Here Are The Celebrities You Didn’t Know Were Marathoners

Walking for exercise became popular in the United States during the 1970s, influenced by Frank Shorter’s gold medal win at the 1972 Munich Olympics. This trend remains popular, as evidenced by the location of the previous 31 summer Olympics. According to the non-profit organization Running U.S.A., there were 425,000 marathon participants in the U.S. in 2008, a 20% increase from the previous decade. The numbers have continued to rise since then. Even celebrities have joined the long-distance running trend, generating more interest in the activity.

It’s a well-known fact that every big city hosts an annual marathon, and even smaller towns and rural areas have their own 26.2-mile race. The United States alone has over 1,000 of these events every year, attracting not only serious runners but also celebrities. To compile a list of famous figures who have completed a marathon in the U.S., we scoured media outlets for news on well-known individuals in movies, television, radio, theater, music, and major league sports.

Celebrities often participate in marathons to support causes close to their hearts. For example, actor Ryan Reynolds ran to raise funds for Parkinson’s disease research, as his father had battled the illness. Actor Edward Norton and singer Alanis Morissette ran to raise money for the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust, an organization dedicated to protecting the Maasai tribe’s home and traditions in East Africa. In 2022, actor Ashton Kutcher ran to support THORN, an international non-profit organization working to combat human trafficking and protect children from exploitation. Even elite athletes have a soft spot for giving back to their communities, and many have their own personal reasons for running. For example, Tiki Barber, former NFL star, uses running to channel his competitive spirit. Tennis pros James Blake and Marion Bartoli, and soccer legend Abby Wambach, all lace up their sneakers for a good cause.

But it’s not just professional athletes who run. Some well-known faces, like Theo Rossi from “Sons of Anarchy,” run to stay fit and healthy. For others, like Ben Gibbard of Death Cab for Cutie, running is a way to break free from an unhealthy lifestyle. Running brings people from all walks of life together.

1. Abby Wambach
   > Occupation: Soccer player
   > Marathon(s): 2021 New York City Marathon
   Abby Wambach, the incredibly talented women’s soccer star, has achieved an impressive feat – not once, but twice. She has not only secured Olympic gold medals twice, but she has also triumphed in the World Cup twice. And as if that wasn’t enough, she recently added another accomplishment to her already impressive resume. In the 2021 New York City Marathon, Abby crossed the finish line with a remarkable time of 3:44:25, solidifying her athletic prowess even further.
2. Al Roker
   > Occupation: TV personality
   > Marathon(s): 2010 New York City Marathon
   On a beautiful autumn morning, the beloved weatherman of the Today Show, Al Roker, proudly crossed the finish line of the 2010 New York City Marathon. With a time of 7 hours, 9 minutes, and 44 seconds, he had accomplished a remarkable feat. It was a moment of triumph for Roker, who had battled with his weight for years and underwent gastric bypass surgery in 2002. Despite his challenges, he had only started training for the marathon a few months before the big race. His determination and perseverance had paid off, and he had proven that anything is possible with hard work and dedication. The crowd cheered as Roker beamed with pride, a true inspiration to all.
3. Alanis Morissette
   > Occupation: Musician
   > Marathon(s): 2009 New York City Marathon
   The talented pop sensation from Canada, who has won a total of seven prestigious Grammy awards, proudly crossed the finish line of the 2009 New York City Marathon with a time of 4 hours, 28 minutes, and 45 seconds. He ran the marathon in support of the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust, showing his dedication to not only his music but also to preserving the environment.
4. Alicia Keys
   > Occupation: Musician
   > Marathon(s): 2015 New York City Marathon
   In an incredible feat of athleticism and philanthropy, the incomparable Alicia Keys, a talented singer and songwriter who has graced us with her soulful voice and meaningful lyrics, conquered the 2015 New York City Marathon with an impressive time of 5 hours, 50 minutes, and 52 seconds. But her participation in this prestigious event was not just for personal achievement – she ran with a purpose, using her platform and passion to support her organization, Keep a Kid Alive. This incredible non-profit works tirelessly to provide life-saving HIV medications to children in Africa, truly making a difference in the world. Alicia’s determination and selflessness are a true inspiration to us all.
