Animals have long drawn the compassionate efforts of numerous celebrities, who leverage their fame and fortune to champion for those without a voice.
From music and television icons to renowned actors, these public figures prove that their talents extend far beyond the stage and screen. This listicle highlights ten inspiring celebrities who have taken a stand for animal rights, dedicating their time, resources, and platforms to advocating for our animal friends.
10. Sia: Singer-Songwriter and Animal Rights Activist
Sia, the Grammy-nominated artist, is a passionate animal advocate. She’s collaborated with PETA on campaigns against animal overpopulation, participated in the Beagle Freedom Project, and set up dog adoption fairs during her tours. Sia even co-narrated the animal rights documentary “Dominion” and has invested in sustainable pet food companies.
9. Lisa Vanderpump: Reality Star and Dog Rescue Founder
Lisa Vanderpump, known for “Vanderpump Rules,” founded the Vanderpump Dog Foundation in 2016. The organization has saved over 2,100 dogs and operates internationally, combating the Yulin Dog Meat Festival in China. Vanderpump’s passion extends to her personal life, with her beloved dogs often featured on her reality shows.
8. Patrick Stewart: Star Trek Icon and Pit Bull Champion
Sir Patrick Stewart, renowned for his role as Captain Picard, is also a passionate advocate for pit bulls. Since 2017, he and his wife have fostered several pit bulls, using their platform to challenge breed stereotypes. Stewart’s efforts earned him the ASPCA’s 2021 Pit Bull Advocate & Protector Award for improving public perception of these often misunderstood dogs.
7. Pamela Anderson: Model and PETA Spokesperson
Pamela Anderson has been a vocal animal rights advocate for decades. As PETA’s honorary director, she’s campaigned against fur, animal testing, and the seal hunt. Anderson has posed for numerous PETA ads, written to world leaders, and even launched her own foundation supporting animal rights. Her dedication has led to real changes, including fur bans and increased awareness.
6. Kaley Cuoco: Actress and Equestrian Enthusiast
Kaley Cuoco, known for “The Big Bang Theory,” is a passionate animal advocate and equestrian. She launched Oh Norman!, a pet care brand, in 2023, and even initiated a search for a canine Chief Treat Officer. Cuoco competes in showjumping events under an alias to avoid paparazzi attention, showcasing her dedication to both acting and equestrianism.
5. Ricky Gervais: Comedian and Vocal Animal Welfare Supporter
Ricky Gervais, a vegan comedian, has been a passionate advocate for animal rights. He recently donated £1.9 million to 11 animal charities worldwide, raised from his Armageddon tour ticket sales. Gervais regularly speaks out against animal cruelty and supports various causes, including pet theft reform and ending animal testing.
4. Ellen DeGeneres: Talk Show Host and Vegan Pet Parent
Ellen DeGeneres is a passionate animal advocate and pet parent. She and her wife Portia de Rossi have three cats and three dogs, all rescues. Ellen co-owns Halo Purely for Pets, a pet food company, and established The Ellen Fund to protect endangered species. Her commitment to animal welfare extends to her vegan lifestyle and advocacy for animal protection legislation.
3. Ian Somerhalder: Actor and Animal Rights Crusader
Ian Somerhalder, known for “The Vampire Diaries,” is a passionate animal advocate. He founded the Ian Somerhalder Foundation in 2010, focusing on animal welfare and environmental conservation. Somerhalder actively supports spaying/neutering initiatives and speaks out against animal cruelty, using his platform to promote compassion for all creatures.
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2. Miley Cyrus: Pop Star with a Heart for Rescues
Miley Cyrus has consistently shown her love for animals, especially rescue dogs. In 2020, she adopted a stray dog named Kate Moss from Fresno, California. More recently, in 2021, Cyrus welcomed a pit bull named Angel after losing her beloved dog Mary Jane. The singer often uses her platform to advocate for pet adoption and highlight the loving nature of pit bulls.
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1. Betty White: A Lifelong Animal Advocate
Betty White’s passion for animals spanned nearly a century. She served on the board of Morris Animal Foundation for 40 years, supported the Los Angeles Zoo, and championed numerous animal welfare causes. Her legacy lives on through the #BettyWhiteChallenge, which raised millions for animal shelters nationwide after her passing in 2021.
