rhode. The company focuses on essential products that provide a glazed skin look through hydration and protection. Each launch typically sells out quickly due to high demand and strategic social media promotion. The brand reflects her personal aesthetic and has gained significant popularity among younger consumers.
Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande launched rem beauty to offer fans a range of makeup products inspired by her signature style. The brand features futuristic packaging and a variety of textures for eyes and lips. She is deeply involved in the creative process and the testing of every new formula. The company has successfully expanded into major international beauty retailers since its debut.
Pharrell Williams
Pharrell Williams founded the skincare brand Humanrace to promote a simple and effective routine for all genders. The products are designed with sustainability in mind and feature refillable packaging. He also cofounded the iconic streetwear brands Billionaire Boys Club and Ice Cream. These ventures showcase his unique sense of style and commitment to innovative design.
Jay-Z
Jay Z established Roc Nation as a full service entertainment agency representing artists and athletes. He also found success in the luxury beverage market with his Champagne brand Armand de Brignac. His business portfolio includes the streaming service Tidal and various real estate investments. These successful ventures have made him one of the most prominent figures in modern business history.
Beyoncé
Beyonce launched the hair care brand Cecred to provide high performance products for all hair types and textures. She also cofounded the athleisure line Ivy Park which focuses on empowering women through sport and fashion. Her business ventures often prioritize quality and cultural representation. These brands have further cemented her status as a global icon and entrepreneur.
Scarlett Johansson
Scarlett Johansson cofounded the skincare brand The Outset to offer a gentle and clean alternative for sensitive skin. The line focuses on a simple three step routine that emphasizes hydration and skin barrier health. She spent years researching and developing the products before bringing them to market. The brand has been praised for its effective formulas and minimalist design.
Millie Bobby Brown
Millie Bobby Brown created Florence by Mills to offer clean and vegan beauty products for the younger generation. The brand includes skincare and makeup as well as hair care and fashion items. It is designed to be easy to use and encourages self expression without the pressure of perfection. Her brand has resonated strongly with Gen Z consumers worldwide.
Kate Hudson
Kate Hudson cofounded Fabletics to provide stylish and affordable activewear through a monthly subscription model. The brand has expanded from an online retailer to having numerous physical stores across the globe. She also launched the craft vodka brand King St. Vodka and a line of nutritional supplements. Her ventures focus on health and wellness as part of a balanced lifestyle.
Tracee Ellis Ross
Tracee Ellis Ross founded Pattern Beauty to serve the needs of the curly and coily hair community. The brand offers a wide range of styling products and tools specifically designed for natural hair textures. She spent ten years developing the formulas to ensure they met the high standards of her customers. The company has become a leader in the hair care industry since its launch.
Venus Williams
Venus Williams founded the activewear brand EleVen to provide stylish and functional clothing for athletes. The company focuses on empowering women through movement and high performance apparel. She remains heavily involved in the design process to ensure each collection meets her standards for competition and daily wear. The brand has expanded into skincare products designed specifically for active lifestyles.
Reese Witherspoon
Reese Witherspoon launched the lifestyle and fashion brand Draper James to celebrate her Southern heritage. The company offers a variety of clothing and home decor items that feature classic patterns and bright colors. She also founded the production company Hello Sunshine which focuses on female led stories and has produced several hit shows. Her business success is a reflection of her commitment to empowering women in entertainment and retail.
Miranda Kerr
Miranda Kerr founded Kora Organics to provide certified organic skincare products to consumers globally. The brand uses powerful natural ingredients like noni fruit to promote healthy and glowing skin. She was one of the first celebrities to enter the clean beauty space with such a strong focus on organic certification. The company is now sold in over thirty countries around the world.
Jennifer Aniston
Jennifer Aniston cofounded the hair care brand LolaVie which uses plant based ingredients to improve hair health. The products are designed to be multifunctional and easy to incorporate into any beauty routine. She spent years testing the formulas to ensure they delivered salon quality results. The brand has received several industry awards for its innovative approach to hair care.
