Actors often become known for memorable performances, but some have found even greater success as entrepreneurs. Instead of relying solely on acting, these stars launched businesses, invested in growing industries, and created brands that continue generating wealth long after the cameras stopped rolling.
Their ventures span everything from restaurants and wineries to tech startups and consumer products, proving that business success can be just as impressive as box office success.
1. Dylan McDermott
Beyond acting, McDermott has invested in restaurants and hospitality ventures, quietly building a business portfolio alongside his television career.
2. James Van Der Beek
The Dawson’s Creek star expanded into wellness, online education, and digital partnerships while continuing selective acting work.
3. Jeremy Renner
Renner has earned substantial profits by buying, renovating, and selling luxury homes, making real estate one of his most successful businesses.
4. Dan Aykroyd
Aykroyd co-founded Crystal Head Vodka, which became an internationally recognized premium spirits brand.
5. Rick Moranis
After stepping away from Hollywood, Moranis carefully managed his finances and publishing projects while maintaining valuable licensing income.
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6. Jessica Szohr
In addition to acting, Szohr has invested in lifestyle partnerships and fashion-related ventures.
7. Sarah Michelle Gellar
Rather than focusing exclusively on acting, Gellar co-founded Foodstirs, a baking company that expanded into major retailers.
8. Hill Harper
Harper founded companies focused on financial education and technology while also writing bestselling books about wealth building.
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9. Patrick Dempsey
Dempsey owns successful businesses related to motorsports, coffee, and commercial real estate alongside his acting career.
10. Paul Newman
Newman’s Own became one of the world’s most recognizable food brands, generating hundreds of millions of dollars for charity.
11. Dermot Mulroney
Mulroney has quietly invested in independent film production and commercial real estate outside Hollywood.
12. Kevin Bacon
Beyond acting, Bacon invested in production companies, music projects, and technology startups.
13. Mark Wahlberg
Although now widely recognized as a businessman, Wahlberg built an extensive portfolio that includes restaurants, fitness, apparel, and automotive dealerships.
14. Kelsey Grammer
Grammer expanded beyond television by producing shows, investing in breweries, and owning entertainment businesses.
15. Danny Trejo
Trejo transformed his personal brand into a successful restaurant empire with Trejo’s Tacos, coffee, donuts, and packaged food products.
Keep Reading About Actors and Life Beyond Hollywood
- 13 Child Actors Who Became Successful Investors
Some former child stars turned early fame into lasting financial success by making smart investments and growing their wealth outside the entertainment industry. - 15 Actors From the 1980s Who Chose Family Over Hollywood
While many pursued bigger careers, these actors stepped away from the spotlight to focus on family life and personal priorities. - 10 Actors Who Rejected Roles That Later Became Iconic
These actors turned down film and television roles that eventually became some of the most memorable performances in entertainment history.
