In the glamorous world of celebrities, it's not just about red carpets and blockbuster hits. Many of our favorite stars have ventured into the business world, owning franchises of well-loved brands. It's a smart move, swapping the uncertainty of personal ventures for the proven success of established chains. Here's a sneak peek into the entrepreneurial spirit of some celebrities who are serving up more than just entertainment.
Peyton Manning: Papa John’s
Peyton Manning, the legendary quarterback, swapped footballs for pizzas, owning 21 Papa John’s franchise locations in Colorado. His investment timing was impeccable, aligning with certain...green law changes in the state, boosting the munchies market. Manning's move from the gridiron to the grill is a touchdown in the franchise world.
Rick Ross: Wingstop
Rick Ross, the rapper known for his love of lemon pepper wings, owns at least 25 Wingstop franchises. His passion for the flavor turned into a lucrative business, spreading the love from Miami to suburban Atlanta. Ross's journey from the music studio to the kitchen is as flavorful as his favorite wings.
Shaquille O'Neal: Five Guys
Shaquille O'Neal, the basketball giant, is also a giant in the franchise world, owning 155 Five Guys, 40 24-Hour Fitness Clubs, and 17 Auntie Anne's Pretzels, among others. Shaq's diverse portfolio shows he's as skilled in business as he is on the court, making him a true double-threat.
Magic Johnson: Burger King
Magic Johnson, known for his magic on the basketball court, owns 30 Burger King restaurants. His foray into the fast-food industry is just one part of his vast business empire, proving there's no stopping this Hall of Famer off the court.
Jimmy Buffett: Krispy Kreme
Jimmy Buffett, the king of beach bum anthems, also has a sweet side, owning a Krispy Kreme franchise in Florida. His venture into doughnuts is as surprising as finding a lost shaker of salt, blending sweet treats with beach beats.
Chris Brown: Burger King
Chris Brown, the R&B superstar, is not just about hitting high notes but also flipping burgers, owning rights to the Five Guys market in Orange County, California. His step into the fast-food industry might just be as smooth as his dance moves.
Venus Williams: Jamba Juice
Venus Williams, the tennis powerhouse, turned her health challenges into a business opportunity by opening four Jamba Juice locations in Washington, D.C. Her commitment to promoting healthy living is as strong as her backhand.
Drew Brees: Jimmy John’s
Drew Brees, the celebrated quarterback, owns multiple Jimmy John's franchises in New Orleans. His passion for the sandwich chain is a testament to his dedication, not just on the field but also in providing quality eats to his city.
Hank Aaron: Popeye’s Chicken
Hank Aaron, the baseball legend, owns 24 Popeye's Chicken franchises, turning his home run-hitting prowess into a fast-food empire in Atlanta. His journey from the baseball diamond to the dining table is truly inspiring.
LeBron James: Blaze Pizza
LeBron James, basketball's reigning king, has made significant investments in Blaze Pizza, turning it into one of the fastest-growing franchises in the U.S. His golden touch extends beyond the court, making pizza the next big thing.
Mark Wahlberg: Wahlburgers
Mark Wahlberg, along with his famous family, brought Wahlburgers to the masses, blending Hollywood glam with hometown grub. His role in this burger saga is as pivotal as any of his on-screen performances.
50 Cent: Frigo RevolutionWear
50 Cent, the rapper-turned-business mogul, expanded his empire with Frigo RevolutionWear, proving his knack for hitting the right note in business too. His venture into high-end men's underwear is as bold as his lyrics.
George Foreman: Foreman Grill
George Foreman may not own a franchise, but his endorsement of the George Foreman Grill became an iconic business move. Turning grills into a health statement, Foreman showed his entrepreneurial muscle is as strong as his punch.