Mark Wahlberg
Mark Wahlberg cofounded the restaurant chain Wahlburgers with his brothers and turned it into a global franchise. He also has a significant stake in the fitness company F45 Training and his own apparel line called Municipal. His diverse business interests reflect his personal dedication to fitness and family. These ventures have made him a successful entrepreneur outside of his acting career.
Dr. Dre
Dr Dre cofounded Beats Electronics which revolutionized the way consumers experience high quality audio. The brand became a cultural phenomenon and was eventually acquired by Apple for billions of dollars. This sale marked one of the most significant deals in the history of music technology. He continues to influence the audio market through various collaborations and innovations.
Serena Williams
Serena Williams launched her clothing line S by Serena to offer inclusive and empowering fashion for women. She also founded Will Perform which focuses on physical recovery and wellness products for active individuals. Her venture capital firm Serena Ventures invests in diverse founders across multiple industries. These businesses show her drive to succeed in many different professional arenas.
Oprah Winfrey
Oprah Winfrey built a massive media empire through her production company Harpo Productions. She launched a successful television network called OWN and a monthly lifestyle publication. Her brand is synonymous with personal growth and high quality storytelling. She has also successfully invested in several other companies including WeightWatchers.
Martha Stewart
Martha Stewart founded Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia to provide expert advice on cooking and home decor. Her brand includes magazines and television shows as well as a vast array of retail products. She has successfully navigated the changing media landscape to remain a trusted authority on lifestyle. Her business legacy continues to influence how people approach domestic life.
Jessica Simpson
Jessica Simpson created a billion dollar fashion empire with the Jessica Simpson Collection. The brand offers shoes and clothing as well as accessories and home goods for women and children. She recently regained full ownership of the company to have complete creative control over its future. Her business remains one of the most successful examples of a celebrity fashion brand.
Blake Lively
Blake Lively founded the premium mixer brand Betty Buzz to offer non alcoholic beverages with clean ingredients. The company focuses on providing high quality flavors that can be enjoyed on their own or mixed with spirits. She spent years developing the recipes and the brand identity before launching the product line. The brand has quickly gained a presence in major grocery stores and retailers.
Stephen Curry
Steph Curry launched his brand SC30 to manage his business partnerships and philanthropic efforts. He also has his own signature line with Under Armour called Curry Brand which features basketball footwear and apparel. His production company Unanimous Media creates content focused on family and sports. These ventures reflect his commitment to excellence both on and off the court.
Tom Brady
Tom Brady founded the health and wellness brand TB12 to share his approach to long term athletic performance. The company offers supplements and equipment as well as personalized coaching and nutrition advice. He also launched the apparel line Brady Brand which focuses on high performance clothing for athletes. His businesses are built on the principles that helped him achieve success in professional football.
LeBron James
LeBron James cofounded the SpringHill Company to produce engaging content across film and television. He also established the nutrition brand Ladder to provide high quality supplements for athletes. His business interests include significant investments in professional sports teams and retail chains. These ventures have helped him become one of the wealthiest and most influential athletes in the world.
Kevin Hart
Kevin Hart founded the media company HartBeat to produce comedy content for various platforms. He also launched the tequila brand Gran Coramino which focuses on high quality craftsmanship and smooth flavor. His business portfolio includes a plant based restaurant chain called Hart House. He uses his massive platform to promote his brands and support other entrepreneurs.
Justin Bieber
Justin Bieber cofounded the streetwear brand Drew House which is known for its oversized fit and smiley face logo. The brand emphasizes a message of being yourself and feeling comfortable in your own skin. It often releases limited edition collections that sell out almost instantly to a global audience. The company reflects his personal style and has become a staple in the modern fashion world.
Sofía Vergara
Sofia Vergara launched Sofia Jeans to provide stylish and affordable denim for women of all shapes and sizes. The brand is sold exclusively at major retailers and has expanded to include a variety of other apparel items. She also cofounded the digital media company Raze to focus on Latin content and creators. Her business success is a testament to her understanding of her audience and the retail market.