5. Andrea Barber
   > Occupation: Actor
   > Marathon(s): 2016 Los Angeles Marathon
   Many people who watched television during the 90s will surely recall Andrea Barber, known for her role as the pesky next-door neighbor on the beloved family sitcom “Full House.” But did you know that she’s also an avid runner? In fact, she even conquered the 2016 Los Angeles Marathon with an impressive time of 4 hours, 58 minutes, and 2 seconds. Talk about talent and determination!
6. Andrew Shue and Amy Robach
   > Occupation: Actor
   > Marathon(s): 2019 New York City Marathon
   Andrew Shue, who is probably most recognized for his role as the charming and handsome Billy on the popular show “Melrose Place,” recently completed the 2021 New York City Marathon in an impressive time of 4 hours, 16 minutes, and 30 seconds. Accompanying him on this incredible journey was his now-estranged wife, the well-known TV personality Amy Robach, who crossed the finish line just one second ahead of him at 4:16:29. The couple joined forces to support a great cause, the New York Road Runners Team for Kids, which raises funds for various youth programs.
7. Apolo Ohno
   > Occupation: Speed skater
   > Marathon(s): 2011 New York City Marathon
   Apolo Ohno has truly solidified his place as the greatest U.S. Winter Olympian to date. His impressive speed-skating skills have earned him a total of eight medals, including two gold, two silver, and four bronze. It’s no wonder he’s been inducted into the esteemed U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame. And if that wasn’t enough, he even crossed over into the world of long-distance running, completing the 2011 New York City Marathon in an impressive time of 3 hours, 25 minutes, and 12 seconds. Now that’s what we call an all-around athlete.
8. Ashton Kutcher
   > Occupation: Actor
   > Marathon(s): 2022 New York City Marathon
   The talented actor, famous for his roles in the beloved sitcoms “Two and a Half Men” and “That ’70s Show,” put in six months of dedicated training for the highly-anticipated 2022 New York City Marathon. And all his hard work paid off when he crossed the finish line with a time of 3:54:01. But it wasn’t just a personal achievement for him, as he ran in support of the noble cause of THORN – a global organization fighting against human trafficking and protecting innocent children from sexual exploitation.
9. Ben Gibbard
   > Occupation: Musician
   > Marathon(s): 2011 Los Angeles Marathon
   Ben Gibbard, the frontman of the band Death Cab for Cutie, made headlines when he completed the 2011 Los Angeles Marathon in an impressive time of 3 hours and 56 minutes. Since then, he has continued to participate in other marathons as well. According to sources close to him, Gibbard turned to running as a way to break free from his previous unhealthy habits.
10. Bobby Flay
    > Occupation: Celebrity chef
    > Marathon(s): 2010 New York City Marathon
    Bobby Flay, the renowned chef and owner of a highly acclaimed restaurant, delighted fans and spectators alike as he completed the grueling 2010 New York City Marathon in an impressive 4 hours, 1 minute, and 37 seconds. The beloved TV personality showed true grit and determination as he crossed the finish line, earning the admiration and applause of all. It was a truly remarkable feat that left everyone in awe of his endurance and athleticism.
11. Bryan Cranston
    > Occupation: Actor
    > Marathon(s): 1985 New York City Marathon
    Bobby Flay, the renowned chef and owner of a highly acclaimed restaurant, delighted fans and spectators alike as he completed the grueling 2010 New York City Marathon in an impressive 4 hours, 1 minute, and 37 seconds. The beloved TV personality showed true grit and determination as he crossed the finish line, earning the admiration and applause of all. It was a truly remarkable feat that left everyone in awe of his endurance and athleticism.
