With over 3.5 billion football fans around the world, it is no surprise that major football players are celebrities on their own. However, in the mainstream world, when we think of a celebrity we think of movie stars, singers, models and more. Throughout history we have seen many football celebrities cross that line between niche football superstar to a mainstream notoriety, with many of them acquiring fans that did not even know that they once used to be prominent affiliates of the sport. The following list will bring together the few well-known footballers that have successfully transitioned from sportsman to mainstream celebrity pipeline.
Vinnie Jones
The well-known bad boy, known for his football career in Wimbledon, Leeds United, Sheffield United, Chelsea, and Queens Park Rangers from 1984 – 99 was a prominent football player in England. He was known for his aggressive antics and has played over 180 games in the Premier League. Though this was very impressive, his football career came to an end one day and he decided to make a very smart decision to join Hollywood. Capitalizing on his bad boy/tough guy persona, he landed roles in over 30 Hollywood films, including: Snatch, Mean Machine, She’s the Man and more! Many members of the younger generation, only know him for his movie appearances instead of his coveted football career.
David Beckham
The handsome Mr. Beckham, known for his modelling, indulgent perfume ads and even some acting gigs was once a very successful football player. He was a star athlete for the English national team as well as Manchester United, Preston North End, Real Madrid, Milan, LA Galaxy and Paris Saint-Germain. However, after he retired, he leaned into modeling for high profile brands and was also given the coveted title of “Underwear Model of The Century.” He starred in multiple films like “Bend it Like Beckham,” “King Arthur” and many more. He also got a boost in his stardom after marrying his girlfriend Victoria Beckham, from the popular band the Spice Girls. He, nevertheless, never lost his connection to his football roots and now co-owns two clubs: Inter Miami CF and Salford City.
Eric Cantona
The famous French footballer from the iconic 90s was a star player for Leeds as well as Manchester United. In total he played 143 league games, scoring 63 times, however many of his football fans know him for his mishap in an away game versus Crystal Palace when he not so accidentally kicked a fan in the crowd. It was a shock when he retired from football at the age of 30 to pursue a new career in French cinema. Having a role in the 1998 film Elizabeth, starring Cate Blanchett and other movies such as “The Traveler,” “Looking for Eric,” “Inhuman Resources” and more.
Julio Iglesias
When you think of Julio Iglesias, most of us remember his amazing discography at first. From hits such as “Me olvidé de vivir” and the album “Hey!” he is a well-known singer and songwriter. Not many of us know, however, about his very colorful football past. He was a professional player with Real Madrid. Sadly, his football career was cut short due to a benign spine tumor that had him partially paralyzed. The legend says that a nurse gave him his first guitar while was receiving treatment and that was the first step to his long and successful stardom as a musician and a household name.
Sir Sean Connery
Bond… James Bond. Some of you may recognize Mr. Sean Connery from his seven roles as the most eligible agent in the world, James Bond, as well as plethora of other distinguished roles. But not many know of his athletic past. Though not very popular for his football endeavors, nor playing in a very famous team, Sean Connery was a player for Bonnyrigg Rose, a semiprofessional Scottish club, playing the lower divisions. According to Sean himself, he was also offered a trial by East Fife. Nevertheless, he declined as he realized that acting was his passion, though he still enjoyed watching football as much as any well-rounded Scot. He sadly passed away October 31, 2020, and to this day many of his fans call him the greatest export Scotland has ever produced.