Sarah Jessica Parker
Sarah Jessica Parker founded the SJP Collection to offer high quality footwear and accessories inspired by her personal style. The brand is known for its elegant designs and use of vibrant colors and textures. She also launched a successful line of fragrances that have become classics in the beauty industry. Her involvement in the design and marketing process has led to the long term success of her brand.
Iman
Iman launched IMAN Cosmetics to provide makeup for women of color who were often underserved by the beauty industry. The brand offers a wide range of shades that cater to diverse skin tones and ethnicities. She used her experience as a supermodel to create products that perform well under all conditions. Her pioneering work has helped pave the way for more inclusivity in the global beauty market.
Jennifer Lopez
Jennifer Lopez founded JLo Beauty to share her skincare secrets and promote a youthful glow. The brand features products that use olive oil and other natural ingredients to hydrate and brighten the skin. She also has a long history of success in the fragrance industry with several best selling scents. Her brand represents her commitment to self care and timeless beauty.
Halsey
Halsey founded the beauty brand About Face to encourage self expression through bold and creative makeup. The products are designed to be high performance and easy to use for both professional artists and everyday consumers. The brand features a wide variety of colors and textures that reflect her artistic personality. It has quickly become a favorite among those who enjoy experimenting with their look.
Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga launched Haus Labs to offer high performance and vegan makeup products that celebrate individuality. The brand was recently reformulated and rebranded with a focus on clean ingredients and skin loving benefits. She is deeply involved in the development of every product to ensure they meet her artistic standards. The company has gained a strong following for its innovative formulas and inclusive marketing.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas
Priyanka Chopra Jonas founded the hair care brand Anomaly to provide effective and sustainable products at an affordable price. The line features clean formulas and packaging made from recycled plastic. She wanted to create a brand that made high quality hair care accessible to everyone. The company has been successful in major retailers across the globe since its debut.
Brad Pitt
Brad Pitt cofounded the luxury skincare brand Le Domaine which uses ingredients derived from his vineyard in France. The products focus on anti aging benefits through the use of powerful antioxidants found in grapes. He worked with top scientists to develop a scientifically backed line that is also environmentally friendly. This venture marks his entry into the high end beauty and wellness market.
Jared Leto
Jared Leto launched the desert inspired skincare brand Twentynine Palms to offer a range of body and hair care products. The brand uses botanical ingredients and focuses on the sensory experience of its scents and textures. He was involved in the design and creative direction of the entire product line. The brand reflects his interest in nature and holistic self care.
Travis Barker
Travis Barker founded Barker Wellness to provide high quality products focused on physical and mental recovery. The brand offers a variety of items including tinctures and topicals infused with natural ingredients. He created the line to help others manage the physical demands of an active lifestyle. His personal experience with wellness and recovery is at the heart of the company.
Naomi Osaka
Naomi Osaka launched the skincare brand Kinlo to provide sun protection products specifically for people with melanated skin. The brand addresses the misconception that those with darker skin tones do not need sunscreen. She worked with dermatologists to create formulas that are effective and do not leave a white cast. Her brand aims to educate and protect a diverse community of consumers.
Courteney Cox
Courteney Cox launched the home care brand Homecourt to offer premium cleaning and fragrancing products. The line features scents inspired by high end perfumery and uses sustainable ingredients for everyday household tasks. She focuses on the intersection of home aesthetics and effective cleaning solutions. The brand has gained a loyal following among those who prioritize a beautiful and clean living environment.
Shay Mitchell
Shay Mitchell cofounded the travel brand Beis to provide stylish and functional luggage and accessories. The company offers a wide range of products designed to make traveling easier and more organized. She used her personal experience as a frequent traveler to identify the needs of her customers. The brand has become a major success in the lifestyle and travel industry.
Tell us which of these celebrity brands you use the most in the comments.