12. Cynthia Erivo
    > Occupation: Actor/singer
    > Marathon(s): 2016 New York City Marathon
    Cynthia Erivo, a talented actress and singer, has been recognized with both a Grammy and Tony Award. Her impressive achievements don’t just stop there though, as she also took on the challenge of running the 2016 New York City Marathon. And she didn’t just complete it, she crossed the finish line with an impressive time of 3 hours, 57 minutes, and 7 seconds. Talk about dedication and determination!
13. Drew Carey
    > Occupation: Comedian
    > Marathon(s): 2011 Marine Corps Marathon
    Comedian and beloved TV personality Drew Carey, known for his appearances on popular shows like “The Price Is Right” and “The Drew Carey Show,” took on the challenge of the 2011 Marine Corps Marathon in the bustling city of Washington, D.C. With determination and grit, he crossed the finish line with a respectable time of 4 hours, 37 minutes, and 11 seconds.
14. Edward Norton
    > Occupation: Actor
    > Marathon(s): 2009 New York City Marathon
    Hollywood star Edward Norton, known for his roles in “American History X” and “The Italian Job,” crossed the finish line of the 2009 New York City Marathon with a remarkable time of 3 hours, 48 minutes, and 1 second. But what makes this achievement even more impressive is the fact that Norton trained for the race in Kenya, all for a good cause. He was raising funds for the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust, an organization dedicated to preserving the ancestral land and traditions of the Maasai tribe in East Africa.
15. Ellie Kemper
    > Occupation: Actor
    > Marathon(s): 2022 New York City Marathon
    Many of us recognize Ellie Kemper from her memorable roles on both “The Office” and “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.” It’s no surprise that the talented actor recently accomplished an impressive feat by completing the 2022 New York City Marathon in a time of 5 hours, 17 minutes, and 39 seconds.
16. Ethan Hawke
    > Occupation: Actor
    > Marathon(s): 2015 New York City Marathon
    Ethan Hawke, the beloved actor known for his roles in “Training Day” and “Before Sunset,” recently completed the grueling 2015 New York City Marathon with a respectable time of 4 hours, 25 minutes, and 30 seconds. But it wasn’t just a personal accomplishment for him – he also ran for a cause close to his heart. Hawke teamed up with The Doe Fund to raise money and bring attention to the important issue of criminal recidivism. It’s just another example of Hawke’s dedication and passion, both on and off the big screen.
17. Michael Balzary (Flea)
    > Occupation: Musician
    > Marathon(s): 2012 Los Angeles Marathon
    Michael Balzary, also known by his stage name Flea, is the incredibly talented bass player for the legendary funk and alternative rock band Red Hot Chili Peppers. In addition to his musical prowess, he also has a passion for running and in 2012, he completed the Los Angeles Marathon with an impressive time of 3 hours, 41 minutes, and 49 seconds.
18. Freddie Prinze Jr.
    > Occupation: Actor
    > Marathon(s): 2006 Los Angeles Marathon
    Freddie Prinze Jr., the beloved actor known for his roles in “She’s All That” and “Scooby-Doo,” proudly completed the 2006 Los Angeles Marathon with an impressive time of 5 hours, 50 minutes, and 49 seconds. It was a remarkable achievement for the talented performer, who ran under the name Freddie James, a nod to his middle name. The crowd cheered as he crossed the finish line, exhausted but exhilarated by the challenge he had conquered. It was a moment of pure determination and grit, a true testament to Freddie’s unwavering spirit and dedication.
19. Gordon Ramsay
    > Occupation: Celebrity chef
    > Marathon(s): 2004 London Marathon
    Gordon Ramsay, the bold and brash celebrity chef and beloved host of popular TV food shows like “Hell’s Kitchen” and “MasterChef USA,” surprised fans when he took on the challenge of running the 2004 London Marathon. Despite his busy schedule and demanding job, Ramsay pushed himself to the limit and crossed the finish line with a respectable time of 3 hours, 30 minutes, and 37 seconds. It was a true testament to his determination and dedication, proving that he’s not just a master in the kitchen, but also a force to be reckoned with on the race track.
