Surprising hobbies of famous actors: What your favourite stars do off-screen
May 1, 2025

Famous actors are best known for their on-screen roles, where they bring to life iconic characters. However, behind the glitz and glamour, many of these stars have surprising and unusual hobbies that might take you by surprise.
From gambling to collecting rare artefacts, here’s a look at the surprising hobbies of some of your favourite actors.
Ben Affleck: The Poker Pro
Ben Affleck is well-known for his acting career, but few are aware of his passion for poker. Affleck, a skilled poker player, won the California State Poker Championship in 2004, and poker has become more than just a hobby for him. It offers a private escape from his public life, where he enjoys the competitive nature of the game. Affleck is not alone, many people all around the globe enjoy gambling both in-person and online.
In recent years, the popularity of online casinos has surged, with more players turning to digital platforms to play games like poker and slots from home. Among the growing trends is the rise of no-KYC (Know Your Customer) casinos. Casino no verification sites are becoming increasingly popular among bettors who value privacy, as they don’t require extensive personal details or verification, offering a more discreet gambling experience. This trend highlights the shift towards prioritising privacy in the digital age.
Will Smith: The Basketball Fanatic
When you think of Will Smith, you might picture his legendary roles in Men in Black or The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. However, off-screen, Smith is an avid basketball fan. His passion for the sport started early, and while he didn’t pursue a professional career, he has been known to enjoy a game of basketball in his spare time. Smith has often spoken about how he plays with his family and friends, keeping the competitive spirit alive while also staying physically active.
Basketball has been a consistent hobby throughout his career, and Smith’s social media often features him playing pick-up games or showing off his skills. For Smith, basketball isn’t just a fun hobby—it’s a way to connect with friends and family, stay active, and even unwind after a hectic schedule in Hollywood.
Nicolas Cage: Collector of Rare Artifacts
Nicolas Cage is known for his eccentric and unpredictable personality, both on and off the screen. One of his most unusual hobbies is his passion for collecting rare and sometimes bizarre artefacts. Cage has amassed a collection that includes everything from rare comic books to a massive Tyrannosaurus rex skull, which he purchased for millions of dollars. However, his most famous purchase was the skull, which he eventually had to return after legal disputes regarding its origin.
Cage’s love for collecting rare items doesn’t stop at fossils; his collections also include rare art, historical memorabilia, and valuable comic books. His fascination with these items stems from a desire to connect with history and the unusual, adding another layer to his already eccentric persona. His collections have become a hallmark of his off-screen life, and Cage’s interest in rare artifacts speaks to his deep love of history and oddities.
Stanley Tucci: A Culinary Expert
Stanley Tucci is no stranger to food, both on and off the screen. While many fans know him for his roles in films like The Hunger Games and Julie & Julia, Tucci has a deep passion for food and cooking. His hobby doesn’t stop at just eating – Tucci has spent years exploring the culinary world. He even hosted the popular cooking series Searching for Italy, where he travelled around Italy to explore regional cuisine and cooking techniques.
Tucci’s love for food also comes through in his personal life. He often shares his cooking experiences on social media, showing off everything from homemade pasta to expertly crafted cocktails. His culinary expertise isn’t just a casual interest—it’s a true passion. For Tucci, cooking is a form of creative expression, and his adventures in food have made him a beloved figure among food enthusiasts.
Idris Elba: DJ and Music Producer
British actor Idris Elba, best known for his roles in Luther and The Wire, is a man of many talents, with a surprising passion for music. Elba is a DJ and music producer, performing under the name DJ Big Driis. He’s known for spinning records at music festivals, clubs, and even on a global tour. Elba has expressed that music is a significant part of his life, and it provides him with an outlet to explore his creativity.
Elba’s musical career began long before he was cast as an actor, and his love for music goes beyond just spinning tunes. He’s worked on music production, collaborating with artists and even releasing his own tracks. Elba’s deep involvement in music highlights his multifaceted career and offers a fresh perspective on his off-screen hobbies.
Jared Leto: The Rock Star Actor
Jared Leto is perhaps best known for his roles in films like Dallas Buyers Club and Suicide Squad but, off-screen, Leto has an even more passionate hobby: music. Leto is the frontman for the rock band Thirty Seconds to Mars, which has seen international success. His passion for music is just as intense as his acting career, with the band releasing multiple albums and touring worldwide.
While some actors might see music as a side project, for Leto, it’s a central part of his life. His commitment to both his music and acting careers has made him a truly multifaceted star, and his musical achievements have earned him just as much recognition as his acting work. Leto’s energy on stage and his deep connection to his music show that he is just as dedicated to his rock star persona as his actor.
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