10 Famous Celebrities Who Played Ice Hockey!

When you think of celebrities, you probably imagine red carpets, blockbuster movies, and world tours—not slapshots and breakaways. But a surprising number of famous actors, musicians, and even royalty have serious skills on the ice.

Whether they played competitively in their youth or still hit the rink for fun, here are 10 of the most famous celebrities who played ice hockey—some of whom you may not have expected.

1. Justin Bieber – Canada's Hockey Sweetheart

Global pop sensation Justin Bieber didn’t just grow up watching hockey—he played it too. Raised in Ontario, Bieber was a solid skater and forward in local leagues. Today, he regularly trains with NHL players during the off-season and has even taken part in celebrity shootouts. He’s a massive Toronto Maple Leafs fan and reps hockey culture wherever he goes.

2. Keanu Reeves – From Goalie to Global Icon

Before dodging bullets in The Matrix, Keanu Reeves was a standout goaltender in Toronto youth leagues. Known as “The Wall” for his quick reflexes and calm demeanor in net, Keanu once considered pursuing hockey professionally. That same laser focus now powers his action-packed roles on screen.

3. Steve Carell – Comedy Legend with a Goalie’s Nerve

Steve Carell, famous for The Office, played goalie for Denison University in Ohio. He’s continued playing in adult leagues since, and often credits hockey for teaching him discipline and teamwork—skills that clearly paid off in Hollywood.

4. Avril Lavigne – Sk8er Girl Turned Pee Wee MVP

Canadian rocker Avril Lavigne dominated boys' hockey leagues in her hometown. She played right wing growing up and was named MVP more than once. Her tough, confident persona was shaped on the ice as much as the stage, and she still skates when she’s not on tour.

5. Adam Sandler – Funny Guy, Serious Bruins Fan

Long before Happy Gilmore teed off, Adam Sandler was skating as a high school forward in New Hampshire. He’s remained a huge hockey fan, especially of the Boston Bruins, and often integrates the sport into his films—because once a hockey kid, always a hockey kid.

6. Petr Čech – Premier League Keeper to Ice Rink Goalie

One of soccer’s greatest goalkeepers, Petr Čech didn’t retire quietly—he traded his cleats for skates. After his football career, he signed as a goaltender with the Guildford Phoenix in the UK’s NIHL and later joined the Belfast Giants. He even won man-of-the-match honors in his debut. Talk about cross-sport talent!

7. Taylor Kitsch – NHL Dreams Cut Short

Friday Night Lights star Taylor Kitsch had a legitimate shot at pro hockey before acting came calling. He played junior hockey in British Columbia, but a career-ending knee injury forced him to pivot. That competitive fire now fuels his intense on-screen performances.

8. Wyatt Russell – Born to Block Shots

Son of actors Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn, Wyatt Russell played serious junior and pro-level hockey in Canada and Europe before becoming an actor. As a goaltender, he was known for his quick glove and mental toughness—traits he now brings to roles in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier and other major projects.

9. Will Arnett – Comic Relief with a Slapshot

Will Arnett grew up in Toronto playing hockey and is still active in rec leagues. Best known for his roles in Arrested Development and BoJack Horseman, Arnett also lends his voice to NHL promos and is a staple at Leafs games. He’s a funny guy who takes his hockey seriously. 

10. Matthew Perry – The One Who Almost Made It

The late Friends actor Matthew Perry was a standout youth hockey player in Ottawa and nearly went pro before choosing acting. He remained passionate about the sport throughout his life and often spoke about how hockey grounded him during personal challenges.

Final Whistle: When Celebrities Hit the Ice:

These 10 celebrities prove that hockey isn’t just for the pros—it’s a game that captures hearts far beyond the rink. Whether they played competitively or just for fun, these stars carry the lessons of hockey—grit, focus, and camaraderie—with them in everything they do.

So next time you see one of them in a movie, on a concert stage, or on the red carpet, just remember—they might have a wicked wrist shot too.