20. James Blake
    > Occupation: Tennis player
    > Marathon(s): 2015 New York City Marathon
    In 2015, James Blake, a former professional tennis player who was once ranked fourth in the world and held the title of No. 1 U.S. player, took on the challenge of running the New York City marathon. Despite the grueling course and tough competition, he crossed the finish line with an impressive time of 3 hours, 51 minutes, and 19 seconds. It was a remarkable feat for someone who had spent their career on the tennis court, showcasing his determination and athleticism in a whole new arena. The city streets were abuzz with excitement as Blake proved that his athletic abilities extended far beyond the tennis court.
21. Jennifer Carpenter
    > Occupation: Actor
    > Marathon(s): 2010 New York City Marathon
    Jennifer Carpenter, known for her roles in “The Exorcism of Emily Rose” and “Dexter,” is an avid runner with a heart of gold. In 2010, she took on the challenge of the New York City Marathon and crossed the finish line with an impressive time of 3 hours, 34 minutes, and 28 seconds. But her dedication to running goes beyond personal achievement – she used her participation in the marathon to raise a whopping $186,000 for the non-profit organization Every Mother Counts. A true inspiration both on and off the screen, Jennifer shows us that even celebrities have a passion for giving back to their communities.
22. Joey McIntyre
    > Occupation: Musician
    > Marathon(s): 2013 Boston Marathon
    Joey McIntyre, one of the talented members of the popular boy band New Kids on the Block, proudly completed the 2013 Boston Marathon in an impressive 3 hours, 57 minutes, and 6 seconds. Little did he know, just minutes after crossing the finish line, two devastating bombs would go off near the site, claiming the lives of three innocent people and injuring nearly 150 more. But for McIntyre, this marathon was about more than just running. He dedicated his race to his beloved mother, who was battling Alzheimer’s disease at the time. Sadly, she passed away the following year, making his marathon run even more poignant. Despite the tragic events of the previous year, McIntyre returned to the Boston Marathon in 2014, determined to honor the city and its incredible resilience. He completed the race in an impressive 3 hours, 48 minutes, and 11 seconds, proving that Boston and its people will always rise above any adversity.
23. Katie Holmes
    > Occupation: Actor
    > Marathon(s): 2007 New York City Marathon
    Actor Katie Holmes (“Batman Begins,” “Dawson’s Creek”) ran the 2007 New York City Marathon in 5:29:58.
24. Kevin Hart
    > Occupation: Actor/comedian
    > Marathon(s): 2017 New York City Marathon
    Comedian and beloved actor Kevin Hart, known for his roles in “Jumanji,” “Scary Movie 3,” and “Ride Along,” surprised everyone when he decided to take on the challenge of running in the 2017 New York City Marathon. Despite his usual comedic persona, Hart approached the race with determination and dedication, crossing the finish line after completing the grueling 26.2-mile course in an impressive 4 hours, 5 minutes, and 6 seconds. It was a true testament to his grit and athleticism, proving that he is not only a funnyman, but also a serious competitor.
25. Marcus Mumford and Ben Lovett
    > Occupation: Musician
    > Marathon(s): 2021 New York City Marathon
    The lead singer of the popular British folk-rock band Mumford and Sons took on a new challenge by participating in the 2021 New York City Marathon. With a time of 3 hours, 53 minutes, and 22 seconds, he completed the grueling race with determination and perseverance. His bandmate, Ben Lovett, also joined in on the action and finished with a respectable time of 4 hours, 35 minutes, and 18 seconds. It was an impressive feat for both musicians, showing their dedication not only to their music but also to their physical fitness.
26. Mario Lopez
    > Occupation: TV celebrity
    > Marathon(s): 2011 New York City Marathon
    Actor and television personality Mario Lopez (“Pacific Blue” “Saved by the Bell”) ran the 2011 New York City Marathon in 4:23:30.
