The 2024 New York City Marathon is just around the corner. And while the elite runners are always the celebrities of the weekend, the Big Apple is also renowned for bringing celebrities from other realms to its streets.
So, who are these stars that have run through the streets of the city that never sleeps? We’ve ranked the most famous celebrities from over the years who have crossed the finish line in Central Park…and the fastest may not be as surprising as you think.
Biggest Celebrities Who Have Run The New York City Marathon
13. Alicia Keys
What They Were Famous For: Alicia Keys is a singer-songwriter, pianist, and actress who first rose to fame with her debut album, Songs in A Minor, which won five Grammy Awards. Known for hits like “Fallin’” and “No One,” she has sold millions of records worldwide and won 15 Grammy Awards over her career. Keys has also served as a coach on The Voice and authored the memoir More Myself. Beyond music, she advocates for social causes, including education and racial equality, and co-founded Keep a Child Alive, a charity for children affected by HIV/AIDS.
Year Ran: 2015
Finishing Time: 5:50:52
12. Pamela Anderson
What They Were Famous For: Pamela Anderson is an actress, model, and animal rights activist known for her role as lifeguard C.J. Parker on Baywatch, which became an international hit in the 1990s. She was also a Playboy cover model and has appeared in numerous reality TV shows and films. Anderson is vocal about her advocacy for animal rights and works closely with PETA, campaigning against animal cruelty. She’s written books and continues to use her platform for social activism, particularly around veganism.
Year Ran: 2013
Finishing Time: 5:41:03
11. Ellie Kemper
What They Were Famous For: Ellie Kemper is an American actress known for her comedic roles, especially as Erin Hannon on NBC’s The Office, which remains popular in syndication. She also starred as Kimmy Schmidt in the acclaimed Netflix series Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, a role that earned her two Emmy nominations. Kemper has appeared in films like Bridesmaids and 21 Jump Street, showcasing her versatile comedic talent. She started her career in improvisational comedy with the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre in New York. Additionally, she’s a published author, having written a memoir, My Squirrel Days, in which she shares humorous stories from her life and career.
Year Ran: 2022
Finishing Time: 5:17:39
10. Teri Hatcher
What They Were Famous For: Teri Hatcher is an actress known for her role as Susan Mayer on ABC’s Desperate Housewives, a performance that earned her a Golden Globe Award. She initially gained fame as Lois Lane in Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, a popular 1990s series. Hatcher also has film credits in movies like Tomorrow Never Dies from the James Bond franchise. Beyond acting, she’s a published author and has a culinary-focused YouTube channel.
Year Ran: 2014
Finishing Time: 5:06:42
9. Uzo Aduba
What They Were Famous For: Uzo Aduba is an award-winning actress best known for her role as Suzanne “Crazy Eyes” Warren in Netflix’s Orange is the New Black, which brought her two Emmy Awards. Her portrayal of Suzanne, a complex character with mental health struggles, resonated widely and showcased Aduba’s dramatic and comedic skills. Prior to her television fame, she worked extensively in theater and earned recognition for her singing talent, including performing in Broadway’s Godspell. Aduba has appeared in acclaimed series like Mrs. America, portraying political figure Shirley Chisholm.
Year Ran: 2013
Finishing Time: 5:00:04
8. Karlie Kloss
What They Were Famous For: Karlie Kloss is a renowned supermodel and former Victoria’s Secret Angel known for her runway presence and work with high-profile designers like Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Marc Jacobs. She is also the founder of Kode with Klossy, a nonprofit organization that empowers young girls to learn coding. Kloss has appeared in campaigns for major fashion brands and consistently ranks among the world’s highest-paid models. With an interest in tech, she studied computer science and advocates for STEM education for young women.
Year Ran: 2017
Finishing Time: 4:41:49
7. Mario Lopez
What They Were Famous For: Mario Lopez is an actor and TV host who became widely known for playing A.C. Slater on Saved by the Bell, a role that made him a teen icon in the 1990s. He later became a popular television personality, hosting shows like Extra and Access Hollywood. Lopez has appeared in reality TV and authored fitness and children’s books. His enduring career in entertainment has made him a familiar face in both scripted and non-scripted television.
Year Ran: 2011
Finishing Time: 4:23:00
6. Chelsea Clinton
What They Were Famous For: Chelsea Clinton, the only child of former U.S. President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, grew up in the public eye and has since established herself as an advocate, author, and philanthropist. Clinton holds degrees from Stanford, Oxford, and Columbia and has worked extensively with the Clinton Foundation, focusing on global health, childhood development, and women’s empowerment. She has authored several children’s books, including She Persisted, aimed at inspiring young readers. Chelsea’s public presence has extended to speaking engagements and media contributions on issues such as public health.
