Sporty Side Quests: Celebrities Crushing Unexpected Athletic Challenges
We love a good side quest, especially when it’s on the sports field! From Hollywood stars rowing their hearts out to music icons diving into Olympic pools, these celebrities prove you can be more than one thing at a time. Sports bring together fans from all walks of life, from rowing enthusiasts to diehard “Potterheads.” Ready to see some star-powered sporty surprises? Here are well-known celebrities who are champions of the unexpected athletic side hustle.
Emma Watson: Coxswain Extraordinaire
Emma Watson coxing at Summer Eights 2025 (Ian Mcilgorm)
The actress best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the beloved Harry Potter series was recently spotted on the water. But no, she wasn’t training for the Triwizard Tournament this time. Emma Watson competed as a coxswain on the New College women’s third team in the Oxford University Summer Eights rowing regatta.
“You have to be very confident if you’re a coxswain, you have to be very loud if you’re a coxswain, you have to be very smart if you’re a coxswain. We know Emma Watson is all of those things.”
Emma led her team through four races, clinching one victory. In a playful nod to her Harry Potter legacy, an opposing crew played the iconic “Hedwig’s Theme” after beating her team. This sporty side quest is a perfect example of celebrities embracing new passions, and we can’t wait to see what Emma takes on next!
Cody Simpson: From Music to Medals
Australian singer and actor Cody Simpson stunned fans when he put his musical career on pause to chase a childhood dream, professional swimming. Training under Olympian mentors from 2019 to 2024, Cody competed fiercely to qualify for the Tokyo and Paris Olympics.
“I did what I could do, and that’s all you can do... Starting from zero and trying to see how far I could get in half or a third of the time that everybody else has been training... I had an incredible journey.”
Though he didn’t make the Olympic team, his dedication highlights the grit behind chasing a sporting dream. It’s a reminder that passion and perseverance often matter more than medals.
Snoop Dogg’s Olympic Adventure
Snoop Dogg carrying the torch at the 2024 Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony (Tom Nicholson/Shutterstock)
When it comes to side quests, few can top Snoop Dogg’s legendary versatility. The rapper, actor, and entrepreneur added another memorable chapter as a special correspondent for NBC at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
From carrying the Olympic torch during the Opening Ceremony to cheering on Team USA and even swimming alongside Michael Phelps, Snoop stole the show, and our hearts.
“Is there anything he can’t do?”
Bella Hadid: Rodeo Royalty
Bella riding through the streets of NYC during New York Fashion Week (Getty)
Before becoming a top model, Bella Hadid was a nationally ranked equestrienne on track for the 2016 Olympics, until health issues forced her to pivot. Now, she’s embracing her love for horseback riding in Texas, competing in cutting horse events. In 2024, Bella was named the National Cutting Horse Association’s Rookie of the Year, proving that runway glam and rodeo grit can go hand in hand.
Why We Love These Sporty Side Quests
Celebrities stepping outside their usual arenas show us that pursuing new passions is inspiring and relatable. Whether it’s rowing, swimming, or riding, these side quests remind us:
Sports build bridges between fans and celebrities alike.
Athletic challenges push personal growth beyond the spotlight.
Diverse athletic pursuits make sports culture richer and more fun!