27. Marion Bartoli
    > Occupation: Tennis player
    > Marathon(s): 2016 New York City Marathon
    Marion Bartoli, the talented and determined winner of the 2013 Wimbledon women’s singles title, surprised everyone when she left her beloved tennis racket behind to take on a new challenge: running the 2016 New York City Marathon. With incredible grit and determination, she crossed the finish line at an impressive time of 5 hours and 40 minutes. But what’s even more admirable is that she didn’t just run for her own personal achievement, but also to support a great cause. Marion joined the New York Road Runners Team for Kids charity and even managed to raise an impressive $5,000 for the group. Now that’s what I call a true champion, both on and off the court.
28. Natalie Dormer
    > Occupation: Actor
    > Marathon(s): 2014 and 2016 London Marathons
    Natalie Dormer is a talented actress who has graced our screens in two of the biggest entertainment franchises of recent times: Game of Thrones and The Hunger Games. Fun fact, she’s also a fitness enthusiast and has completed multiple marathons! In the 2014 London Marathon, she achieved an impressive time of 3 hours and 50 minutes, and in 2016, she crossed the finish line at 3 hours and 51 minutes. Now that’s some serious dedication and endurance!
29. Oprah Winfrey
    > Occupation: TV personality/entrepreneur
    > Marathon(s): 1994 Marine Corps Marathon
    One of Oprah Winfrey’s many impressive achievements includes completing a full marathon. The beloved television personality and successful entrepreneur crossed the finish line of the 1994 Marine Corps Marathon with a time of 4 hours, 29 minutes, and 15 seconds.
30. Pamela Anderson
    > Occupation: Actor
    > Marathon(s): 2013 New York City Marathon
    Pam Anderson, the talented actress and stunning model, is widely recognized for her iconic role as a lifeguard on the hit TV series “Baywatch”. In addition to her on-screen success, Pam has also starred in three “Baywatch” movies, solidifying her status as a household name. But her talents don’t stop there. In 2013, Pam laced up her running shoes and hit the pavement to take on the grueling New York City Marathon. She crossed the finish line with an impressive time of 5 hours, 41 minutes, and 3 seconds, all while supporting a meaningful cause – the J/P Haitian Relief Organization. It’s clear that Pam is not only a talented performer, but also a compassionate and driven individual.
31. Ryan Reynolds
    > Occupation: Actor
    > Marathon(s): 2008 New York City Marathon
    Ryan Reynolds, known for his roles in “Deadpool” and “Red Notice,” took on the challenge of running the New York City Marathon in 2008. Not only did he cross the finish line, but he did so in an impressive time of 3 hours, 50 minutes, and 22 seconds. What makes this feat even more remarkable is that Reynolds was running for a cause close to his heart. His father had battled Parkinson’s disease and sadly passed away from it in 2020. By participating in the marathon, Reynolds raised money for Parkinson’s disease research, honoring his father’s memory and supporting a cause that affects so many. It’s a testament to his strength, determination, and compassion.
32. Sean Astin
    > Occupation: Actor
    > Marathon(s): 1998 Los Angeles Marathon
    Sean Astin, the beloved actor known for his roles in the iconic Lord of the Rings trilogy and the cult classic film “The Goonies,” once took on a monumental challenge: the 1998 Los Angeles Marathon. Despite facing a grueling 26.2-mile course, Astin persevered and crossed the finish line with a time of 4:04:42. And his love for running has only grown since then; to this day, Astin has completed an impressive 13 marathons and even conquered the daunting Ironman triathlon.
33. Sean Combs
    > Occupation: Musician
    > Marathon(s): 2003 New York City Marathon
    Singer P. Diddy, also known by his birth name Sean Combs, showed his generous and philanthropic side when he participated in the 2003 New York City Marathon to raise funds for the city’s public schools. Despite facing leg cramps during the grueling race, he persevered and completed it in an impressive time of 4:14:54. The entire journey leading up to the marathon was captured in a two-part MTV documentary, showcasing his dedication and determination.
