Celebrities Who Became Powerful Entrepreneurs After Retiring from Acting.

For many celebrities, the limelight of Hollywood doesn’t last forever, but that doesn’t mean their entrepreneurial spirit fades. In fact, some of the most successful actors have turned their focus to business ventures and become powerful entrepreneurs after retiring or stepping back from their acting careers. From creating innovative products to establishing thriving companies, these stars have built empire-like businesses that generate millions, if not billions, in revenue.

Sarah Jessica Parker – SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker

Sarah Jessica Parker, famously known for playing Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City, transitioned into entrepreneurship by launching her SJP Collection, a line of shoes, accessories, and fragrances. The collection was designed to mirror her personal style and cosmopolitan image.

    Brand Strategy: Parker combined her fashion expertise and high-profile celebrity status to create a brand that caters to fashion-forward women who love classic yet bold designs. The collection’s focus on affordable luxury has helped it succeed.

    Result: The SJP Collection is a staple in retail stores like Nordstrom and has made Sarah Jessica Parker a prominent name in both fashion and business.

Sir Ian McKellen – The Lord of the Rings Wines

Although best known for his role as Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings, Sir Ian McKellen is also a co-founder of a wine company. He teamed up with fellow actors and entrepreneurs to create McKellen Wines, which has gained popularity due to its high-quality products and branding.

    Brand Strategy: McKellen leveraged his celebrity status to position the wine brand as both exclusive and premium, catering to both fans of the franchise and wine enthusiasts.

    Result: The brand has seen success in both the U.K. and internationally, turning McKellen into an unexpected entrepreneur in the luxury market.

Jessica Simpson – The Jessica Simpson Collection

Jessica Simpson, known for her pop music career and reality TV show, turned her celebrity into a successful fashion empire. In 2005, she launched The Jessica Simpson Collection, a line of women’s fashion that includes shoes, accessories, and clothing.

    Brand Strategy: Simpson’s brand appeals to everyday women, offering affordable luxury with a focus on style, comfort, and versatility. Her ability to connect with her audience through social media and personal branding has been key to the collection's success.

    Result: The Jessica Simpson Collection is now worth over $1 billion in annual sales, making Jessica one of the wealthiest celebrity entrepreneurs in fashion.

Ashton Kutcher – A-Grade Investments and Tech Startups

Ashton Kutcher may have been known for his role in That '70s Show and Two and a Half Men, but his entrepreneurial efforts in the tech industry have earned him recognition as a successful venture capitalist. Kutcher co-founded the investment firm A-Grade Investments and has been an early investor in some of Silicon Valley’s most successful startups, including Skype, Airbnb, and Uber.

    Brand Strategy: Kutcher leveraged his fame to gain access to Silicon Valley’s top entrepreneurs and innovative tech companies. His keen eye for emerging technologies and his willingness to take risks have earned him a reputation as a forward-thinking investor.

    Result: Kutcher’s investments have paid off handsomely, with his portfolio of companies now valued in the billions, making him one of the most successful celebrity investors in tech.

Reese Witherspoon – Draper James

Reese Witherspoon, an acclaimed actress and producer known for films like Legally Blonde and Walk the Line, turned her attention to entrepreneurship with the launch of her lifestyle brand, Draper James, in 2015. The brand is focused on Southern-inspired fashion and home decor.

    Brand Strategy: Witherspoon drew on her Southern roots and personal style to create a brand that emphasizes classic, approachable elegance. She combined her celebrity status with a deep understanding of the market, attracting both loyal fans and fashion-conscious shoppers.

    Result: Draper James has grown into a multi-million dollar brand, and Reese Witherspoon’s entrepreneurial efforts have made her a highly influential figure in both the entertainment and fashion industries.

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson – Teremana Tequila and Seven Bucks Companies

Dwayne Johnson, aka The Rock, is one of Hollywood's biggest stars, but his business acumen is equally impressive. After a successful wrestling career and becoming one of the highest-paid actors in Hollywood, The Rock transitioned into the world of entrepreneurship. His ventures include Teremana Tequila, his production company Seven Bucks Companies, and partnerships with companies like Under Armour.

    Brand Strategy: The Rock is known for his hard work ethic, positivity, and authenticity, which he’s translated into his business ventures. Teremana Tequila is marketed as a premium, affordable tequila, and its success is driven by Johnson’s massive social media following.

    Result: Teremana Tequila has become one of the fastest-growing spirits brands in the U.S. Additionally, his Seven Bucks Productions creates content across multiple platforms, including film, television, and digital media, contributing to his diverse revenue streams.

George Clooney – Casamigos Tequila

George Clooney is another prime example of a celebrity who has made a major mark in the business world. While he remains active in acting, Clooney's biggest entrepreneurial success came through Casamigos, a tequila brand he co-founded in 2013. Clooney and his partners Rande Gerber and Mike Meldman launched Casamigos with the intention of creating the best-tasting tequila, initially for their own personal enjoyment.

    Brand Strategy: Clooney used his fame and connections to get the word out, with major stars and industry influencers endorsing the brand. The brand's premium image and celebrity endorsements helped elevate its profile quickly.

    Result: In 2017, Casamigos was sold to Diageo for $1 billion, turning George Clooney into one of the wealthiest celebrities in the world.

Jessica Alba – The Honest Company

Jessica Alba, best known for her roles in Fantastic Four and Sin City, took her fame and turned it into a billion-dollar business. After leaving Hollywood for a more family-focused life, she founded The Honest Company in 2011. The company focuses on eco-friendly, non-toxic baby and household products, including diapers, wipes, and cleaning supplies.

    Brand Strategy: Alba leveraged her personal brand and status as a mother to promote the company, building trust with consumers. Her commitment to sustainability and transparency resonated with customers looking for safer, environmentally-friendly products.

    Result: The Honest Company went public in 2021, with an estimated valuation of over $1 billion, solidifying Jessica as a savvy businesswoman and entrepreneur.