Year Ran: 2022
Finishing Time: 4:20:34
5. Kevin Hart
What They Were Famous For: Kevin Hart is a comedian and actor known for his stand-up specials and roles in films such as Jumanji, Ride Along, and Central Intelligence. He’s one of the highest-grossing stand-up comedians of all time, and his humor, which often focuses on family life and self-deprecation, resonates with audiences worldwide. Hart has also founded a production company, HartBeat Productions, and is an advocate for health and fitness. His entrepreneurial spirit extends to the fitness industry, where he encourages fans to pursue an active lifestyle.
Year Ran: 2017
Finishing Time: 4:05:00
4. Christy Turlington
What She Was Famous For: Christy Turlington is a world-renowned supermodel who rose to fame in the 1980s and 1990s as one of the original “Big Six” supermodels alongside Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, and others. Known for her striking features and elegance, she became a regular on high-fashion runways and the face of major brands like Calvin Klein, Chanel, and Versace. Beyond modeling, Turlington is a committed humanitarian and the founder of the non-profit organization Every Mother Counts, dedicated to improving maternal health worldwide. She is also a documentary filmmaker and activist, using her platform to raise awareness on global health issues.
Year Ran: 2011, 2013, 2021
Finishing Time: 4:20:47 (2011), 3:54:51 (2013), 4:01:20 (2021)
3. Ashton Kutcher
What They Were Famous For: Ashton Kutcher first gained recognition in Hollywood as the lovable, dim-witted Michael Kelso on That ’70s Show, which ran from 1998 to 2006. He later starred in films such as Dude, Where’s My Car?, The Butterfly Effect, and No Strings Attached. Kutcher also made a name for himself in the tech industry, investing in companies like Uber, Airbnb, and Spotify. He was a lead actor in the later seasons of Two and a Half Men, further cementing his place in television history. Beyond acting and tech, Kutcher is an advocate against human trafficking and co-founded Thorn, an organization to protect children from online exploitation.
Year Ran: 2022
Finishing Time: 3:54:01
2. Abby Wambach
What They Were Famous For: Abby Wambach is one of the most celebrated players in U.S. soccer history, known for her aggressive playing style and goal-scoring ability. As a forward, she scored 184 international goals, setting a record that held for several years. Wambach is a two-time Olympic gold medalist and played a crucial role in helping the U.S. Women’s National Team win the 2015 FIFA World Cup. Post-retirement, she became an advocate for equality in sports and is a bestselling author of Forward and Wolfpack, which inspire women to lead confidently. Wambach’s influence reaches beyond the field, as she’s a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality.
Year Ran: 2016
Finishing Time: 3:44:25
1. Lance Armstrong
What They Were Famous For: Lance Armstrong gained global fame as a professional road racing cyclist, especially as a seven-time Tour de France winner from 1999 to 2005. He famously overcame testicular cancer, leading to his comeback and subsequent success, and became an inspiration worldwide. Armstrong was instrumental in popularizing the Livestrong brand, with his foundation raising millions for cancer awareness and support. However, his career was marred by controversy when he was stripped of his Tour de France titles in 2012 following a high-profile doping scandal. Armstrong’s story, from overcoming illness to athletic glory and scandal, remains one of the most dramatic in sports history.
Year Ran: 2006, 2007
Finishing Time: 2:59:36, 2:46:43
Celebrities Running The 2024 New York City Marathon
Jennifer Connelly
Jennifer Connelly is an acclaimed actress whose career began as a child model and transitioned into film with roles in Once Upon a Time in America and Labyrinth. She achieved widespread recognition in the 2000s with powerful performances in films such as A Beautiful Mind, which earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Connelly’s work spans genres, from dramas like Requiem for a Dream to recent blockbuster roles in Alita: Battle Angel and Top Gun: Maverick. Known for her dedication to her roles, she has earned a reputation as one of Hollywood’s most versatile actresses.
Nev Schulman
Nev Schulman is a filmmaker, producer, and television host, best known for creating and hosting MTV’s Catfish: The TV Show, which investigates the authenticity of online relationships. His interest in the topic began with the 2010 documentary Catfish, based on his own online dating experience, which became a cultural phenomenon. Schulman’s work has spotlighted the complexities of social media and identity in the digital age. Besides Catfish, he has also competed in Dancing with the Stars and is involved in social and media-based advocacy.
