There’s always been a bit of playful rivalry between the U.S. and the U.K., hasn’t there? But deep down, we all know there’s a quiet admiration simmering beneath the surface. Brits love plenty of American icons but might hesitate to admit it outright—maybe it’s that famous British reserve, or maybe it’s just more fun to poke fun at their transatlantic cousins. Either way, some American celebrities have managed to capture British hearts without the fanfare. Whether it’s their charm, undeniable talent, or larger-than-life personalities, these stars have managed to quietly win over audiences across the pond. Here are 15 U.S. celebrities that Brits secretly adored—just don’t expect them to bring it up over tea!
1. David Hasselhoff
You might know him as the slow-mo beach runner from Baywatch, but “The Hoff” also had a strange, cult-like appeal in Britain. Whether it was his campy charisma or his career reinvention as a singer, Brits seemed to enjoy his work quietly, even as they poked fun at his over-the-top personality. The mix of humor and nostalgia worked its magic.
2. Britney Spears
The Princess of Pop was an early 2000s sensation worldwide, but in the U.K., there was a unique combination of fascination and protective affection for Britney. Brits loved her catchy tunes and iconic dance moves, but many also felt sympathy during her highly publicized struggles, creating a blend of admiration and quiet support.
3. Jerry Springer
The late talk show host became a guilty pleasure for British viewers. His wild and chaotic TV show offered a glimpse into exaggerated American drama that Brits couldn’t look away from. Springer’s popularity on U.K. screens was undeniable, even if admitting to watching was less so.
4. Sylvester Stallone
Known for his gritty roles in Rocky and Rambo, Stallone embodied the American underdog spirit that quietly resonated with Brits. His films consistently did well across the U.K., perhaps because the themes of perseverance and triumph spoke to a shared sense of grit.
5. Oprah Winfrey
The Queen of American daytime TV earned a solid fan base in Britain for her inspiring interviews and larger-than-life personality. While Brits might lean toward understatement, Oprah’s generous spirit and groundbreaking conversations won admiration, even if it wasn’t shouted from the rooftops.
6. Madonna
The Material Girl’s bold and unapologetic style made her a force to be reckoned with globally. While Brits sometimes teased her for her mid-Atlantic accent or headline-grabbing antics, they couldn’t deny her influence on fashion, music, and culture. Her reinventions always kept them watching.
7. Tom Cruise
Tom Cruise’s megawatt smile and box-office dominance have made him a global superstar, and the U.K. was no exception. Brits secretly respected his dedication to his craft, from blockbuster action films to daring stunts, even if they were a bit skeptical of his public persona.
8. Pamela Anderson
Another Baywatch alum, Pamela Anderson’s star power transcended the Atlantic. She became a pop culture icon in the U.K., where her unapologetic embrace of fame and glamor turned heads. The tabloids may have had a field day with her, but audiences loved her star quality.
9. Kevin Bacon
Thanks to Footloose and a string of solid performances, Kevin Bacon found an enduring fan base in Britain. The Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon game even became a fun way for Brits to connect Hollywood stars to his impressive career.
10. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson
Whether it was his wrestling antics or his Hollywood blockbusters, The Rock became a beloved figure across the pond. His down-to-earth humor, coupled with his larger-than-life presence, won over British fans who appreciated his authenticity.
11. Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga’s theatrical approach to music and her advocacy for social causes earned her respect worldwide, but in the U.K., her devotion to her “little monsters” felt deeply relatable. Brits loved her eccentricity and heart, even as they joked about her wild outfits.
12. Will Smith
The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air star transitioned seamlessly into a film career, captivating British audiences with his charm and charisma. From action-packed films to heartfelt performances, Will Smith became a household name in Britain, quietly adored by many.
13. Arnold Schwarzenegger
Arnie’s action hero status made him a favorite in British cinemas, and his catchphrases from Terminator were mimicked endlessly. His larger-than-life personality was perfectly suited to British humor, making him an unlikely but enduring favorite.
14. Mariah Carey
The queen of holiday music has a loyal following in the U.K., where her vocal range and festive spirit make her a seasonal staple. Brits might rib Americans for over-the-top Christmas traditions, but Mariah’s iconic songs have become a beloved part of British holiday culture.
15. Ellen DeGeneres
Ellen’s daytime talk show brought laughs, heartwarming stories, and unforgettable celebrity moments to British viewers. Her upbeat personality and genuine curiosity made her a relatable figure, even as she showcased a uniquely American style of entertainment.
Ellen has been obsessed with logic puzzles, jigsaws, and cryptograms since she was a kid. After learning she was taught how to play chess wrong by a family friend (so they could win), she joined her school chess club and the rest is history.