34. Shia LaBeouf
    > Occupation: Actor
    > Marathon(s): 2010 Los Angeles Marathon
    Shia LaBeouf, known for his roles in “Honey Boy” and “Transformers,” took on a personal challenge in 2010 by participating in the Los Angeles Marathon. With a finishing time of 4 hours, 35 minutes, and 31 seconds, he not only accomplished a physical feat but also used the opportunity to show his support for veterans and raise funds for U.S. Vets, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving those who have served our country. It was a noble gesture from the talented actor, proving that he not only has a strong on-screen presence but also a big heart off-screen.
35. Terri Hatcher
    > Occupation: Actor
    > Marathon(s): 2014 New York City Marathon
    Terri Hatcher, best known for her roles in hit TV shows such as “Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman” and “Desperate Housewives”, took on the challenge of the 2014 New York City Marathon. With determination and grit, she crossed the finish line in an impressive time of 5 hours, 6 minutes, and 42 seconds. But that wasn’t enough for the talented actress. In 2018, she returned to the marathon with her daughter by her side. Together, they conquered the 26.2-mile course and finished in 5 hours, 51 minutes, and 21 seconds. Not only did Terri and her daughter achieve a personal accomplishment, but they also used their platform for a greater cause. Their efforts raised a whopping $11,000 for the organization Save the Children, making a positive impact in the lives of children in need. It’s heartwarming to see celebrities using their fame for good and inspiring others to do the same.
36. Theo Rossi
    > Occupation: Actor
    > Marathon(s): 2016 New York City Marathon
    The talented actor, Theo Rossi, took on the challenging role of Juice in the popular FX show, “Sons of Anarchy,” and decided to embark on a weight loss journey by incorporating running into his daily routine. To everyone’s surprise, he not only shed the extra pounds but also discovered a newfound passion for running. In fact, he even participated in the prestigious 2016 New York City Marathon and crossed the finish line with an impressive time of 3 hours, 35 minutes, and 48 seconds. It’s safe to say that his dedication and hard work paid off, both on and off the screen.
37. Tiki Barber
    > Occupation: Radio/TV sports announcer
    > Marathon(s): 2021 New York Marathon
    Tiki Barber was an incredible running back for the New York Giants, known for his explosive speed and agility on the field. After his successful football career, he transitioned into the world of media, becoming a popular radio and television football analyst. But his love for running never faded, as he continued to challenge himself by participating in numerous New York City Marathons. In the recent 2021 race, he crossed the finish line with an impressive time of 4 hours, 47 minutes, and 49 seconds. It’s clear that Tiki Barber’s determination and drive extends far beyond the football field.
38. Uzo Aduba
    > Occupation: Actor
    > Marathon(s): 2015 Boston Marathon
    You might have seen her on the small screen, portraying the unforgettable Crazy Eyes on the hit series “Orange is the New Black.” But did you realize she’s also quite the runner? In 2015, she bravely tackled the renowned Boston Marathon and crossed the finish line with a remarkable time of 5 hours, 3 minutes, and 24 seconds. And that wasn’t her first marathon achievement – she also dominated the New York City Marathon in 2013. Now that’s what I call a versatile and accomplished individual!
39. Valerie Bertinelli
    > Occupation: Actor
    > Marathon(s): 2010 Boston Marathon
    Valerie Bertinelli, known for her roles in “One Day at a Time” and “Hot in Cleveland,” proudly crossed the finish line of the 2010 Boston Marathon with a time of 5 hours, 14 minutes, and 37 seconds. Her determination and perseverance were evident as she pushed through the grueling 26.2-mile course. It was an incredible accomplishment for the talented actress, and her fans couldn’t be more proud of her.
40. Will Ferrell
    > Occupation: Actor
    > Marathon(s): 2003 Boston Marathon
    Comedian and actor Will Ferrell, known for his hilarious performances and four Emmy awards, completed the Boston Marathon in 2003 with a time of 4 hours, 2 minutes, and 29 seconds. Ferrell has also taken on the challenge of marathons in New York and Stockholm.

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