Most Famous Karens in the World

From chart-topping vocalists to scene-stealing actors, the name Karen has been carried by artists who’ve made a lasting mark on film, television, fashion, and music across the globe. Below is a friendly, fact-packed tour of standout Karens whose work you’ve likely seen on big stages and big screens, with quick context on what they’re known for and where you’ve heard their names before.

Karen Gillan

Karen Gillan is a Scottish actor best known for playing Nebula in Marvel’s ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ films and for her time as Amy Pond on ‘Doctor Who’. She also co-stars in the ‘Jumanji’ adventure franchise and has written, directed, and starred in the indie feature ‘The Party’s Just Beginning’. Before major studio roles, she trained at Italia Conti and worked in theatre and television in the UK. Her work spans blockbuster action, heartfelt drama, and genre TV that’s popular worldwide.

Karen Carpenter

Karen Carpenter was an American singer and drummer who formed half of the duo The Carpenters with her brother, Richard. She was celebrated for her warm contralto voice on hits like ‘Close to You’, ‘We’ve Only Just Begun’, and ‘Top of the World’. Beyond singing, she was an accomplished drummer who often played onstage and in early recordings. Her artistry helped define soft rock and adult contemporary radio for an entire era.

Karen O

Karen O is the lead vocalist and co-founder of the rock band Yeah Yeah Yeahs, known for breakout tracks like ‘Maps’ and ‘Heads Will Roll’. She’s also a composer and songwriter for film, contributing ‘The Moon Song’ to the soundtrack of ‘Her’. Her solo and collaborative projects explore everything from art-pop to film scores. On stage and in the studio, she’s recognized for inventive performances and genre-crossing work.

Karen Allen

Karen Allen is an American actor most widely recognized as Marion Ravenwood in ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’ and ‘Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull’. She made early waves with roles in ‘Animal House’ and ‘Starman’. In addition to film, she has extensive theatre credits and has taught acting and directed stage productions. Allen also runs a textile arts business alongside her screen and stage career.

Karen Black

Karen Black was an American actor whose breakthrough came with ‘Five Easy Pieces’, earning critical acclaim and major award nominations. She appeared in a wide range of films including ‘The Great Gatsby’, ‘Trilogy of Terror’, and ‘Nashville’-era New Hollywood projects. Black also wrote songs and occasionally contributed to soundtracks for her films. Her career spanned mainstream hits, cult classics, and independent cinema.

Karen Fukuhara

Karen Fukuhara is a Japanese-American actor who plays Kimiko Miyashiro on the series ‘The Boys’. She made her film debut as Katana in ‘Suicide Squad’. In animation, she voices the title character in ‘Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts’ and has appeared in several other voice roles. Her work bridges live-action superhero ensembles and acclaimed family and young-adult animation.

Karen Mok

Karen Mok is a Hong Kong singer-songwriter and actor with successful albums in Mandarin and Cantonese markets. On screen, she’s featured in popular films such as ‘Shaolin Soccer’ and ‘Fallen Angels’. She has held major concert tours and earned music awards across Asia. Mok is also known for philanthropy and for promoting arts and culture initiatives.

Karen Elson

Karen Elson is an English supermodel and singer-songwriter who rose to fame on international runways and major fashion magazine covers. She has released albums including ‘The Ghost Who Walks’ and toured as a recording artist. Elson has worked with top fashion houses while maintaining a steady music career. She is also an advocate for workers’ rights in the fashion industry.

Karen Fairchild

Karen Fairchild is a founding member and lead vocalist of the country group Little Big Town. The band’s catalog includes radio staples like ‘Pontoon’ and ‘Girl Crush’, along with multiple award-winning albums. Fairchild has performed on major stages from award shows to headlining tours. She also collaborates in songwriting and has launched fashion ventures connected to her work in music.

Karen Hauer

Karen Hauer is a Venezuelan-born professional dancer best known for her long-running role on ‘Strictly Come Dancing’. She has toured nationally with dance productions and performed in theatre shows. Hauer is recognized for choreography that blends ballroom, Latin, and contemporary influences. She also teaches and leads workshops that promote dance education and fitness.

Karen Mulder

Karen Mulder is a Dutch supermodel who became one of the most recognizable faces of the 1990s fashion scene. She worked as a Victoria’s Secret Angel and appeared on numerous ‘Vogue’ and high-fashion campaigns. Mulder walked for top designers and fronted beauty lines during the era’s supermodel boom. She later explored music and television appearances alongside her fashion career.

Karen Dotrice

Karen Dotrice is a British actor best known for playing Jane Banks in Disney’s ‘Mary Poppins’. She continued her screen work with roles including ‘The Gnome-Mobile’ and later made guest appearances tied to Disney’s legacy projects. Dotrice began performing as a child in a theatrical family. She has remained a beloved figure for fans of classic family films.

Karen Duffy

Karen Duffy, also known as “Duff,” is an American television personality and actor who gained prominence as an ‘MTV’ VJ. She appeared in movies such as ‘Dumb and Dumber’ and ‘Blank Check’. Duffy later became an author and producer, writing books on health and resilience. She has been active in advocacy and public speaking related to chronic illness awareness.

Karen Clark Sheard

Karen Clark Sheard is a Grammy-winning American gospel singer and a member of The Clark Sisters. Her solo projects, such as ‘Finally Karen’, expanded her influence beyond the group’s storied recordings. She is noted for technically demanding vocal runs and dynamic live performances. Clark Sheard also serves in leadership roles within her church community and mentors emerging gospel artists.

Share your favorite Karen—and the projects you love most—in the comments!