Jacob Soboroff
Jacob Soboroff is a journalist and correspondent for NBC News and MSNBC, known for his in-depth reporting on U.S. immigration and political issues. His coverage of migrant family separations at the U.S. border earned him praise for bringing attention to the human impact of immigration policies. Soboroff’s reporting often focuses on human rights, and he authored Separated: Inside an American Tragedy, which examines the U.S. family separation crisis. Soboroff is respected for his journalistic integrity and dedication to investigative reporting.
Peter Weber
Peter Weber, also known as “Pilot Pete,” is a commercial airline pilot and television personality who rose to fame as a contestant on The Bachelorette and later as the star of The Bachelor season 24. Known for his charm and love of adventure, Weber’s season was marked by high-profile drama and emotional moments that captivated audiences. Post-Bachelor, Weber has continued his work as a pilot and remained active on social media, sharing travel insights and his experiences with fans.
Matt James
Matt James gained national attention as the first Black male lead on The Bachelor in its 25-season history. Known for his charismatic personality and athletic background, James was a wide receiver at Wake Forest University before working in real estate and starting the non-profit ABC Food Tours, which serves underprivileged youth. James’ time on The Bachelor highlighted his values and commitment to his community, and he has since used his platform to advocate for health and fitness initiatives, as well as for social justice.
Greg Rijkaard
Greg Rijkaard is a personal trainer and fitness coach known for his appearances in fitness media and his work as a motivational figure in the wellness community. He has helped many clients achieve their health and fitness goals through personalized training programs and social media content. Rijkaard is known for emphasizing functional fitness, holistic well-being, and mental health alongside physical training. His influence reaches across social platforms, where he inspires a broad audience to pursue active and healthy lifestyles.
Zac Clark
Zac Clark is a substance abuse recovery specialist and founder of the Release Recovery Foundation, an organization that supports people struggling with addiction. He gained national attention as a contestant on The Bachelorette, where his openness about his journey to sobriety resonated with viewers. Since his appearance, Clark has continued his work in recovery, focusing on raising awareness and providing resources for those in need. He’s also an advocate for mental health and uses his platform to support addiction recovery efforts.
Joe Amabile
Joe Amabile, affectionately known as “Grocery Store Joe,” is a reality TV personality who became a fan favorite on The Bachelorette, Bachelor in Paradise, and Dancing with the Stars. Originally a Chicago-based grocer, Amabile’s down-to-earth personality and charm made him a beloved figure in Bachelor Nation. He has remained active in media and social platforms, often sharing his culinary interests and connecting with fans of the franchise. His laid-back approach and humor have continued to endear him to audiences.
Casey Neistat
Casey Neistat is a filmmaker, vlogger, and entrepreneur whose YouTube channel, where he shares innovative short films and vlogs, has garnered millions of followers. Known for his creative style and storytelling skills, Neistat has directed award-winning advertisements and created the HBO series The Neistat Brothers. He also co-founded the multimedia company Beme, which was later acquired by CNN. Neistat’s influence as a digital content creator has made him a pioneer in the vlogging and creator community.
Randall Park
Randall Park is an actor, comedian, and writer known for his roles in Fresh Off the Boat, The Interview, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, where he plays Jimmy Woo. His role on Fresh Off the Boat marked a milestone for Asian American representation on network television. Park’s versatility extends to comedy, drama, and superhero genres, and he’s highly respected in the industry for his commitment to diverse storytelling. He also co-created and starred in the Netflix comedy Blockbuster.
Claire Holt
Claire Holt is an Australian actress best known for her roles on The Vampire Diaries and its spin-off The Originals, where she portrayed Rebekah Mikaelson. Her television success has led to roles in shows such as Pretty Little Liars and movies including 47 Meters Down. Holt’s popularity in the supernatural genre has made her a recognizable figure among young audiences. Beyond acting, she’s known for her advocacy work in maternal health and sharing insights into motherhood on social media.
Tayshia Adams
Tayshia Adams is a television personality and former Bachelorette, where her openness and empathy won her a dedicated fan base. She initially appeared on The Bachelor and Bachelor in Paradise before leading her own season of The Bachelorette, bringing a refreshing, mature approach to the franchise. Adams has since hosted The Bachelorette and worked in media, promoting mental health and wellness. She remains an influential figure within the Bachelor community and beyond, using her platform for advocacy and lifestyle content.
Casey Neistat
Casey Neistat is a filmmaker, vlogger, and entrepreneur renowned for his influential YouTube channel, where he shares inventive short films and daily vlogs that have captivated millions of followers. His unique storytelling style and knack for cinematic innovation have made him a trailblazer in digital content creation. Neistat’s career includes directing the acclaimed HBO series The Neistat Brothers and creating viral videos, including the Nike-funded “Make It Count,” which quickly amassed a global following. He also co-founded the multimedia company Beme, which was later acquired by CNN.
